ToWards Lima, Peru

2009-05-18T09:29:00.002-05:00

For what it's worth, here I am writing again even though I've kind of left this blogging thing go for months. I'm just not a good blogger. But, today, I feel like sharing something because the Lord Jesus blessed me as I took some time to read and think and pray about some sentences in Colossians.

In Colossians 2:9-10 Paul says that in Jesus "all the fulness of the Deity lives" and then he writes that we "have been made complete" in Him. Just as I let that sink in to my mind and my soul God helped me remember in a deeper way that He has freely and very kindly given me (and not just me but all who are saved by and believe in Jesus) EVERYTHING that I need.

If I need encouragement, I have it in Him, all I need to do is GO to Him and seek it and ask for it and realize that it's mine for the taking all because of His majestic kindness.

If I need the ability to love someone in a way that fits their need (in a good and right sense) then all I need to do is GO to Him and I will find that ability in Him when I need it.

I could go on but that's the idea that blessed me this morning. To any who might read this I really hope that God uses this little scribble to remind you of "every spiritual blessing" that is in Jesus Christ and how you have that if you belong to Him.

Thank you, Jesus!

Enjoying My Relationship with God

2008-12-27T19:54:00.002-06:00

I'm not sure if I've mentioned this before - I probably haven't since I've been horrible at keeping up my blog in the last 6 months or so - but I've been reading through Emotionally Healthly Spirituality by Pete Scazzero (I'm not positive I have his last name correct, but suffice it to say he's a pastor of a church in Brooklyn, New York).

Anyway, my point is that God has really used this process to develop in my a sense of intentionally taking time at points throughout my day to stop...and just be still before the Lord...and enjoy Him, for Who He is and how He's has so lovingly treated me (and all those who are united with Jesus) with forgiveness and strength and encouragement and constant love so that I can learn to love Him and follow Him wherever He leads me.

It's really an amazing experience to be able to have the privilege of spending time with the Maker and Lord of Heaven and Earth! It really is! There is a heavenly joy there that satisfies very deeply.

God is so good!

Oh, by the way, our 1st Christmas in Lima was awesome. Sara's sister came into town and we so enjoyed meeting her at the airport, then opening gifts, then eating pancakes then, of all things, going to the beach! It will be a memorable Christmas, no doubt!

Holidays

2008-12-11T10:35:00.002-06:00

Wow. Thanksgiving has past and Christmas is on the way! How quick things move.

Thanksgiving was awesome even though leading up to the day itself I had a strange sense that this was nothing like what it should be. But, when the decorations went up and the people came over and the food was eaten - oh yeah, it was Thanksgiving. It ended up being one of the most delightful Thanksgivings that I can remember. It really was a blessing.

Thanks, Lord. It was unexpected in light of our first one away from family.

Christmas is on the way, as well as a transition from full time language school/tutor to ministry. I'm "chomping at the bit" as they say to get involved and yet, at the same time, I am fearful of attempting to minister in light of my level of Spanish. Clearly, this is a great case of seeking the Lord's grace and power to be at work in my huge weakness.

2008-11-29T11:12:00.000-06:00

My e-brain is back! (read Palm pilot)

Immigration

2008-11-11T15:59:00.002-06:00

So, yesterday and today Sara and I spent all day in the office of immigrations in Lima. We were waiting to finally get our "carnets." These are are permanent resident ID cards while we stay here in Peru. The process took almost 9 months, but it happened! Yeah!

Thank God for giving us patience through these two days of 5 hours of waiting in line to get these done. We could easily have given up and been mad but God graciously poured out His grace and patience into our hearts. For that, we are thankful.

And our dear brother in Christ and friend, Enrique, was instrumental in getting this to work. Wow! I can't say enough about him and his faithfulness through this whole time.

Mis Padres (My Parents)

2008-10-14T21:28:00.002-05:00

Hey Y'all,

My parents were just in Lima, Peru (of all places) hanging out with their grandkids (and me and Sara, too, of course). It was wild and fun to have them here. At first they were a little concerned about what it would be like to stay here for 10 days. But, after that first taxi ride where they got to experience traffic in Lima and all the craziness that it entails....and they lived through it, they were fine.

We had a fantastic time reconnecting with them after last seeing them back in February before we left the States. It was a real blessing from Jesus to have them here and we are grateful to Him for allowing them to come stay with us for a bit.

They are back in the States now, safe and sound.

Chesterfield Pres!

2008-10-03T09:26:00.002-05:00

So, exciting news to report: five brothers in Christ came to Lima for several days just this past week to see what the Lord is doing and what the possibility is for them and their church, Chesterfield Pres in St. Louis, to be involved here.

It was awesome! These guys (and I know that you guys are reading this, but I'm being honest) were a real blessing to meet and spend time with. Clearly, it was something the Lord put together for them to be able to be here and spend time with us, the Lima New City mission team and some of our dear Peruvian brothers and sisters in the Lord, and to see the need that is here.

I don't know what the Lord has in mind with Chesterfield, but I, for one, am praying and hoping for the Lord to give us the priviledge of staying connected in an ongoing, meaningful way in the years to come. But, as we all know, the Lord doesn't have to listen to all of my ideas :) on the contrary, I need to shut up more often, listen and pay attention to His ideas! :) And so, I will wait on Him to see what He will say and do.

Also, this was my first time in San Clemente, a town that is a 3 1/2 hour bus ride south of Lima that was severely hit by the earthquake of August 2007. There is a whole neighborhood that grew up there that is entirely made up of folks who lost EVERYTHING in the earthquake. They lost their houses and all of their possessions and many lost family, too. So, the government gave them resources to build these "shacks" or as I call them "thatch huts" to be able to have something to call a home. But, the needs are great here among them. The need for reconstruction, the need for their hearts to get the Gospel and live for His Kingdom and the need for caring for all the many, many, many children that are there. And all of this revels the need for a church to be planted there to build up the Church that Christ has begun to build there. Many new believers there in San Clemente are asking for a church to be planted among them.

So, please, pray for San Clemente and the needs there that King Jesus already knows about is and is fast at work to meet them. Then, also, pray for those believers who may need to answer Christ's call to go and work among those dear souls.

Okay, all for now.

Oops...I Forgot I Have A Blog :)

2008-09-20T11:39:00.002-05:00

So, I was kindly reminded last night about this blog and how I have not written anything in a very long time (July 30th, I believe was the last entry).

I want to apologize. I have let my habit go and that makes me sad. ;(

BUT I'M BACK! So, let's get this thing started once again.

It is amazing to me that we've been here in Lima, Peru for 7 months! It's a whole new world still to me but I do feel much more settled in. Time does that, doesn't it?

The challenge for me, in addition to the normal desparately needed prayer for learning Spanish well, is beginning to get from the Lord what specifically He wants me to be involved in here. I mean, I have my ideas but as Scripture says, "Proverbs 16:9 'In his heart a man plans his course,
but the LORD determines his steps.'"
So, I need much patience but also intentionality to pursue that part of God's Kingdom that he's placed on my heart.

To this end I'll share here the verses that REALLY light a fire in my heart:
Proverbs 31:8-9
8 "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,
for the rights of all who are destitute.
9 Speak up and judge fairly;
defend the rights of the poor and needy."

I was drawn to come here because I wanted to be a part of the Lord caring for those dear souls who are lost and oppressed and need to surrender their hearts as well as their needs to the Lord.

And Ezekiel 11:19-20
19 I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from them their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh. 20 Then they will follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws. They will be my people, and I will be their God.

Plus, there is the constant need for people to be shepherded in and encouraged in this reality: God does in fact have the power to change a heart - to change a life. No one is beyond hope and no believe ever needs to dispair for his/her own failures or others. God is in the business of changing the very nature of sinners. I love this story!

All for now. I'll write a little later.
Jim

Where Did July Go?

2008-07-30T19:00:00.002-05:00

Hey Guys and Gals,

Sorry. But, for whatever reason I have been completely absent from blogging for this month. I think, partly, it's because for awhile I had very limited use of my computer since Max (our dog) chewed my power cord to shreads and I had to wait until a friend came from the U.S. to bring me my new cord.

Then, over these last few weeks (last and this) the kids have been off school and so we went away to the city of Huancayo for 6 days and then home. But, even being here it's somewhat distracting since life isn't "normal" in its routine.

Ugh. Anyway, hopefully, I can now get back to it.
---------------------------------------------------------

We've been taking a language class break, which I guess is good. However, I'm dying to get back at it and learn more and get going on my Spanish. Sara, not so much. Culture shock is hitting her pretty bad right now. You can pray for her. A lot. :)

Some Rooms from our New House

2008-07-03T10:40:00.000-05:00

Caroline's Bedroom

Living Room

Some Rooms from our New House

2008-07-03T10:33:00.003-05:00

Eli's Bedroom

Chloe's Bedroom

My Kids....Fun Stories

2008-06-29T18:06:00.002-05:00

So, Chloe asked me today, "Daddy, why do they call them 'French Fries'?" Then, of course, the follow up question is, "Why do they call it 'French Toast'?"

This, in light of the fact, that we had French Toast today and French Fries, too.

At some point she also asked, "How does hair grow if it's not alive?"

:)

Oh, also, Eli told me that the reason his team won his most recent basketball game at school was because he drank the red gatorade-like drink which, of course, makes you very powerful.

Just thought I'd share those great insights with you all.

Four Months

2008-06-23T09:18:00.001-05:00

Can you believe that we've been here in Lima for four months?!?!?!?$?%?%?%?

I just wanted to say that.

Chau (pronounced "chow" and means, bye)

At the Airport Until 2am

2008-06-21T23:26:00.002-05:00

So, yesterday was an adventure.

Sara and I had the chance to go out on a date. We enjoyed ourselves for a few hours and then at 8pm we attended a school meeting for Chloe's class. Yes, I'm not kidding, a Friday night meeting for all parents to attend (and it was well attended). Then, after the meeting I dropped Sara off at home and drove to Jeremy's house (Jeremy Ross a team mate on the Lima New City Team).

We took a taxi to the airport to greet and escort (along with several other team members) three church missions teams coming in for the week. One came in at roughly 10:30pm, the next at 11:30pm and the last one we met up with after customs around 1:45am, I think. If I remember correctly. :)

After we all got in the van/taxi and made it to the motel I got in my car and drove home by about 3:15am (again, I think that's right).

It was a fun evening in terms of hang out time with the team folks and meeting the new folks on the missions teams coming in. But, man...this day was a bit of a waste for me. I barely parented today...so....tired...must....go....on.

Father's Day...

2008-06-15T20:47:00.002-05:00

Well, today was quite a day. I was up in the morning with all three of my children in bed with Sara and me. They were giving me their gifts and it was great. I got some comfy slippers and a compass! I've been wanting one of those since I have a HORRIBLE sense of direction. And in a city of almost 10 million people I easily get lost. ;(

Anyway, we were over by the Pacific Ocean this afternoon ( which is only 30 minutes away on a lazy Sunday afternoon). It is so beautiful even if it is cooler in this Autumn/Winter time of year here in Lima. It's been around 15C as the low each day and around 18C as the high. Which is about 59F and 65F.

Also, we're in a new rental house that's really big. I can't believe that the Lord has given us this place. Seriously. I need to get pics up. But, it is painfully clear to me that He's given us this place (as we just begin our adventure here in Lima in the new roles we have in the Kingdom) for a Kingdom purpose. So, we begin to pray, "Lord, how do you want to use this house? Show us each day?"

The kids are doing well. Chloe is speaking spanish very well and Eli and Caroline are getting in in them but it's coming out a little slowly. Which is fine. We're here less than four months so it takes a lot of time. Their school work is a big load. They do 2 hours (sometimes more) of homework each night which includes Spanish and History in Spanish and something else too. I forget.

Okay. I'm going.

Finally, Internet Again

2008-06-13T15:35:00.002-05:00

Hello All,

Sorry for the grand delay. I can't write a lot, but I wanted to say that we've been without internet for the past week in light of our move into the new house. But, we're back online and hope to give a full update via email soon.

I hope and trust the Lord is blessing you and yours in the midst of life

Jim

2008-06-06T23:56:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow, Saturday, we're moving again. The third time since being here in Lima. I'm so tired of moves.

But, this house that the Lord supplied is amazing and good and a great price and a blessing. It needs A LOT of work since the last tenant absolutely RUINED the place. I have pics but they're not loaded onto the computer yet.

So, you'll just have to wait a little bit. :)

I'll talk with you after the move sometime.

Not a Natural Blogger..

2008-05-31T23:56:00.002-05:00

Okay. What can I say? I'm not, by nature, a blogger.

I want to be. I'm trying to be. But, it just gets lost many times by the day to day busy of learning the language/culture and parenting/school routines and needs and Sara and I learning by grace and faith to adjust to this new world.

So, enough with my excuses already!

We're doing well, although highly frustrated at this point because the house that we are supposed to move into has become a "soap opera" of sorts. The tenant is not letting the landlord/owner of the house in to meet with her and let us see the house. (We've never seen the house.) Her lease is up today, so we hope that tomorrow or Monday at the latest we'll get things rolling, but we're not 'holding our breath.'

Each time we've had a scheduled appointment to see the house, she has canceled and rescheduled. That's happened four times now, I believe. It's amazing to me how the landlords/owners have little rights in these situations.

But, clearly, the Lord wants us to wait on Him patiently.

Help us, Lord

We Got a New Puppy

2008-05-21T10:03:00.001-05:00

Say 'hi' to Max.

2008-05-16T23:08:00.002-05:00

Here's a picture of Chloe and Eli having fun on Chloe's birthday (which was May 5th). It just took me a bit to get it on the computer and here. :)

2008-05-12T13:53:00.003-05:00

I have NO idea how the days fly by so quickly and I don't get a new post up more often! Sorry about that.

This week is an off week for the kids and for us in the sense that none of us have formal, scheduled class time. The kids just finished their first quarter of school and since our language tutor has kids at the same school we all decided it would be best if we took a break from our classes as well.

So, with this off week we were going to go away, but in the end, we didn't feel comfortable with doing that. We really wanted simply a week off. Down time, ya know?

Plus, we just got a puppy! Yes, it's true, for the first time in the life of this Ward family we have a dog and not a cat. We just got him today. His name is Max. Max is a laborador and only 1 1/2 months old. When we get a chance we'll have to post/send pictures.

All for this moment.

Internet Troubles

2008-05-06T23:13:00.003-05:00

So, for the past week we've been having trouble getting online at all. It's been incredibly frustrating and humbling since this is our main means of communicating with everyone in the United States.

But, it reminds me of how our move to Lima does, in fact, affect certain things about life. Life is different here. There are different ways of doing things and some things are as dependable as you would like them to be.

I don't know if tomorrow I'll have internet access or not. For that matter, it may be a week or longer. But, I wanted to at least communicate that just so you know.

The Week of Parties!!!

2008-05-03T11:03:00.002-05:00

Okay, so starting this past Wednesday we've entered into a season of parties, or maybe I will say fiestas. (For obvious reasons.)

Anyway, last Wednesday and Thursday nights we had two separate parties for a fellow Lima New City team member who is leaving the field since her 2 years of service are up. She was sad but we had a good time together. As of today, she is in the states. Blessings on you, Laura.

Then, today, Saturday, we are having a small birthday party for Chloe (she turns 9 on Monday the 5th) with a few of her friends at a nearby park.

Then, Monday, we'll do a family celebration with Chloe, but we're also getting together with another family since our friend also has her brithday on Tuesday. So, we're celebrating together at that time.

Then, another dear friend has her birthday on Friday the 9th so we're celebrating with her, her family and friends on next Saturday the 10th. Whew!

I'm not sure, but I think that will be the end of this season of Fiestas. God is good. We're thankful for all of these dear folks (and our daughter) whom the Lord has blessed us with.

On Being a Missionary

2008-04-26T12:30:00.002-05:00

Okay. So, the reality is there's no difference between serving the Lord here in Lima and in the States, my home country, when it comes to who the Lord is and who I am.

What I mean is, it seems like in order to be a missionary a Christian would have to be a super-Christian, one who really is close to Jesus and mature and strong. But, in reality, Jesus calls all of us to that whether we're in the States of overseas or wherever. It's always true that I'm weak and always need Jesus to forgive me and make me strong to be able to do anything. I will say, it's a little more intense here, than in the States because of the language/culture factor, though.

I also think that right now, I'm not completely hitting "culture shock" yet (as has been defined by others for me). I'm still in the honeymoon phase, I believe.

Sometimes I worry about when it will come and how hard it will be. But, that's not my concern today. I have things to do today, just like you do, right? So, that's all I'll concern myself with.

But, I do need to learn how to do this daily thing WITH Jesus and not on my own. I'm really good at having a time of reading the Bible and praying to Him but then the rest of the day I just do on my own. :(

Thankfully, Jesus works with me and inside me because He loves me and has changed me through His cross! And not because I am so good at being obedient (because I'm not...I have a long way to go).

Yo Soy Un Bebe...

2008-04-21T13:24:00.002-05:00

Yes. It's true, when it comes to speaking Spanish, I am a baby. It hurts my pride and can be very difficult at times when you want to say something and it either doesn't come out at all or it comes out completely off base so that the person you are speaking with just looks at you and has no idea what you really want to say.

Ah...it's a good thing that the Lord is always and ever-ready to help in all circumstances!

Dios es bueno!
Siempre!

Earthly Worries and Fears

2008-04-18T09:08:00.002-05:00

Just now, I am thinking about other missionary friends who are in great need of fundraising to either get to the field or to stay on the field.

I have to say that that is my fear; that we'll have to go through the same thing.

However, there are several things I know to be true in our lives:
* God loves us and will put us where He wants us to serve and when He wants us to serve there; it's completely His choice
* He is faithful to provide what we need when we need it; whether that's support to stay here in Lima long-term or to go to the States and remain there or wherever
* Lastly, I know that we must do our part by faith; God has called us to be support raisers...that is a part of our life now as overseas missionaries; and it will always be a part of our life. So, we will take it day by day and week by week, making the contacts we need to so that people and churches catch the vision God has for Lima and for ministering through the grace of giving (2 Corinthians 8, 9).

2008-04-11T21:35:00.002-05:00

So, it's Friday night and Sara and I just got back from a date. Whew-hew! A date in Lima, Peru. How fun.

Thank you, Lord, for the chance to go out with my wife! We went to Jockey Plaza - a mall like place where TONS of Limenans go on Friday night. I mean, this place was PACKED! We were able to see a movie. It was pretty good and then we had time just to look around and even get ice cream.

Anyway, nothing "exciting" to report on a blog like this, I guess, you'd say. But, it was a blessing to me and sara.

Playing Hookey

2008-04-08T22:56:00.003-05:00

Is that how you spell the word? I'm not sure. But, today, Sara and I played "hookey".

Why? Because last night our family had a meltdown. It was a tough night all around for the five of us. At the time it seemed like the reasons were right in front of us: bad attitudes, laziness, failure to do what I said I was going to do, etc.

But, when we met with the Lord and our team leaders, Mark and Lori, this morning, it became evident that the reasons for our meltdown were (are) deeper than that. All five of us are feeling culture shock on some level and all of us in one way or another are feeling, "Okay. We've had a great visit here in Peru. Let's go home."

So, we're at the place where we are very aware of our NEED for Jesus to save us and pour out His love and be our strength and helper.

Thanks, Lord, for always bringing us HOPE when we want to give up all hope.

Hugo

2008-04-04T08:10:00.002-05:00

Last Tuesday night I went to pay my rent to our landlord. His name is Hugo. He is Peruvian and he speaks English pretty well. It's been a good thing to have him as our first landlord.

We had a great time of visiting with one another. I think we spent 2 hours together! We talked about music (which he loves; and, rightly so, is very proud of Peruvian music) and religion.

Please, ask our King Jesus to draw Hugo very close to Himself. Clearly, He has led me to Hugo to develop a relationship and share my life with him as a new Peruvian friend. So, ask the Lord to use me in his life in a way that will bring the Kingdom more into Lima than before.

2008-03-31T17:39:00.002-05:00

Days are flying....

Sorry y'all. But, our days are flying by with just trying to keep up with language, culture and then the normal school business for our kids. And they don't even have afterschool activities!

So, again, sorry for not posting until today.

We're all now in full force with our tutor schedules. We are engaging as best we can clearly with much help from our Father and Lord as we begin to develop friendships and relationships with our neighbors, landlord, and other folks we see daily or weekly, like at the close by grocery store called "Wong".

Our apartment (departamento) is actually a part of the same building as Wong's. So, it's great to go shopping when we need to and to practice our Espanol too!

Not to mention all of the taxis and combis (Peruvian buses) that we take everywhere since we have no car. I like it, to be honest. I like not having a car. It can be, at times, an inconvience, but overall, it's really not that difficult a change.

I'll have to get pics to you all of the taxis and combis and Wongs...daily life, so that you can see what life is like here. Oh, and the kids' school (colegio), too!

All for now!
Jim

2008-03-23T21:26:00.002-05:00

Thanks everyone for your comments on that last post. You are a great encouragement to me.

This week starts our first full-time week with our spanish tutor. I'm looking forward to it. I feel the pain of not being able to speak...to communicate with folks.

However, God continues to encourage us in the day to day details.

We took pics of our new pad the other day so I hope to post them very soon.

We celebrated Easter today even though it is not a big deal in Peru at all. Most folks at the church where we worship weren't doing anything special for today. We gathered together with the Lima New City Team and a family of Peruvian brothers and sisters to celebrate. We had....spaghetti! Of course.

We had fun coloring eggs and hunting for them, too. Funny, huh?

I'm tired (since I'm on Nyquil) so I'm gonna go

Using My Spanish

2008-03-17T14:25:00.002-05:00

Okay. So, here we are in full swing, now. The kids are somewhat settling into their new school with helpers/tutorings beginning to get in place to help them with their spanish. God is always so kind and good.

Sara and I have now had 4 classes with our Spanish tutor and she is very sweet and helpful...and good at what she does.

The thing now? That I humble myself and come to the realization that I just need to speak...I just need to do it - to go out and speak to people: taxi drivers, cashiers, neighbors, Peruvian team members and fellow church members; and plan on making a million mistakes so that eventually I can "get it."

Pray for me. Sara's much better at this side of things than I am.

But, I NEED to do this. I want to do this. I really do becuase I want to RELATE to Peruvians heart to heart as best as possible. But, there's this fear and insecurity and pride. Lord Jesus...Father...please help me!

2008-03-13T08:30:00.002-05:00

Time flies....I didn't realize that it's been 3-4 days since my last entry. I was so sick early this week. My stomach was finally feeling good yesterday. It was a nice treat.

Today, we start learning Spanish! yay!

Our tutor/teacher is so sweet. We're looking forward to learning from her.

Language is becoming more and more an issue at school for our kids, though. We need to find help (a tutor) for them very soon so they don't get too far behind. We tried to get someone yesterday but she couldn't do it. We're beginning to get a little concerned. And yet...

...how many times has our Father worked out details as we've come to Him asking for His help.

"...an ever-present help in times of trouble." Psalm 46:1

2008-03-10T10:42:00.002-05:00

Lima is a big city. I mean, it's really big. I know that there are at least 10 million people here and growing. But, as you drive around you can see the bigness of it.

Plus, I hope I'm not being too critical here, Lima is a very dirty place. There's always dust everywhere in light of the fact that this is dessert territory. Pollution is the norm, specifically from cars. I'm still not used to that smell yet. It turns your stomach.

We have our own place now. Just moved in last Friday. It's a temporary deal while we wait for a house to open up. This is a cool place: it's two bedrooms, a big living room ("sala" in Spanish) and dining room ("comidor") combined and then a galley kitchen. Plus, we're a 1 minute walk from one of the main grocery stores in Lima: "Wong." Good location.

2008-03-09T15:52:00.000-05:00

So, here it is - my cultural illness has hit me...a 2nd time.

I knew my body had to begin adjusting sometime...and here it is...in full force.

Lord, have mercy...please...

Sara's Birthday!!!

2008-03-03T08:18:00.001-06:00

Happy birthday to Sara,
Happy birthday to Sara,
Happy birthday to Sara,
Happy birthday to Sara!

First Day (Almost) of School

2008-03-02T21:18:00.002-06:00

As the kids were going to bed tonight they could hardly contain their excitement over tomorrow's 1st Day of school. They've been asking us how long until they start and now it's finally here. They begin their new adventure with new Peruvian friends.

The reality is that the work load and the spanish on top of it will be hard, and sometimes it will drive them and us to utter frustration and weariness. But, that doesn't take away the joy of this new adventure that God our Dear Father has given us the opportunity to experience and be a part of.

Rejoice in the Lord always.

Today, I rejoice in the Lord because He is RICH in love and shows kindness to us even though what I (we) deserve is so much the opposite.

So, La Molina Christian School...here we come! :)

2008-02-27T06:46:00.001-06:00

Wow. It's hard to believe, but today begins our 7th day here in Lima.

Nothing new to report. I just wanted to say that.

:)

2008-02-26T07:59:00.002-06:00

Okay...days are speedin' by....whew!

The kids are enrolled and in the right grades: Caroline (5th), Chloe (4th) and Eli (1st). We are so thankful for God's kindness and care of all of these details!

Still no sign of Chico the family cat. Hmm. We think maybe he's gone to find a sweet elderly Peruvian lady to give her some comfort and attention. :)

We're still looking for a place to live; we keep looking out for possibilities. There are several, so that's good. We're not without options. Praise God.

I think I'm opening our first Peru bank account today. Lots of 'firsts' going on these days. :)

I do have pictures I just need to find the time to post them. And movies too.

Blessings!
Jim

WE'RE IN LIMA!!!!!!

2008-02-22T07:36:00.002-06:00

In case you've not heard, we are LIVING IN LIMA!

We made it in by 12:30AM, Thursday, February 21st. We even made it with our cat, Chico.

Much more to come in the days ahead. But for now this is about all I can handle. :)

God is so good.
Jim for all

In Philadelphia

2008-02-16T07:35:00.001-06:00

We're in Philly enjoying our time to reconnect with dear friends and family. It's been very sweet and a rich blessing so far. We're looking forward to the next two days before we leave!

Will write more later....

FOUR days to go until we fly to LIMA! :)

2008-02-12T03:29:00.001-06:00

So, it's 4:28am in a hotel room in Atlanta...

We were supposed to fly back to St. Louis last night but they canceled our flight due to the icy, freezing rain, etc. in St. Louis. We were bummed since we couldn't get back to our little ones and back to everything we still need to do before we leave for Lima, i.e. all our sweet and sad goodbyes and all the remaining details.

But, the Lord, in his amazing goodness and control of all such details blessed us with an early valentine's day date. :)

We got to go out to dinner and enjoy a romantic night with just us. It was so fun, in the end, after we let go of our plans for what the night (WE thought) was going to look like. God is...well...SO GOOD!

We are thankful for our dear friends in St. Louis who have been watching our children for us and taking great care of them.

There's always more to say, but right now we're supposed to be getting ready to run to the lobby and pick up the shuttle that goes to the airport. Gotta go....

Rich Blessings to you all!

We're Homeless...for now

2008-02-09T20:56:00.000-06:00

Today, we moved out of our apartment. We're homeless! Yeah! It's a good feeling, actually.

We had a great amount of help. It was a blessing.

We are now living with dear friends - right across the street from our former apartment. :)

We'll stay here until the 19th, when we'll spend one night at Sara's parent's place to say our goodbyes and they'll take us to the airport on the 20th.

Jim

The Next Two Weeks

2008-02-05T13:02:00.001-06:00

So, we've got some details to take care of and trips to do in these last two weeks in the States.

This week we're packing everything and getting out of our apartment by Saturday so that's one less thing weighing on our minds as we attend to the important stuff: saying our goodbyes.

This Sunday, the 10th, New City is having a farewell party for us.

Then, come Sunday we fly to Atlanta for our "exit interview" to be officially prepared to depart. We fly back to St. Louis on Monday.

Then, we fly out Thursday to Philadelphia to spend one last weekend with friends and family there and say more good-byes. We get back to St. Louis Sunday night.

Then, we say our final good-byes in ST. Louis and fly to Lima on Wednesday, February 20th.

Whew. That's it in a nutshell. :)

2008-02-03T19:19:00.001-06:00

WE GOT THE TICKETS!!!!!!

We are official. On February 20th we leave St. Louis to fly to Lima, Peru!

As Sara said, "Yipee!...and Yikes." :)

Now, are challenge is to pack up or sell everything by this coming Saturday, February 9th, because that's when we move out of this apartment.

:)

2008-01-29T14:17:00.000-06:00

The Big Prayer Request now?

That the Lord would allow MTW (our sending agency) to officially confirm all our pledges so by Friday or Monday so that we can buy our plane tickets.

Oh, also, a second request: that the Lord would give the kids success in taking their entrance exam for their school once we get to Lima and get into the appropriate grade. Especially pray for Caroline since she wrestles more than the others with reading. She's smart, but has a hard time with some things. She is a sweet, young girl; she needs God's sweet grace.

2008-01-27T21:25:00.000-06:00

My hope was to post pics of Eli on his big 6th birthday, but, alas, I have dropped the ball on that one. Suffice it to say: Eli turned 6 years old on Friday. :)

We spent time at America's Incredible Pizza Company for dinner and fun with Eli and a few friends. It was a blast for those guys ( a little nerve wracking for us parent types...but still fun overall).

Also, as most know, the Lord has brought in over $1,000/month in pledges for us to reach our needed budget goal to be able to go to Lima. Now, we have to work out many, many details before we can be cleared to buy the actual tickets to go. But, hey - if the Lord can get us this far, He can take us the rest of the way!

2008-01-24T16:00:00.000-06:00

This morning Sara and I found ourselves singing, worshiping, reading and praying in the presence of God.

It was freeing and good for both of us to be there. And it was necessary. It's so easy for both of us to quickly turn from faith-filled children to feeling doubt and frustration and a lot of other things. Ah...how quickly our sinful natures attempt to take over.

But, I'm thankful this afternoon that in either case our good and loving and powerful Father in Heaven is more than able to keep us, protect us and even deliver us from ourselves. No matter what.

Please Pray!

2008-01-23T11:28:00.001-06:00

To Our Dear Friends and Family of Supporters,

I realize that I just sent an update to you several days ago, but I felt that in light of the latest development I needed to ask for your prayers even more.

This morning I spoke with the school where our children will be attending in Lima. In a nutshell, one, and possibly two, of our children won't be able to attend school there this year unless we are able to be in Lima before February 26th - the cutoff date for the enrollment process.

Currently there are three churches that are seriously considering support for us. Plus, there are around 4 or 5 others that are in a dialogue with us about it.

I am urgently asking for all of you to plead with our Father in heaven to work all of this out.

THANK YOU...sincerely,
Jim for Sara and the kids

Jesus' Submission and Obedience

2008-01-17T12:46:00.000-06:00

I was just reading the Bible in Hebrews chapter 5, verses 7 and 8.

It just struck me how God says that Jesus, in referring to his prayers while alive on the earth, "was heard because of his reverent submission." I have been thinking, reading, studying a lot about prayer recently and have wreslted with this idea of "has God heard me." And God clearly says that He hears our prayers offered in the name of Jesus.

But, here - this idea of 'reverent submission' is so important. Quite frankly, the main motivation in most of my praying about getting 100% of our support so that we can go to Lima is because I'm impatient. I'm done waiting. I'm tired and worn out and want this chapter to close so that we can move on.

;( Sad, isn't it? What I've just described isn't even close to 'reverent submission' is it? I'm just so unwilling to submit with great respect to God Almighty's plan for us when it comes to fundraising and when we get 100% and when we go, etc., etc., etc. I'm so sorry, Father.

I'm thankful that He treats me, us, with a richness of grace and forgiveness and love! I would be so "dead in the water" if He didn't. I'm thankful that I know He is committed to us (just as He's committed to you) to mold and shape our inner being, so that we are continually changing to be more and more just like Jesus. (See Romans 8:29 and 2 Corinthians 3:18.)

Wow.

Just in the simple act of writing this post God's encouraged my heart. When I started writing I was so heavy hearted and down. But, getting to the part about His grace and love and forgiveness just reminded me of those things and lifted my heart! God is so good. What a great Father!

Time Flies...Progress Doesn't

2008-01-16T12:54:00.000-06:00

It seems as thought time if flying by me and yet we're not any closer to getting to Lima. I know that I can be impatient and ungrateful...so, Lord, I'm sorry.

These last few days have been tough. I'm not sure how to make my way forward. I guess it's just do what I have to do and what I have been doing and expect that our Father and our Lord will make it plain to me each day.

Florida!

2008-01-09T14:08:00.001-06:00

So, tomorrow (Thursday) we're leaving for Florida. A supporting church in the Daytona area is having a missions conference and we're participating in it!

We're also speaking Sunday morning at a church in the Melbourne area.

While we're there we are hoping to meet up with other folks and/or churches to ask for support. Pray for us. Pray for those potential partners. Pray that God will move in all of our hearts to do as He asks of us.

January is Here

2008-01-08T10:40:00.000-06:00

Well, we've arrived in January: our goal to leave for Peru. However, God has us waiting on Him and not ready to leave yet. We remain at 71% and so unless something miraculous happens. We will not be leaving this month.

Yes, it makes us sad. But, as I've mentioned to folks, God has clearly shown us kindness in many, many ways to remind us that He has us and is working a plan that includes us and it is good - no, it's the best....only because He allows us to know Him and walk with Him through life's adventures.

If God is able to bring in 71% of what we need to go to Lima. He can bring in the remaining 29% too!

So. Let's wait together on the Lord and see how He's going to do this. :)

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

2008-01-02T17:38:00.000-06:00

Welcome to 2008, my dear family and friends!

Isn't it good that God always gives us new beginnings throughout our lives...like a new year every 365 days?

It's refreshing amidst the day to day routine of our lives.

Enjoy!

Last Day of 2007

2007-12-31T10:55:00.001-06:00

Happy New Year to everyone!

It's been a good break so far from 'normal' life. But, I also look forward to getting back at "it" in a few days.

I don't know exactly what the Lord has in store for us in these next few months, but I know that He will do what is good and right, not only for us, but also for all of those connected with His ministry in Lima.

Yesterday, we had the joy of attending Redeeming Grace in Owensville, MO. The pastor was away on vacation and asked me to step in to lead worship and preach and lead Sunday school. They are such a great group of brothers and sisters in the Lord. It was good to worship with them.

I wish you all joy in Jesus in the new year!
Jim for all

Vacation from...life

2007-12-28T14:26:00.000-06:00

Well, I've obviously been taking this "vacation" thing way too far!

I've been out of touch from normal life for quite awhile now and it shows. It's been too long since I blogged. But, I wanted to at least write this to say...I'm still here. I promise.

:)

"Joe and Do"

2007-12-22T14:11:00.000-06:00

Today, we had our first ever Christmas "Joe and Do" Open House! Below you will see the fresh donuts being made ready for their sugar coatings! :)

We had a bunch of people over...it was fun...not everyone could make it and we probably didn't get the message out soon enough (because, as you know, schedules get crazy fast around this time o' year).

Anyway, thought you'd enjoy the pic. Happy Holidays....Merry Christmas! Enjoy Jesus and the amazing reality that He left His Throne in Heaven because He loved us so much...and He actually became a little baby boy. Wow!

Kids in Backyard with Snow Fort

2007-12-17T12:45:00.000-06:00

Just thought y'all would like to see the kids (with friends) with their latest project: building a snow fort complete with a backwall and "roof" made out of broken tree branches.

I was out there with them, rolling little snow balls into these mammoth ones...and now my body is feeling so sore! :)

Merry Christmas!

Seeking Fulfillment, Disobedience, Freedom and Love

2007-12-12T09:19:00.000-06:00

I have been wrestling recently with the things listed above in my "title" for this post.

I have seen how I so easily turn to things for fulfillment that aren't able to fulfill me, nor are they supposed to. I can look to a Monday Night football game or some "comfort" food or whatever. But, the Holy Spirit has been so kind as to show me how unfulfilling these things are...how empty these things are when it comes to what my heart really longs for.

There's only one place...one Person, who can fulfill what my heart longs for. I'm thankful this morning as I write this that Jesus has loved me enough to see Him for who He really is and to be able to know Him and have a relationship with Him.

Now THAT brings my heart a sense of calm...a true sense of satisfaction. I'm thankful that in that relationship I can truly and honestly admit my failures and disobedient desires/actions to Him and know that it doesn't change His view of me.

There are times when I think of these things and think to myself, "Whatever. I've heard that before."

Then, there are times (more often) when I think of these things and think, "This never grows old. This reality of who God truly is and what He's done and what He is doing is such an amazing story."

I pray that for whoever might read this post, that this reality would hit you with a very heavy blessing. :)

Wreathdom, Etc.

2007-12-12T09:14:00.000-06:00

So, there are wreaths, but other artistic stuff as well.

Wreathdom

2007-12-08T16:32:00.000-06:00

Yes. All week long my dear wife has been doing one of the things she does best - being creative.

She has spent all week long turning our living room into a den of flowers, leaves, pine cones, cranberries, nuts....and many other things in order to make wreaths and flower arrangements. Why? Good question.

Today (Saturday the 8th) was a neighborhood craft sale. She did it last year and enjoyed it so did it again this year. Although, this year it was rainy and 32 degrees (or something like that). I believe she is one sick lady. ;(

Anyway, the bottom line is she had the opportunity to shine as God gifted her to do. And I enjoyed watching the process and the results.

Okay. Enough for now. If I remember to do so, I'll put up a few pictures of her wreaths.

Ups and Downs

2007-12-02T15:27:00.001-06:00

It seems as though this is a tough day....Friday was good, even Thursday. We saw God take us quickly through government processes that we thought would take a LONG time. But, we did them in record time, actually. Praise God. He can get through governmental "red tape"!

:)

However, today seems a bit tougher. We are so longing to be in Peru and feeling the reality of the fact that it's been over three years since we started the process of thinking and praying about being a part of the work there. It's hard, from our perspective, to wait and wait and wait. As an American...I'm not used to this kind of patience. Lord, forgive me and help me.

Which Animals are These?

2007-11-28T21:22:00.000-06:00

Below you will see some pancakes that we made while Gramma and Grampa Ward were in town several weeks back. Can you guess what animals they are? This top one is somewhat easy (I hope). The bottom two might be a little tougher.

Just thought it'd be fun and different to post this than the usual comments. Enjoy.

Which Animals are These?

2007-11-28T21:15:00.000-06:00

Thanksgiving....Long Drives....and Chicago

2007-11-26T16:15:00.001-06:00

Okay, I don't have much in me to write right now, but....

Thanksgiving was great. We drove 12 hours to get to western Maryland to be with my (Jim's) parents. We enjoyed ourselves, though were very tired on Sunday in light of the trip.

We got home Sunday evening around 5:00pm. Then, we woke up (sara and I) at 4:30am to get me to the airport by 5:30am to fly to Chicago to get to the Peruvian Consulate for visa stuff.

Then< I flew back to St. Louis by 2:30...okay, so can I just say I'm tired. :)

On to the Next Trip...

2007-11-21T21:01:00.001-06:00

So, Sara and I arrived back in St. Louis Sunday afternoon. We then proceeded to pack and get ready for our Thanksgiving trip to western Maryland.

Today, the kids went to school for a half day and did their Thanksgiving Day program and we ate lunch with them. It was a blast!

Then, we left immediately after to go as far as our bodies would let us (which turns out to be Richmond, IN in a Motel 6).

HAppy Thanksgiving!

Mission to the World Conference - We're Back

2007-11-18T18:00:00.000-06:00

We just got in town a few hours ago....collected our dear little ones...and are now trying to settle back in - FOR TWO DAYS and then traveling to my (Jim's) parents in western Maryland for Thanksgiving. Whew hew!

The weekend in Atlanta was fantastic simply because the Lord Jesus was so kind to bless us all with His Word and presence and rebuke and love!

Sara and I are highly challenged and encouraged at the same time! :)

Atlanta Bound...MTW Missions Conference

2007-11-15T14:54:00.001-06:00

Hey All,

Sara and I are flying to Atlanta tomorrow (Fri) to partipate in the Mission to the World missions conference for the weekend. We're looking forward to meeting lots of new faces and maybe reconnecting with some others.

Por favor...continue to pray for God to bring in the support that He wants us to have so that we are able to leave for Peru and begin working there.

The Ups and Downs of Our Hearts

2007-11-12T10:22:00.001-06:00

Yesterday, I had the chance to speak at two churches here in the Saint Louis area. It was very encouraging (as it always is) to share what God is doing in Lima and what He's called me and Sara and the kids to.

On top of that, we received a $500 check from someone, out of the blue, that we didn't expect in the least! It was a blessing and surprise and made us spontaneously thank our Father for His obvious control of life and it's details and our needs.

Yet, today, as I woke up and began to get into things, already I have a heavy heart and my doubts seem so real about will we raise the 100% of our support and when will we ever get to Peru. My heart is such a sad, dysfunctional, messed-up, broken place. How quickly I can go from such a "high" to such a "low."

I am SO thankful that God's love for me, His ability to use me and His call for us to go to Peru doesn't rely on my ups and downs!

Abuelo y Abuela en Saint Louis

2007-11-09T21:55:00.000-06:00

My (Jim's) Dad and Mom are in town so it's hard to keep up with blogging at the moment. But, I thought at least I'd tell you that much!

:)

Talking, Talking

2007-11-07T10:34:00.001-06:00

So, last night Sara and I were able to visit a small group here at our church (New City) in St. Louis and talk more about Lima and our calling. As always it tends to be a blessing to us to be able to share our true hearts and passions for this work that God is doing.

I so appreciate folks who willingly listen and respond to God's movement. I hope that I can be that way more and more.

Owensville, MO

2007-11-05T09:03:00.000-06:00

So, Chloe and I decided to take a road trip to Owensville, Missouri. We've been wanting to visit there for a while and Chloe finally said to me the other day, "Dad. We really need to go this weekend to Owensville!" So, I said, "Let's do it!"

:)

Okay, so that's not exactly how it went down.

Nevertheless, Chloe and I found ourselves worshipping with dear brothers and sisters in Christ in Owensville, Missouri at a church called Redeeming Grace Fellowship. It was a sweet time to hear about how God CLEARLY moved to bring this church plant about. And so, for me, it was fun to talk about how CLEARLY God moved to bring about the church plant in the Salamanca neighborhood in Lima, too! :)

Pray for those dear folks in Owensville whom God has called to be "oaks of righteousness" (Is. 61:3) in that area and agents of grace.

This Sunday coming up I'm going to be preaching at a church in Washington, Missouri Sunday morning and then going to present the work that God is doing in Lima Sunday night at a church in "West County", Saint Louis.

Pray for me and for the Family in Christ who is listening to what God has me saying. Pray that He will call the willing hearts to give and support generously His work and our calling.

Enero (January)

2007-11-01T15:22:00.000-05:00

Our heart's desire is to leave for Lima in January.

Will that happen? We don't know. But, we are asking the Lord to allow this to be so and working to make this happen. In the end, our priority is to wait on the Lord and go when He says so.

Pray with us.

Pray for January to be our departure date.
But, also, for us to wait on Him and not be impatient.

What's Up

2007-10-31T13:39:00.000-05:00

So, now it's a matter of following up with many, many people and several churches who have expressed interest in supporting us. I'm so slow at this. And I'm concerned now that we're nearing November (tomorrow!) and Thanksgiving and Christmas!

God is clearly asking us to push ahead with diligence and at the same time trust Him with great, passionate faith because He is so good to provide for us to do what He's called us to do. Plus, He's so committed to forming our hearts (our insides) to enjoy Him and all that is from Him...all that is good.

I am challenged, at times discouraged, but SO THANKFUL for our Heavenly Father's care, grace, love and work!

Back in STL

2007-10-31T13:37:00.000-05:00

We made it back home on Monday.

I think we have all done good at transitioning back to home life quickly. These trips are getting easier to handle in one sense...we're more used to doing them then before. :)

Although we tired of our ride home (it took 11 hours instead of 7 because of a wreck/accident and construction and...um..ahem...a few adventures) we had a great time in Chattanooga for the weekend.

Chattanooga

2007-10-27T17:27:00.001-05:00

Here we are, a reunited family (I drove from Columbia, SC yesterday and Sara drove from St. Louis). We have met up at a friends house here in Chattanooga, TN. yay!

We're speaking at a church Sunday morning and then another one Sunday evening. So, continue to pray.

I'm confident in what our Father says in Psalm 37:4 - that as we delight in Him He'll take care of our desires. So, by grace and in faith, we're attempting to seek the Kingdom first and let the support be His concern and work.

God Surprises

2007-10-25T20:02:00.000-05:00

Wow. I love it when God shows Himself for who He truly is: the perfectly loving Father!

I always have doubts that creep into my heart; and I always have rebellious thoughts and attitudes that tempt me and so many times I give in! But, in coming to Him, my perfect...heavenly....Father, He always treats me with love (sometimes that means strong rebuke or correction and sometimes that means sweet mercy and comfort)! But, it's always good.

I have just spent over 24 hours with some of the coolest brothers and sisters in Christ here in South Carolina. Some are friends I've reconnected with and some are new friends. But, it the same: a blessing of Holy Spirit and grace centered fellowship.

2007-10-24T20:41:00.000-05:00

From Olathe to St. Louis to Charleston to...

2007-10-24T20:36:00.000-05:00

Well, here I sit in a home in Charleston, SC. First time I've ever been here. Life: the great adventure...

My host family has been outstanding! They've been incredibly warm, and we've had great food, coffee, conversation, etc. It's been a true blessing. Seriously. It has.

Plus, I got to see an old friend from Covenant Seminary days whom I haven't seen in 12 years, probably. It was enjoyable to have him pick me up at the airport and get briefly caught up.

Tomorrow (Thurs) I go before the Presbytery to share with them about what God is up to in Lima and what He's doing with us. Pray for me. Pray for them. Ask our Father in heaven to provide the resources to take us (the Wards) to Lima. Thanks!

Back from Olathe, KS

2007-10-22T20:10:00.000-05:00

It was my first time, ever, in Kansas, I believe. I enjoy going to new places.

It was a good time for me and Caroline (a father and daughter trip) in Olathe, KS. We enjoyed our trip there and back as well as the time that we got to interact with the church there (New Hope). They are a welcoming and loving group.

Pray for them and us - that the Lord would lead us all as to whether or not New Hope will partner with what the Lord's doing in Lima. He may lead them to do so, then again, He may lead them to partner somewhere else. It's in His hands. Praise God!

Gotta Watch That Gas Tank...

2007-10-20T20:12:00.000-05:00

So, I'm driving along in my borrowed Honda Element when (after 3 and 1/2 hours of driving) I happen to actually LOOK at the gas tank. And guess what I see? An EMPTY TANK!

Oh yeah, I was ready to panic!

But, God very graciously taught me to keep calm in that moment and within the next 5 miles I found a lone gas station in the Middle of Nowhere, Missouri. God is good. And very kind to help a foolish man like me.

Let the Weekend Jaunts Begin...

2007-10-19T19:42:00.000-05:00

So, this weekend we begin a "every-Sunday-away" season where each Sunday will find either one or all of us at a different church speaking about Lima and the Kingdom and raising support.

I'm in Kansas City and Sara is speaking at New City. Then, the following week I'm speaking at a Presbytery meeting in South Carolina and meeting with several folks.

Pray for the Lord to lead us all in this journey.

The Daily Lesson...

2007-10-17T17:39:00.000-05:00

Yeah, it does seem like daily the lesson to be learned is simple:

We cannot make results happen.

We can only be obedient to what the Lord has called us to do:
(1) As followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, and
(2) As a 'sent-family' to the people in Lima, Peru

So, each day and each activity must be by faith, totally dependent on His grace and He does what He alone can do.

Whew-hew! I'm okay with that! :)

Attempting Videos

2007-10-16T21:22:00.000-05:00

I am trying to make videos so I can post them here and then have folks be able to see updates that way instead of just words or pictures. So far, though, the only videos I can post here are the unedited "just-as-there-are" kind.

But, regardless, I believe since God has put us in a time in history where there's this great gift of technology and we can stay in touch in very helpful ways I think we need to as best we can. Video is one of the best ways...you get to see people's personalities in a way that pictures and words cannot always express.

So, keep watching...

January 2003...

2007-10-15T14:04:00.000-05:00

Support Raising is Fun

2007-10-15T14:00:00.001-05:00

I'm sure that title sounds either funny or just plain wrong to you - it did to me initially (2 years ago) when I started doing this ministry. But, honestly, I can say that God has transformed my heart to see His work IN this endeavor.

I so enjoy the time I get to spend with people; to hear their stories and testimonies and get connected, or reconnected with them; and I enjoy being able to tell about what God is doing right now in Lima and how He is caring for those dear people who are in poverty spiritually and physically.

This past weekend Sara and I had the chance to meet with a few families and enjoyed it greatly.

Fun Fact

2007-10-12T10:10:00.000-05:00

This pizza place was one of Caroline, Chloe and Eli's favorite places to eat when we lived in Media (Philly area), PA.

They would still tell you today that they love this place.

God Continues to Not Treat Us As We Deserve

2007-10-12T10:06:00.000-05:00

I'm amazed every time that God chooses to bless us in spite of our unbelief or doubts.

Though we wrestled yesterday with "results" in this support raising process/journey, God gave us a plethera of responses that we didn't expect, i.e. I've never had that many people or churches get back to me in one day before!

Let the record show: God clearly loves and blesses us all freely because of what Jesus our Lord has done and because of His plan and purpose.

2007-10-09T10:11:00.000-05:00

My body is extremely weary from the schedule I kept while in Philadelphia. :) But, it was such an encouraging trip: I had the opportunity to reconnect with some dear brothers and sisters in Christ and we got to share our lives together, even if it was only briefly.

God continues to confirm His call for us to go to Lima and - we've had more folks tell us they are going to pray for us and financially support us, as well.

It was a good trip! I am also glad to be back with my wife and kids!

Home to St. Louis and Family

2007-10-07T17:59:00.000-05:00

Yay! I get to go home tomorrow and see my family.

What God Says - He Will Do

2007-10-05T15:24:00.000-05:00

Psalm 37:4
God says, "Take delight in the Lord and He will give you your heart's desires."

I read that verse the night before I flew out of St. Louis to come to Philadelphia. Then, during my plane ride (when all my seatmates where asleep next to me; I was in the middle with one on either side, by the way) I spent time thinking about these words and asking God to help me understand and live them.

Well, He has helped me to delight in His purpose/plan for me, Sara and the kids to go, work in Lima as He works there. I have also learned, by His loving help, that His plan is for me to raise money and prayer support - my family and I need BOTH...neither one or the other...but BOTH to be able to go and work in Lima; and I have found my heart's desires satisfied by Him as I do this work. :)

He is good! He is faithful! He is patient and kind! His love cannot be stopped even though mine can!

Video from My Old Philly Office

2007-10-03T21:15:00.000-05:00

Encouraging Trip Already

2007-10-01T15:34:00.000-05:00

It's only been a few days but already God has greatly encouraged me through the people with whom I've met.

Some have expressed an interested in giving support, others have "blessed my socks off" with their words of encouragement and prayer.

Continued prayer that God would get the honor He deserves in this process and through me and His people; and that He would plant His vision for Lima in the hearts of His people.

Jim in Philly; Sara and Kids in St. Louis

2007-09-30T15:38:00.000-05:00

Well, I made it. Flew in yesterday and am in Philadelphia now for 9 days...I fly out Oct. 8th. Pray for me that God would bear fruit through me for His purposes and Kingdom. Pray for Sara and the kids in the same way and that they would be blessed with this time even though we're separated.

Pray with Us

2007-09-28T11:48:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends and Family - those who keep up with us in this journey:

We are at 60% of our monthly ongoing support. Once we reach 100% we can leave for Lima.

We have been promised a one-time gift of $10,000.00 when we reach 100% or our monthly ongoing support.

We are asking for you all to join us in prayer that God would graciously and mercifully allow us to go in January 2008. (That's four months away!) The reason, you ask? Because that would give us a great window of time to move our things to Lima, get the kids tested for their new school, spend a month doing intensive language learning in the city of Arequipa, Peru, then get back to Lima in time for the kids to start their school year at the beginning of March.

Please, pray with us for this. Pray, also, that we would do what God says in Psalm 37:5, "Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him..."

And in light of that verse, pray that God would do as He says in the following verse, in Psalm 37:6, "and he will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun."

LIMA

2007-09-27T12:13:00.000-05:00

Getting Ready for Jim's Trip

2007-09-26T13:08:00.000-05:00

So, on Saturday I, Jim, leave for a trip to Philadelphia and region. I get the blessing of meeting with people to share what God is doing in Lima right now and what He wants us to be a part of. Cool, huh?

Pray that God's will would be done on this trip...details and testimony to follow...

God's Continuned Encouragement

2007-09-24T16:17:00.000-05:00

I met with someone today whom the Lord clearly used to send me a message:

#1. God is clearly calling us to Lima, Peru and He's the One who put this desire to do so in our hearts and minds;

#2. God continues to lay out specific parts of the vision/ministry only AS we walk along in this journey and He did so even in the last several weeks, i.e. God has planted His Church in Salamanca, a neighborhood in Lima, through HIs Peruvian believers and the Lima New City Team that we are joining is partnering with that ministry.

It's really exciting to see God give very clear, concrete form to what He's doing as He transforms lives/hearts/minds and brings workers to labor in a given field.

I'm sure I'll write more about this in the days ahead...
Jim

Sara's Home!!!

2007-09-23T17:40:00.000-05:00

Needless to say...WE'RE ALL VERY GLAD THAT SARA (OR MOMMY AS SOME LIKE TO CALL HER) IS HOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Video Welcome

2007-09-22T21:08:00.000-05:00