Friday, April 6, 2012
A final reflection by Melissa Renner
For me Mexico meant so much, a trip that i reflect on all year, and excitedly await till the next. Where i see my daughter grow up in dedicated service to the Lord i am without words and we know that is rare. Lol. First we travel together and bond in ways we would never get the opportunity to in our everyday life. The youth on our group this year were amazing. To hear and help translate their testimonies will forever bring my heart joy and hearing how they have come to depend on God when they do not understand. (this is something i am still learning) God has really given me a gift when it comes to working with the youth. i enjoyed the jokes the tears the stories and the hugs! Thank you…. Second we arrive in a small town in Mexico where the children are awaiting our arrival and they soak up all the love and attention we can give. we sing, pray, craft, build, teach, fellowship ,act, paint, home evangelism, eat and become friends with our neighbors from the south.. We can hardly believe its time to go home .. After we had 25 young children dedicate their hearts to Jesus Christ! ~and being part of sharing with the women WHO the author of the Bible was, is and remains.. To be able to pray with a young boy in a tragic car accident and seeing his faith that one day he would walk! I could go on and on with how God has touched my heart….and to see the growth of our teens as they experience all Gods plan and how he uses everyone of us. To anyone reading this please consider joining our trip you will be forever changed and humbled by what God wants to teach you…..
A final reflection by Gary Dunfee
Watching our age 22 and under kids take up all of
the tasks that they had to do, and without being asked has been a joy. They
have taken on the various tasks so well that their parents would be proud of
them, if they had been there. To watch their joy at being so effective in
spreading the love and knowledge of God, to be able to pray for the poor of
this area, to be able to lead troubled youth towards God. Read Luke 4:14-30 and
Luke 18:15-17 This is why we go to Mexico to reach the lost. I wish more parents
would join us with their kids on this trip. When I had a paid job this trip
proved to be the best stress relieving working
vacation that I had. The first year when I walked with the visitation
groups, I knew no Spanish, but somehow at several homes when the Spanish
speakers couldn’t get people to come to the gate Brandon and I were able to
catch the attention of the little kids by acting like big kids and they would come
out followed by their mothers. I have developed a relationship with some of the
men of the church working with them on some of the construction projects. I’ve
learned a lot from them with a little Spanish and English going both ways. It
has been amazing watching us develop a Christ based relationship together. Brothers
in Christ. In the past I printed a sheet with the Romans Road in Spanish and
English in a parallel fashion to help me with my lack of Spanish language
skills. This year the sheet was modified to fit 3 versions of Spanish and 1 of
English across the page. These were handed out to the community and also when
we came back across the border. While sitting in the vehicles for 2 ½ hours,
waiting to get through the US customs gates we handed out left over tracts and
the left over copies of Camino Del
Romano. A couple of people refused the tracks, but the sheet with Camino Del Romano started several
interesting conversations. One lady had just received Jesus within the last few
weeks; others opened up about their faith, it was most pleasant. We made the
round trip without any major vehicle problems, just 3 minor problems that we
learned to adapt to.
It’s
Wednesday evening, the van has been vacuumed out and delivered to Bob Burns for
post trip servicing. I had to ask myself after vacuuming: Just how much snack food did those boys eat on the way there and back?
Did they get any of it in them? I’m sure
it was tons! The laundry is done; the VBS storage tubs are empty and put
away until next year. Receipts are listed on a tally sheet and ready to turn
in. And we’ve managed to get caught up on our sleep.
We drove
2771miles and used 189 gallons of gas with van #3, the most expensive gas was
$4.39 and the cheapest and best was Mexican at $2.95.
Planning for next year has already started.
We’ll be waiting for the school supply sales that start in July to buy pens,
pencils, and lined paper notebooks. These are a hit there where they cost a
couple of dollars each, we can get them on sale here for 10-15cents each when on
sale. They make good VBS memory verse prizes. Extras are taken to a community resource
center where they’re given to parents for their school children. The parents
make $ 7 to $10 dollars a day, when work is available. Out in our barn are
several hundred sheets of stained glass that all have to be wrapped in
newspaper separately and packed, we will take them down next year for the
church windows. This should take 4 to 5 hours to pack them well enough to
survive the trip.
Gary Dunfee
the tasks that they had to do, and without being asked has been a joy. They
have taken on the various tasks so well that their parents would be proud of
them, if they had been there. To watch their joy at being so effective in
spreading the love and knowledge of God, to be able to pray for the poor of
this area, to be able to lead troubled youth towards God. Read Luke 4:14-30 and
Luke 18:15-17 This is why we go to Mexico to reach the lost. I wish more parents
would join us with their kids on this trip. When I had a paid job this trip
proved to be the best stress relieving working
vacation that I had. The first year when I walked with the visitation
groups, I knew no Spanish, but somehow at several homes when the Spanish
speakers couldn’t get people to come to the gate Brandon and I were able to
catch the attention of the little kids by acting like big kids and they would come
out followed by their mothers. I have developed a relationship with some of the
men of the church working with them on some of the construction projects. I’ve
learned a lot from them with a little Spanish and English going both ways. It
has been amazing watching us develop a Christ based relationship together. Brothers
in Christ. In the past I printed a sheet with the Romans Road in Spanish and
English in a parallel fashion to help me with my lack of Spanish language
skills. This year the sheet was modified to fit 3 versions of Spanish and 1 of
English across the page. These were handed out to the community and also when
we came back across the border. While sitting in the vehicles for 2 ½ hours,
waiting to get through the US customs gates we handed out left over tracts and
the left over copies of Camino Del
Romano. A couple of people refused the tracks, but the sheet with Camino Del Romano started several
interesting conversations. One lady had just received Jesus within the last few
weeks; others opened up about their faith, it was most pleasant. We made the
round trip without any major vehicle problems, just 3 minor problems that we
learned to adapt to.
It’s
Wednesday evening, the van has been vacuumed out and delivered to Bob Burns for
post trip servicing. I had to ask myself after vacuuming: Just how much snack food did those boys eat on the way there and back?
Did they get any of it in them? I’m sure
it was tons! The laundry is done; the VBS storage tubs are empty and put
away until next year. Receipts are listed on a tally sheet and ready to turn
in. And we’ve managed to get caught up on our sleep.
We drove
2771miles and used 189 gallons of gas with van #3, the most expensive gas was
$4.39 and the cheapest and best was Mexican at $2.95.
Planning for next year has already started.
We’ll be waiting for the school supply sales that start in July to buy pens,
pencils, and lined paper notebooks. These are a hit there where they cost a
couple of dollars each, we can get them on sale here for 10-15cents each when on
sale. They make good VBS memory verse prizes. Extras are taken to a community resource
center where they’re given to parents for their school children. The parents
make $ 7 to $10 dollars a day, when work is available. Out in our barn are
several hundred sheets of stained glass that all have to be wrapped in
newspaper separately and packed, we will take them down next year for the
church windows. This should take 4 to 5 hours to pack them well enough to
survive the trip.
Gary Dunfee
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Adam, please restart the countdown at 355.
Those of you that are friends with Adam Doty on Facebook know exactly what this title means, those of you that aren't should be his friend.
The biggest problem with doing a countdown is that eventually it gets to zero and then whatever it is that you were anticipating seems to pass by so quickly. That is certainly the case with this year's trip to Mexico. So many wonderful things happened, I can't even remember all the things I would like to share with you, but I will try to share a few of the more memorable things that happened (from my perspective).
1) "Depart from me, for I never knew you." These scary words from Jesus were the at the center of the message that I shared at the first outreach service, the first message (sermon) that I have ever done. In a nutshell, the point I was trying to make was that Jesus wants so much for us to have a personal relationship with him that our salvation depends on it. Doing good deeds and participating in the rituals of religion do not equal a personal relationship with Jesus.
2) The young adults put together a skit for the outreach service, and ended up being asked to do it 3 additional times. This skit was so impactful, it brought many to tears and got a well deserved applause at the end each time. Thank you Adam Doty, Merry Doty, Isaac Williams, Connor Southerton, Betsy Thomas, Chris Roske & Chris Miller. You did an excellent job, I am very proud of you. You can watch the skit at http://youtu.be/qVbkfcAlH00
3) The youth outreach services - Geoff Barrett & Adam Doty did such a good job. Personal testimonies by Connor Southerton, Sarah Vasnik, Chris Miller & Isaac Williams were so impactful and really allowed them to connect with their Mexican audience. Adam did a really good message about the meaning of the skit and the importance of calling on Jesus. Geoff tied it all together with a message about preparing for the race...and finishing.
4) Betsy Thomas shared with our group at the meeting before we departed for Mexico that she had to choose between going on the trip or traveling with her family to visit her brother who just graduated from Air Force training. She hasn't been able to see him for a few months and it will be several more before she will have another chance. I know this had to be a hard decision on her part, but she said that she felt God was calling her to go on the trip...and she needed to go where God was calling her. I am so glad I got to know her a little bit, what an amazing young woman - always smiling and encouraging.
5) My brother-in-law Rich Brubaker joined us. Rich is a pastor/missionary at the University of Oregon in Eugene. I got the pleasure to be with Rich on a door to door evangelism team along with Sayda and Sallie and two of the ladies from the local church. Rich was instrumental in working with Sayda to bring a woman to the Lord. How exciting to be a part of that. That made the whole trip (all the costs, preparation and challenges) worth while.
6) Watching the first time mission participants. Sallie Palafox, Jon Hutchinson, Rich Brubaker and Michael Harrington were participating on their first ever mission trip outside of the USA. They didn't know what to expect, but were taking a "leap of faith" and following the command of Jesus Christ to "Go and make disciples of all nations." How exciting to see how Christ worked through each of them and blessed them.
7) Gary & Geri Dunfee have such servant's hearts. They put in so many hours doing prep work for the trip. Making sure the vehicles were ready, doing all the shopping for food & VBS supplies and so many other things behind the scenes...what great examples.
8) Sayda Wickman who is one our bilingual participants really had it on her heart to do a women's Bible study this year, and she put together a great one. Over 20 women were able to learn from her knowledge and listened attentively and then peppered her with questions. She did an amazing job.
9) Lupita (Sayda's 10 year old daughter) stepped up and became a translator this year. How wonderful to see her willingly take on this role. She actually went out with her own evangelism team (with Geri's help) and got us out of a few jams.
10) Melissa Renner tried to hand off the VBS duties this year, she wanted to be involved in the women's Bible study with Sayda. But God had other plans for her, he made it abundantly clear that she needed to be in the VBS and that is where she went, she does such an amazing job coordinating all of us non-Spanish speakers and getting the Spanish speaking kids to follow our lead. Well done Melissa. Of course Michelle & Merry Doty did so much of the VBS prep work and also deserve special recognition.
11) The Mexican kids love playing with our teens, but it was exciting to see the relationship that Sarah Vasnik made with Nancy and that Connor Southerton made with Elias. They were inseperable, and I'm pretty sure tears were shed when the week ended. Just shows how language isn't a barrier to Christ's love.
12) At the end of the last outreach service, all the church members came up to the front of the church where our group was standing and thanked us for what was done this week. There were many hugs and even cheek kisses shared - this is showing the highest level of respect in their culture, it was truely amazing to be a part of it.
13) So many spiritual battles. Satan was doing his best to discourage us, but Jesus won every battle. This group was so unified, it was amazing. For a group of 38, you would expect some conflict - but it never happened - what a blessing.
14) I have to mention the Beckham family. We set a new record for youngest participant. Hudson is 14 months old. In all, Tim & Tarena have 5 kids, the oldest - Keaton - is 8 years old. I have to give a hat's off to Tim & Tarena. They managed to keep watch over their kids and still be able to participate in all of our mission activities.
15) The long drive. Yes it is long, over 20 hours, but I wouldn't do it any other way. There is no other way to get to know your fellow team members better than to be stuck in a vehicle with them, and then sleep on church floors together along the way. What a great way to build meaningful relationships, we have some pretty amazing conversations too. Of course if you are unable to sit in a car that long we will be glad to line up a flight in and out of San Diego.
16) The sound of guns, bullets whizzing by overhead, explosions, and the constant threat from drug cartels. Well, we didn't experience any of it. I'm not saying these things are not a problem in some parts of Mexico, but certainly nowhere near where we were serving. The media has certainly done a good job of scaring many potential short-term missionaries away from coming to Mexico. This is a battle that many of us in the United States are letting Satan win. There are so many people in Mexico needing to hear about the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Unfortunately short term mission teams coming to Mexico have decreased in the past few years because of the fear mongering by our media. If you feel Jesus giving you a nudge, but are holding back from participating in the Spring Break or Summer trips because you are concerned about the violence that you hear about on television, please talk to any of the participants on this trip and I am sure they will happily answer your questions and ease your concerns.
Well, time to take a break. In the next few weeks our trip leaders will be talking about what worked, and what didn't work this year. What tweeks should we make for next year. We already know we will be going next Spring Break, there is no question there. In about 6 months we will have our first official informational meeting and the countdowns will begin. If you have any questions about participating next year please track me down, or any of the other participants. The trip costs only around $450 per adult - less for kids, and I would be happy to work with you on a savings plan to set a small percentage away monthly. We also will be doing fund raisers to help offset a portion or all of your trip costs.
Please prayerfully consider joining us next year. You can learn more about the mission group we work with at www.GoMissionsToMexico.com
In His Service,
Brandon Chase
The biggest problem with doing a countdown is that eventually it gets to zero and then whatever it is that you were anticipating seems to pass by so quickly. That is certainly the case with this year's trip to Mexico. So many wonderful things happened, I can't even remember all the things I would like to share with you, but I will try to share a few of the more memorable things that happened (from my perspective).
1) "Depart from me, for I never knew you." These scary words from Jesus were the at the center of the message that I shared at the first outreach service, the first message (sermon) that I have ever done. In a nutshell, the point I was trying to make was that Jesus wants so much for us to have a personal relationship with him that our salvation depends on it. Doing good deeds and participating in the rituals of religion do not equal a personal relationship with Jesus.
2) The young adults put together a skit for the outreach service, and ended up being asked to do it 3 additional times. This skit was so impactful, it brought many to tears and got a well deserved applause at the end each time. Thank you Adam Doty, Merry Doty, Isaac Williams, Connor Southerton, Betsy Thomas, Chris Roske & Chris Miller. You did an excellent job, I am very proud of you. You can watch the skit at http://youtu.be/qVbkfcAlH00
3) The youth outreach services - Geoff Barrett & Adam Doty did such a good job. Personal testimonies by Connor Southerton, Sarah Vasnik, Chris Miller & Isaac Williams were so impactful and really allowed them to connect with their Mexican audience. Adam did a really good message about the meaning of the skit and the importance of calling on Jesus. Geoff tied it all together with a message about preparing for the race...and finishing.
4) Betsy Thomas shared with our group at the meeting before we departed for Mexico that she had to choose between going on the trip or traveling with her family to visit her brother who just graduated from Air Force training. She hasn't been able to see him for a few months and it will be several more before she will have another chance. I know this had to be a hard decision on her part, but she said that she felt God was calling her to go on the trip...and she needed to go where God was calling her. I am so glad I got to know her a little bit, what an amazing young woman - always smiling and encouraging.
5) My brother-in-law Rich Brubaker joined us. Rich is a pastor/missionary at the University of Oregon in Eugene. I got the pleasure to be with Rich on a door to door evangelism team along with Sayda and Sallie and two of the ladies from the local church. Rich was instrumental in working with Sayda to bring a woman to the Lord. How exciting to be a part of that. That made the whole trip (all the costs, preparation and challenges) worth while.
6) Watching the first time mission participants. Sallie Palafox, Jon Hutchinson, Rich Brubaker and Michael Harrington were participating on their first ever mission trip outside of the USA. They didn't know what to expect, but were taking a "leap of faith" and following the command of Jesus Christ to "Go and make disciples of all nations." How exciting to see how Christ worked through each of them and blessed them.
7) Gary & Geri Dunfee have such servant's hearts. They put in so many hours doing prep work for the trip. Making sure the vehicles were ready, doing all the shopping for food & VBS supplies and so many other things behind the scenes...what great examples.
8) Sayda Wickman who is one our bilingual participants really had it on her heart to do a women's Bible study this year, and she put together a great one. Over 20 women were able to learn from her knowledge and listened attentively and then peppered her with questions. She did an amazing job.
9) Lupita (Sayda's 10 year old daughter) stepped up and became a translator this year. How wonderful to see her willingly take on this role. She actually went out with her own evangelism team (with Geri's help) and got us out of a few jams.
10) Melissa Renner tried to hand off the VBS duties this year, she wanted to be involved in the women's Bible study with Sayda. But God had other plans for her, he made it abundantly clear that she needed to be in the VBS and that is where she went, she does such an amazing job coordinating all of us non-Spanish speakers and getting the Spanish speaking kids to follow our lead. Well done Melissa. Of course Michelle & Merry Doty did so much of the VBS prep work and also deserve special recognition.
11) The Mexican kids love playing with our teens, but it was exciting to see the relationship that Sarah Vasnik made with Nancy and that Connor Southerton made with Elias. They were inseperable, and I'm pretty sure tears were shed when the week ended. Just shows how language isn't a barrier to Christ's love.
12) At the end of the last outreach service, all the church members came up to the front of the church where our group was standing and thanked us for what was done this week. There were many hugs and even cheek kisses shared - this is showing the highest level of respect in their culture, it was truely amazing to be a part of it.
13) So many spiritual battles. Satan was doing his best to discourage us, but Jesus won every battle. This group was so unified, it was amazing. For a group of 38, you would expect some conflict - but it never happened - what a blessing.
14) I have to mention the Beckham family. We set a new record for youngest participant. Hudson is 14 months old. In all, Tim & Tarena have 5 kids, the oldest - Keaton - is 8 years old. I have to give a hat's off to Tim & Tarena. They managed to keep watch over their kids and still be able to participate in all of our mission activities.
15) The long drive. Yes it is long, over 20 hours, but I wouldn't do it any other way. There is no other way to get to know your fellow team members better than to be stuck in a vehicle with them, and then sleep on church floors together along the way. What a great way to build meaningful relationships, we have some pretty amazing conversations too. Of course if you are unable to sit in a car that long we will be glad to line up a flight in and out of San Diego.
16) The sound of guns, bullets whizzing by overhead, explosions, and the constant threat from drug cartels. Well, we didn't experience any of it. I'm not saying these things are not a problem in some parts of Mexico, but certainly nowhere near where we were serving. The media has certainly done a good job of scaring many potential short-term missionaries away from coming to Mexico. This is a battle that many of us in the United States are letting Satan win. There are so many people in Mexico needing to hear about the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Unfortunately short term mission teams coming to Mexico have decreased in the past few years because of the fear mongering by our media. If you feel Jesus giving you a nudge, but are holding back from participating in the Spring Break or Summer trips because you are concerned about the violence that you hear about on television, please talk to any of the participants on this trip and I am sure they will happily answer your questions and ease your concerns.
Well, time to take a break. In the next few weeks our trip leaders will be talking about what worked, and what didn't work this year. What tweeks should we make for next year. We already know we will be going next Spring Break, there is no question there. In about 6 months we will have our first official informational meeting and the countdowns will begin. If you have any questions about participating next year please track me down, or any of the other participants. The trip costs only around $450 per adult - less for kids, and I would be happy to work with you on a savings plan to set a small percentage away monthly. We also will be doing fund raisers to help offset a portion or all of your trip costs.
Please prayerfully consider joining us next year. You can learn more about the mission group we work with at www.GoMissionsToMexico.com
In His Service,
Brandon Chase
Thursday, March 29, 2012
is it worth it
I didn't commit to going to Mexico until last minute so I didn't build myself up or plan much. I came down to be available, to fill in as things seemed to open up.
When we drove in to the base camp, good memories came back to me from 4 years ago. There's an oasis style parking area, clean surroundings, clean rooms, everything we need. Then a thorough orientation by the mission's missionary, Mike and family. This is one of the highlites as it is informative, as well as instructional.
This is my second trip with Casa DeLuz - Go Missions to Mexico, so I had an understanding of what was in store for me for culture etc. My topic is mostly about my experience with our own folks. If you are reading the blogs you are connecting with many of the folks.
Tarena and Tim Beckham's family of 4 boys and a girl. It is so nice to watch a young family, that can roll with the ups/downs as they serve Him. Jon Hutchenson, the guy that turns out to be a a teddy bear of a guy that kids gravitate to, he is patient with those that need it most and gives positive words to those that need it. He has become a great help in mentoring Ryan.
Sallie is refreshing her knowledge of Spanish, and shared her sweet spirit to all. Pat Smith, the head cook, the imaginative and gourmet meals are fantastic. The young adults, swinging the little kids onto their shoulders, piggy back runs, chasing the kids around. "The skit" - the meaningful Skit, not just acting, but a flow and chemistry that made you feel the impact of Christ in our lives if you make HIM number one. Hunter won't be the same, the young Mexican teen girls found out he is 12, I thought he shyly and inwardly might be enjoying run 'from' them as they swooned over him and his golden wavy hair, all for the glory of God I'm sure. Gary, Geri, Barb, Greg, Melissa the experienced hands at this trip with Brandon - what workerbees for the Lord, with help of many, another successful VBS program. I even got involved as I used my few Mexican words, bonita (beautiful), bueno (good), mas (more) etc..... as they made there crafts all for the name of Jesus.
The first message by my son Brandon, I am proud of him for the leadership role, the delegating role and the quiet spirit he has to honor God in this way, then to add to it, an hour message about-- religion is not what we worship, the church is not -- what we are to worship is the person of Jesus Christ - to have a 'relationship' with Him. Something we all should remind ourselves regularly, we have pride in what we can see and touch but we 'HAVE' JESUS as the number one of our life.
who did I forget, oh myself, an old timer now, ouch.
I'm still not sure what I gave to the mission trip, I had the honor to drive one of the church vans, to work on removing shingles from a roof, to wind wire onto rebar metal, to cut crafts and assemble them with little kids. To eat with fellow Christians, to become close to them, to pray with them to sing with them, to weep with them to raise our hands, voices and hearts to our JESUS together. To openingly commune, verbalize and witness the Name of Jesus with them. I cleaned floors, washed dishes, burned the garbage, took the food garbage to the pit, sat with them, discuss things with them.
So Jesus-- what did you want me to give to the Mexico people or the CCC people for that matter?
I recieved so much that to figure out what I was to give is hard, but I recieved much, I was served by fellow Christians of both colors, I was fed by Christians of both colors, I was blessed by Christians of both colors.
The topping of all was Sayda's service of ministering to the Women of the community. To be asked to study with her, a burning question that they asked-- Is wearing a dress in church a New Testament directive? It reminds me of a few decades ago, coming out of Illinois largest Sunday School in the world. They maintained the premise - women must wear a dress in service. It would be interesting to know if that is still required today. So my view of scripture was it was not required - but we were reminded by Paul, when meeting with someone with different customs, we are to humble ourselves and participate within that custom so to not be a stumbling block or arrogant.
Half of us got a 24 ish hour bug of some sort, a nausance and not fun but at least generally able to get thru it one by one.
Then the heartfelt/tearful good-byes on Thursday of new found friends - friends that were not looking only at us as Americans but more importantly 'Fellow Christians'.
So I left, believing I helped, believing it was a valuable and worth while trip. Becoming 'close' traveling friends with my existing American/Canby friends. To be blessed by the young adults Van riding fun, to hear them sing, talk, support, encourage each other in there own way. To see them grow as they, as much as anyone, LOVED the people and especially the little kids, that they even called their own.
Yes it was time well spent, it was rewarding and it was good.
-- Ron Chase
When we drove in to the base camp, good memories came back to me from 4 years ago. There's an oasis style parking area, clean surroundings, clean rooms, everything we need. Then a thorough orientation by the mission's missionary, Mike and family. This is one of the highlites as it is informative, as well as instructional.
This is my second trip with Casa DeLuz - Go Missions to Mexico, so I had an understanding of what was in store for me for culture etc. My topic is mostly about my experience with our own folks. If you are reading the blogs you are connecting with many of the folks.
Tarena and Tim Beckham's family of 4 boys and a girl. It is so nice to watch a young family, that can roll with the ups/downs as they serve Him. Jon Hutchenson, the guy that turns out to be a a teddy bear of a guy that kids gravitate to, he is patient with those that need it most and gives positive words to those that need it. He has become a great help in mentoring Ryan.
Sallie is refreshing her knowledge of Spanish, and shared her sweet spirit to all. Pat Smith, the head cook, the imaginative and gourmet meals are fantastic. The young adults, swinging the little kids onto their shoulders, piggy back runs, chasing the kids around. "The skit" - the meaningful Skit, not just acting, but a flow and chemistry that made you feel the impact of Christ in our lives if you make HIM number one. Hunter won't be the same, the young Mexican teen girls found out he is 12, I thought he shyly and inwardly might be enjoying run 'from' them as they swooned over him and his golden wavy hair, all for the glory of God I'm sure. Gary, Geri, Barb, Greg, Melissa the experienced hands at this trip with Brandon - what workerbees for the Lord, with help of many, another successful VBS program. I even got involved as I used my few Mexican words, bonita (beautiful), bueno (good), mas (more) etc..... as they made there crafts all for the name of Jesus.
The first message by my son Brandon, I am proud of him for the leadership role, the delegating role and the quiet spirit he has to honor God in this way, then to add to it, an hour message about-- religion is not what we worship, the church is not -- what we are to worship is the person of Jesus Christ - to have a 'relationship' with Him. Something we all should remind ourselves regularly, we have pride in what we can see and touch but we 'HAVE' JESUS as the number one of our life.
who did I forget, oh myself, an old timer now, ouch.
I'm still not sure what I gave to the mission trip, I had the honor to drive one of the church vans, to work on removing shingles from a roof, to wind wire onto rebar metal, to cut crafts and assemble them with little kids. To eat with fellow Christians, to become close to them, to pray with them to sing with them, to weep with them to raise our hands, voices and hearts to our JESUS together. To openingly commune, verbalize and witness the Name of Jesus with them. I cleaned floors, washed dishes, burned the garbage, took the food garbage to the pit, sat with them, discuss things with them.
So Jesus-- what did you want me to give to the Mexico people or the CCC people for that matter?
I recieved so much that to figure out what I was to give is hard, but I recieved much, I was served by fellow Christians of both colors, I was fed by Christians of both colors, I was blessed by Christians of both colors.
The topping of all was Sayda's service of ministering to the Women of the community. To be asked to study with her, a burning question that they asked-- Is wearing a dress in church a New Testament directive? It reminds me of a few decades ago, coming out of Illinois largest Sunday School in the world. They maintained the premise - women must wear a dress in service. It would be interesting to know if that is still required today. So my view of scripture was it was not required - but we were reminded by Paul, when meeting with someone with different customs, we are to humble ourselves and participate within that custom so to not be a stumbling block or arrogant.
Half of us got a 24 ish hour bug of some sort, a nausance and not fun but at least generally able to get thru it one by one.
Then the heartfelt/tearful good-byes on Thursday of new found friends - friends that were not looking only at us as Americans but more importantly 'Fellow Christians'.
So I left, believing I helped, believing it was a valuable and worth while trip. Becoming 'close' traveling friends with my existing American/Canby friends. To be blessed by the young adults Van riding fun, to hear them sing, talk, support, encourage each other in there own way. To see them grow as they, as much as anyone, LOVED the people and especially the little kids, that they even called their own.
Yes it was time well spent, it was rewarding and it was good.
-- Ron Chase
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
This trip has been absolutely nothing like I had imagined in so many ways....... After traveling for two days from Canby to Baja California, we arrived at our destination (near Camalu) and everyone got out of the vans and truck......except me. I was paniced because I couldn't find my purse (with my passport, driver's license, debit card, over $200 in cash plus other ID's and things that I couldn't even remember). With tears in my eyes that I couldn't hold back, I climbed out of the van to come face to face with Mike "Miguel" Fink, the director of Go Missions To Mexico, the compound where we are staying. Brandon asked me what was wrong and I told him I couldn't find my purse....and our group formed a circle (with Mike) and prayed that it would be found. Mike went to his office along with Susan, Melissa, Robin, Ron and me. Mike and the girls got on the phones looking up international numbers for Chase Bank, Burger King (where we had lunch in Ensenada, the Ensenada police. The Spanish speakers, Mike, Susan and Melissa began making calls.....while I stood there in a daze. Mike told me that he hated to be the bearer of bad news, but chances were slim that I would ever see my purse again. I went to my room in the dorm area when the gals I was rooming with had already unpacked my luggage and set up my area and made my bed. Feeling pretty "low" I went to the kitchen (where I was supposed to be helping Pat and Geri prepare our first meal)....and Merry and Michelle Doty were taking my place and helping them......They told me that they had just prayed that God would protect my purse and it's contents. I went back to my room to unpack the rest of my things....and just a few minutes later I heard all this yelliing and clapping hands out in the dining room, so I stepped out of my room to see what was going on....and Mike, the director, had come over from his office and said the Ensenada Police had called back......retrieved my purse from Burger King.....and was holding it at a police substation in Ensenada. We were all hugging (and I was crying) and praising God. IT WAS A MIRACLE for sure!! It was on a Sat. and we couldn't pick it up intil Monday, so we were just praying that my passport and driver's license.....and the important things were in tact in my purse......We doubted the money would be there, but still we didn't doubt that God cares and can perform miracles. We had a great Sat. evening and Sunday was amazing at the little church in Triki where we are doing our work this week. I have never given a testimony in front of a group of people, but I gave a testimony in front of the whole church of sweet Mexican people AND our missions group....and Sayda translated for me.....and I read Prov. 3:5 & 6 in Spanish .....and I just felt on cloud "9" that night! The music was wonderful and the little Mexican girls dancing to the praises of God with their tamborines were like little angels......and the worshipers sitting in front of me praising God with all of their hearts.....well, I had tears in my eyes most of the evening while I sat there feeling God surrounding me. Brandon's message that night was amazing.....and the tamale dinner and love and fellowship that the Mexican folks lavished on us was like a dream. So much love and kindness and smiles just radiated from their happy faces. Well, Monday dawned and Greg Newman offered to drive me up to Ensenada (a great sacrifice beings it is a 2 1/2 hour drive from Camalu) along with Susan Dunfee (to translate for us) and PC came along, too. First we went to Burger King to thank them for holding my purse for the police to pick up.....then to the police station that they said had it.....That station said they didn't have it, but called around and found the station that had it.......We drove to where we thought they told us (by their directions) and that police station directed us back to a 3rd police station. Well, the third substation DID have it.....and as soon as we told them who we were, they seemed so excited to go to a filing cabinet in their little tiny office and unlock it.......and as he, the officer, was getting it out.....I saw it and started crying again! He (Antonio Gonzalez Lopez, the officer who went to Burger King and got my purse) brought it to the counter and had me open it and get everything out so he could write down what was in there, so I could sign papers that everything was there. EVERYTHING was there plus I had more cash than I realized I even brought with me..... and even my Fisherman's License was in there that I got when I first started going to Canby Christian Church six years ago!!....my most important license! The other policemen (Humberto Duran Duran and Ariel Carrillo Gastelum) on duty that day were all smiling and happy and fun and funny and we took pictures and hugged and laughed. The people at all three police stations were trying so hard to help us in every way.....and the officers that gave me my purse particularly melted any doubt I may have had in the honesty of the people of Baja in general.....in the Mexican fast food restaurant.....within the police department......and after meeting the people in the church and in the neighborhoods where we are evangeliziing. Today has been amazing in our evangelizing in Triki. Brandon pretty much covered our group in his blog, but I stood in amazement as the young gal accepted Christ right there with her little kids running around her yard.....and dogs wandering around, the sun beating down.....and God right there in our midst. While Sayda was praying with her, Rich and Brandon and I looked up and two white doves were flying over us. Whew..... I can't express each day's events and happenings in this blog because you may have already shut me down 20 lines back. I just sincerely and whole heartedly express my gratitude to God, my team buddies on this trip, the people of Baja......but mostly my God! Thank you, God. You are more than words can express!
My love to all of you who are praying for us (and everyone else, too!),
Sallie Palafox
My love to all of you who are praying for us (and everyone else, too!),
Sallie Palafox
An amazing day
I'm exhausted and ready for bed, but really want to share some of the events of this day. Oh, what a day!!!
The morning started off as usual, once we arrived in the community where we are serving we split into 2 different groups. One group that would be working on construction at the church - painting, rebar work and dismantling the pastor's old house, which is in the middle of the new church. The second group was to go into the community and do evangelism and prayer - door to door. The evangelism half was split further into 3 groups, each with their own translator and representatives from the local church. The group I was in consisted of myself, Rich Brubaker (my brother-in-law), Sallie Palafox, Sayda Wickman and our two church representatives - Gresellia and MariaElena.
We started at a house where there were 4 young children out in front. Gresellia who is a grandmother and probably 4 feet tall if I am generous, an indiginous woman from Oaxaca in southern Mexico was the leader of our group. Gresellia approached these children and discovered that they are left at home alone each day. Their father is an alchoholic and absent most of the time, their mother works all day in the fields and earns around $7 per day - which her husband takes and uses to fund his addiction. Sayda immediately jumped into the conversation and we spent probably the next 30 minutes visiting with these children. They are scared because they are left alone all day with nobody to watch over them, and they are worried about what might happen if their father came home while their mother is away. Sayda shared the story of Daniel in the Lion's Den and explained to them that even when they are alone, God is watching over them. We prayed with them as a group and then finished with Gresellia singing a song aided by her tamborine.
Over the next couple of hours we visited a few other people, had a couple men refuse to speak with us, but then came upon a young woman doing her laundry in her yard. Sayda quickly began talking with her. This woman, who was around 25 years old with small children, had so many questions. Sayda kept asking us to find a verse to answer this question, find a verse to answer the next question. Rich, who is a pastor in Eugene, got very involved in the conversation and even walked the woman through a prayer asking Jesus into her heart (translated through Sayda). This was certainly the highlight of our evangelism team's morning.
For lunch we were served another amazing lunch by the ladies in the church. These authentic Mexican meals are always such a highlight.
After lunch, we did a VBS for the children and there were around 200 children in attendance. Melissa, Geri and Susan do so much to make this successful, of course they couldn't do it without the help of the rest of our team. The best way that I could describe one of these VBS sessions is like trying to herd cats. But with God's help, they get it done.
At the same time that the VBS was happening, Sayda was leading a women's Bible study with about 20 women present. That grew from 12 yesterday. Sayda is an amazing teacher and really knows the Bible. She had these women captivated for 2 hours - she could have gone for hours more.
After dinner, we ended the day with a youth outreach. The youth of our church had put this together under the leadership of Geoff Barrett and Adam Doty. Tonight was the second and final night of the youth outreach and it was a huge success. I got the pleasure of being able to attend both. I am so proud and amazed by the youth in our church. Adam put together a skit which we did a couple nights ago in the adult outreach and they did again today in the youth outreach - we will be doing this for our whole church family in the very near future - it will bring tears to your eyes and bring you to your feet with applause. After the skit, Adam explained what it meant and the importance of having a meaningful relationship with Jesus. This was followed by 2 testimonies (Chris Miller & Isaac Williams tonight, Conner Southerton & Sarah Vasnik last night). These kids are amazing and the things they have experienced in their lives really struck a chord with the kids in Mexico. Geoff finished up tonight's outreach speaking about training to win, whether in boxing, running or in our Christian walk. All our young adults were amazing.
I am so greatful to our entire team. We are working as a team and there have been no conflicts, which is amazing when there are 38 of us. Please keep us in your prayers. We still have a day and a half left of ministry. We are getting really tired, but Jesus and adrenalin are keeping us going.
In His Service,
Brandon Chase
The morning started off as usual, once we arrived in the community where we are serving we split into 2 different groups. One group that would be working on construction at the church - painting, rebar work and dismantling the pastor's old house, which is in the middle of the new church. The second group was to go into the community and do evangelism and prayer - door to door. The evangelism half was split further into 3 groups, each with their own translator and representatives from the local church. The group I was in consisted of myself, Rich Brubaker (my brother-in-law), Sallie Palafox, Sayda Wickman and our two church representatives - Gresellia and MariaElena.
We started at a house where there were 4 young children out in front. Gresellia who is a grandmother and probably 4 feet tall if I am generous, an indiginous woman from Oaxaca in southern Mexico was the leader of our group. Gresellia approached these children and discovered that they are left at home alone each day. Their father is an alchoholic and absent most of the time, their mother works all day in the fields and earns around $7 per day - which her husband takes and uses to fund his addiction. Sayda immediately jumped into the conversation and we spent probably the next 30 minutes visiting with these children. They are scared because they are left alone all day with nobody to watch over them, and they are worried about what might happen if their father came home while their mother is away. Sayda shared the story of Daniel in the Lion's Den and explained to them that even when they are alone, God is watching over them. We prayed with them as a group and then finished with Gresellia singing a song aided by her tamborine.
Over the next couple of hours we visited a few other people, had a couple men refuse to speak with us, but then came upon a young woman doing her laundry in her yard. Sayda quickly began talking with her. This woman, who was around 25 years old with small children, had so many questions. Sayda kept asking us to find a verse to answer this question, find a verse to answer the next question. Rich, who is a pastor in Eugene, got very involved in the conversation and even walked the woman through a prayer asking Jesus into her heart (translated through Sayda). This was certainly the highlight of our evangelism team's morning.
For lunch we were served another amazing lunch by the ladies in the church. These authentic Mexican meals are always such a highlight.
After lunch, we did a VBS for the children and there were around 200 children in attendance. Melissa, Geri and Susan do so much to make this successful, of course they couldn't do it without the help of the rest of our team. The best way that I could describe one of these VBS sessions is like trying to herd cats. But with God's help, they get it done.
At the same time that the VBS was happening, Sayda was leading a women's Bible study with about 20 women present. That grew from 12 yesterday. Sayda is an amazing teacher and really knows the Bible. She had these women captivated for 2 hours - she could have gone for hours more.
After dinner, we ended the day with a youth outreach. The youth of our church had put this together under the leadership of Geoff Barrett and Adam Doty. Tonight was the second and final night of the youth outreach and it was a huge success. I got the pleasure of being able to attend both. I am so proud and amazed by the youth in our church. Adam put together a skit which we did a couple nights ago in the adult outreach and they did again today in the youth outreach - we will be doing this for our whole church family in the very near future - it will bring tears to your eyes and bring you to your feet with applause. After the skit, Adam explained what it meant and the importance of having a meaningful relationship with Jesus. This was followed by 2 testimonies (Chris Miller & Isaac Williams tonight, Conner Southerton & Sarah Vasnik last night). These kids are amazing and the things they have experienced in their lives really struck a chord with the kids in Mexico. Geoff finished up tonight's outreach speaking about training to win, whether in boxing, running or in our Christian walk. All our young adults were amazing.
I am so greatful to our entire team. We are working as a team and there have been no conflicts, which is amazing when there are 38 of us. Please keep us in your prayers. We still have a day and a half left of ministry. We are getting really tired, but Jesus and adrenalin are keeping us going.
In His Service,
Brandon Chase
Friday's travels
Friday morning we woke up at 5am (yes...not much sleep!) and running on giddy adrenaline we rolled up our sleeping gear, got changed and I cooked our kids some eggs as we were not stopping for a couple hours for breakfast (but they hardly ate anything as there was others riding in our van with us and it was too much fun!). It was weird to arrive at that church while it was still dark and then leave again in darkness!
We enjoyed at beautiful drive with the sun comming up and arrived quickly at a resturant for breakfast-it was delicious!
After driving again for awhile we stopped at a rest stop and as we turned off the van smoke started pouring out of one side of the engine! We opened the hood and found that a rubber tube to the coolant had rubbed raw from all the driving and coolant was burning on the engine. Thankfully, we had lots of guys who know vehicles and they figured we would have to get new tubing. We decided to switch some of the car seats around into different vehicles so some guys could stay back and get a new tube while the rest of us continued on.
It was really fun to get into a different vehicle and sitting next to new people (we have had the chance to really chat and get to know others when we sit near them for a couple of hours-I LOVE IT!) Auston was sitting next to Mel for awhile and she shared some of her fun electronic toys...they "raised the roof" together.
Playing a fun game with mama to make hours go faster.
It was really fun to get into a different vehicle and sitting next to new people (we have had the chance to really chat and get to know others when we sit near them for a couple of hours-I LOVE IT!) Auston was sitting next to Mel for awhile and she shared some of her fun electronic toys...they "raised the roof" together.
At lunch we stopped again for an hour to eat and let everyone stretch or run around.
We found that even though we are trying to eat healthy we have found salads at fast food resturants that we can eat and fruit and even hardboiled eggs at rest stops...Auston loves his hardboiled eggs!
Too much driving, lack of sleep, excitement and siblings sitting too close=cat fight.
No I'm not kidding...Abbi and Jackson just started swinging at each other-if I wasn't their mother, I'm sure I would have found it funny. After they freaked out at each other I made Abbi get up and sit in a different row. I couldn't believe the way they acted-and over who knows what!
Right after their tiff...this is what we found...
Talk about exhausted!!
Going through (actually around) LA...traffic as the sun sets. A long day of driving.
We all met up at dinner with the team that stayed back to fix the van as we stopped for dinner. We were all getting to the exhaustion phase and I was feeling the "oh goodness was this a good decision to do this whole trip?" as we pulled into the church we were going to stay at around midnight.
It was a very long day. And I'm sure we were all REALLY glad to get unloaded and into bed as fast as possible. Thankfully, this evening the kids were out like a light!
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