tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58998188148459245872024-03-05T06:37:29.698-06:00Missional VisionMy life, adventures, work, and walk with God as a missionary in Latin AmericaTheohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09209930567911108120noreply@blogger.comBlogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5899818814845924587.post-46858941941990118582012-11-26T21:20:00.002-06:002012-11-26T22:02:02.573-06:00♩♪ "I'll be home for Christmas, you can count on that.." ♬<b>♩♪ "I'll be home for Christmas, you can count on that.." ♬</b>
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Well, it's pretty much that time of year again - the most beautiful time of year if you´re so inclined to say, and as we start to sing the many beautiful Christmas songs in open air, celebrating and announcing in one breath the advent of our LORD and Savior, Jesus Christ, and the salvation that He came to offer to all men - I cannot help but appreciate how good and faithful He has been in my life.
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When I last wrote I shared with you all my desire to come and visit home - the longing that I have had to fellowship with you all, and my hope of coming home for Christmas :)
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Now, thanks to the LORD, and to you all for your many prayers and support, I am able to announce that I will be coming home for Christmas (and New Years!)this year, flying in December 10th. Is´nt the LORD great!
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Apart from the blessing of having my itinerary confirmed, these last few months since then have been both busy, and fruitful, filled abundantly with both trials and blessings.
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<b>The Pastor's Conferencce</b>
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Most recently I had the opportunity, along with CC San Salvador (and at the many church plants in El Salvador) to serve in the Calvary Chapel Central American Pastor's and Leader's Conference. This was the sixth year that the conference has taken place, and the second year that Rebeca and I have been able to attend, and it was a great blessing for all.
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The theme of the conference this year was "Christ, the center of the ministry" and most of the speakers taught out of 2 Corinthians. Rebeca and I were probably most impacted by Pastor Jimmy Morales' message on 2Cor 1:3-11. His main point was that our suffering, and subsequently, Gods comfort, are not only a sure thing in the christian life, but are pre requisites to ministrydd. Without having experienced both (on a continual basis) we are unable to minister to broken people. This spoke deeply to both Rebeca, and I, and helped put many of the hardships and trials that I have wrestled with while on the mission field into a whole new context.
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<b>Bible Teaching</b>
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Apart from the conference I have also been busy continuing to teach three times a week, on Saturday through Matthew in CC La Angostura, on Friday through Romans in our home group bible study in San Salvador, and on Wednesdays through the book of John with Walter and his wife Theresa in San Martin.
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This last saturday, after 3 months, we have finally finshed going through the sermon on the mount in the CC church plant La Angostura which has been a great blesing for me personally, and, I hope, for the congregation as well, as we sought to examine our hearts and re-build our lives upon the solid foundation of Jesus' revolutionary teaching.
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<b>School of Minsitry Building Project</b>
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I have also been blessed to be able to put some of my construction experience (limited as it is) into practice with the building of the CC School of Ministry complex in San Martin. It has been a blessing for me to be able to contribute to a project that will (LORD willing one day soon) allow many local pastors and church planters to get the preparation that they need and deserve to continue the work in Latin America, and the world over. As far as the construction goes, I have to give the LORD ALOT of thanks - our foreman, a retired pastor, has been very patient with me (okay, so I have made a few building mistakes), and has also helped me to continue to build on my knowledge and experience while serving the LORD in this area(a special thanks here is due to James G for bringing me along on several jobs in the US, and helping me get my feet wet - everything that he has taught me is now being put directly into the advancement of the kingdom. LORD bless you brother!).
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<b>Tilapia Farm</b>
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Meanwhile, the tilapia project has continued to move along, thankfully with more stability and a little bit less drama (dead fish!). Our fish are pretty much ready for harvest (they are all between .70 and 2 pounds)and are waiting for the right "buyer". This first harvest will not bring any profit into the ministry, but it has been a great learning lesson, and hopefully will help us to turn tilapias into a direct investment in church planting all over the country.<br><br>
In addition to the large fish farm in La Angostura, we have also started a small test tank in San Martin to be able to try out new ideas without jepordizing the whole project.
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<b>CC San Salvador 19th Anniversary</b>
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As I get ready now to come back to the US for a visit, CC San Salvador is getting ready to celebrate its 19th anniversary with a Medeival Times themes dinner geared towards evangelism. We will be hosting 300-400 people a night, every night, for about a week. This last week I spent my normal construction time with six other guys turning our church, and parking lot into a medieval kingdom complete with a castle There was a lot of ply-wood, and latex paint involved to say the least (I will be putting them on facebook shortly - if you have not visited my facebook page <a href="http://www.facebook.com/theodoreelsalvador"> "Theodore in El Salvador"</a> before this would be a good time to start).
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As soon as we finish hosting these dinners, I will be on a plane to come and see you all :)
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<b>Rebeca's Thesis</b>
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I have not been the only busy one these months; Rebeca too has been up to her ears with work to do as she continues to advance on her thesis project for graduation with her Masters Degree in Archeology. She has been working fervently - both at home and doing field work, trying to have everything ready to present and defend by Jan 4th, to graduate with her Masters in March. Her thesis is a study of a local archeological site, Cihuatan, and an analisys of its relative cultural value. It has been a 7 day a week job for her, and your prayers for both her wisdom, and strength in continuing are greatly appreciated.
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<b>Homecoming</b>
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As you can probably guess, I am very excited about being able to come home to visit you all, as well to be able to spend time in my home church, getting to know the new people as well as serving wherever I am able to. I am also hoping to be able to visit southern california during my trip to be able to attend the annual CC missions conference, and hopefully visit with some of the dear brothers and sisters down there as well.
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Even so, I would still like to be able to visit with as many people possible, so if you would like to chat or share a bite, just let me know :)
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<b>Prayer Requests</b>
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I have a lot of prayer requests for my trip home, but chiefly I would like to ask that you would pray that I can:
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1. reconnect in fellowship and love with everyone at home <br>
2. be refreshed, renewed, and refilled to be able to continue the missionary work in El Salvador as God desires, <br>
3. to be able to raise more financial support to continue the work, and also be able to connect people in the US with the missions work that God is doing in Latin America.<br><br>
I also, of course, want to ask for your prayers for the people and ministry I am involved in while I am gone, and especially for both Rebeca and I as we seek to maintain the communication in our relationship during my abscence.
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<b>In Closing</b>
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Anyways, its a lot of news, but in short I will summarize it by saying that..
<blockquote>♩♪ "I'll be home for Christmas" ♬</blockquote>Until then, have fun checking out all of the new photos posted in <a href="http://www.facebook.com/theodoreelsalvador">www.facebook.com/theodoreelsalvador</a>Theohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09209930567911108120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5899818814845924587.post-3657306756338256992012-08-30T17:29:00.001-06:002012-09-01T21:31:22.611-06:00Flight Status: Delayed?<br>
It has been exactly eight weeks since I wrote about my planned trip to California in August/September, and many of you are probably waiting with excitement to catch up, to talk about what the LORD has been doing in your lives, families, and ministries, and in mine. But as I sit and work out my monthly budget and travel plans, I realize that maybe this is more of an exercise whereby God is encouraging me to trust and have patience.
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How so, you might ask? You may remember how I had asked for your prayers for Gods financial provision to be able to pay for the trip, my total cost being about $900-$1000 (as airfare fluctuates), but so far, I have only managed to raise $400 of the needed money.
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To be honest, I have been waiting to write this update for this same reason, hoping that I would receive the rest of the money before September started, and therefore be able to announce when I am coming to visit you all soon, but it just hasn't come in.
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To make matter more complicated, sin July my general monthly support has gone down a couple of hundred dollars, as a couple of my supporters have had to adjust their budgets in the wake of hard times. But as can be expected, God has been providing in unique and interesting ways - and in the last five weeks I have received nearly $200 worth of free food from friends and even a couple of farmers.
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Although I had expected God to provide for my proposed trip this summer, it seems as though He has had other plans, and as difficult as it may be, it is my calling and vocation to submit to Him, even if I am not completely sure about what it is He wants to do. As much as it saddens me to have wait longer to see you all, I know that God has bigger things in mind for this time; now all I need to do is trust and rest in Him.
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On the plus side of course, work and ministry here in the church abound; the fish project continues to go full steam, and I have also started working on a large construction project for a new old folks home/School of Ministry for Latinos in Central America (I will post some pictures soon). And then of course, there is my teaching ministry - I have been teaching through Matthew in Spanish now for almost 6 months, and have been very touched to see the work that God is doing in the church there, and more so in the congregation. Not to mention that Rebeca is happy that she will not have to say "good bye" to me at the airport, hehe.
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So, in the end, although my travel plans have had to change, I can thank God that His plans havent changed. And who knows, maybe I will be able to visit for Christmas :)
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<b>Prayer Requests and Praise Reports:</b>
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Praise for Gods continued provision for me even during these hard times financially
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Praise for the new building project, which will bless many people
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Praise for the life of Walter - a new friend who I have been able to visit and share the Gospel with
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Praise for the life of Valerie, Rebecas new born niece
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Prayer for Gods provision - for 300$ in new monthly support to be raised up, as well as the extra $700 needed to help me be able to fly home to visit (in Dec?)
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Prayer for Gods provision for a better car - before the one I am driving now (a 1984 Celica) completely disintegrates ;)
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Prayer for Rebeca as she continues to work on her thesis, and minister to her family.
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<b>A few pictures:</b>
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Abuelo Fabio, Hermana Juan, and I before the saturday evening service, in La Angostura. It has been a blessing for me to be able to teach through Matthew, and have them there!
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAvmpkiGmd1eGgFEACnbv2sh4tcCUxgcMDKxr5tSBTkvXrw-fFEgOTb5K_wKfGrdxwbxYUAwtnjaj0HxJvyIh7l7nlpHqefG8KzyonREekejKj0urJLUr-qbkIDks9CVL82ZPy-WOP8A8/s1600/IMG_1089.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="172" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAvmpkiGmd1eGgFEACnbv2sh4tcCUxgcMDKxr5tSBTkvXrw-fFEgOTb5K_wKfGrdxwbxYUAwtnjaj0HxJvyIh7l7nlpHqefG8KzyonREekejKj0urJLUr-qbkIDks9CVL82ZPy-WOP8A8/s320/IMG_1089.jpg" /></a></div>
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A couple of shots of the building we are working on. This is the first of several buildings that we plan on building to accomidate the new SoM and old folks home
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Most of the construction here is metal, not wood which was new for me. I cut myself with the first couple of studs and joists that I put in - then I started using gloves ;)
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Rebeca with her newborn niece, Valerie. She is a proud auntie :)
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Theohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09209930567911108120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5899818814845924587.post-11819378198799463522012-06-27T21:49:00.001-06:002012-06-28T08:27:25.757-06:00Is the Fever Gone Yet?<br />
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As I write this latest blog
entry, I am recovering from five days of the most intense fevers that I have had in
my life, complete with lots of paranoia and even hallucinations, and of course, some good old fashioned nausea too. </div>
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And yet I can say that as crazy as these last few days have been,
these last few months have been even crazier. Why, you may ask? Well they have been some very busy months. It has not been uncommon for me to work more than 60 hours some weeks, and spend hours in a day driving or sitting in traffic. </div>
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But these have been not only busy months, but also action, stress, happiness and
drama packed months too.</div>
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It has been a season that has brought with an important message... even if I am not entirely clear exactly how to explain it yet.</div>
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So what <i>have</i> I been doing these
last few months? Well, a lot. Actually a lot more than I could write here, but
to make it easier to digest, I have broken it up into sections.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>Gone Fishing!</b></span></div>
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OK I know what you are going to
say, “WHAT! You have been spending your time FISHING?”</div>
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Well no, not really. Hehe. But I
have been <i>working a lot with fish</i>, <i>helping to start and run a tilapia farm here
in El Salvador with Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa .<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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I can’t really tell you where or
with whom the dream first started, and it wouldn’t really be fair to do so
anyways, as the dream has passed through the hearts and hands of many men of
God before being born here in El Salvador with Calvary Chapel, but the dream
and vision for the project is basically this one: </div>
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To build and operate a tilapia
farm on site as a church run business, with the goal of financially supporting
the ministry, providing jobs and job training for poorer church members, and of
course, evangelism opportunities in the business community.</div>
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Initial construction for the
project first started long before I arrived, in one of the rural church plants
in Chalatenango, as a joint effort between Calvary Chapel San Salvador as well
as Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa, among others. The project sat waiting for a
while, until in March of this year a team from Costa Mesa came down, and
alongside of them, we finished up the construction of the project, and ‘planted’
5,000 baby fish. Then team left, and I was left in charge to run it. <span style="font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></div>
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It was only then, as I began to
run the project on a daily basis, that both Pastor Carlos (the Senior Pastor of
CC San Salvador), and I, began to see the many difficulties associated with
raising up baby fish to adulthood, as well as some of the short comings with
our system.</div>
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Since then I have been spending
most of my days working on the project, building relationships with people in
the industry both here and oversees, and educating myself about how to build,
re-build, run, and repair a fish farm, as well as all kinds of information
about fish biology, growth, and breeding, not to mention marketing and
profitability. </div>
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The biggest challenge by far (apart
from the 2 hour drive that separates me from the fish, and the fish from many
of the supplies that they need) has been the rebuilding and repairing of the
project with both limited funds and resources. It has many times been a daily ‘experiment’
of how to repair, tweak, or sometimes even rebuild the project, all the while
with 5,000 little-fishy lives hanging in the balance. </div>
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It has been a long journey for
sure, and while it is far from over (fish reach maturity or ‘selling wieght’ at
about 7-8 months) it has taught me much about patience, and trust in God. I
have 4,700 or so remaining witnesses.</div>
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Many of you may also be surprised
to know that since the beginning of my missionary journey almost 4 years ago I
have been actively praying about learning and being involved in these very kind
of church run business opportunities (I see these as excellent tools for church
planting in poorer areas)- something which neither Pastor Carlos, nor CC Costa
Mesa knew about when they asked me to be a part of this project. I feel like,
then, that this has been a sort of ‘free training school’ for me, and am very
blessed to see how God has answered this prayer, and will continue to answer
it.</div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<b>Fishers of Men</b></div>
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Running the fish farm has not
been my only activity throughout these months, and only a part of my activity
in Chalatenango, where we have one of our rural church plants. When Pastor Carlos
asked me to begin working with the fish, he also asked me to help the planting
pastor, Pastor Manuel as his assistant in whatever way he needed. Until now this
has mainly meant teaching at the Saturday night service, where we have been slowly
going through Matthew, as well as helping with some small things around the
church, though Pastor Manuel has had some new ideas for ministry opportunities which
we will be looking to try out in the very near future.</div>
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One of the most rewarding things
about teaching in this church plant (apart from the quite obvious spiritual benefit
that it is to me as I study up to teach every week) is the blessing of being
able to spend time on the weekends with the same people that I am working with on
the fish farm during the week. It has been a joy to me to be able to get to
know their families, pray with them through their struggles, and share with
them in their joys, and as is always the case, I have learned much from their
lives and testimonies. We are not just learning how to become ‘fishermen’
together, but also, and much more importantly, how to become “fishers of men”
together. </div>
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<b>The Immigration Game</b></div>
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Have you ever felt winning is
hopeless, and that all the dice are against you? That’s how I feel most of the
time when I play “Monopoly” with my die-hard monopoly friends (Vince and
Tiffany, this means you), and also how I have been feeling as I have been
walking through my long residency process in El Salvador.</div>
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I first submitted my application,
with my original paperwork and all the requested files in October of 2011. In a
month or two, I thought, I would have my residency <i>easy-peasy</i>.<i> </i>Or so I was
told. But it has been anything but easy. More than 4 letters, 15 visits to
immigration, dozens of phone calls, countless hours of work both here and in
the US (thank you Daniel and Callie for your help) and nine months later, and
now, <i>just last week</i> my residency was
confirmed, and I <i>still </i>haven’t received
in writing!</div>
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It has been a long ride for sure,
but God has been faithful throughout, all of which has served just to remind me
<i>why</i> and for <i>whom </i>I am here in the first place (wink wink, it’s for Him).</div>
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Now I just have to get ready to
renew my residency in October for another year. Ha! </div>
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<b>The Near End of a Journey</b></div>
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These last few months have also
been very busy and stressful ones for Rebeca, as she looks to finish her
current academic journey and receive her Master’s Degree in Meso-American
Archeology. She has been studying for almost six years at the Technological
University of El Salvador, and is now in the process of using everything that
she has learned to formulate and write her thesis. It has been difficult work
for her without a doubt - the investigation alone has involved dozens of trips
for her both to active ‘dig sites’, as well as a nation-wide search for un-cataloged
materials in both libraries and colleges, some of which have been out of print
for nearly a century. She has literally been racing against the clock to
complete her thesis before the year ends, with the goal in mind of graduating,
and jointly planning our wedding after wards (more details on that in the weeks to follow - just <i>"stay posted"</i> hahaha get it, stay posted, blog posts haha). </div>
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It would be disingenuous not to
note how all of this stress and busyness in both of our lives has affected our
relationship, though thankfully as God ministers to us through it, it has
served us both as a wakeup call as a rally point more than anything else.</div>
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My own prayers for Rebeca in this
time of her life have been for her divine gifts of patience, peace, and perseverance,
as she seeks to honor God, her family, and her own six year investment by ‘finishing
strong’. </div>
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In deep love and admiration for her it only seems right to ask all you
for your prayers for her as well.</div>
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<b>My Proposed Trip Home</b></div>
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The last things I want to leave
you all with are my plans for a proposed trip home. As many of you know, it has
been nearly one year since I have seen you all, and you are all becoming sorely
missed. I can do no better than to quote Paul in stating my desire to visit you
all. As he so perfectly and succinctly wrote in his letter to the Roman
Christians: <i>“I long to see you so that I may leave you with some spiritual gift so
that you may be strengthened, that is, that you and I may be mutually
encouraged by each other’s faith… and that I might have some fruit among you.”
Romans 1:11-13</i></div>
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I had desired to come earlier
this year, in January, with the intention of participating in the CC Mission’s
Conference, and visiting home as well, but the LORD had shown me that He had
much for me to do during that time here in El Salvador. I have since then been
praying about coming back this August or September. This would be perfect as I
will also need to renew my residency here in October, which could be
facilitated by a visit home to bring back the required documents. This would
also give me the opportunity to raise some more support and relieve the burden
of support from those of you whom have fallen under hard times. Lastly, I also
desire to continue to build connections with some of the other churches in our
area, both to share with them what God is doing here and in my life, and give
them the same opportunities to be involved in the work.</div>
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I want to you ask you all then,
for your prayers and intercession so that I might be able to make this trip. I
currently have 300$ saved, but will need to raise an additional $700-$900 (depending
on how cheap my tickets come out) to cover my airfare, and pre-pay my expenses
here in El Salvador while I am gone (rent, utilities, etc.). </div>
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If you feel led to contribute to
these expenses, you can write an email to me (<a href="mailto:jedlicka1227@gmail.com">jedlicka1227@gmail.com</a>), or to Lynn Anderson (<a href="mailto:lynnanderson4jesus@gmail.com">lynnanderson4jesus@gmail.com</a>), or simply
click <a href="https://www.mysimplegive.com/SG/sfDonate.jspx?uq=1340840985455&id=santacruz">this link</a><a href="https://www.mysimplegive.com/SG/sfDonate.jspx?uq=1340840985455&id=santacruz" target="_blank"> and give the money through Calvary Chapel Santa Cruz (please be sure to write “Theo-missions”in the “notes” section).</a></div>
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<b>In Closing</b></div>
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So now you have read about what some may consider to be the fever of busyness that I have been wrapped up in, and you may be asking yourself "What <i>hasn't</i> he been doing?". Sleeping in, among other things. But in all fairness I see this busy season of life that I am in as exactly that, a season. Will I still be working 60 hour work weeks in a month from now? I'm not sure. All I know is that the LORD has allowed this season in my life (and in Rebeca's life at the same time too, ironically) for the time being, and I intend to serve and honor Him the best I can in it, and hopefully, learn that will benefit me in the years to come.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
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And when my chance comes to sleep in, I will take advantage of it :)</div>
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I am not quite exactly sure what the lesson is yet, although right now as I get ready to finish this blog entry and go to bed, I think it is something like "Seize the moment, and make it count".</div>
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Blessings from El Salvador,</div>
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Theo</div>Theohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09209930567911108120noreply@blogger.com05a Avenida Norte, San Salvador, El Salvador13.714037796438712 -89.192504882812513.590639296438711 -89.3504333828125 13.837436296438712 -89.0345763828125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5899818814845924587.post-74175140688253286072012-03-03T11:52:00.007-06:002012-03-03T16:34:25.637-06:00Video "2011 in Summary"Hey Everyone,<br />
<br />
This year has really been a graet blessing, the LORD has opened many doors, and as always, has been <b>very faithful</b> to put me in situations that have caused me to learn and grow.<br />
I have been very blessed to be serving the LORD and the Salvadorean people, and wanted to take a couple of minutes to share some of the things that have been going on.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/v/K9hONUVJc78&fs=1&source=uds" target="_blank">Check it out!</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/K9hONUVJc78?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Theohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09209930567911108120noreply@blogger.com1San Salvador, El Salvador13.69 -89.1913.607583 -89.303418 13.772416999999999 -89.076582tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5899818814845924587.post-35269778210870793842012-01-25T13:13:00.002-06:002012-06-28T08:35:17.925-06:00New Radio Devotional (In Spanish) - Nueva devocional en Espanol<b>Un momento de Pensar con Teodoro Jédlicka<br />
</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1o0QCtfInY5h0I8zjjZA2Sn5UTHmnD7OaQtRMxAhSbHZ0mS7JRGfBrZf251LP1KlkiNHfzxPe1-IVChNIJiZGF0r9K89ThGhCeVG-fgdaNtCFWxMaoQFEMHqqfHViBwA7-73ot9rUuKM/s1600/biblia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1o0QCtfInY5h0I8zjjZA2Sn5UTHmnD7OaQtRMxAhSbHZ0mS7JRGfBrZf251LP1KlkiNHfzxPe1-IVChNIJiZGF0r9K89ThGhCeVG-fgdaNtCFWxMaoQFEMHqqfHViBwA7-73ot9rUuKM/s320/biblia.jpg" /></a></div><br />
"El Dios de Amistad"<br />
<br />
Si usted es como yo, muchas veces se encuentra con necesidades en su vida diaria, y a menudo se las lleva a Dios en oración. Pero muchas veces, estas mismas peticiones fácilmente pueden convertirse en distracciones, dominando nuestros pensamientos y oraciones, alejándonos mas del consuelo de Dios, y de la paz mediante la tormenta.<br />
<br />
No es que Dios no escucha nuestras peticiones cuando oramos así, porque sabemos que siempre nos atiende, pero el hecho de estar pensando siempre en nuestras peticiones fácilmente nos distrae del propósito principal de la oración – lo cual es estar en comunión con el Dios de amistad.<br />
<br />
En Génesis capitulo 28, vemos un ejemplo claro de este problema. <br />
Jacob acaba de huir de su hermano Esau, y estando en el desierto se encuentra con Jehová. <br />
<br />
Génesis 28:13 y15 «Yo soy el Señor, el Dios de tu abuelo Abraham y de tu padre Isaac. A ti y a tu descendencia les daré la tierra sobre la que estás acostado.15Yo estoy contigo. Te protegeré por dondequiera que vayas, y te traeré de vuelta a esta tierra. No te abandonaré hasta cumplir con todo lo que te he prometido.»<br />
<br />
El enfoque de Dios en su mensaje para Jacob es la relación de amistad – tanto la amistad que Dios tuvo con su abuelo, Abraham, como la amistad que también quiera tener con Jacob mismo; las promesas que Dios le da sobre su herencia solo son un beneficio adicional de esta amistad. Para sellarlo todo, Dios termina su mensaje con la promesa de no abandonar a Jacob, hasta que se ha cumplido todo lo prometido.<br />
<br />
Pero Jacob, cuando responde en versos 20 y 21, solo se enfoca en sus peticiones!<br />
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20«Si Dios me acompaña y me protege en este viaje que estoy haciendo, y si me da alimento, y ropa para vestirme, y si regreso sano y salvo a la casa de mi padre, entonces si, el Señor será mi Dios.<br />
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No repitamos el mismo error de Jacob, poniendo toda nuestra atención en las necesidades– mejor – enfoquemos nuestro tiempo con Dios en desarrollar la relación el, y conocer mejor el Dios de amistad. La respuesta de nuestras peticiones es solo un bono extra<br />
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El tiempo perfecto para practicarlo es ya, y usted puede hacerlo con una sencilla oración. Simplemente pedirle a Dios que le revele mas de El, y que abra sus ojos para conocer mas del corazón divino.<br />
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El Dios de amistad le esta esperando. <br />
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Esto ha sido "Un Momento de Pensar", con Teodoro. Gracias por escuchar, y que Dios les bendiga!Theohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09209930567911108120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5899818814845924587.post-57948638256950996662011-12-05T11:10:00.003-06:002011-12-05T11:49:52.881-06:00Thankfulness<b>Settling In</b><br />
<br />
Fours months ago I left California to live and serve in El Salvador, and now with Christmas quickly approaching, I am finally beginning to feel like I am settling in.<br />
<br />
As most of you know it is not my first time on the mission field – or in Latin America, but my time here so far has required many adjustments. The biggest of them for me has been learning to serve in a church the size of the city that I came from. With over 30 active ministries, it is always busy – there is always something going on – and always something to do. Suffice it to say that over these four months I have been slowly learning what it really means to be teachable, flexible, and available for cross cultural work. <br />
<br />
The first test I faced in getting established was that of patience and trust as I started looking for a place to live, and safe transportation. There is something intimidating about living on your own in a foreign country. At first the excitement of so many new things pushes you forward, but then after the excitement fades, it begins to feel like you're climbing a mountain without the right equipment. And yet even without really knowing exactly what I was doing, the LORD brought me up to the top – with the help of a few new friends here, the prayers and support of many in the states, and the patience and love of the fiancee He brought alongside me. <br />
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There were many divine appointments along the climb up of course – most notably of which was the privilege Rebeca and I had of praying with a 35 year old man while buying a refrigerator, who had recently been diagnosed with prostate cancer. He accepted the LORD that day, and passed away only two weeks later. What a blessing to know He is with the LORD.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifg2ppk67A_Pl_OCdW1yWrd91lhJX7_NQ_b2X19QeBeshuKSYdR1e15gE9a-KjgruP_KmrsKVvHBQBSV4ph8EnnbiF37aOoRXo3J8AVOjh8qy5WWlrbz6EnCNmn6VgMxkQ_x2IGgabrCg/s1600/San+Salvador+Dec+5+11+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifg2ppk67A_Pl_OCdW1yWrd91lhJX7_NQ_b2X19QeBeshuKSYdR1e15gE9a-KjgruP_KmrsKVvHBQBSV4ph8EnnbiF37aOoRXo3J8AVOjh8qy5WWlrbz6EnCNmn6VgMxkQ_x2IGgabrCg/s320/San+Salvador+Dec+5+11+002.JPG" /></a></div><i>My apartment, with my *new* 1985 Celica out front ;)</i><br />
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<br />
<b>English Class</b><br />
<br />
Immediately after renting an apartment and buying a car, I was asked to start teaching several English classes in one of the church plants outside of the city. It seems that everywhere I have been I have been asked to teach English, and every time it has been a challenge for me to do it well. How do you teach someone a foreign language – especially one that is so overly complicated? If you don' t personally think English is very complicated, just think about the 'i' before 'e' rule, and all of it's complications. <br />
<br />
But behind the pretense of English being difficult to teach (and it is), was something entirely different – I didn't really want to teach English, and would have much rather been teaching the Bible. But as Jonah most assuredly learned before me, the only way for someone to be fruitful in the kingdom of God is through obedience- whether we feel like doing it or not. It is only after we have begun to act in obedience that we start to 'feel like obeying'. And even though Jonah was very bitter after having watched God work on the people of Nineveh, he was obedient enough afterwards that he went on to write about the whole thing– which makes me think that Jonah, too, learned this same lesson. So, since the beginning of October, when the LORD provided me with an apartment, I have been teaching English several hours a day and am beginning to enjoy it. The classes began with my teaching seven different groups of students, five days a week. My students range from 5-60 years old, and include two groups of orphans, one adult class of new believers, and twice a week tutoring sessions with one of the Pastors of a church plant outside of the capital – who (after much prayer from many in the states) has also been a great source of encouragement and one of the few here I am able and comfortable seeking out for counsel.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEmhVRLD6BBr8TqjKpA53-Xz24bPM6xE19Hv1HGfTgYVCwJlsvSq80XImf2A23O7bVNg8kCv-y7GKzXMp3rm2l6u8iEpY6C8d8sgm77dkwU7kPfDMXTZqcVJIxYWK4TEhBFjaXdprUHUg/s1600/906.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEmhVRLD6BBr8TqjKpA53-Xz24bPM6xE19Hv1HGfTgYVCwJlsvSq80XImf2A23O7bVNg8kCv-y7GKzXMp3rm2l6u8iEpY6C8d8sgm77dkwU7kPfDMXTZqcVJIxYWK4TEhBFjaXdprUHUg/s320/906.JPG" /></a></div><i>A few of my students</i><br />
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<b>Teamwork and Flexibility</b><br />
<br />
So, just as I began to feel comfortable (or almost comfortable) teaching English, I was asked to take a two week hiatus to help with some special events in the Capital. Calvary Chapel San Salvador was celebrating their 17th anniversary, and would be hosting a week of evangelistic 'Anniversary Dinners' as well as an hour long Christmas performance each night, and a dozen or so parties for Children attending the services. I was moved temporarily back to capital, and asked to work with a ministry team of missionaries from Potter's Field Ministries. What ensued were long hours of decorating, prop building, cleaning, errand running, and table setting, and waitering for 12 straight days, 12 hours a day. During all of the hard work, more than 2000 dinners were served, 400 new people visited the church, and nearly 100 people accepted the LORD as their savior. It was a huge stretch for me – I personally can't remember having worked so much 'overtime' before, but even more was the feeling that this year I was 'missing thanksgiving'. The reward of course, is that of knowing that the kingdom of God is growing – and of course the fellowship I was able to share with the other missionaries. As iron sharpens iron – so I was sharpened during our time of fellowship, though certainly it was not without challenges.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFvDmtGMRrYD2uFzme1fjj6j2AI3ukF0YAWk4ii-7kbOYyUdwBUMdC9e2ejDLUrCpgkICVi7A19dCGmsr4vhhF6VMAgBkENgBMzc-ZDSquR_-Gb8wKo1-6tyi-WAaQoqIaP3pwRHFWiBc/s1600/San+Salvador+Dec+5+11+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFvDmtGMRrYD2uFzme1fjj6j2AI3ukF0YAWk4ii-7kbOYyUdwBUMdC9e2ejDLUrCpgkICVi7A19dCGmsr4vhhF6VMAgBkENgBMzc-ZDSquR_-Gb8wKo1-6tyi-WAaQoqIaP3pwRHFWiBc/s320/San+Salvador+Dec+5+11+014.JPG" /></a></div><i>Part of the Christmas village that we built, painted, and decorated (I also spray painted the carriage).</i><br />
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<br />
<b>Love is Patient</b><br />
<br />
Rebeca and I have also both been blessed, of course, as we continue in our pursuit of God together, and our walk forward towards marriage. We have faced many challenges as well – it has been a challenge to learn how to spend time together while balancing two different schedules, as well as how to deal with all of the new hurdles to jump over as I further incorporate myself into her already tight knit family. We have also been wrestling with planning a practical wedding – with the challenge of finding a date that fits into her University schedule. Through it all we have both been challenged and encouraged by the biblical standard of true love as seen in 1Corinthians 13, knowing that even when we are found incapable – Jesus, who has already completed this standard, is ever ready to help us walk it out through the empowering of His Holy Spirit. We have both found that, above all else, patience is something that we both need to grow in.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMSNoXrWdYlbfkD9JI2ZFSi9pMsxUTdBSK62nCm8bXfm5L1tcSdpz8p49X5e1YkW54r4x_CdZyXiWv0fo3O2kTt4tNqmJxSKHHysV6hZjGBz7WdBDTpHGNnLApD85yUWso67KP8j6H1pw/s1600/1094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="214" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMSNoXrWdYlbfkD9JI2ZFSi9pMsxUTdBSK62nCm8bXfm5L1tcSdpz8p49X5e1YkW54r4x_CdZyXiWv0fo3O2kTt4tNqmJxSKHHysV6hZjGBz7WdBDTpHGNnLApD85yUWso67KP8j6H1pw/s320/1094.JPG" /></a></div><i>Tired, but happy to be with MI AMOR</i><br />
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<b>Looking forward with Thankfulness</b><br />
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After two weeks of literal table serving (Acts 6:2-3), I am preparing to serve in children's ministry as we start up several VBS's in various church plants around the country during the next 8 weeks of vacation. My exact role in all of this isn't entirely clear, though I can assume that I will be very busy. I am blessed to be able to work with so many children, and, hopefully impact their lives for Christ (Big thanks to Pastor Bill and Pastor Ben for the crash course in VBS they gave me this summer - I know it will be put to great use). This week I am also looking forward to final exams for School of Ministry. Whatever the Lord brings, I know that He will use it to take me further along the path He has laid out for me, and prepare me for what lies ahead. <br />
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In the end, my time so far has been overflowing with many people, places, and things for which to be thankful. I am continually learning every day, though above all else, I find that God is continually reminding me of His great love, and constant faithfulness.Theohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09209930567911108120noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5899818814845924587.post-47428174661908781852011-08-20T08:52:00.000-06:002011-08-20T08:52:12.784-06:00Online GivingHey guys just wanted to give you the low down on online giving. You can give online and support my mission with your Paypal, checking, or credit card account through Calvary Chapel Santa Cruz; all through this secure website:<br />
<a href="https://www.mysimplegive.com/SG/sfDonate.jspx?uq=1313850398513&id=santacruz">https://www.mysimplegive.com/SG/sfDonate.jspx?uq=1313850398513&id=santacruz</a><br />
<br />
Just click the <a href="https://www.mysimplegive.com/SG/sfDonate.jspx?uq=1313851524373&id=santacruz">link</a>, fill in your information, and make sure to write 'Theo/El Salvador'in the "notes" section. (See below)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilYePseRTUD9lfUuOTOf_vxIxb_MeKDgLRNLUb_Imd9IagiKoP4hEinvNqQxIK1LC1A2rgwI0ne5iWRjndqjTF9Zj9Abn3MMPor2qJPm7iiIhjuZN0pJj2GqQLtYsN3d6gUI0m8AfS1Uc/s1600/giving.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="208" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilYePseRTUD9lfUuOTOf_vxIxb_MeKDgLRNLUb_Imd9IagiKoP4hEinvNqQxIK1LC1A2rgwI0ne5iWRjndqjTF9Zj9Abn3MMPor2qJPm7iiIhjuZN0pJj2GqQLtYsN3d6gUI0m8AfS1Uc/s320/giving.PNG" /></a></div><br />
<br />
All online giving through this page is tax deductable - and you will recieve a receipt at the end of the year.<br />
<br />
Thank you!Theohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09209930567911108120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5899818814845924587.post-12806396944010829842011-08-18T20:35:00.003-06:002011-08-22T13:03:31.786-06:00Back in El SalvadorAfter nearly five intense months of preparation, I am back in El Salvador - and back at work - continuing the pursuit of the call of God in my life. But it hasn't all been smooth sailing, and although I left Santa Cruz with nearly 90% of my committed support raised, and my care team willing and ready, there were many challenges here that awaited me.<br />
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My re-entry goals for these first weeks in El Salvador were rather simple - buy an affordable car, rent an adequate apartment, and pass through the time consuming process of gaining 'Missionary Residency' in El Salvador.<br />
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<br />
But it hasn't been all simple. Out of the 14 days that I have been in El Salvador, six of those were spent sick with painful and debilitating intestinal parasites. On day nine, Rebeca found, and I went and rented <i>the</i> perfectly located apartment, and then on day 10, while moving me in, we discovered that the apartment has no running water. On day 12, I found a car to buy, and on day 13, I was told (before buying it, thanks to God) that it had broken down. Yesterday, I also took my first step in the involved process of applying for and getting my Missionary Residence, and thanks to God, and help from Rebeca, it went very well.<br />
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<br />
Honestly, I have felt overwhelmed. I am starting to think that 'overwhelming' is one of God's favorite tools for character formation. And yet even when I start to feel this way, there is one thing that hovers in my mind. Psalm 149:2 says: <br />
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<br />
<blockquote><b><br />
Let Israel rejoice in their Maker;<br />
Let the children of Zion be joyful in their King.</b></blockquote><br />
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It's pretty simple. I have a maker, and He is God. I belong to a king, who is looking out for me, and is responsible for my well being, and that king is the LORD Jesus Christ. So I rejoice, and am able to be joyful, even in trials.<br />
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Whether I find a house and car, or not. Whether I am given residency, or not. My job is to work as unto the LORD in all that I do, and place all of my trust in Him - and not in things. My calling is to honor Him as my Maker and King, and to rejoice in the simple experience of knowing Him - and in that rejoicing, invite other to join me.<br />
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Yesterday, after spending more than 4 hours at government offices in pursuit of my residency, Rebeca and I boarded a bus to leave, and found ourselves entering into a place of conflict. In El Salvador, Evangelists, Beggars, Activists, and Campaigners regularly board buses to publicly share their opinions with the crowds captive audiences gathered there. Often I have found myself praying along as many a brave man stood up to share the Gospel. <br />
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<br />
But the scene on the bus was different this time around. A man stood up and began to intimidate the crowd with his booming voice and cries of outrage. He chastised them for their intolerance and judgement of his sexual practices. He blamed them for the self hatred and other emotional difficulties that he and other homosexuals had gone through. He charged them to accept and embrace all sexual practices as right and good. And then he threatened them with hellfire and the wrath of God for their supposed 'sins';<br />
twisting and turning Bible verses about love, acceptance, and judgement to his favor, and misquoting stories about the life of David.<br />
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<br />
The crowd from the beginning had the heads bowed; whether because of shame or fear I will never <br />
know. From the beginning, I felt a struggle within myself as to whether or not I should speak up, and what I should say. Rebeca was sitting next to me, overwhelemed and shocked.<br />
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<br />
When he began to quote the Scriptures, I could hold my peace no longer. It is one thing to sin, and yet another thing entirely to deceive others into participating in it. Finally, I spoke out.<br />
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<br />
"You sir, are wrong, and the Bible <b>does not</b> support your position." <br />
My voice answered his. And with a supernatural love and direction, I began to share<br />
"We do not reject <b>you</b>, sir. You are even welcome to come and visit our church." <br />
"We love you in the love of God, the same love that gave you the gift of life, and the freedom to stand here and speak." <br />
Some raised their heads, others opened their eyes, some even covered their ears.<br />
"But we do not love your sin, and will not accept it. Neither will God. You must repent - for all sin is an affront against God"<br />
"Your speech today is an attack against the very love of God, the same divine love that created you, and permits you to stand here and share with these people"<br />
"Some would have you believe that God will reject you because of your sin, but I tell you now that their IS forgiveness for you in the heart of God, if you repent and accept Him."<br />
"Do not fight against the love of God! Repent, and accept Him!"<br />
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<br />
Red in the face, he looked past my gazed, and repeated his charge to the passengers; one, two, three or more times - full of fury, yet with a deep set confusion upon his face.<br />
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As we stood to get off of the bus, a man touched my shoulder, and thanked me for what I had shared. What impact I had, I may never know. But in my mind one thing is clear and important.<br />
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<b>I want to honor my King.</b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWMnzlVJZQrU7xr8aW2_WsTL3UUuoeXXx6Xt2rRv6ZDTphzT6R-hUR5PJ_JrUSUrB7vTohoYvp5DoIGJxkILY8nE7J-SmQyopaoUdoAVSZXzSXNhn4CGxg7hWK4kGKDmQ5gEb6Yzk9gM8/s1600/_El_Salvadore.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="225" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWMnzlVJZQrU7xr8aW2_WsTL3UUuoeXXx6Xt2rRv6ZDTphzT6R-hUR5PJ_JrUSUrB7vTohoYvp5DoIGJxkILY8nE7J-SmQyopaoUdoAVSZXzSXNhn4CGxg7hWK4kGKDmQ5gEb6Yzk9gM8/s400/_El_Salvadore.png" /></a></div><br />
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<b>Prayer and Praise:<i></i></b><br />
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<b>Praise God</b> for my safe arrival back in El Salvador<br />
<b>Praise God</b> for raising up my financial support and care team before I left<br />
<i>Pray for</i> Rebeca and I as she helps me look for the right car and house for me to live in<br />
<i>Pray for</i> me as I start to serve full time in the ministry here with CCSS<br />
<i>Pray for</i> Rebeca as she finishes her University classes this year<br />
<i>Pray for</i> our wedding and future marriage next year<br />
<i>Pray for</i> both of us to clearly hear God's voice, and grow in out intimacy with HimTheohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09209930567911108120noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5899818814845924587.post-26955782999857331872011-05-08T13:11:00.001-06:002011-05-08T13:17:51.671-06:00Missions Dinner in Mount Hermon!Want to eat some authentic Salvadorean food, and have a chance to chat about what is going on in El Salvador, and with my life? Come to the dinner friday night!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghRJ0LikZsM5rqpPCOQYM-EGZjWMOmMG8QLEKemG83dBb5ef7W8p7PUubgqv8hjttbXoTqa4v8Kd-_MdusVZyuShY3nT99uJL84YHqVKn1JVkIMHALPFcqGfpi58ne81vjFN5l46r8MSo/s1600/Theo+2011+flyer+formatFinal+%2528color%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghRJ0LikZsM5rqpPCOQYM-EGZjWMOmMG8QLEKemG83dBb5ef7W8p7PUubgqv8hjttbXoTqa4v8Kd-_MdusVZyuShY3nT99uJL84YHqVKn1JVkIMHALPFcqGfpi58ne81vjFN5l46r8MSo/s400/Theo+2011+flyer+formatFinal+%2528color%2529.jpg" /></a></div><br />
To RSVP - just drop me an email, or leave a comment here on this page! For directions, give me a call!<br />
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I look forward to seeing you all there!Theohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09209930567911108120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5899818814845924587.post-81232984056054355612011-04-29T15:47:00.001-06:002011-05-05T14:24:43.656-06:00BusynessSo here I am - a little over 4 weeks into my re-adjustment to life back in California - with 3 months left on my home-tour, and I feel like I am finally now getting used to being an American - all over again.<br />
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Have you ever felt so busy that there wasn't enough time in the day to get everything done? Overwhelmed by so many things to do and places to be? Or maybe your schedule has been keeping you from really going deep in life, and relationships - even your relationship with God. Have you ever been so busy, that it was actually hard to see God in the midst of everything? Maybe feeling like there just isn't enough time in the day, isn't how it is supposed to be. Did God intend for our lives as Americans to be this way (most other cultures don't seem to struggle with this)?<br />
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My first two weeks were a crucible of sorts - re-learning to juggle people, places, things, work, and events left me feeling almost breathless and reaching for direction. Ministry in El Salvador was never easy - but it was straight-forward. Study the Bible - Teach the Bible. Invest in relationships - Make disciples. Each day organized itself into the most important priorities - God, people, and work.<br />
Anything else that didn't fit into the day, was just left out.<br />
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Fast forward and fast track back to the US of A, and the daily equation of time management- and the needs behind it - become very big indeed. With too much to do, and not enough time - almost everything finds its way onto the chopping block at one point or another. But what should we cut out, and what do we keep?<br />
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Jesus' ministry obligations were so demanding that He found Himself skipping meals at times (Mark 3:20, John 4:31, Matthew 12:1)- though we know that some of the best time that He spent with His disciples and followers was also during meals (Luke 10:38-41, Luke 22:14-23). We may live in one of the only countries in the wolrd that has plenty of food, but still skips meals, and has to be reminded by our national media to eat breakfast, all because we are too busy.<br />
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So with all of this busyness surrounding me, is it surprising that I've often felt overwhelmed?This last week has been a mix for me of working some construction jobs, and preparing materials to share with the different congregations and groups I will be visiting and hosting- to raise awareness, and prayer and financial support. This Sunday I will be sharing with Calvary Chapel Santa Cruz (my home church) - and having two different El Salvador themed dinner parties over the course of the next two weeks to raise awareness as well. I have missed a few meals trying to juggle everything during this time, but am still encouraged. God, People, and work for His kingdom are my priorities. And I know that if I seek Him first, I can't go wrong.<br />
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Prayer Points:<br />
Please continue to pray for me as I take the time to share my heart for El Salvador - and fir God's work there with my home congregation (and others in the weeks to come).Please pray for<br />
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1. The encouragement of the Body of Christ as I share. Please pray that God would stir up hearts and minds, encouraging everyone that is present to desire a deeper relationship with God, and to walk in faith.<br />
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2. That those in the body who may be praying about becoming missionaries would be encouraged, equipped and challenged to walk in the calling.<br />
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3. That God would raise up from the Body men and women to be a part of the ministry in El Salvador - through a commitment to prayer, and regular financial giving. (If you are interested in supporting me, you can do so by clicking the paypal button on the right hand side of this page, or by giving through Calvary Chapel Santa Cruz online <b><a href="https://www.mysimplegive.com/SG/sfDonate.jspx?uq=1304113117742&id=santacruz">by clicking here</a></b>, selecting 'special missions', and writing 'El Salvador' in the space below)Theohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09209930567911108120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5899818814845924587.post-40888622465435771182011-03-24T16:33:00.001-06:002011-03-24T19:32:02.680-06:00HomecomingIn January I left from my home in California for three months, to get to know and experience life and ministry in El Salvador. <br />
The purpose of my trip - to spy out the land - to see first hand the blessings and challenges of serving in one of the most dangerous and beautiful countries in Latin America.<br />
Will I be able to live here long term? Do I have what it takes? Do I have the faith and the character to follow God where I believe He has called me, and trust Him for protection, provision, and blessing?<br />
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I was met with many ministry oportunities, as well as challenges. I spent my mornings and afternoons teaching the Bible to hundreds of youth, was able to work with my fiancee teaching Sunday school classes to children in the slums, and spent time building discipleship relationships with several young men. I was also confronted on a daily basis with the risks and dangers of working in a country plagued with violence, crime, and poverty; and came face to face with things that I had never imagined or desired to experience. There were days and moments where I was just overwhelmed. Can these challeneges be overcome? <br />
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<b><br />
In the book of Numbers, God tells His people to send a small group of men ahead of the people to 'spy out' the land that He has lead them to, and promised for them.<br />
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Of the 12 that go in to spy out the land, 10 are of accord (Numbers 13:31)- 'this land cannot being conquered - the challenges are too great'<br />
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But Caleb, a true man of faith, chose to stand on God's promises<br />
"Then Caleb quieted the people before Moses, and said, “Let us go up at once and take possession <of the land>, for we are well able to overcome it"<br />
</b><br />
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My travel back to California on Tuesday was the most dificult I've had. My travel started with security problems, a four hour delay, missed 'good-byes', and a packed flight. When I got to my connecting flight, I thought the worst was over - until I was hit with a migraine. Curled up in my seat with my head throbbing, and tears streaming down my face, I began begging the LORD for healing and comfort from my migraine, and everthingy else; and my worries and doubts came back up to the surface.<br />
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"Do I really have what it takes to come back to El Salvador? Will I even be able to raise the support money to be able to live there? Will the LORD provide? Will He protect me, and my future wife?"<br />
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Then, just when it all became too much, I heard His still small voice speak, "Follow my presence, give up seeking comfort, and <b>I<i></i></b> will be with you."<br />
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In the moment He spoke, my migraine was healed. My time of preparation for everything ahead had begun. Staying in the states, living the safe and comfortable life is <i>too easy</i>. I want to follow His call, and <i><b>His presence</i></b>. I want to be His obediant servant. And I trust Him for everything.<br />
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My plan for this time in California is simple. Spend four months working, serving, and raising prayer and financial support, before returning to El Salvador and serving the LORD there in Calvary Chapel with a long term commitment. The Lord has given me open doors to serve Him in a nation filled with the blessings of revival, and the thousands of men and women that are coming to faith in El Salvador are in great need of Bible teaching, and discipleship. There are many giants in El Salvador as well - daily violence and destitute poverty are hard things to overcome, and can be emotionally, physically, and spiritually overwhelming. But God is bigger. <br />
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With my future marriage on the horizon, and with needed ministry waiting for me in El Salvador - I choose to take the position that Caleb took - and stand firm on the promises and calling of God, while I prepare for the things ahead.<br />
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Quick Prayer Points:<br />
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1. Please pray for God's protection and provision- for myself, and my future wife, as we both seek to serve the LORD in El Salvador. <br />
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2. Please pray that God would use this time of preparation to raise up men and women to be a part of our ministry in El Salvador through committed financial, spiritual, and emotional support. <br />
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3. Please pray that God would prepare my heart and mind for the things He has for me, and that I would be submissive to His will and His purposes every step of the way.<br />
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4. Please pray for Rebeca and I as we seek the LORD in preparation for our future marriage and ministry together.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjZmiGKiKTA6jXzijgDs1PHtejMmljD-IBnNt04Unj3ZcTaMV_1ziGZkGcYFwgkpBJXceybdBQHUx8SlirBeezKjrkKUf37nb_4tCYBFCjv1x0tQmEdzuSfCbf3vVCXKQLUVG8SDfHQO8/s1600/26291_386533986865_509741865_3739152_6341664_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="246" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjZmiGKiKTA6jXzijgDs1PHtejMmljD-IBnNt04Unj3ZcTaMV_1ziGZkGcYFwgkpBJXceybdBQHUx8SlirBeezKjrkKUf37nb_4tCYBFCjv1x0tQmEdzuSfCbf3vVCXKQLUVG8SDfHQO8/s400/26291_386533986865_509741865_3739152_6341664_n.jpg" /></a></div>Theohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09209930567911108120noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5899818814845924587.post-68070864329438546492011-01-22T08:58:00.001-06:002011-01-22T09:16:05.933-06:00January means a new yearAs I write this I am sitting in El Salvador. After more than a year of prayer, God has opened the door for me to work here.<br />
The capital city of El Salvador, San Salvador, is home to some of the highest murder, and violent crime rates in the world – but is also the epicenter of the largest church expansion in Latin America. In ten short years the Church has more than doubled – going from less than 20% of the population, to a staggering 50%. Now the question being asked isn’t “who will tell them?”, but “who will disciple them?” – and many here are found praying the same thing that Jesus instructed his disciples to pray – that the LORD of the harvest would send out more workers.<br />
What is the difference between explosive church growth, and revival?<br />
Discipleship.<br />
<br />
Tomorrow morning I have the great privilege of waking up, getting dressed, and starting my first day of ministry with Calvary Chapel San Salvador. My desire is to serve in the great work that God is doing through their ministry – and if HE permits, to learn to work in a great dream of my own – church planting – discipleship at its core. Calvary Chapel San Salvador has already planted eight churches in 15 years – with the desire to continue planting them as the LORD leads. <br />
So here it goes. Tomorrow is step one.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv47r9wWMxElER2JaRNJRCjumc1CIMXgDqDN9E9GM2x9HogEmYXkRioAVgIUTQFS_iRHKluPIRx7kVQxzu42xe0M-i88Yc0CvRiSm8EkgRwcs6QWd4a86b2yEzTjMWB4B7AY5G-RC3M3g/s1600/san+salvador.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="258" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv47r9wWMxElER2JaRNJRCjumc1CIMXgDqDN9E9GM2x9HogEmYXkRioAVgIUTQFS_iRHKluPIRx7kVQxzu42xe0M-i88Yc0CvRiSm8EkgRwcs6QWd4a86b2yEzTjMWB4B7AY5G-RC3M3g/s400/san+salvador.jpg" /></a></div><br />
*Prayer Points*<br />
New place, new prayers.<br />
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1. Ministry - please pray for my ministry here - serving in the Church as the LORD leads. Please pray for open doors, and open hearts. Please pray that that I would be a blessing to the people and the church.<br />
2. Safety - As I mentioned, San Salvador is one of the most violent cities in the world. The murder rates are very high. Though we are not given to a spirit a fear, we don't want to be lacking in prayer and diligence either. Please pray for my safety as I live and work here in El Salvador.<br />
3. Provision - The cost of living here is comparable to that of living in the US, and is about 4 times more expensive than Nicaragua; that means that my support has to multiply by four. Please pray for my financial support to increase, and for God to grant me wisdom as I manage my finances, and favor, humility, and creativity as I look to raise support.Theohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09209930567911108120noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5899818814845924587.post-65504757963242160382011-01-22T08:51:00.001-06:002011-01-22T08:52:41.730-06:002010 in Summary!Check out my latest video to end the year with, 2010 in Summary. Comments and of course, prayers, are appreciated!<br />
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<iframe width="425" height="344" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/IdRV0Y8X_Yo?fs=1" frameborder="0" allowFullScreen=""></iframe>Theohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09209930567911108120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5899818814845924587.post-68885407103326989752010-08-29T08:22:00.000-06:002010-08-29T08:22:14.291-06:00MissionalVision: Summer 2010 Video UpdateHey Guys! I just finished putting together a quick 2-minute update video for those of you interested in seeing it. Please check it out and let me know what you all think!<br />
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<object width="500" height="405"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube-nocookie.com/v/_JM9CsTu4HM?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0&color1=0x006699&color2=0x54abd6&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube-nocookie.com/v/_JM9CsTu4HM?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0&color1=0x006699&color2=0x54abd6&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="500" height="405"></embed></object>Theohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09209930567911108120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5899818814845924587.post-73826081671769703212010-05-30T14:08:00.000-06:002010-05-30T14:08:46.323-06:00OverwhelmedRecently a close friend asked me what teaching children in Nicaragua was like. As I searched my mind to grasp for the right words to describe it, I realized that I needed more time to think about the question. Describing my life in Nicaragua and the missionary work here sometimes feels like last thing I want to do. There are so many different, beautiful, amazing, crazy, sad, and even hurtful things about living and working with the people here (and especially their children); let alone the emotions that come with the experience, that sometimes it <i>seems</i> easier not to think about or describe it -<br />
<div><br />
</div><div>Last week, I brought some <i>pan dulce</i> (sweet rolls) and bananas for two of my students that have been absent from school the last few days. The older girl (one of my 9-year-old 4th Graders) had been left to care for her seven year old brother (one of my 1st Graders) and her four year old sister while her parents were gone working. This is the same girl who, due to malnutrition, has had fainting spells and severe headaches in my classes; and already missed a week of school two months ago when she burned herself with hot oil while cooking trying to cook for her siblings. The clincher today is that the two younger children that she is taking care of, who have both had many health problems, have just been diagnosed with Hepatitis A (a <i>very</i> painful viral infection which attacks the liver - also almost unknown to most children in the States). And they are almost nearly all alone to deal with it.</div><div><div><br />
The world is an overwhelming place. If you let it, it will tear you apart. Love, joy, pain, sorrow – they are all feelings too intense by themselves to experience or try to take on without Jesus. The Bible tells us that Satan, a fallen angel, is our enemy, and wants to kill us(Is 14:12-21, 1Pet 5:8). We see strong men and women overwhelmed time and time again in the bible – when Jesus and the disciples start sailing on the sea of Galilee – the storm picks up and the disciples loose it (Mark 4:37-38), or when Peter starts to walk on water – but then sinks because of his fear (Matt 14:28-30); even Jesus himself felt overwhelmed – sweating blood while praying in the garden of Gethsemane (Luke 22:44) – and then there's his His famous words on the cross “Eloi Eloi, lama sabachthani” - my God why have you forsaken me (Mark 15:34).<br />
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What's it like teaching these children? It's like being overwhelmed, time and time again. So what do you do when you're overwhelmed?<br />
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I <i>just</i> started going through the book of John with my 4th grades in Bible class. It's been a really interesting time teaching them, and a real blessing for me as I fall in love with the book of John all over again.</div><div><div>While sitting alone and reading through and reading through chapter 1 for the fiftieth time, I was struck flat in the face by a passage I have probably read through several times without ever really thinking about.<br />
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<br />
<blockquote><i>The following day Jesus wanted to go to Galilee, and He found Philip and said to him, "Follow Me." Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip found Nathanael and said to him, "We have found Him of whom Moses in the law, and also the prophets, wrote--Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph." And Nathanael said to him, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" Philip said to him, "Come and see." Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward Him, and said, "Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit!" Nathanael said to Him, "How do You know me?" Jesus answered and said to him, "Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you." Nathanael answered and said to Him, "Rabbi, You are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!" Jesus answered and said to him, "Because I said to you, "I saw you under the fig tree,' do you believe? You will see greater things than these."</i></blockquote><br />
<blockquote><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"><i>John 1:43-50</i></span></i></blockquote><blockquote> </blockquote>So here I am, feeling overwhelmed and discouraged and unable to do anything about the craziness around me in this completely foreign country, and here is the story of Nathanael's calling as an Apostle. Nathanael (also referred to as Bartholomew) doesn't make a lot of appearances in the New Testament - although we know that Jesus appeared to him after his resurrection, and that he was there for the ascension as well (Jesus did promise that he would see great things). We also know from history that he would be the first missionary to reach (and be martyred in) India. His life story wasn't as interesting to me right now as his initial attitude when meeting Jesus, and Jesus' response.<br />
<br />
When Phillip enthusiastically shares Jesus with Nathanael, Nathanael responds with one of the Pharisee's favorite mantras, 'can anything good come from Nazareth?'. When Phillip later brings Nathanael to meet with Jesus, Jesus praises him as being 'a true Israelite free of deceit' - but Nathanael responds by further questioning Jesus' words and personage-<br />
<br />
<i>"How do you know me?" </i>He asks Jesus.<br />
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And this is where Jesus really demonstrates who he is.<br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<i>"Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you." </i><br />
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Jesus had seen Nathanael before, even though Nathanael had never <i>seen</i> him. Jesus knew where Nathanael was, and what he had been doing. He knew what Nathanael had been thinking, and what was in his heart. When Nathanael thought he was alone, he wasn't really, because God's presence was there, and Jesus <i>was</i> God. And in knowing all that Nathanael had done (certainly well beyond just his time under the fig tree), Jesus still sought him out in person, and called him out as being an upright, true, and honest man.<br />
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And then Jesus gave him the promise that he would see great things done.<br />
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So here I am, sitting alone under my proverbial fig tree, reading the scriptures, and this story stands out to me. Jesus, this awesomely powerful, loving, just, and strong God, was teaching <i>Nathanael </i>that he was not alone - that he had been called and sought out, and Nathanael both saw and did great things because the rest of his life because of it.<br />
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Maybe feeling overwhelmed, isn't so bad. I still feel the pangs of it, but I know now that I am <i>definitely not</i> alone. Am I still unable to change the crazy circumstances around me? Sadly, yes - but then I remember that I don't have to, because know I know that <i>I too</i> will see Jesus do great things because of my little faith. So then - so what if I feel bad - because here I am praying and reading the scriptures, and the same Jesus of the scriptures is using his word and reaching out<i> to me! </i><br />
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</i><br />
Maybe in the end, being overwhelmed isn't such a bad place to be after all - it seems to do a really good job of bringing me to the Lord. Who knows, then, if in the end that's what drove Nathanael to take his quiet time 'under the fig tree' as well.<br />
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<blockquote><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;"> </span></i></blockquote><br />
</div></div></div>Theohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09209930567911108120noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5899818814845924587.post-21682217527781839062010-05-11T16:16:00.001-06:002010-05-20T08:42:11.515-06:00Why the Silence?It's been nearly six weeks since my last blog post - and though most of you are content to wait patiently, some of you are asking 'why the silence?'. Six weeks ago, I felt like I was asking the same thing -<br />
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Why the silence God?<br />
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Seeking Him daily, fasting, praying, reading my Bible and book after Christian book - and still the silence seemed the loudest thing around.<br />
Could it be that instead of answering my all my life's questions for direction...<br />
or listening to my requests for help in ministry...<br />
that God really just wants to talk with me, to have a conversation with me, and to share His heart with me?<br />
Is it really that surprising that He sometimes chooses to put a pause on the communication; especially when I get so wrapped up in myself - in my wants, my needs, my desires, that I fail to hear from Him?<br />
Is it so incomprehensible that God could feel hurt, or even get tired of such a one-sided conversation in a relationship?<br />
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And yet even then, <i>silence</i> isn't really the right word, is it? Jesus said that even the rocks would cry out declaring the glory of God if we didn't (Luke 19:40). Psalm 148 shows us that the whole earth is declaring His glory - and that the majesty of the LORD is spread across the sky. Have you ever stopped to see His majesty in the sky? In times of great need and great silence I am very often overwhelmed and overtaken watching the beauty of the stars or the sunset as they brilliantly scream <i>"God is good! He is a God of love! He is a God of power!". </i>And yet, it only seems that in the moments of silence we are actually able to stop and look. What does this stir up in your heart when you think about it? What feelings or images come to your mind? As I exhale slowly and deeply, I'm caught up in the Gospel narrative, somewhere between creation and the crucifixion, enraptured with the idea of a God so powerful, yet so loving, that overtaken by <i>His own love</i> He choses to love me. How could I have been so negligent, so stubborn, in actually rejecting a relationship <i>with God </i>in exchange for blessings<i> from Him</i>?<br />
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And when the silence lifts (because it always lifts), I remember again the deep joy and sweet comfort of hearing His voice uninterrupted. But somehow, I feel different. I feel like I know Him better; or at least, I trust Him more for who He is. And I miss Him, and am excited to hear His voice. They say that <i>"absence makes the heart grow fonder"</i>. What does it all mean? Sometimes even after leaving the fog behind, I still don't feel like I know exactly where I am going, but I am learning to thank God for the silence.Theohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09209930567911108120noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5899818814845924587.post-41930710742819912132010-03-13T17:00:00.000-06:002010-03-13T17:00:06.765-06:00Feb 2010 Newsletter now available!Hey guys! Just finished writing my newsletter for Feb 2010. Email to get on the mailing list, or download it directly <a href="http://www.fileden.com/files/2010/1/18/2730051//Feb2010newsletter.pdf">here</a><br />
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Check it out!!<br />
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<a href="http://www.fileden.com/files/2010/1/18/2730051//Feb2010newsletter.pdf">Feb2010newsletter.pdf</a><br />
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God Bless!Theohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09209930567911108120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5899818814845924587.post-17866748405039747322010-02-19T21:51:00.001-06:002010-05-20T08:41:01.761-06:00The Power of a Changed Life<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">The prophet Jeremiah is one of my favorite prophets, and one of my favorite books in the Bible to read.</span></span><br />
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"<i>I chose you before I formed you in the womb; I set you apart before you were born. I appointed you a prophet to the nations.</i>" But I protested, "Oh no, Lord God! Look, I don't know how to speak since I am only a youth." Then the Lord said to me: "<i>Do not say: I am only a youth, for you will go to everyone I send you to and speak whatever I tell you. Do not be afraid of anyone, for I will be with you to deliver you.</i>" Then the Lord reached out His hand, touched my mouth, and told me: "<i>Look, I have filled your mouth with My words. See, today I have set you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and demolish, to build and to plant</i>"</blockquote><br />
<blockquote>Jeremiah 1:5-10</blockquote><br />
When I am honest with God, and honest with myself, I feel like Jeremiah did, knowing that my words don't reach deep enough to touch the scarred hearts of the people in Nicaragua. I look in the mirror, and I see a ruddy eyed youth, rash but with an inner strength, with a love and passion I still don't fully understand, and all of it laid up there within me by a God greater than the near-infinite universe He created, waiting for my obedience to stir me to life again, and... <i>I am only a youth.</i><br />
And on a good day I am encouraged, although still strikingly unable to make a difference in my own power, and on a bad day...<br />
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shifting the focus from myself, I look into the scriptures.<br />
<blockquote><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">"<i>Do not say: I am only a youth, for you will go to everyone I send you to and speak whatever I tell you. Do not be afraid of anyone, for I will be with you to deliver you.</i>" Then the Lord reached out His hand, touched my mouth, and told me: "<i>Look, I have filled your mouth with My words. See, today I have set you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and demolish, to build and to plant</i>"</span></i></blockquote>I suddenly remember that I am not here to succeed or to fail, but to obey. I remember that my words <b>will</b> fail, but that <b>His</b> words wont. I remember that I am on a mission, that doesn't have to do with who I am, but with who He is. I look at myself again and see something different; I am both broken in my fragility and weakness, and yet strong and formidable under His promise of protection. His words <b><i>will</i></b> reach deep enough. And so I wake up in the morning at 6:15, and I prepare for my heart to teach my classes, and, on a good day I remember to pray for my students, and for their hearts as well. I look for the Lord's promises for their lives. Kingdoms of darkness uprooted and destroyed - seeds of hope, faith, and truth planted. New lives built on new promises.<br />
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They say that sin is a like your credit card company, but worse. You always get your bill, and you always get it on time, but instead of paying sin, <i>sin pays you.</i><br />
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The children in my class are still receiving their <i>'sin payments'</i>.<br />
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For sin they have done or were a part of, for the sin their parents have done, or signed their children's names to, for the sin of their people and their nation.<br />
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But as <i>'faithful' </i>a master as sin is, God is so much more faithful. His words and promises to these children are actively changing the face of their world. They are changing the homes that they live in, the families they live with, and the hearts that they live through. And it's something I have the opportunity of watching every day - in my classroom with my students - in visiting and talking with their parents, and in the neighborhood around me.<br />
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What is the power of a changed life? What does that mean?<br />
It means that God is doing everything and <i>more </i>in the lives of these children. It means that He sees the abuses and hardships they go through, and is hurt deeper and more profoundly by it then they themselves can even begin to comprehend. It means that as 1st Corinthians chapter 1 tells us - He delights in using the weak and foolish things of the world to confound the wise and powerful. It means that as these children learn about who God is and what <b>love</b> <i>really means</i>, that God is actively working in them to prosper them and prepare them for great lives ahead of them. Not as doctors and lawyers, but as leaders in a mighty movement.<br />
As mighty men and women of God - charging forward and challenging the darkness.<br />
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And so, I look at myself and say, <i>I am just a youth</i>, but God is not <i>just</i> a God.<br />
He is <i>the</i> God, and He is loveliest answer and greatest resource this world could ever dream of having.<br />
And so, the power of a changed life becomes more than possible - it becomes the <i>very least</i> of what God can do for these children, and for me.<br />
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</div>Theohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09209930567911108120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5899818814845924587.post-11066005186247773472010-01-23T19:53:00.001-06:002010-01-23T19:59:40.254-06:00The Author of DetailsThe school year is about to start, with two weeks left and counting. As the classroom and students get prepared, with fresh paint on walls and with new clothes on backs, I know that my preparation starts not on the exterior, but within my heart. <br />
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What is it that God desires from me this year? What is his plan for my fourth graders? What things does He want to speak into their lives? What healing and deep revelation does He have in store for them? What will prepare them for what lies ahead?<br />
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Without knowing why <i>exactly</i> He has called me to Nicaragua, and without needing to know, I prepare to take a step forward into the unseen, confident not in what shall catch my foot as it falls, but in who is holding me up. I feel like a child, sitting on his father’s shoulders for the first time - walking home at dusk. I can’t quite see the ground beneath his feet, nor do I know exactly where he is taking me in the quickly darkening surroundings, but I know who my father is. The struggle then becomes struggle itself - for with every twist of my body and shaking of my legs, I further incite the risk of falling from of his shoulders, and meeting the ground that I so fear below. <br />
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I’ve been told that the primary responsibility we have in the lives of God’s precious children is the development of their gifts. Children have the unique ability to see and believe in God and in His awesome love and power with staunch faith unmoved by even the ugliest of experiences the life has to offer- but are also endowed with the unique vulnerability and purity of being naïve and open to the all the world has to offer. So then who are these beautiful young men and women walking into my classroom? What does God have in store for their long lives? Where is He taking them on His shoulders? In what are they struggling with or stumbling by? <br />
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As I pray and mediate I finally understand that <i>my being here</i> has in actuality very little to do <i>with me being here</i>, and much more to do with <i>God working in their lives</i>. And so I thank God, that as we move forward together, it’s not about me or what I have to gain or offer, but about sitting quietly, resisting the urge to struggle, and appreciating the opportunity to safely move forward while gazing upward and outward at the beautiful night’s sky and all of her attractions. <br />
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And so, I will leave the details in the hands of the Author of details, and focus on the work ahead - while maintaining my sense of awe and wonder with the King, so great and noble, as to adopt me into His kingdom. The Author of details has it all worked out, all I have left to do is abide in obedience.<br />
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</div>Theohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09209930567911108120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5899818814845924587.post-9651772948233115692010-01-18T20:47:00.000-06:002010-01-18T20:47:23.173-06:00January 2010 Newsletter Available!Hey everyone! I just finished writing out my newsletter - feel free to download it <a href="http://www.fileden.com/files/2010/1/18/2730051/Jan2010newsletter.pdf">HERE</a> and if I dont have you on my monthly mailing list yet send me an email jedlicka1227@gmail.com and I will add you on there.<br />
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heres the link again - <a href="http://www.fileden.com/files/2010/1/18/2730051/Jan2010newsletter.pdf">Jan2010newsletter.pdf</a> in case you missed it ;)<br />
Note: depending on your connection you may have to wait a couple of minutes to download it - its 14 megsTheohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09209930567911108120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5899818814845924587.post-79679131234720241222010-01-17T11:36:00.001-06:002010-01-17T12:39:59.050-06:00Goodbye California!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPTCFVOs0jGcMS8xI2jw1g_e4lV4gA8ZQtQOSJBw6op5xQeaZo5BD3IfwLMGqGEUg6-iPP86SHFhuujxhf28n9n3UqDMxHJSA4bEgd373uIA-G_1z42_pD2tu3l26bvQIoigDtCCwka3Q/s1600-h/1076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPTCFVOs0jGcMS8xI2jw1g_e4lV4gA8ZQtQOSJBw6op5xQeaZo5BD3IfwLMGqGEUg6-iPP86SHFhuujxhf28n9n3UqDMxHJSA4bEgd373uIA-G_1z42_pD2tu3l26bvQIoigDtCCwka3Q/s640/1076.JPG" /></a><br />
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Starting a new year has never been so exciting for me - with much anticipation and some trepidation I am thinking forward on all of the opportunities that this year holds and only two weeks into it I am already overwhelmed by the kindness and graciousness of God in my life. Everything that God has given me and done in my life prepares me for today and tomorrow - and so too, this last year of experiences; my first year doing missions, it is a building block in God's blueprint - both for my life, and the lives of others, and so I am excited and thankful to be a part of His plan - to know that it is both individual and global - and to move forward into what He has for me <i>adelante</i>.<br />
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Although it was only a short time, my visit in California was both beautiful, refreshing, and character-testing. The stress of preparing to leave the country for a years time is something that admittedly, I wasn't prepared for, and so it really challenged me in a deep way. The under riding constant to the whole thing was that, without being surprised, God knew what a challenge it would be for me, and was faithful in dealing with me throughout. And so, my last week in California was the richest in both experience and growth, and when I awoke on Monday the 4th in Costa Mesa I saw this beautiful sunrise waiting for me - and so I took the picture, knowing that God was trying to show me something.<br />
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My flight, my finances - nothing went as I had planned it, but never the less I hopped onto my first plane. From Los Angeles to Denver, from Denver to San Jose, Costa Rica, and from San Jose, a bus to Diriamba, Nicaragua. So here I am now, beautiful, poor, hot Nicaragua. The plan - to teach in an elementary school for at-risk children. Love the students. Minister to their families. Preach the Word, Share the Gospel. Because if there is one thing that has brought hope and meaning into my life, strength and compassion into my heart, its the Gospel - the payment on the cross for my sins by God Himself as an act of love and reconciliation. This is what Nicaragua needs, and needs to recognize, and so all my problems and failures aside, this why I am here.<br />
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Goodbye California <i>y ¡Buenos Días America Latina!</i>Theohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09209930567911108120noreply@blogger.com2