When You Pass Through the Waters . . .

You may have heard of the storms which have been drenching Puerto Rico for the past week. Ponce’s usual annual rainfall of 20 inches has been passed in just four days and more rain is in the forecast. Sunday night the rain began, and it didn’t let up all night or most of the day on Monday. Widespread flooding has left many communities inaccessible. Houses, roads, and lives have been lost throughout the island.

The Lord has protected us, though our road was turned into a river. We joked about a small craft advisory being issued for our street. The only effect we have noticed so far is a small leak in our roof. Since our roof is sealed with urethane, this is a matter of concern. We are told that when urethane starts to fail, it basically turns into a sponge. That is not a comforting thought since our roof is flat and several extensive areas appear to be damaged. Until the rain stops and the roof thoroughly dries, there is nothing we can do but pray. Even when dry weather comes, we are not sure how we will address this problem. Worst case scenario is several thousand dollars of repairs. We will pray for a more economical solution and will appreciate your prayers to that end.

The church did well through the storms. Very little damage occurred outside of the church’s mission apartment. The metal roof leaked rather badly, damaging if not ruining the queen-size bed. We cleaned the room today and more rain arrived this evening. We eventually hope to put a cement roof in this area, but temporary repairs must be undertaken immediately. We are very grateful for the roof over the cafeteria. It kept out almost all of the water. What did get in was cleaned up with a mop in a minute or two. Considering all the damage throughout the island, we are extremely thankful for the protecting hand of God upon us.

The rain has delayed Julia’s treatment (see previous blog entry). The doctor now plans to place artificial veins in her left leg to resolve the circulation problems on Thursday (tomorrow). This is a far better prognosis than the amputation which was planned. I hope to have good news tomorrow, but keep praying for her.