An Encouraging Word

Praise the Lord for good friends! Our hearts have been encouraged by a number of thoughtful people in recent days. Most of the time this has come in the form of an assurance of prayer or the wish of the Lord’s blessing. Two people from our church here in Ponce have ministered to us in this way at very appropriate moments. We have also received some correspondence and a phone call or two which have had the same effect.

The Word and prayer have also ministered to our souls. Psalm 61:1-2 says, “Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer. From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” This has been our heart’s cry on many occasions in the recent past. What a privilege to carry our burdens to the Lord in prayer!

Our close friends and missionary colleagues, the Schmidts, had to leave the island in recent days due to circumstances in the States. We shared with them the encouragement that had come to us in such timely ways and saw it minister to them as well. 2 Corinthians 1:4 declares that trials come our way to teach us about the comfort of the Lord so that we in turn may share that comfort with others who are passing through difficult times. Praise the Lord for His faithfulness.

At 2 AM on June 12 a mission team from Bethany Baptist Church in Ohio arrived. Their flight has been rescheduled and delayed by weather several times. They were in good spirits even after when we arrived in Ponce at 4 AM. Needless to say, we let them sleep in a bit. Both the team and our family fought sickness throughout their stay, but they still accomplished an amazing list of tasks and ministries. Above all their attitudes were great and their cooperation could not have been better! They were extremely thoughtful as they ministered in public and in secret to build up the church. Many thanks to all who gave, to those who planned, and to all who participated in this team.

Our VBS begins July 6. Pray for children to respond to the invitations and for the Lord’s gracious working in their hearts. Bible school is always an exciting time. We trust it will be so for our church as well as those who visit with us.

Thank you for your prayers on our behalf.