Trials and Triumphs

Let us not be surprised when we have to face difficulties.

When the wind blows hard on a tree, the roots stretch and grow the stronger,

Let it be so with us.

Let us not be weaklings, yielding to every wind that blows, but strong in spirit to resist.   

         –Amy Carmichael

           Missionaries do not live a life of luxury. Daily reminders make us think of home in the United States, distracting from our ultimate home in heaven. Additionally, Satan has his ways of slowing work for God. This week, we had four people get sick, the van break down, a transmission go out, and power outages (meaning bucket showers in the dark after an intense soccer game).

The Pettengills remind us that one of the greatest insults a Christian can receive is Satan not paying us any attention because that means that what we are accomplishing is not attacking his kingdom or promoting God’s kingdom.

We have hope because we have One who has defeated death and sin. That is why “we are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair;  persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed” (2 Cor 4:8-9). We treated around 70 people physically and spiritually at our clinics. We started the foundation of a house. A record of 70 children attended Kids’ Club and learned Q.12 of the Westminster Shorter Catechism which tells them nothing is hidden from God. The electrical work in the upstairs dorms is now done. Kids saw the love of God through the Americans who willingly wash lice-infested hair, move rocks, teach them some English and learn some Spanish. Mike and Erin celebrated their 20^th wedding anniversary, and John and Kathy celebrated their 15^th anniversary.

God did not promise a life of luxury, but He does promise His presence which is the greatest comfort we can ever know. Matthew 28:18-20 says “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” The power outage offered a great time to stargaze and reflect upon God’s greatness. The van breaking allowed a visiting team member to use his skills as a mechanic to bring God glory. Sickness is a reminder that we are not invincible but dependent upon our Lord. This week has taught me a lot, and I’m looking forward to the experiences God has in store for the rest of the summer!

Prayer Requests

• Praise for the God-given ability to learn
• Praise for the Lord’s faithfulness to His people
• Pray for the safety and cultural adjustments ahead of both the team leaving and the team arriving Saturday
• Pray that we might not be distracted from the truth by the larger trials or petty inconveniences
• Pray for the hearts of all involved—that God might be at work bring each of us closer to Him and unto salvation