May 2008

A year of ministry comes to completion, and again we prepare for our annual deputation trip north.  For James and Jonathan, our sons, it means, “School’s out for this year.  Summer vacation!”  Before we pack our suitcases, load up our car and lock the door behind us, however, we like to fill you in what happened in the past month.

At the beginning of April, I (Petra) once again had the privilege to accompany a medical team on a medical mission trip.  My function on these trips is to translate from English to Spanish and vice versa.  However, it also means to interpret the medical vocabulary into layman’s term, with consideration to the cultural background of the patients. 

What a joy it was to hold hands, stroke backs and reassure patients of God’s and our love.  Also in the lives of the physicians, nurses, and other support personnel, I saw God’s love shining through.  Another miracle, that happened with each group prior to this, occurred  with this one as well. … At arrival only two or three small groups, consisting of two or three individuals each, knew each other.  At the end, after serving only one week together, all 46 participants felt like one team, one body, one family.

Then again, that is what we are.  Christ’s love binds and holds us together.  Christ’s love compels us to reach out and touch our brother and sister, our fellow human being.

You, my friends, are a vital part in this ministry as well.  While at this point you cannot be here, doing the work in Guatemala, it is through your praying and giving that God uses us.  May he bless you and keep you, may he let his face shine upon you and be gracious to you, may he lift his countenance on you and give you his peace!  Thank you again. We hope that we will have the opportunity to see you this summer.

Please also check out about our friend Arnoldo in our Arnoldo Update.  If you can help that would be great!  Be sure to let us know.