Whether it’s making spoon rings out of actual spoons or carving intricate designs in wood, the local craftsmen do amazing work! The beauty in each handcrafted item is a reflection of God-given creativity. Often these items leave me with a sense of respect and awe for the makers’ artistry, resourcefulness, and ingenuity. In considering these things, I am reminded of  Ephesians 2:10, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” God has given these people so many talents and we long to see them understand that they too are God’s work of art.

In our city, some of the roads are so busy that we have tunnels under the roads to help pedestrians cross the street. In some of these tunnels there are shops or bakeries, and graffiti!  After living in the city for several years, we were surprised to find this newer piece.  This is an athlete from the 2012 Olympic games – a weight lifter that did well in the games!

In a culture largely dominated by male heroes and leaders, this cross serves as a reminder of how God used a young girl to bring Christianity to this place. A faith-filled risk-taker, she shared the Gospel with many people including the Queen. Later, in a time of desperation, the King turned to his wife’s God for help, and He answered. Faith was alive, God had healed and answered prayers in tangible ways, there was a passion for Him—the King declared that all would follow Him. Please join us in praying that God will once again be in His rightful place in the hearts of the people, “This is what the Lord says: ‘Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.’ But you said, ‘We will not walk in it.’” Jeremiah 6:16

We are always thankful for the excitement and energy that visitors bring to our team! This college group did just that when they visited in May. It’s an honor to share what God is doing in this place. Our hope is that all of our guests return to the US with a heart to pray for the people of GM, and a desire to tell others about this amazing land!

We’ve visited this river a few times before, but we’ve never seen it moving as quickly as it was recently. The kids were still able to dip their toes in the edges, but they couldn’t go out very far. As I looked at this picture, I was reminded of a friend’s words a few years ago. She shared that she had a vivid dream of a river rushing through this place, but even as it came there was great peace. The river wasn’t coming to destroy, but to fill up, to give life, and to wash over the land. We believe that God is preparing hearts for a great outpouring of His Spirit. Please pray with us that rushing water will come soon–bringing Life and Hope!

As our entire team gathered for a prayer retreat, we spent time reflecting on areas in which we each needed God’s strength. From the youngest to the oldest, we wrote on stones expressing these heartfelt desires for God’s help in the areas we are weak. As you read what has been written on these stones, may you not only pray for us as a team — that God would provide for these requests — but may you also ask Him to reveal to you an area in which you need His strength. If you feel comfortable sharing this concern with us, we’d love to pray for you as well. Simply respond to this blog and we will gladly lift your need up to Him!

Recently I had the privilege to go on a hike in this beautiful country. It was a little bit rainy that day, but the wildflowers showed their vibrant colors off boldly amidst the gray of the day. Reflecting on that day, these verses came to mind:

“As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” Isaiah 55:10, 11

God’s words water the earth like rain and bring beauty to it. What a beautiful picture of how His word is never without purpose!

It’s cherry season! Fruit stands are selling sweet cherries, sour cherries, red cherries and white cherries.

When we buy this fruit, soaking it in water before eating it is recommended. This is to draw out any worms that may be living in the cherries. The worms are harmless, so it’s not a necessary step; however, we would prefer not to eat the little critters along with the delicious fruit!

“I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in His holy people…” Ephesians 1:18
Pray that many will experience revelations of Christ.