May was full of emotions as I celebrated the life the Lord has given me. God has allowed me to reach 60 years of age. I am happy to think that more than half of my life has been dedicated to the service of God and the propagation of His gospel. I am convinced there is no better way to spend your life than to give it completely over to sharing the good news of salvation.
"People are like the grass. Their beauty fades as quickly as the flowers in a field. The grass withers and the flowers fade beneath the breath of the LORD. And so it is with people. The grass withers and the flowers fade, but the word of our God stands forever.” Isaiah 40:6-8
Renovations at the Oasis Center persist as it is prepared to function as a cafeteria. Though we continue to transform the space and are still receiving the necessary documentation and permits little by little, our days of ministry to the people of the district continue as normal. Thanks to God, the attendance at our devotional time is growing and, as always, the discussions we have after each devotional show us how people are understanding the gospel more clearly. Conviction among one has grown so strong that she told us she feels guilty listening to the word of God and then going out to "work". We could not previously see this awareness of sin that they now express without fear. They know Oasis is a place where they can learn more about God without condemnation. We sincerely appreciate the life of each person who comes to this place.
At Christian Community we had our second training to reach people with the gospel of Jesus Christ. In the first session, we trained people to share their testimony and use it as a bridge to share the gospel. In this second session, we studied the four important points that we must touch on when we share the gospel and how to share it in a short and effective way. These points are 1. Creation 2. The Problem 3. The Solution 4. The Invitation. Soon, we will also be rehearsing some dances to be ready to hit the streets this summer.
This month I was able to share the word of God in church on the day of Pentecost. It was a great opportunity to remind people of the power we have when we receive the promise of the Holy Spirit indwelling–the power to witness, the power to be holy, and the power to overcome. After the Word, two people were touched and motivated to receive the fullness of the Holy Spirit in their lives.
The trip to Krakow, Poland was very uplifting for my life. This is the second time I have visited the land of my husband's ancestors. On this visit, I was able to participate in the ordination of the pastoral couple who is doing an extraordinary job supporting families fleeing the war in Ukraine. While there I was also able to fellowship with some of the national leaders and missionaries who work in Northwest Europe.
As I mentioned at the beginning, I celebrated my 60th birthday this month, and it was full of surprises. The church organized a meal at a nearby restaurant with members of the three churches I am involved in. The biggest surprise was that my daughter Betsy came to celebrate and spend a few days with me. It was the most beautiful surprise I have ever received!
I thank God for the joy he allows me to have in serving him and for the love and care that he shows me. This helps confirm and motivate me to continue serving him despite the adversities that arise.
Thank you again for your support in prayer and finances, know that you are also in my prayers.
“May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.”
