Tito in Peru

What's My Status? BLESSED!

2008-05-04T12:03:00.004-06:00

I wanted to write a quick note to let everyone know my status. I am Stateside here in Dayton, Ohio once again. I am still experiencing some of what they call “reverse culture shock.” I am amazed to see the elaborate structures, newer vehicles, and even the little things like the chip and cereal isles—I was stunned to see the cereal variety and 3 whole isles designated just for potato chips. Did you know we now have 9 flavors of Doritos? We have a huge variety of options for everything.

I was able to visit Wisconsin and my former extension church in Stoughton, Wisconsin. I enjoyed seeing the faithful members continuing in the faith. I also visited Maranatha Baptist Bible College just in time to see people before they headed off to their homes for the summer. It was a blessing to see all the friends at school and see what the Lord has done in their lives this past year. While there, I was able to get a battle plan for schooling. It looks like I have 3 semesters left to finish my undergrad.

The Lord has been answering many of our prayers lately. He has provided me a job working full time at a metal spinning shop as well as clients for my part time lawn business. He has also provided the much prayed for and much needed transportation. The LORD has also provided me with 100% support for the year. We truly have an amazing and providing God. I am sure He will continue to provide every need that I currently have and will ever have in the future. The Lord takes care of His own, and I am His.

Thank you SO much for your prayers and gifts.

Please pray for:

1. Adjusting to life here in the States as well as adjusting to a new job (big change of pace)

2. Personal holiness and opportunities to win and disciple souls to Christ

Jungle Adventures

2008-04-16T17:54:00.006-06:00

Our last trip was our trip to Iquitos and the Amazon Jungle. We ate more bananas and fish those weeks than I have ever eaten in my life. Other than weird food, we got eaten alive by bugs. I had over sixty bites on one foot, not to mention the rest of my body. It is amazing that the natives are accustomed to mosquitoes. To them it is no big deal. I had the chance to go way out in the jungle, and I went to climb a tree from the boat. I grabbed hold of a tree limb that was the nest of tiny fire ants. I had literally thousands of the little buggers biting me all over. I had to strip down, and take an un-planned bath. Five minutes later, I had a jungle wasp sting me in the eye lid—it did not puff up as much as it should have. The man I was with was surprised by my resistance to its venom. He said that would have shut the eye of most people for at least a day or two. For me, it just hurt like I got stung in the eye by a jungle wasp! The stinger was a bear to get out.

Other then food and bugs, we saw the biggest spiders. I wasn't afraid of spiders until I got to the jungle. They say the bites hurt a lot worse then a bee sting. It is wise to shake your boots before you put them on and never go bare-foot at night. We slept in tents inside little grass roofed huts on stilts to stay away from the snakes and animals. We went two weeks without seeing bathrooms, running water, and cars. We even got to visit one village that has not had an American there for fifteen to twenty years. That would explain why the kids followed us everywhere from a distance, and just stared at us. At first we thought our Spanish was terrible because we had to repeat everything, but the truth was they could not listen because they were stunned by our "whiteness" and did not listen. After kids clubs and playing soccer (and yes, they have soccer even in a tiny jungle village) the kids finally broke down and talked to us.

We worked in the town of Grau and 28 de Julio as well as visited Castilla and other small villages. While in Grau the men had training sessions from two until six every day, and the ladies from two until four. Each day we held a kids club at the church. We usually had more then fifty, and one day we had eighty-five children. It was difficult teaching the gospel to the kids because some of them seemed to be slow in understanding, but, many truly did understand. Also, in the nights we held special services where the guys directed and preached. I really enjoyed preaching there—even with the bugs and in the dark. It is an amazing thing that I can now preach in two different languages.

Edinson—even though I only knew the guy for less then 2 weeks, the Lord did a miracle in his life the weeks I was in the jungle. Although we had a bit of culture shock and a lot of new experiences, we saw the hand of God work mightily. The first day we went visiting around the village, Josue and I met a man named Edinson. He was the first person we visited. We spoke of monkeys and piranha fishing. Edinson invited us to go into the forest with him the next day. Because the river was up about 15-20 feet, we had to take a small canoe. He took us into the jungle a few hours where we saw birds, bugs, spiders, fish, and other animals of every size, shape and color. Some of them looked beautiful, and others proved that God has a sense of humor. It was on this excursion that I got the ants and the wasp attacks. We didn't talk a lot this trip, but later saw how the Lord used this trip to melt his heart—a couple of gringos in awe of his jungle, taking pictures, getting bit and stung, climbing trees like monkeys, and just enjoying his home—the jungle. Near the end of this short journey into the woods we began to witness to him; he admitted to his destiny—hell. I invited him out to the special meetings we held every night. It was my turn to preach and by candle light and flash lights, I preached on the Grace of God that saves, teaches us, and cleans us for His use (Tito 2:11-14). The man was struck by the Spirit. After service all the other people were talking and mingling, but Edinson was just sitting there, on his seat, speechless. I sat down by him, and he told me "Let's talk tomorrow." And, then he left. We visited him the next day, and study the Bible for three hours on his front porch—he would not let us go. He wanted to know more. Little by little, as his heart was opened up to us verbally, the power of Scripture broke the chains of doubt, confusion, and fear. Turns out, he was battling in his mind to figure out what salvation was. He had prayed when a group of evangelicals came through over twenty years ago. Evidently he had truly accepted Christ when he was twelve, lived the Christian life till he was fifteen, and then dove into the world for almost twenty years. With drinking, not going to church, and living a sinful life for so long, he had NO security of salvation. Now, the man knows he is saved. He rededicated His life to Christ, joined the church, his wife got saved, and his twelve year old son got saved in kids club that week. Turns out, our cook for the week is his sister, and she has been praying for them for almost twenty years. Many tears of joy were shed those short days! I almost cried myself when Edinson was crying. It was amazing to see a tough, jungle man, fisherman crying. That is the power of the gospel! They dedicated their eight month old baby in the church the day we left. They dedicated to raise her in the church. There was quite the revival in this little village called Grau. I praise God for using a couple of blonde haired gringos that wanted to see some monkeys and go fishing for piranhas. This trip just goes to show that it is not our strength, wisdom, or words, but it's all the Spirit and His Word. All year I have been working hours on end daily to see fruit like this, and I get to the jungle, and the Lord transforms an entire family in less then two weeks. He had been working on them for twenty years! How big is our God!

This is my last blog from Peru. I will be coming home Monday April 21. Be in prayer for the farewells and the million and one things that need to be done before we leave. Also, I still am lacking $2900 to finish the year. Please pray that God provides as He always does. Thank you so much for partnering with me in the mission here in Peru. I trust this will not be the end of our co-laboring. God bless your prayers and efforts!

The Amazon Jungle of Peru

2008-03-31T16:00:00.002-06:00

Our time is wrapping up here in Peru. We have exactly 3 weeks left. Tonight we are going to hop a flight to Iquitos—northern Peru in the jungle by the Amazon River.

For two weeks we will be visiting a few different villages holding special meetings each night, Bible clubs for the children, and training sessions for the ladies and men. Be in prayer for the guys as we will be leading the services and preaching several times each. Also, pray for special music, teaching the children, women, and men. Pray also for health. With different places, foods, etc . . . . There is always a fear of health issues. Pray for resistance and the strength to serve and minister to the people in the jungle here in Peru. I will get back Sunday the 13^th. I will see many of you soon. God Bless you and your ministries.

My Pisco Trip – A Wicked Place in Desperate Need of a Holy God

2008-03-22T10:09:00.001-06:00

Wednesday and Thursday I was able to go on my survey trip to Pisco. Although I only had a few days there, the Lord accomplished very much. We were able to get in contact with the one Baptist pastor in all of Pisco. His church has only been there five months, but is growing. The national church planting pastor met us in a market, and gave us a very extensive survey of the city, the different classes, groups, sections, etc. We were also able to assist his church Wednesday night where we had the privilege to preach. It was a blessing to preach to this baby church on the grace of God—what it is, what it does and what it teaches us to be.

The Lord also blessed us with the opportunity to find another pastor in town. He isn’t Baptist in name, but most of his beliefs would be the same as ours, although there are a few areas that I would definitely have to disagree on. It was a blessing to talk to him about the needs and then pray with him.

The Lord broke my heart as I saw the rather extensive need here in Pisco and the surrounding towns— roughly 115,000 people, and only 2 churches that preach the gospel. There are 4 or 5 towns that almost connect to Pisco that have no churches either. The town of Pisco is very catholic, but also very idolatrous. The Catholic Church has permitted the people to mix their ancient beliefs and superstitions with the Catholic Church. As we walked through the streets I could feel and see the sin and darkness—the drunkards and drug-addicts, the immorality, the absence of the gospel, etc. The Lord wants His name to be called upon and glorified in this city and the surrounding towns.

Please pray for me as I further prepare for the mission field. I know my calling—to preach the Word that will correct the problems and sins, and to train and disciple leaders that can win and disciple leaders (Titus 1:5). It could just be that Pisco is my “Crete.” This is a wicked place in desperate need of a Holy God.

Remember to pray for safety and opportunities in the jungle April 1-11.

Titus 1:5 – For this reason I left you in Crete, that you should set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in every city as I commanded you--

Adventures with the Family

2008-03-12T12:09:00.002-06:00

I am refreshed and ready to finish out the year. Less then 6 weeks left. My family (Amber, Mom, and Dad) were able to come down for a week. There weren’t any problems or complications—except for the storm in Atlanta that made their flight get into Lima at 4am. I took a taxi from my house at 2am, retrieved them, and got home around 5am. We had a blast. I took them all over Lima experiencing the rich sections, the poor sections, the public transportation, the honking of horns, the Lima traffic with crazy drivers, different culture, different language, new foods, and more.The Lord gave safety in everything we did.

We were able to go to the Town square with the Palace building, congress building, and cathedral. We rode a bus up to the top of a mountain where we could look out at almost all of Lima—the home of 10 million people. We also were able to go to a really nice fountain and lights park. It is nothing like they have ever seen before. Of course, I took them to experience bartering in the markets. It’s going to be weird coming home and having set prices, lines, cash registers, etc. We also got to visit the beach. As dad took his shoes of to wade in the Pacific ocean, the tide came in and ruptured his shoe away. A few men playing in the waves made attempts to retrieve the shoe, but were wiped out by the huge waves. There was a woman that was very persistent and continued until she finally caught it as the tide brought it in again. We had the whole beach laughing hysterically. It was worth the embarrassment.

Although I walked them half to death, my family was really encouraged to see me and the ministry here in Peru. For me personally, it was a huge blessing to get to spend time with the family, and for them to see a small part of what and who I am now.

Be in prayer for 2 upcoming trips.

1. I will be going to the jungle to work in a village church for 2 weeks (May 1). Pray for safety in travel, and especially safety in health. The different climate, foods, and lifestyle could be very hard on the body. Pray for strength and resistance so we can maximize our ministry to the people. The girls will be working a lot with the ladies, the four guys will preach 3 times each, and all of us will be active in kid’s clubs.

2. I will be going to Pisco next Wednesday (March 19) for a few days. I am in contact with a few pastors from neighboring cities. Pray for open doors and opportunities for the national pastors to show me around the city and the neighboring towns that have no churches. Be in prayer that the Lord will have His will in this trip. It could be another step closer to His direction in my life.

2 Months Left

2008-02-21T10:29:00.003-06:00

The LORD has blessed tremendously with grace, strength, and fruit. We had our 4 consecutive weeks of camp, and for the past few weeks we have gotten back into the normal schedule of visits, Bible studies, discipling, teaching, preaching, etc. In exactly 2 months I will be on a plane to come home. It is hard to believe how fast the time has gone by. Part of me desires to see family and friends and finish school, but another part of me wants to stay here. There is so much to do, so many lives without Christ!

Especially be in prayer for the families of the church. There are many broken hearts and family issues that need to be resolved. The strength of a church is measured by the strength of its families. Also, be in prayer for those who have accepted Christ that I am discipling. Pray that they can be grounded enough in the Word and the church to continue when I leave. This is always a fear of anyone in ministry—what happens when I leave? But, we know that God is more than able to take care of His own with or without the aid of us. We are not indispensable, but yet He still has chosen to use us to show His glory.

Another prayer requests--I am planning a short trip to Pisco, Peru: about 4 hours south of my home. There might be one church in the area that preaches the gospel, but other than them, there is nothing. Be in prayer for this trip as I am praying to seek the Lord's will for the future.

My parents (Pastor Gil and Pam Morrow) and my little sister Amber are coming down to visit. The Lord has and will continue to provide the necessary funds. They will be here March 4 – March 11. I have planned for them a vigorous week of touring, cultural learning, and ministry enlightenment. Lord willing they will receive a tremendous blessing from their trip and bring the missions fervor back to the church.

Once again, thank you all for your prayers. Continue to pray for the ministry down here—for safety, focus, fruit, and funds. Right now I am at 75%. Do not forget about me—I haven’t forgotten about you. Thank you for your faithfulness.

Kids Camp and the Weekend

2008-01-21T09:53:00.000-06:00

This week was one of the most trying but most fulfilling weeks so far. I have worked as a leader in teen groups for 3 years, but kids have always been my weakness. Just finished a week of kid’s camp as a counselor. I had 10 little terrorists. It was a nightmare, but well worth it. I had 2 pastor's kids, 3 or more from broken homes, and a few local Catholics. Had some adventures like finding a bag full of snails in the cabin, another day getting hit by a flying baby bird because the boys found a nest and brought it in, not to mention the sleep dancers and singers, and of course, the boy with bowel problems. Had a kid have an accident in his underwear, put it in a bag, and put it on the bed post— I wondered why it stunk. All that and more. But, 6 got saved. I got to lead 5 of them to the Lord. It was so awesome to share the gospel with them each day from the WORDLESS BOOK, BRACELET, etc. and see the lights click on as the Holy Spirit prepared their little hearts to accept His Son. I think kids show their emotions a little more than adults. I had an 8 year old start praying, then stop for a few seconds. I looked up to see if he was done or needed help; well, he had begun to cry. He finished his prayer, then cried even more. I asked him how he felt and if he was happy—he told me more then ever before, and he was at peace at last. I almost cried myself.

Also, had the forth salvation Bible study with a teen named Edghis this weekend, and he told the King that his confidence to go to heaven was completely in Christ. His neighbor tagged along and prayed to accept Christ as well. I have been working on Him for 6 weeks, and who knows how long the Holy Spirit has been preparing him. Praise God. Praise God to see fruit. Pray for discipleship and growth. I am starting discipleship with Edghis and the neighbor lady wants discipleship as well. Be in prayer for the discipleship of these teens and boys that are babes in Christ. It is so awesome to start from scratch, nothing, and be used of the Holy Spirit to point them to the truths of His Word. There is nothing like it! Stay faithful. Remember what is really worth living for—what is eternal.

Trip to the Mountains

2008-01-14T08:54:00.000-06:00

One week ago, we went on a week long trip to the mountains. We climbed and hiked through the Andes, and much more! It was quite the adventure. The altitude was 15,000 feet. No cars, no water, no bathrooms, COLD (40s and 50s), sleeping on the ground with sheep skins, houses made out of stone and grass roofs, killing sheep, and eating new things, such as "sheep stomach” and “brain” soup and a hundred flavors of tea from different plants and herbs. We hauled rain buckets for water, split firewood, and slaughter lunch (sheep). I gutted the sheep and was about to throw it in the woods—like deer hunting—but the national pastor passed me a bag to but the guts in to save for soup.

It was a blessing to see the church there in the mountains. Just like a Chinese house church looks different than a State-side mega-church, this little mountain church was very different from our churches here in Lima and our churches in the States. There was no false doctrine, just different methodology. It’s a different culture and a different world. So that means the worship, prayer, and even language is bound to be different. I was blessed to see a people worship their Savior Biblically and personally in their own culture—quite different than what I am accustomed to.

Of course, I got sick one night with a light fever and stomach problems. But, even with the struggles, this trip was enlightening. We really are blessed with all our electronics, cars, heaters, etc. Although I am probably not called to the mountains, I really enjoyed the view, the experience, and the nothingness—when I say nothingness I mean for HOURS there was literally nothing to do—as we climbed through the mountains we would see people pasturing sheep, goats, and llamas. Now I know why David was a “man after God's own heart.” He had nothing to do but sit around, look at God's creation, and talk to God all day. Man was it nice to just do NOTHING, without people, cars, electronics, and other distractions. It was just me and my God and His creation. Meditation on the Word was GREAT this week. Some of my ways, desires, etc. were measured by His Word and found wanting—I lack so much to be a man after God's own heart. It is all part of the process called sanctification—God taking me from where I am, and bringing me closer to Himself.

Be in prayer for Camps. The next 4 weeks we will be leaders and helpers in different camps. Pray for safety, health, salvations, and God's wisdom and Spirit to work in the lives of those we are ministering to.

Just Me and the Holy Spirit

2007-12-22T10:23:00.000-06:00

In my last update I seemed a little discouraged because of lack of direction. I believe at times the Lord permits us to be overwhelmed or confused just enough to remind us that we cannot do anything without him. My roommate Cole left for the States to visit family for a week and a half, which left me to do the all the visiting, bible studies, etc. solo. It was a challenge, but the Lord proved faithful once again. I believe He gave more opportunities to witness and minister than any other week. It was just me and the Holy Spirit.

To begin, little Franklin—a 10 year old boy in my Sunday school class, not the 26 year old watchman. Once when I was teaching the gospel to the kids, Franklin and many others gave Catholic answers for salvation. This inspired me to begin working with him. I visited him several times, giving bits and pieces of the gospel each time in between soccer games in the street and playing trompo (similar to a top, but with rope). Finally, last Tuesday the Holy Spirit illuminated his mind and heart, and he prayed asking Christ to save him. Since then, we have met at the church several times with several other neighbor kids to play UNO, and then have a salvation Bible study afterwards. This is his favorite part.

Also, Antony, the kid in the gang called The Block, who asked me for some change to ride to the neighboring town to get drugs. . . The Lord opened the door, and I got to give him the gospel in a restaurant the other day. Visiting with him yesterday, we made plans for a Bible study on Monday.

Edghis—that’s a new name for me. I was climbing one mini-mountain to get down into the neighboring part of town to make some visits. I ended up playing soccer with several kids on top. Our soccer court was the 20’ wide path in-between 2 houses, and the goals were a door way of one house, and 2 big rocks the other. We took turns chasing the ball down the mountain. Man they can fly down those hills! After our game, I got to share the gospel with 4 boys and 2 teenagers. I have been able to visit Edghis—the most interested—several times recently. One visit I got to help this 14 year old haul big water barrels up the mountain to his house since there is no running water. Some parts were so steep, a rope would have been great, almost necessary. From his house, you can see all of Manchay—my mission field. He keeps asking questions like “What happens after death? Is there life after death? The end of the world? Are you afraid / prepared for death? Etc. We are starting Bible studies soon.

Joel—today we finished a 5 series study on Salvation. The kid really understands the concept of salvation by grace and the gift of salvation, and not works. I posted this post this morning, and now tonight i am having to change it because Joel prayed and asked Christ to be his Saviour today. Praise God. Another name written down in glory. We start discipleship studies Wednesday.

Special Kids Club—we spent one afternoon inviting all the kids in Manchay for a special Kids Club. We ended up having well over 1000 kids plus many of their families. How awesome it was to hear my named yelled out by hundreds of kids that I have met and played with before. I have never personally experienced a multitude this big of unsaved people gathered together under the leadership of Christians. I ran a few blocks over to buy more candies and could hear the kids as they sang Christian songs and recited the verses we taught them. The sound was soul stirring and breath taking! The gospel was taught and acted out for this massive crowd. They have heard the gospel, and know where the church is located. Praise God for the opportunity and experience. We have no idea how many might have accepted Christ. Pray that we will get to see some fruit from this kids club.

These are the highlights of the last 2 weeks. There have been some trials and attacks, but as you can see, the Lord has proven victorious. Thank you for partnering with me in the great commission here in Peru.

Prayer Requests:
- Franklin to grow (Starting of Discipleship)
- Joel to grow (Starting of Discipleship)
- Antony to be open and broken and get saved
- Edghis to get saved
- All the kids and adults at the Giant Kids Club

Go Ye Into Peru and Make Disciples

2007-12-10T10:20:00.000-06:00

The Lord is good! The other day I met a man in the street wanting to know what we "did" to his friend Julio—a man that got saved 6 months or so ago that is receiving discipleship and growing. This man wanted to know what happened to Julio. He wanted to have the same change in his life. He has many problems such as drinking, but is open and wanting. We are going to visit him soon to witness to him. The Lord has the power to quench his alcoholic thirst with living water.

I'm not discouraged, but challenged. I want to learn how to work in this culture. The culture is so close nit. We are meeting TONS of kids and teens, but how to get into their hearts, how to get the gospel started, and how to show them the love of Christ. I want to make some real friends down here. Another issue is the gangs—they aren't quite Chicago or NYC style—mostly 13-17 year old boys that don't go to school, don't have a job, some do drugs, most drink, and the main reason to fight is over the soccer games. Some of the guys are really hard, but slowly some appear to be at least enamored by our presence. How to get the ball rolling is my question. We can visit all day long, play soccer till our shins splint, but that's not why we’re here—that is just an ends to a means. Pray that we can continue to build relationships and confidence with these guys.

I have start salvation Bible studies with a kid named Joel. We have had 2 studies already, and have plans for 2 more this week. He is very interested and open. Be in prayer that the Word will defeat his catholic brainwashing, and burrow the truth of the gospel deep into his heart.

Franklin the Watchman – I believe we are at a stand still. He wasn't ready to accept Christ the last Bible study, so I didn't dare push for a decision. We are going to have a Bible study this week over the Rich man and Lazarus. Be in prayer for clear understanding and conviction of the Holy Spirit.

I had a gangster kid try to mooch 16 cents off me yesterday so he could hop a bus to go buy drugs in the neighboring town. He had a pocket full of change to buy his drugs but couldn’t use 16 cents to catch a bus. These guys need a purpose—they need Christ. Be in prayer that we can love and lead these teenagers and kids to Christ, disciple them, and reach their families as well. This is our mandate—to go into Peru and make disciples. In this is our Father glorified.

Missionary Apprenticeship

2007-11-12T11:01:00.000-06:00

I am happy to report to you that I have finished all my classes and language school her in Lima. We have taken 26 credits of classes and taken many trips such as the following: a biology trip to the jungle, a visit to churches and the seminary in Trujillo (Northern Peru), a construction and earthquake relief trip to Ica, and a trip to Machu Picchu (one of the Seven Wonders of the World) and Cusco.

After all the exciting traveling and hard work in the classroom, we are now starting the missionary apprenticeship—the reason we came to Peru. We are starting discipleship classes with several of the young people; we run a kids club; we are active in the teen group, church services, visitation, evangelism, and much more. The Lord has already provided me with the opportunities to build relationships with several unsaved and saved Peruvians. The next six months (until April of 2008) I am not a student and we have no part time jobs. My job is to train for the mission field, on the mission field by fulfilling the Great Commission and equipping the nationals to fulfill the Great Commission as well. This year I am developing witnessing, preaching, and discipling skills in a cross cultural environment with the leading of veteran missionaries and mature national Christians here in Peru.

Especially be in prayer for Franklin. Franklin is a night security guard that works in my neighborhood. I get to talk to him almost every night. We have spent countless hours discussing, explaining, and understanding salvation from the Bible. We started a 3 serious Bible study: 1. Nicodemus and his Pride 2. The Samaritan Woman and her Impurity 3.The Rich Young Ruler and His Trust in his Riches. The Lord always deals with men on their sin level. Be in prayer that Franklin and Roberto (a neighbor kid that always is there as well) will be convicted of sin, and drawn into the arms of the Savior.

Thank you for you prayers. The Lord has answered prayer by supplying much of the needed support. I trust the Lord will continue to supply every need and provide grace, strength, wisdom, and peace here in the center of God’s will—Lima, Peru. Please partner with me by praying.

According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.
Philippians 1:20

Cusco, Mountains, Bombs, and More

2007-10-25T22:39:00.000-06:00

I just got back from a 10 day trip to Cusco. As we boarded our plane to go to Cusco, I heard "Teetoos" on the intercom. They were calling Titus to come to the front of the plane. A very nervous Peruvian baggage worker met me. He tried to say a few things in English, but was too nervous. I told him to just do Spanish. He asked questions about my bag such as color and size. We ran / sprinted out of the plane, and out to the big cement field of the airport. Far away from any building or plane, was my green, old school suitcase. He asked what I had in it. He told me to feel it, touch it. I did, and it was vibrating like crazy. He asked if I had anything I needed to tell him before he called in. I said no. He then told me to open it slowly and carefully as he backed up 20 feet or so. He was sure it was a bomb. At this time, I was quite nervous myself. I opened it. Sure enough, my electric shaver had turned on and was hitting the metal rim of my suitcase—vibrating the whole thing. All this before 6 AM.

We visited several churches having the opportunity to run the services: one guy preached a few times; we all gave testimonies, specials, and whatever the pastors desired. I had the privilege to lead songs for the first time in Peru. We arrived at a church Sunday night, and the pastor told me that I was leading songs. I knew all the songs in English, but had never sung them in Spanish—quite the adventure. On the third song, I wanted to get them to stand, but due to some very interesting things some people where doing in the congregation, I became distracted, and all I could remember was the word "FOOT." They got the idea. Then, when I told them they could be seated, I told them "you can now feel yourself." I know the people enjoyed it, and I enjoyed it as well. Being able to laugh at yourself while taking yourself seriously is the master trade of a missionary—still working on it.

We also got to bring some radio equipment up a mountain to the tower. The churches in the Cusco area have a radio ministry in Spanish and also some songs and preaching in Quechua—the secondary language here in Peru that is the main language in the Mountains. The tower was about 150-200 feet high. I love climbing, and someone had to anyway, so I was able to conquer the tower. It was very cold and windy, but I got some great pictures from the top of this tower on top of a mountain. Serving God does have mountain top experiences . . . and tower tops on top of mountain tops.

We also visited Machu Picchu – one of the 7 wonders of the world. It was amazing. How the Incas built the city on top of the mountain is a mystery. We also climbed the big mountain right next to the old ruins. It was quite the adventure. I took some great pictures.

I also got sick as a dog for a day or two. That is really getting old. It is in these times that a missionary needs the most prayer.

Got to witness to a Buddhist from NYC, a tourist shop worker for 2 hours, and a guy on the plane coming back for over an hour. The Lord sure gives opportunities to those who ask for them. Do we have a great God or what? He commands us to shine out of our darkness--an impossible task, and then He shines in us what He wants us to be and preach (2 Cor 4:1-7) making the impossible an everyday occurrence. You want to do something for God, spend time in His Word and talking to Him. Brian Trainer was right when He said in Hom 1 last year: “We are only worth for God what we receive from Him and His Word in our own lives.”

For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
2 Cor 4:6

Building His Church(es)

2007-09-30T22:48:00.000-06:00

We spent a week in Ica helping a church build a Sunday school building as well as the house of the pastor. We dug all the footers, repaired water and sewer lines; we built the columns, moved over 10 ton of large rock by hand (for foundation) and manually mixed cement and poured the foundation. With the foundation and the columns up, they are now ready to lay brick. Pastor Manuel is doing well, but he has experienced a dew trials. He lost his house in the quake, as well as his cat—a 10 foot wall fell on it. Also, his wife is away in Lima because a baby is on the way and the hospitals are much better in Lima. And, the last day we were there, we buried his dog. In the midst of all the trials, his spirits are high.

While in Ica, we ran a kids program in the center of town. We had over 80 kids with many parents and young people as an audience. We played games, sang songs, and had a mini-drama presentation witch led into a gospel presentation. We then gave all the kids, their parents, and other people watching tracts. We also got to go to a poor village and distribute food and clothing to earthquake victims. We then had another awesome opportunity to witness.

On the way home we cruised through Pisco—the costal city closest to the epi-center of the quake. As we drove into town we saw a trash pile almost a mile long full of all the rubble. Three-fourths of the houses were completely leveled, and probably half the roads are un-passable. Most of the 500 + deaths from the quake were in Pisco. Massive fatalities are a wretched thing, but an even worse tragedy is to find out that there is no gospel preaching church in Pisco. Wouldn’t it be amazing if someone could GO there, MAKE DISCIPLES, and PLANT CHURCHES? Who will go? Here I am Lord if You will.

Trips, Kids Clubs, Teen Groups, and more . . .

2007-08-31T22:44:00.000-06:00

Happy Saint Rose Day! Yesterday was the holiday of a nun named Rose. All the schools and many work places had off today to have picnics, park competition, and of course, futbol. Rose is the patron saint of Lima, Peru. This young lady went through drastic measures of self-torture in imitation of Christ. She obviously forgot that Christ suffered all that was necessary, and that our cross is figurative language for the Christian walk.

Praise the Lord we have finished all classes but one—Personal Evangelism in Spanish. We are taking a trip to Trujillo (northern Peru) where I went on a short trip in January. We will be staying in the seminary with Missionary Stan Templeton. We will be doing special music, testimonies, and possibly devotionals to whatever age group they might desire. Also, we get to visit classes in the seminary—similar to Maranatha’s Bible classes, but in Spanish.

Also, be in prayer for our trip to Ica. After a week in Trujillo, we return to Lima for a few days, and the guys head out to Ica. We will be helping with what little clean up is left, and all the construction we could ask for. Pray for safety in travel, working, and walking around. Pray also for opportunities to encourage the national pastors and Christians in the churches as well as opportunities to witness.

We have had 2 weeks of Bible Club for kids in Manchay. We have had over 30 kids for the devotional part each week. It is so amazing to walk to the streets calling kids to come to the court for Bible Club. They are so excited to come, say their verse, receive the candy, play the games, and even listen to the Bible stories.

Also, our teen Jovenes meetings are going well every Saturday night. Just before last Saturday, the 10th grade missionary’s son Robert asked me what games we should do. He told me that his dad had a meeting that night, and the other man that helped with the youth was out of town. So, he volunteered to run the games and singing, which left the devotional to me. I obviously jumped at the opportunity, but with no preparation, and in Spanish, the Lord really had to be in it. I remembered that I had a typed up devotional of the gospel in my Bible. I preached the gospel for 15 minutes with the help of this paper. Some of the rowdy teens paid more attention then ever before. Three lost teens as well as the faithful were glued to me as the Holy Spirit filled me to preach the gospel “in another tongue." Roberto, who is bi-lingual, said it was very clear and simple—exactly what we wanted.

Praise God for opportunities, safety, strength, and wisdom. Continue to pray for these as well as contentment in Christ.

But godliness with contentment is great gain. 1Ti 6:6

The Great Commission Zeal--Even to the Mormons

2007-08-13T16:29:00.000-06:00

I must be honest that my zeal and passion for the Great Commission, God’s Word, etc. has been lacking of late. The dreary road of language learning can be a dangerous road for one’s spiritual walk. My thoughts are that it’s not just about “ZEAL” and “PASSION,” it’s about the object of that passion and zeal.

I am a short term missionary to Peru. I am living in a suburb of Lima, Peru studying language and other classes relating to missions, while working in a church. The town I serve in has thousands of lost people. Every time we go into the town we pass the beautiful Mormon Temple—quite the “rose” among the thorns—the stick / brick homes, dirt roads, and poverty. The Lord gave me and my room mate Cole the opportunity to meet in a restaurant twice with Mormon missionaries from the States our age. Christ said let’s come and reason together. Due to testimony and clear teaching in Scripture about false teachers, we decided NOT to meet at their church or our church. Also, we wouldn’t buy their food, nor let them buy ours. We are not to support their teaching in ANY way. But, due to their “evangelizing” so many of the young people here in Manchay, we need to know what they are teaching, what Scripture they are contradicting, and how to teach the truth amongst the lies of Satan.

Mormon teaching in a nut shell

One day, God made Christ and Lucifer, and all the spirit beings. Christ and Lucifer are special—they are brothers. All spirit beings made a choice to either go with Lucifer or to earth with Christ. That means that all of us on earth were once spirits that chose to come to earth—we passed through a veil and can’t remember choosing to come here to earth. The Bible is God’s Word, but the book of Mormon “completes” the Bible. It is the “new dispensation.” The Book of Mormon sheds light on dark areas of Scripture. With the Bible and the Book of Mormon, their gospel says that God (with a human body) says to believe in Christ (a god) in order to be saved. One must have faith, put their trust in Christ, and then they must serve God for the rest of their life—in hope of reaching the 3rd Heaven where they will be gods themselves.

The 4 Missionaries with 2 Different Gospels

These two young Americans from Utah and California worked for 2 years full time to gain $10,000 so they could spend 2 years in Peru teaching Mormon doctrine. I have studied, memorized, and preached Romans 10 many times, but I gained a new appreciation for this chapter after tonight. My heart’s desire is that people everywhere—including Peru—be saved (v.1). These boys that are 20 and 21 have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge (v.2). They are ignorant of the fact that God’s righteousness is enough to save, and that God’s righteousness is imputed (installed) into us through mere acceptance of Christ’s gift. The law is not necessary for salvation. Christ’s righteousness is the end of the law—we need not be judged according to this law because of His Son (v.3-4; Romans 3). We were going round and round with different historical, moral, doctrinal, philosophical issues. I was led to a chapter in John. As they were debating with Cole, I was studying this passage in John. They then said, “Turn to John.” You guessed it, it was the chapter I was looking at. They read 3 verses, and said 2 sentences using the verses out of context. We read the first several verses, some in the middle, and the last 10 verses witch not only proved their interpretation wrong, but other topics we spoke on earlier. Next, the Lord led me to refocus the conversation with a few questions: Why are we here? What are we working for? How do we get it? They summed up their thoughts, and we summed up ours. I took them through a modified Romans Road, and then concluded with Romans 3:20, 28: Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin . . . Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. After reading these verses, before even explaining them at all, simultaneously the two Mormons sat back in their seats and had a look of fear and dawning in their eyes.

I don’t know how they can shut the Bible and hold up the Book of Mormon and say, “I know with no doubt at all that this is the truth.” It hurts so much to see this zeal for God, but not according to knowledge. We agreed to go our separate ways. They obviously do not want to “waste time” with us, and if they reject Scripture I have no need of them either. I told them I would be at the same restaurant, same day, same time next week. Pray for that the Lord will soften their hearts, and if the Lord wants me to speak more to them, that their schedule would be freed, and one or both would show up ready to discuss Scripture.

Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.
For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. 4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. Rom 10:1-4

A door of Utterance

2007-07-30T09:46:00.000-06:00

This past week we had no class. After our time with the language helpers in the mornings, we had plenty of time to get out and practice language. On Thursday, I went bus hopping just to familiarize myself with areas of town that are unfamiliar and new. If you want to practice language, utilize public transportation. You will get plenty of opportunity to listen and speak. Sometimes being a gringo brings many opportunities for conversation. Everyone wants to know where I’m from, what I’m doing here, and how long I’m here, etc. While on a bus, the Lord opened a door for me to give the gospel to a guy my age. His name was Johny. He has lived his whole life in downtown Lima. Although he has a Catholic background he is more interested in evangelicalism—even though he didn’t know anything about evangelicals. When I gave him Scripture passages dealing with eternal security and eternal life, he was thrilled and dumbfounded. He had never heard the gospel before. When he arrived at his destination, he took a gospel tract with much appreciation and determination. While witnessing to Johny, others were leaning in to listen. It is common to have singers, beggars, and candy sellers on the buses, but the gospel . . . now that is uncommon.

An opportunity to witness is always a blessing. An opportunity to witness in Spanish is a miracle. Although language learning seems to go by very slowly, the progress is consistent. Thank you for being faithful in your prayers—I’d pack up and come home tomorrow if I knew there wasn’t any praying going on.

Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds: That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak. Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.
Colossians 4:3-6

The Jungle

2007-07-22T15:04:00.000-06:00

We just finished a 2 week module of Biology. We went on a 5 day trip to the jungle. While in the jungle, we had classes till noon and then we explored. We were able to hike up to a waterfall one of the days. God has truly created some beautiful country here in Peru. I couldn’t get over all the green—my home here in La Molina (close to Lima) is a very dry climate. Nothing grows unless it is watered. It rains maybe a couple inches a year. I never thought that rain would be a blessing. While in the jungle, it rained hard almost every night. By noon each day, it was bright and sunny as ever. We saw so many interesting plants, fascinating animals, and bastante (more than enough) bugs.

I greatly enjoyed visiting a new church in the nearby town of La Merced. It was a blessing to give our testimonies to the church. This was my first public speaking in Spanish. I am sure my grammar was terrible, but it was a blessing to the church to see 8 young people planning on going to the mission field.

I got sick the third night and was out of commission for a few days. I don’t believe I have ever been that sick in my life. Brother Carlton was questioning whether I needed to go to the hospital to receive fluids through an IV, but praise the Lord, the medicine worked and I was able to retain fluids. Slowly but surely I am regaining strength and appetite.

Please be in prayer for health and spirits of the group. Although trials from the States, health struggles, and language barriers are always with us, the Lord is always with us as well.

JEHOVA es mi pastor; nada me faltará.
Salmos 23:1

Translation:
Jehovah is my Shepherd; nothing (in) me will be lacking (or deficient).

Cast Your Crowns

2007-07-08T19:38:00.000-06:00

We just finished a two week module on Cultural Anthropology with Brian Trainer. Brian Trainer is head of the missions department and teaches various Bible courses at Maranatha. I learned so much about communication, confrontation, and conflict. Here’s an amazing thought: It’s not just right and wrong, it might just be different. There are so many minor and even major differences between the State’s culture and the Peruvian culture. Many times it is easy to say, “Well, we Americans do it the right way, amen.” Many times these American ways can be perceived as being loud, proud, rude, and heartless. In missions, our job is to first understand our birth culture; second, we must understand the culture behind the Scripture texts; and third, we must learn and adopt the culture of the host culture— in my case, Peruvian. Only when we understand all three cultures will we be able to bring God’s Word to the people effectively. I am currently in this learning and adopting stage. I cannot reject my birth culture—I was born American—but I must learn to live and even love this new world’s culture as well. My mission is to become bicultural.

This past week has been a struggle. I was sick almost all week. The Lord provided much time for rest, healthy food, and even medicine. My Peruvian brother Heber is studying to be a doctor—he told me how to cope, what to eat, and what to drink. He also gave me some pills to kill whatever was in me. Being sick and exhausted for almost a whole week is trying on one’s emotions, spirits, and will. Thank you all for praying faithfully. Even though I have only been in Peru a short time, I realize more than ever the importance of praying for missionaries. I greatly admire their steadfastness, and I desire to reap eternal blessings with them. Oh what joy we will experience when we are given our crowns, and then even more to cast them at our Saviors feet. I talked with a veteran mission this past week and he told me some of the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual struggles he has experienced. He said, “But it’s all worth it.” Being a servant of Christ is not a sacrifice, it’s a privilege. Serving Christ is the only life worth living—regardless of occupation, sex, or status. Someday we will cast our crowns at our Savior’s feet.

Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.
2 Timothy 4:8

“. . . and cast their crowns before the throne, saying, Thou art worthy.”
Revelation 4:10b-11a

Press On

2007-06-23T11:14:00.000-06:00

We just finished a two week module class on the Major Prophets. I had never studied them in depth before. There is so much prophesy, truth, fulfilled truth, truth to come in those 5 books. So often we claim to be “New Testament Christians” and forget that we are “Whole Bible Christians.” The New Testament does not replace, it fulfills and completes. After reading Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, and Daniel, I couldn’t get over the justice, judgment, righteousness, and love of God. He is immutable—same God as He was in the OT. Oh to fear Him more!

Although still a mild annoyance, language is progressing. I’m to a point now that I can just laugh at mistakes, and yet still show eagerness to learn. The first 4 weeks were great, but around week five, things started to really bother me—anxiety and frustration at the littlest things. But the Lord proved faithful and has brought me through this battle of “culture shock.” I praise God for strength and victory, and plead for grace in further struggles in the near future. The newness has worn off and I’m in it for the long hall.

I’m building relationships with the guys at church—Daniel, Watson, Moises, David, David, and others. They are you typical guys—active, rowdy, hilarious, and in great need of discipleship. Even though not too much discussion of God’s Word exists, a little Bible here, a little soccer there, and just always being there to build relationships—that is the key for ministry everywhere. Much of the world is people / relationship oriented, and not as much task oriented as the States. I have been learning even more than before that ministry is PEOPLE, not just “programs, events, reunions, tasks, etc. for people.

Last Saturday we hiked through the ceros (foot hills) of the Andes. We climbed one of the highest peaks around, and then crossed the tops of several peaks. There was a path down the last peak to get back to our home, but I didn’t take it. I chose the path less traveled by. From the top, I literally climbed almost strait down into the value of the two highest peaks. I got about half way down, and thought to myself “what have I gotten myself into.” I thought about making my way back up to the path, but I realized it would be just as dangerous and hard to go back up as it would to progress forward. Interesting metaphor—we’ve come so far, what have we gotten ourselves into. Sometimes we as Christians are nervous to look at all we have gone through, and as we look at the future all we will go through is equally frightening. When we are tempted to look back and give up, the trek backwards will be equally difficult—or harder—but you get no where giving up and retreating. Your destination is not reached, the prize is not won, and the goal is not accomplished. I’ve made it this far, through high school, half way through college, and to the short term mission field. Giving up and retreating is not an option at this point. Press On!

Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Php 3:13-14

The Mighty in Manchay

2007-06-08T09:54:00.000-06:00

The plan was to meet Moises (a teenager) outside of church at 1:30. He did not show, so Allen, Amy, Joy, Nikki, and I decided to tour Manchay by ourselves. At the end of a dirt road there was a path that led up the sierra (small mountain). I noticed 2 Doberman-like dogs ahead on the path growling and ready for action. I told the girls just to stay behind me as I picked up a large rock. I was ready for some "fun" but I wasn't going to look for it. Praise God nothing happened. We progressed up the sierra to a large wooden cross. We could see all of Manchay and a couple smaller nearby towns. It was beautiful.

We trekked down the mini-mountain and back into town. As we were walking by a soccer field, I noticed one guy being chased by another guy. When other guys saw what was happening, they jumped in. Five or six Peruvians surrounded the one. They all reached down to pick up rocks. I quickly shoved the girls into a nearby Tienda (store) just in time to see a rock the size of a softball zip past my head. I was ready with my police baton if action called for duty. The mob closed in on the guy, and the leader began to beat him with a club as the other threw in a kick here and there.

Allen, on the other side of the street, saw Moises (the teen we were supposed to meet up with). Allen took off after Moises and convinced him not to get involved. Allen said, "We would like to see your house." With all the activity, I lost Allen and Moises in the crowd. I knew generally where Moises lived, so I led the gals down the street--avoiding the mob. It was fascinating to see local Tienda owners come out with broom handles and clubs to keep the mob from entering their stores. The police arrived and somehow, the main victim, bloody and bruised, got up and ran up the hill with a few buddies. Several guys chased after him. Until more police arrived, the Peruvian with the club was restrained and thrown in a guard shack on the corner of the street where our church is located. The angry Peruvian punched out all the glass in the shack--thankfully there was bars over the windows and doors.

Although the police showed up and broke up the fight, Allen and Moises said they heard several rounds shot off up the hill. Either both groups (probably gangs) gave up, or finished the job.

I see the Lord's hand in all of this. If we met Moises as planned, Allen and I could have been playing soccer, and potentially could have been more involved in the fight. No rocks hit us and the guys with knives and clubs left us alone.

There is so much reckless activity among the youth in the city of Manchay. Please pray that Allen and I will learn the language, and be affective disciplers of the youth in our church, and reach out to these wanton Jovenes.

My First Week in Peru

2007-05-05T19:29:00.001-06:00

My first week of living with a Peruvian Family and going to Language school was amazing. I am learning so much! The more I learn, the more I see I need to learn. It's not just language, it's pronunciation, word choice, thinking, culture, etc. I am still in the fascination stage. Please pray because sometimes, the mind and emotions get tired. One phrase my family keeps telling me--Poco a Poco (Little by little). That is so true--i feel like I am not getting anywhere, but if I have learned so much in just one week, what will I learn in one year? Please continue to pray!