March 23, 2009

Well...it has been a couple of weeks since my last up-date. At that time, I mentioned feeling a bit under the weather, but I thought I was on the mend...little did I know. I ended up spending the rest of that week and weekend at home, in bed...and also enjoyed a quick trip (actually about 5 hours) to the doctor where I was administered two bags of IV fluid because I was so dehydrated. Fortunately, by the time that I went to the doctor, most of the dengue virus had left my system so once I was a bit more hydrated, I was able to go home and began to feel much better.

Last week I was able to get back into much of my routine, however, I continued to take it easy as I was warned of a relapse if I jumped into too many activities too quickly. So, I tried to get the rest that my body needed while I continued to minister at the school and at church (when possible).

This past weekend proved to be a busy time for me! Thank you so much for continuing to pray for my church. God is using your prayers to strengthen us in many ways...although it is a slow process. On Saturday afternoon, my friend Marcos and I led the children's program. About 20 children came, which is considerably more than we have had for over a month. I was greatly encouraged by this attendance. Saturday night, we had a dinner and special program to honor the fathers in the church (since March 19 was Father's Day in Bolivia). Again, there was a pretty good turnout...about 30 people total...which included most of the core families and singles. It was an excellent time of much needed fellowship. After talking to the pastor and youth leaders...it looks like we're going to wait and begin dividing the youth group into two groups (guys and girls), after Easter. I think we are going to hold the first meeting on April 18. Given that that is my birthday...I'm praying that it will be a good way to start the program...since we can plan the first meeting as my birthday party and I can organize a few activities during that time. Please continue to pray for this first meeting...primarily that the girls will come and that they will come with a desire to truly learn/be a part of this group.

Well, I guess that's about it for this week! Thank you so much for your prayers concerning my health as well as my ministry here...it means so much to me to be lifted up before the Lord in this way! Blessings to each one of you!