On Friday the 16th of April we took a wonderful team of 21 people in 5 trucks and 1 car loaded with donations to Maneadero, Mexico. We had collected lots of clothes, shoes, and some toys for the people in the village outside the orphanage of Agua Viva and the labor camp we had previously visited up the hill. Unfortunately one of our trucks was held up at the border for nearly 5 hours. It was stressful because the authorities in Mexico wanted to conficaste all the donations plus issue a fine. But God had other plans and turned it around for His glory! Eventually those in the truck actually got to pray with the border guard who returned half of the confiscated items and sent them back across the border into the USA with no fine. They eventually crossed at another border crossing and arrived early the next morning. We did an outreach with the children in the area, fed them lunch and shared the Gospel message with them. We had a lot of fun playing games, making crafts, frosting cupcakes and face painting with the children. We had a clothing outreach with their parents who took home huge bags filled with clothes. It was a blessing for us and them. We got to pray with many including one man named “Tito” who has serious health issues. We were blessed that he was able to walk to the orphanage and be a part of the day’s activities. Normally, we go to his house to bring him food and clothes. We have been building a friendship with Tito for several years and he praises God who supplies all his needs.
We visited the labor camp up the hill and continue to be overwhelmed with the living conditions. But even more important than the physical needs is their spiritual need. Pastor Joel shared the Gospel message while a young girl from the local village interpreted. It was a big stretch for her, but we assured her that she was helping to further God’s kingdom and He would bless her for it. One of the men in the labor camp at our last visit had enthusiastically responded to our message and was given a Bible. He speaks a bit of English, Spanish and Mixteco. He helped to interpret by reading the Scriptures and expounded from his heart about John 3:16. We were moved to tears as he passionately shared about the love of God. We eagerly desire to disciple this young man with such a desire for God’s Word. The Bible shows signs of useage in just a few months since our last visit, and he was able to immediately locate the scriptures. He truly has a heart for God’s Word. Praise the Lord, He is so faithful. We pray The Lord will raise up this young man to become a spiritual leader for this labor camp.
Please enjoy the pictures from our trip. We look forward to returning soon!
