We were in Puerto Rico for 24 days. God showed us an incredible amount of favor as we traversed the island. We have stories of his provision, moments of clarity, providential connections, and growing friendships. I want to keep these update posts short and sweet so in this one I'd like to simply share how God answered some of the prayers that we had asked you to pray for.
First, we truly believe that God has called us to plant a church in the city of Aguadilla. As we visited many cities and areas on the northwest part of the island, the Lord just kept confirming in our hearts that Aguadilla is the right place to focus our church planting efforts. Here's a few of the strategic reasons why we feeling called to the city of Aguadilla:
Many English-speaking families choose Aguadilla as a place of residence.
There are big businesses, beautiful beaches, and military bases all located in Aguadilla.
There are already some flourishing ministries and Spanish churches in Aguadilla. Partnership in the gospel is a needed component to church planting.
We went into the trip really praying God would solidify the "where" question and we feel confident He has answered.
The second answer to prayer is that we were able to connect with ministry leaders, pastors, and some English-speaking families. We are currently pursuing conversation with a few families who are actively interested in a church-plant in Aguadilla. One family we talked to said that they would drive an hour to worship with a church in their language. The Christian English-speaking families on the northwest part of the island are starving for genuine Christian fellowship and doctrinally sound discipleship. We're excited about the conversations to come as we envision with other families church planting in Aguadilla.
Wait on the Lord
As I meditated on Scripture, specifically the Psalms, during our time in Aguadilla, I kept coming across the refrain to wait on the Lord. Here's a sample:
Psalm 27:14 - Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!
Psalm 31:24 - Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord!
Psalm 33:20 - Our soul waits for the Lord; he is our help and our shield.
Psalm 37:7 - Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him...
Psalm 37:34 - Wait for the Lord and keep his way...
Psalm 38:15 - But for you, O Lord, do I wait; it is you, O Lord my God, who will answer.
Psalm 39:7 - “And now, O Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in you.
Psalm 40:1 - I waited patiently for the Lord; he inclined to me and heard my cry.
Our pastor at Gospel Hope, Ryan McCammack, told me that "No one ever says they wished they would have planted a church quicker." After having been in Puerto Rico for an extended time we find ourselves wanting to get over there and start NOW! But the Lord has us in a season of continuing renewal and training. I'll post about this in the next update. The plan, if the Lord wills, is to move to Puerto Rico next summer.
Family Travel with lots of Pictures!
The final answer to prayer is that our kids really enjoyed the time in Puerto Rico! They made some friends, got to hang out at a lot of beaches (it's the cheapest way to have fun), and enjoyed all the fresh fruit off the trees!
Family Pics and Travel (click arrow on right side to view more pics!)
Ministry and Meetings
Beaches and Waterfalls
Thank you for your prayers and support! More updates to come!!!
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