So I can't believe it's been a month already since we were waking up to the sound of the rooster and the dry desert air... but it has. Life definitely moves faster here... and though we work diligently in the desert of Juarez there is a calmness there that can only be attributed to the presence of God... and serving him in that capacity.

What a blessing it was for me to be on the Mission field with so many TRULY special people to me... and what a cool testimony of what God can do through a small group of committed people. I was very excited this year to be travelling with my 10 year old daughter Haley, my mom, many of the JirehScope Ministries team members, and many past worship team and youth group members.

Equally rewarding was how God raised up a group, hehe, from out of 'Ware'... that's Ware, MA for those who don't know. It was amazing how fast God 'knit' us all together for his purposes. We were soon laughing, working, sharing and ministering to and with each other... and it was easy to see how God grafted us together as a 'body.'

Our ministry efforts were great. We ran three days of VBS (vacation bible school) for the 60-80+ children (and some parents) of the neighboring 'colonia.' Each day we would take the bus out to watch the children run towards the bus an gather with excitement in their eyes, eager to come. We shared the gospel in translated messages, Spanish DVD's, song and with skits involving flash paper and 18' geysers of coca-cola!.. we shared our hearts and the love of Christ in many hugs, touches, looks and prayers, and as always, it was difficult watching them leave the last day. I was proud of our teams efforts. They presented the truth and the message of faith and salvation in Christ in engaging, unique and fun ways, that definitely kept the interest of the children.

We also did a great deal of construction. Ceilings were installed in the orphanage building. Plumbing was continued and the 'swamp coolers' were made usable. We capped 60' of block wall with concrete with a small concrete bucket brigade. I estimate we dug and set around 40 posts and installed metal fencing to provide some security for a new property site as well as continuing to dig for the footer of the final concrete wall that will surround the existing Orphanage compound. ALL of this was done with the joy of the Lord being evident in the attitudes of all those involved. We began each day asking to be filled with His Spirit... and He is so faithful.

We also spent a day visiting families and dispensing food throughout the colonia. Our host, Gary Matthewson said it was the most rewarding day he has had doing 'dispensa' in that colonia yet. We prayed with people for strength, healing and to accept Christ... for wisdom for parents and obedience for children. I was blessed to see that the families in that colonia in Juarez that were doing 'well' by the standard there, were doing well BECAUSE of the works of Christ through the church. 'Casa de Cristo' is also leaving a mark for the Kingdom there... and I was moved and encouraged to see that.

Honestly I am still hearing reports of how Mexico has touched and changed and birthed things in the team members. I could go on an on, but ministry continues... August has been the FULLEST month yet for ministry and travel opportunities and has held some promise for many new doors... stay tuned for a blog on the week with the youth in Shutesbury, MA at Pinebrook Camp!!

Ever Praising the Amazing! (He is SOO worthy to be praised!)

Troy