UPDATE FROM MEXICO

Here's our update from our first ministry trip!

“I’m going to be honest with you. In the beginning, I was thinking ‘Why should I go?’ I really didn’t feel like coming. But then something told me that I should. And I think that you showed me a lot of things that are wrong with me or that I’m doing wrong. You made me remember things from my past that I guess I was blocking out. And I realized that I need help because I never felt like that. So I really want to thank you!”

At the end of our time in Mexico, we received thank you notes from the teachers and staff. This one, from C., really hit me. A hard man, obviously resistant, and yet God just kept working and working in his heart.

The teachers of the Elementary/Jr. High School received an intense dose of God’s grace during our 2-day retreat. We talked, prayed, discussed. Our focus – “The Kids Inside.” Some of you have heard me teach about this. For those of you who haven’t, it is essentially a path toward deep inner healing and freedom. We ask God to release those parts of us that were deeply wounded long ago – and still affect our lives. Here’s what one very anxious and fearful woman wrote about her experience:

“It was wonderful to have you with us and I feel like the Lord spoke to my heart. I have inner children that have been thinking they protect me. The Lord has sent you to guide me through this new journey in healing. I am at peace and look forward to using the method you have taught us.”

We also met with the staff of Rancho Santa Marta – a home for children (we often call these “orphanages” – but the truth is that many of these kids have parents – it’s just that they come from such horrible situations that the government has removed them from their families and put them in these homes). We began training them in the basics of “Healing Prayer.” So many of the kids – and staff – have experienced abuse, rejection, abandonment, etc. Pray that the lessons taught sink deep and help many there find God’s freedom!

And, finally, we had the privilege of intensive prayer sessions with a very precious couple at the Ranch. They are two of the key leaders there – and have a powerful ministry. I have been praying and counseling them off and on for years now. But this last week was the most powerful of all. Here are a few of the wife’s words:

“You both mean so much to me. You have been a huge answer to prayer to (my husband) and myself. As I look back at how I used to be I am amazed – was that really me? I am so glad you came to share with our people. Remember that we would love to have you back.”

And that, now, is our prayer. Where do we go from here with this wonderful ministry? The doors are wide open to continue to serve there. We quickly realized that going one time to a location can bear great fruit. But it is only a start. For example, at this home for children, the needs are so great and the wounds so deep that the leaders there need more intense training in Healing Prayer Ministry. As we left, we heard again and again, “When are you coming back?”

This was our first ministry trip with Paraclete. As we anticipated, we learned a lot. But we also left with a host of questions. Foremost among these is how much to commit to any one ministry? My life has been intertwined with Rancho Santa Marta for 22 years now – and we will be going back. But what about other ministries, other trips? Do we focus? Do we only start a few at a time?

So please keep us in your prayers. For ongoing wisdom, to learn the lessons God is teaching us, to know how best to help these wonderful servants in Mexico – and when to return.

Thanks for your ongoing prayers and support! More updates to come!