September & October Newsletter

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How Was September & October?

We have lost quite of few people from Covid-19, Pastor Roosevelt and his wife, Ines, two old friends, my uncle and others from the Kuna community, a couple of pastors.  We know we aren't the only ones to lose loved ones.  The world is suffering, confused and hurting.  Covid-19 has become too real for us.  We have participated in several funeral services through zoom.  People are dying in hospitals alone.  The people that we know who have passed away have been believers of Jesus Christ.  This has given us hope and joy for the future. There are others that are dying without Christ.  If it wasn't our love for God and his promise for "whomever believe in Him", I am not sure what our reaction would be to this pandemic.  I praise God I know Christ!

 I (Max) spoke with an old friend and he said he was thankful for Covid-19.  Before Covid-19, he was doing whatever he wanted to do, whenever he wanted to do it.  He had stopped communicating with his parents and his marriage was in trouble.  However, when Covid-19 came everything changed.  He lost his job so he couldn't pay his rent or any bills.  He then went back to his parents, whom are ministers.  Like the prodigal son, he came to his senses and God allowed him to see how far he had gone from Him. Before, he did not hug or visit his parents but now he tries to hug them as much as he can.  Most importantly, he is seeking God and renewing his relationship with Him.  God is still at work during this pandemic but He is doing it His own way.

     We might not understand all the things that is happening around us but God is still at work, bringing people to His feet.  As a believer, I ask you a question from Henry Blackaby, "Are we joining Him in His plan?". 

I hope so. I am reminded of Luke 4:18-19, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for he has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the oppressed will be set free, and that the time of the Lord’s favor has come.”  

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Matthew 25:21

Mathew 25:21 ...‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were  faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’

These are words I long to hear from Jesus. SSM encourages you to make disciples of all nations.

These two men, Pastor Roosevelt and my Uncle Carlos were two of the first Christians among the Kuna people.  They were disciples of the first Kuna missionary, Alcibiades Iglesias.  We are thankful for the sacrifices these wonderful men and lady made to follow in Jesus' steps.  They have left us a legacy to make disciples of all nations.

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Pictures from September and October

Our quarantine has been lifted, but it's still mandatory to wear a mask in public. Thanks to you, we have been able to help many families with food and Bibles during this difficult time.  Pastors from different churches contact us when they learn of a family in need. We are glad we have been able to join the church to provide for families in God's name.

Ray and Yeya were able to visit Puerto Gavilana and stay there for a few days in September. 

Last week, our team was able to take a day trip to visit Puerto Gavilana. Check our social media for pictures and updates about the trip as well as plans we are working on for December.

Clara is back in the states, in the Golden Triangle Area. If you would like her to speak at your church about Panama she will be glad to do it.  Max is planning to go also for his citizenship interview, but we still don't know the date.  Verna and the kids are doing good. Thank you for people contacting us and praying for us. It means a lot to us. We want to keep serving God and letting people know about Christ, but it comes with it's challenges. Thank you for praying us.