Saturday, March 21, 2009

We´re in Coracora

We arrrived about 7am this morning. When we got off the bus, Yulber was standing there waiting on us to get off. This afternoon we´re going to try and round up all the people we´ve met with before and then get them together with Yulber at 7pm tonight for Bible study and conversation.

Thanks for praying for us church.

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Final day in Naco

Greetings from Naco mission team,

Today was bittersweet. Starting our day off right with the light bulb ministry in San Jose before taking off to Mexico. Today we had alot to look forward to.When we arrived in Cuauhtamoc A lovely lady by the name of Doris in the village prepared a meal for all the us at her home. It was delicious. We were so honored to have a seat at her table. I have to say the fellowship with these wonderful people was awesome. We had the last day of V.B.S. The kids had a terrific time. We were so blessed by how many of them love and respect the chruch. After much play we had to say goodbye. So many hugs and tears were shared. It was really hard to walk away. God is so big and does so many wonderful things in our lives and if we are not watching they can easily pass us by.The evening ended with a trip up the mountain to see the sunset(Out Of This World),and dinner at this great italian restaurant. We have had a fabulous journey this week and are looking forward to seeing our loved ones and chruch family.

hasta luego

Mission Team

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Greetings from Naco

Hello Church Family,

What a day! I have had an awesome day here in Naco and Mexico. We have been busy weeding ,and painting today. We ventured off this afternoon for our bible study. B.J. and I were thrilled that eight children ask to know more about christ during our invitation. It has been amazing how we have picked up their language and they have picked up ours. I have made many special friends here as well the others. The kids have enjoyed getting all the attention. They continue to meet the van and wait anxiously for jess and ash to get off the bus. Tomorrow is our last day for V.B.S. it saddens me to think of not seeing them for a long time. Thank God for leading us to places and people that most would never venture to. Also went by the ophanage
and hung out with the children. We were surprised to find out that these kids will probably never be adopted. Their last adopation took place 11 years ago. the reasoning for this is they have no legal papers. The director told us that three girls were found at a dumpster and left to phen for themselves at ages 10-2(unbelievable). Thank God for missions that support these children. I am so blessed to be traveling with great companions all of them have such a passion for God and what he is able to do. We love and miss you !!

melissa

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Buenes Noches iglesia familia!

Today was absolutely AWESOME!!! We started out by prayer walking around the community of Naco. We prayed that God would move in the hearts of the lost, that He would knock down social and racial barriers, and that God would soften their hearts to be open to hearing the Word. We had a fabulous lunch of hot tamales and "Glory Salsa" (compliments of Tim).

Then, off to Cuahatamoc where we got to spend some sweet time with some beautiful chicos. We brought bubbles for the children, and it was so great to see how happy they were with something so simple. This is such a great opportunity to reach people for Christ and show God's love. We were once told, "If not now, when? And, if not me, who?" We can't sit back and just expect God's work to get done. Everyday is a chance to reach the lost.

After VBS in Mexico, we headed back to Naco for a bible study. BJ led a study with the adults while Jennifer led a youth bible study about listening to God and trusting His will. Overall it was a thrilling day!!! We look forward to what tomorrow will bring.

Stay Beautiful Smitville,
Ash and Jess

Monday, March 9, 2009

Naco Mission team

Good Evening Church Family,

We have had a most productive day here in Naco as well as in Mexico. I feel truly blessed to be a part of what God is doing out here. There are no words to describe the feeling you have when you know you have been obedient to God's calling. He is sooooo good. Today we started VBS in mexico. Entering the village today I could not help but feel humbled by the lives the people live. I am amazed at the strength and courage these people have and the faith that they have in "cristo" just for their daily needs. The language barrier was challenging at times but through it all the message and Gods love was felt by all. The children were a joy to be around and we learned a few new dance moves . We cannot wait to see what tomorrow brings. Thank you for your prayers and your love.

Be Thankful for the Lord our God has blessed all and everything!!!!!!!!!

Melissa

Sunday, March 8, 2009

Hola Church Family!

Jess and Ash signing in to fill you in! :) We started our day out right by getting into the Word! Next, at 9:00 am March 8, 2009 A.D., we began prayer with the members of Naco Baptist Church. Then, the church service began! It's amazing what God is doing in Naco! Attendance has more than tripled compared to two years ago! The message was great, and we were blessed to rejoice with four people who were baptized as a profession of their faith. One man named Carlos (CHARLIE) was dear to our hearts.

Soon after, our growling tummies set off for Bisbee. After lunch and some sightseeing, we headed to Wally World to gather supplies for the upcoming Vacation Bible School! Then, we made goodie bags and made a visit to the orphanage in Mexico. The children were very excited about their sweet treats, and we took a moment to watch some High School Musical 3 in Espanol with them! We look forward to seeing them again later this week.

As the sun melted over the horizon, we scurried back across the border to gather for our late night bible study. BJ led a devo from John, and we were all greatly encouraged by each other.

Please continue to pray for us and the people of Naco and Chuatamoc (college kids can't spell).

Signing out,
J & A

P.S. Mark is still the butt of jokes.

Saturday, March 7, 2009

mission team-Naco,Az./Cuahtemoc,Sonora, Mexico

Just to let our church family know that we have safely arrived in Naco, Az.
B.J. Thomason had his first plane ride-he earned his wings.He was actually surprised-the flight was smoother than the bus ride to Nashville with Mark driving! lol Tim met us and stopped us by Tombstone to catch a photo op with Doc Holliday himself!! We know you cowboys/cowgirls at heart are jealous. We'll share pictures. We ate supper in Naco, Mexico & it was great food & fellowship with Tim & his family. Devotion before bed was encouraging to our team & Tim. God is sovereign & where he leads we will follow. Please continue to pray for Tim & his family after he lost his father this past week. They have sacrificed much to follow God's call-but they know that God will meet their every need. Until tomorrow.

Safe in His hands, Naco Mission Team