Describing the life-changing power of the gospel ministry, Paul says that “God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ” (2 Cor 4:6). Unlike Old Testament ministry, where Moses spoke with God and then had to cover his shining face with a veil, we trust God to “remove the veil” from blind eyes and thunder “Let there be light!” Only then will they see the full glory of God in the person of Jesus Christ. The opportunity to proclaim this life-transforming message and see God work is a glorious treasure, although we carry this treasure around in weak clay jars (2 Cor 4:7). We are thankful for many opportunities to talk with, listen to, and encourage people with the gospel. Sometimes we get to see God tear the veil off and create light out of darkness, and other times it’s the Lord’s Spirit making those gradual, progressive changes from one level of glory to another (2 Cor 3:18).

We still keep up with our regular Bible studies with several couples from the church. Our conversations are filled with honest questions, explanation and application of Scripture, and talking about bringing every area of our lives under the authority of Jesus. Our church continues to meet on Sunday afternoons at the beach park, which gives us plenty of time to pray, sing, fellowship, and disciple one another. The kids enjoy playing with one another and the younger ones find plenty of tíos (aunts and uncles) to keep an eye on them. The beach park is full of distractions and noise, but what church enjoys a sunset show like we do?!

We are hoping to be able to meet soon for the first time in the building our church bought last March. The constantly-changing requirements seem to allow us to meet (with many restrictions). We’re reminded often that in the world’s eyes, what we want to do is completely “non-essential” and should be avoided, but we view things a little differently, walking by faith and not by sight (2 Cor 5:7), so we aren’t discouraged (2 Cor 4:16).

Please continue to pray with us for the resolution of our permanent residency documents. We’re still in the same holding pattern we’ve been in since June 2019, with no change in over a year. We appreciate your prayers.

This is our August 2021 email update. You can sign up to receive our updates in your inbox here. You can download a printable PDF here.