A LOOK BACK AT 2012

January, 2013

Dear Friends,

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 (NIV)

I don't want to presume to add to scripture however, as we begin this new year, it is a time to look back and then to look forward. In looking back, we were able to make many advances in the Lord's Kingdom as a result of the gifts the Lord has provided through His people. You are a part of our work!

Physically, it is exciting to see the improvements completed in both Zaragoza and San Carlos. The church building in Zaragoza is continually becoming more useful in God's Kingdom as we expand the facility. All work has been done on a cash basis. The entire facility is more functional as the fellowship area is taking shape. One restroom is functional, the roof, back wall and concrete floor have been installed. Permanent lighting and ceiling fans have been installed in the auditorium. It is a blessing for the congregation to have a functional fellowship area in addition to the worship facility.

In San Carlos, the house for Jose and Ana is also much more functional. The windows and doors have been installed. In Mexico, the glass is not normally included when the windows and doors are ordered. The glass is also in place. The house is much more secure and comfortable. When Caleb first began his relationship with Jose and Ana, they were living in the shell of a full sized van. It has taken a long time but, they are much more comfortable.

Our son, Caleb and Jonathan Branson built this house several years ago. It was a huge step up from living in the shell of an old full sized van.

 
Jose and Ana's new house is not elegant but it is much better than what they had a few years ago. As you can imagine, the health of the family has improved along with the house.
  
Spiritual growth is much more difficult to quantify. As the facility in Zaragoza is becoming more usable, the congregation is also becoming more stable. Carlos and Josefina faithfully continue to serve. The ministry is to some degree moving from home studies to more activities at the church building. Jose is growing in his faith and has begun some "fill-in" preaching as the Lord provides an opportunity.