Beginning on March 8 we were privileged to work across the border in Reynosa, Mexico. This year is our ninth year of ministry to the poor in several colonias of Reynosa. What a joy seeing old friends in the neighborhoods of Nopalera and Lazaro Cardenas as well as making new friends!
Bruce and Paula had prepared a project that was ready for us to begin, building an addition to a home that the Zion Lutheran mission team built three years ago for Jorge and Flor and their children. The house we built three years ago (12' X 24') was quite small now that Grandma Guadalupe was living with them. Grandma had a stroke several months ago and could no longer live in her former home because she is now confined to a wheel chair and has difficulty speaking and seeing. The addition of a 10' X 12' room will improve the living situation significantly.
The dedication of the new bedroom was a very special event. David and Luzma (local missionaries) led worship singing with guitar, and it was a delight to watch Grandma Guadalupe join in singing the songs that were obviously precious to her. A short time of worship included the message of celebration of Grandma's life. She had worked hard to raise eleven children in poverty. We acknowledged the value of Jorge and Flor's willingness to care for Grandma and encouraged them to recognize that they are, in fact, walking in obedience to God as they honor their mother.
The message that was spoken encouraged all who listened to believe the Gospel and believe on Jesus Christ for salvation if they had not already believed. As Luzma led in a prayer of repentance several of the adults and children acknowledged their need of Christ.
David and Luzma offered to pick Grandma Guadalupe up for a worship service that is held at their home each week. Grandma was overjoyed to be able to participate in a worship service again.
Although we could not do much, we were able to do a little to help some very dear people. We leave tomorrow, but we are already looking forward to the time when we can return.
Bruce and Paula make a mission trip much easier than our mission trips in earlier years when we had to get all the materials ready and haul them across the border.
Whoever reads this blog who has not been on a mission trip, consider doing so. It will change your life!
David and Lani Siirtola
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