June Update

How we have enjoyed the last three weeks with a visit from our daughter Kimberly! She finished up her classes in Wisconsin and flew down here on May 16th. Her friend Zach Burt came along with her for the first two weeks of her visit, and it was good to get to know him a little during those days. Zach grew up as a missionary kid in Thailand, so is used to living overseas, although the Thai language is much different from Spanish! Zach flew back to Missouri May 30th, where he is working in construction over the summer, and Kimberly stayed with us for another week before flying back to work her 5th summer at Whispering Winds Bible Camp. What a blessing it is to hear how God is teaching Kimberly (and Zach!) through the classes and life at NTBI over the last year! In August she is looking forward to going back for her second year of classes there, and the learning and adventures that God has in store for her.

Thanks to those who specifically prayed for our Internet connection to be restored! Two weeks ago the satellite dish was replaced in the community center, although no-one knew the password. :-) This last week we were finally able to find the password and are thankful to have the Internet access again at our Outpost. The connection doesn't always work well, and it is rather slow, but we are thankful for the help in being able to communicate better.

We also thank you for your prayers for the group of Awa believers as we seek to work through the many issues surrounding the situation with Milton. For several Sundays after Conference I continued to teach from the book of James, especially concerning our 'words' (the tongue!) We used several small skits to show how our words can build up, or tear down; and how our words can communicate good counsel from God's Word. In God's grace, several of Milton's sisters and sisters-in-law were present, specifically the ones that were struggling in this area. Milton has continued to come for church and the weekly Bible study, and last Saturday we had an especially good time together looking at how God calls us to respond when those around us act in unloving ways. Over the last few weeks we have been talking with Milton about how to articulate a meaningful public confession to the church body. This is very difficult for him, as previous attempts (especially two years ago, when we were not present) were met with harsh words from the other believers. Please pray for Milton as he works through what repentance signifies, not only in his own heart but before the church and before his community.

Would you join us in praying for Meregildo, one of the Awa believers? He has quit joining us on Sundays, saying that he is not wanting to follow God anymore. For many years Meregildo and his wife Clemencia have counted themselves as part of the fellowship. We remember at least one specific occasion when Meregildo gave a clear testimony of his faith, and we have seen God change him over the years, especially in the area of drunkenness. But his children have never made the decision the follow God, and at least some of the present problem seems to stem from family strife. Please specifically pray for good opportunities to speak with him.

Summer is just on the horizon! God is shaping our summer to include beginning the church construction in Paulino's community (the first loads of materials should be delivered this coming Monday! Wow!) as well as a quick (but joyful!) trip to the USA in July for Kenny's wedding. We aren't sure what this summer may hold for each of you, but we pray that you face the days ahead with a confidence that God is at work in your lives and in the lives of your family. How thankful we are for His faithfulness!

In HIS grip,
Kevin & Kathy

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