Most of our updates this year include trips to the emergency
room. This one is no exception. Simon has developed a severe reaction to
strawberries that affected his breathing. It was very scary for all, as Katrina
drove Alex sat with Simon telling him to keep breathing. We are very thankful
to God that we were able to get him to the hospital quickly and he was able to
receive treatment immediately. He was released three hours later with strict
instructions to take some medicine for the next few days and not to eat
strawberries ever again. We are wondering why couldn't his allergic reaction be
to Brussel Sprouts, or Mondongo (Colombian tripe soup) ... or something else much less appetizing than
Strawberries!
Apart from these unexpected emergency trips the kids have
all been well. Simon played Jingle Bells on the piano for a concert last week.
Gabriela performed a Chinese ballet for her end of year presentation and Alex
is just finishing studying for his end of semester exams.
 |
| Gaby in her Chinese ballet outfit |
We, along with 50 others from the ministry were able to have a weekend retreat. It was a good time of fellowship and a much needed break for everyone. A few weeks ago we spent the afternoon fellowshipping some more, as one of our volunteers got married three hours later than planned. The wedding was a beautiful tribute to who God is. It is the season for weddings; there are 3 more engaged couples on our team.
 |
| Ministry retreat |
 |
| Alex at the wedding |
These last few months we have spent a lot of time seeking
God about the future direction of the ministry. There are a lot of volunteers
and a lot of needs but very little cash. We have been looking at what we have
and how to best use that to reach children and their families with the
gospel. One of the ideas involves
selling some of the buildings and focus on other areas of the work. We have had
a lot of offers and the mayor is apparently going to make a law where 30% of
your selling price goes in taxes. He is also making new zoning laws. If we are
to sell we should do so now, according to man’s logic. However, our leadership team needs to make
decisions according to what God plans and not man. Which way we choose affects
many people now and for the future, so we really need to hear Gods voice
clearly.
A lot of ministry activities are closing down for Christmas.
The group that works with the families, had an end of year event and the school
has its end of year program last Friday. Two weeks ago was the last official
Jungle Club for the year. Many kids go to visit family members from other parts
of the country.
The Jungle club facilities were also used by other areas of
the ministry. The Friends Club that operates in the south of the city brought 100
kids to the Jungle Club facilities for a reward on the 15th. These kids have
been faithful in coming to the club this year and have learnt many things about
God. Also some sponsors will host an
event for kids there. It is good to see the buildings used more regularly. This
year a local church has been holding services there so there is a real sense of
belonging in the community.
Our family calendar is full of events until Christmas and we
have had to say no to various activities. It is a bit overwhelming with lots of
busyness. We have to make a conscious effort to stay focused on why we are here
and that the kids and their families know the reason for Christmas.
Prayer points:
·
God protection for all in the ministry, as this
is high crime season, · For the adaption to the culture and ways of the ministry for the 5 new foreign staff
· Thanks to God for keeping Simon safe.
· Peace in the midst of the busyness.
· Alex, as he prepares and takes his last exam tomorrow.
· For some books for Carlos to translate
Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year,
The Paez family
