Today Pablo and I met with the families and community leaders in Tres M who are in need of running water. There are two community leaders we work with, Marvin and juan-carlos. Marvin is without legs and much of his body is paralyzed, as he was shot 5 times during war a while back. He is normally in a wheel chair, but we spoke with him today in his bed in his home as he has been experiencing internal bleeding and just underwent surgery. How humbling it is to see a man in his condition selflessly use his time to serve a community in need. Juan-Carlos helped better relay many of the hopes and goals of the people who have been without running water and so much else for so long. Pablo and I had the chance to speak directly to the people. We had to let them know that we don't currently have the money to begin this water project ($2800), and very honestly that we don't know when, how or if we can come up with it. This project is something that has been constantly on my mind lately as God has provided
many ways for me to sympathize in the slightest way during my time Nicaragua with these people who are in constant need. We let them know that they are in our prayers constantly and that we would do our best to relay the need to any and all that can help.
For me these problems have become so much more real as I've seen them face to face in the past couple weeks. It's not always easy to sympathize with problems we've never experienced. I challenge anyone reading this to go a day, two days, a week without running water. When these struggles are a constant on our minds we find ourselves not only wanting but needing to help. No great achievement is ever accomplished without sacrifice. Please keep the people of Tres M in your prayers and let me know if you would like to help financially.
"Bring the whole offering into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it." -Malachi 3:10
Ike - I am following your stories with much interest and am glad you are keeping us updated. Its amazing that your village does not have something as simple as running water in the year 2013. I may be able to help a little with your project. How would I do so?
ReplyDeleteI'm sure you are aware of the tragic loss of Kane Russell. Kane's funeral was Friday. The response from Kane's friends and the Columbus community was amazing. There was hardly a parking spot in town due to the attendance at the funeral. They had a reception at Firemen's Point after the funeral and there were cars parked up Countryman Creek Rd nearly to the highway. A true tribute to the Russell family and all they mean to us.
Ron, sorry for the late response. I just noticed your comment. I did hear of the Russell's loss and have been praying constantly for their family. I understand that in those situations healing and comfort is not easy to come by. It's certainly an inspiration to hear of the community's support and concern. I would expect nothing less from such a loving community with many good hearted people.
ReplyDeleteAs far as the water project goes, funds are being sent to the Laurel Church of Christ with a note to specify the area of support, and the money is then put to use here. It really is humbling to visit these communities here and see what they have to live without. There have been a few nights when I've been frustrated with cockroaches in my room, a leaky roof and having to sweep puddles from my bedroom, but all negative thoughts are out the window when I see some of the circumstances of many people here. I am truly blessed in ways I cannot described and simply want to help any way I can. Thanks for your thoughts and concern. You are more than welcome to email me any time, ike2307@hotmail.com. I usually get emails faster. Hope to hear from you soon, God bless!
Isaac, please give instructions on how to contribute financially. Thank you for your work in Nica!
ReplyDeleteThanks Nancy! You can donate directly using the paypal link on many of my blog posts, with the pictured "donate" button. The best way is to send a check, with a note that specifies the desired area of support, to the Laurel Church of Christ, 714 East 5th St, Laurel, MT 59044. The Laurel church in Laurel, Montana, United States is the church that is supporting my mission work here in Nicaragua and they get funds directly here.
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