Guatemala: Day 7

Today we began by meeting at our bus at 6:00 a.m. to start the long trip back to Guatemala City. Karen led our devotion focusing on Proverbs 19:20-21 which says, "Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise. Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails." Each of us has a purpose for being here in Guatemala, and God will be the one to ensure the completion of His plan in us and through us with the children of Fundación Salvación.

Along the way today, we took a detour through the city of Antigua. We visited a few popular sights which included a coffee plantation and a tour led by the owner.

Saturday morning we head to the airport and return to Texas. It has been a great week here in Guatemala. We have already started talking about mission opportunities for 2009. I hope you will begin praying right now that God will direct our planning as well as your availability to be on mission with us.

Serving with you,

Dale

Guatemala: Day 6

This morning began with a devotional from Robin. She reminded us that God is not interested in us keeping rules. He is interested in our hearts. The cross proves that Jesus loves us no matter where we have been or what we have done... His love is greater!

Following breakfast, we made our last drive to the orphanage. As we entered the gates, our welcoming committee ran to the door of the bus. Cleaning the smudges on the glass from the fingerprints and noses will keep our driver busy for a while (it's great!). Several of the children were wearing the tye dye t-shirts we made on the second day of VBS.

Finishing the project work was a priority today. The baby room had been needing a way to keep the older and younger babies separated in that one room. We provided them with a foam mat for the floor and constructed a corral to help the workers divide the children. Electrical work continued until the last possible minute as did the sewing of curtains for the boys dorm room.

Around 12:30 p.m. we loaded the children on a bus and headed out for a picnic and birthday party. Our destination was an area containing Mayan ruins. We stuffed the children with pizza and birthday cake as we celebrated the children's birthdays as well as three members of our team... Nola, Robin, and Jim. It was a beautiful day, a spectacular view, and a lot of fun for the children.

When we returned to the orphanage we had a closing event in which the children sang and danced in a program they had prepared for us. Sandra, the director of the orphanage, unveiled a plaque mounted in the wall thanking First Baptist Church of Conroe for the trips we have made as well as for our ongoing support. We concluded our time with the children by handing out gift bags to everyone.

Tomorrow is a travel day which takes us through Antigua and back into Guatemala City. On behalf of our team, I thank you for keeping up with our ministry efforts and for your prayer support. It has been an awesome experience with the children, with our team, and with our Savior.

En El Nombre de Jesucristo,

Dale

Guatemala: Day 5

The morning of Day 5 began with Nola leading our group devotional. She took us to the Bible to remind us of Jesus’ inexplicable love for children and that even Santa Clause may disappoint but Jesus never will.

Following breakfast, we returned to the orphanage. As we arrived, the children made us feel as though we were best friends being reunited. The hugs and high fives soon turned to swinging, skipping, and sitting with one or more children in our lap. Love and a caring touch transcends any barrier created by language.

Our final session for Vacation Bible School was held today, and all project work resumed with a heightened awareness of our limited time here. I must remember next time to warn the team members working on electrical projects before sneaking up with my camera set to flash.

At the end of the day, we walked outside of the orphanage and jumped on a local “chicken buss.” Our destination was the downtown market (Mercado). People were everywhere buying, selling, sitting, walking, talking, driving, and riding. It was truly a great experience encountering everyday life in Huehuetenango.

Today was another incredible day to be a part of something God is doing, but at the same time it was also a very different day. “How was it different,” you might ask. Well, several of the children began asking the question, “Will you return tomorrow?” We know it’s coming…they know it’s coming…it’s no secret that our time here will end, but it still difficult whether you are 4 or 74. Thursday will be our last day with the children on this trip. My prayer is that my son and I will be able to return again with other members of our family as well. We would love to be on mission with you wherever the Lord leads.

Dale

Guatemala: Day 4

The fourth day of our mission trip to Guatemala began at 7:30 a.m., as usual, with our devotional time together before breakfast. John shared his testimony and the incredible story of a simple invitation from a childhood friend which led to John’s conversion. He concluded by pointing us to Isaiah 41:10 which would be beneficial for all of us to remember and practice daily… “Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”

As we entered the familiar gates of the orphanage, the children, once again, ran to the bus. They grab each of us by the hand, leg, or around the neck and greet us with words such as friend, buddy, teacher, and even daddy (mostly Spanish but a few in English). All you want to do at that moment is surrender and say… “Hola. ¿Cómo estás? Te amo. ¿Quieres jugar conmigo?” (Hello. How are you? I love you. Do you want to play?)

After playing with the children, we started back on our work projects. The plans for the day included sewing curtains, painting the kitchen, repairing broken toilets, and some carpentry work for the nursery.

Vacation Bible School has been an awesome experience this year. Today’s lesson was the story of Joseph and his coat of many colors. The children were taught that no matter what is going on in life, good or bad, God loves them and they should keep their attention on Him. This was followed by a brave attempt on everyone’s part to help the children experience tye dying t-shirts we brought from Conroe. The children had a blast! You should also hear all the screams and laughs during recreation time. You really get the sense that God is answering all of our prayers.

Another soccer game commenced following the conclusion of VBS for the day. This was only barely interrupted by the requirement for all children to eat dinner. Shortly after 6:00 p.m. we began popping popcorn. We were then able to surprise the children with a movie they have been wanting to see… “Kung Fu Panda” in Spanish.

During a brief moment of free time, I was speaking with John about his experience in Guatemala so far. I appreciated his insight and comments which he concluded by saying, “These children are really just like us. We all want to have arms around us.” And you know what, that is true. Each one of us wants to and even needs to be loved. I thank God for the loving arms that constantly wrap around me: those of my family, friends, and those of my Savior. And I thank God that for a few days He uses us to wrap His arms around the children of Fundación Salvación.

Dale

Guatemala: Day 3

Day 3 began with a wonderful devotional by Jim where he challenged us in living the genuine Christian life as opposed to the shadow of one. Upon arriving at the orphanage, we divided up to begin our work projects. However, a few wonderful distractions occurred in the form of children and frisbees, soccer balls, a swing, and so forth. Projects for today included plumbing, painting, sewing, and carpentry work. Following lunch and a trip to town for lumber and other supplies, we kicked off our first day of Vacation Bible School with the children. There are more than 90 children here this week, but today was an incredible experience as we focused on God’s creation and His wonderful love for us. We finished the day with more playtime dedicated to the children, a soccer game that had the Gringos gasping for oxygen, and finishing up some project work for the day. Thank you again for your continued prayers and may God bless Sulma, Santos, Shester, Tino, Esperanza, Sandra, Daniel, and all the children of Fundación Salvación.
Dale

Guatemala: Day 2

Today we began our day with a church service for everyone at the orphanage. Prayer, singing, and a brief message was followed with soccer, basketball, and all kinds of playing. We hired someone to bring in trampolines and a moon walk for the children. We served them lunch around noon which was followed by more playtime with the children. We had the opportunity to deliver into the appropriate rooms all the toys we purchased. As the evening came, we made popcorn and used a video projector to show a movie for the children. It was a great day to love on the children. We were blessed!

Guatemala: Day 1 - Travel

After arriving in Guatemala City, we loaded our luggage on the bus, ate lunch, converted our dollars to Guatemalan Quetzal, and then started our 7 + hour drive to Huehuetenango. One positive that always comes from traveling together is the friendship and life stories you get to discover and share. I thank God for safe travel and thank you for praying.

Dale

Guatemala: Day 1 - To the Airport

Brayden and I are about to leave for the church where we will meet the group. David is helping us with the luggage and driving us in the church van. Our plan for the day goes something like this:

Saturday, October 25
6:00 a.m. - Meet at FBC
7:00 a.m. - Meet at Continental ticket counter at IAH
9:20 a.m. - Depart IAH, Continental #463
11:11 a.m. - Arrive in Guatemala City
12:3o p.m. - Lunch
1:30 p.m. - Depart for Huehuetenango (driving)
Evening - Arrive in Huehuetenango, check in to hotel, dinner, planning

Weather in Guatemala

One of our team members, Don Yarborough, is already in Huehuetenango assessing the needs and making preparations at the orphanage for our work projects. Today, Don had the following to say about the current weather conditions:

I have been here almost two weeks and had 3 days of sun. Most days it rains, frequently in the afternoon. The fields around us are muddy. We should plan to do the Sunday activities at the orphanage like we did last year. The staff here is thinking along these lines and setting up play stations. As for the Thursday activity let´s play it by ear and see what the week brings. The playground area we rented last year is still there, but the [historic] ruins would be a better experience for our people, depending on the ground wetness. It is also a little cooler this year. Night and early morning temps have been in the high 50´s to low 60´s. Afternoons have been 10 degrees warmer, but without the sun some would think it pretty cool. We are on the cusp of the dry season, so we'll just have to wait and see. Bring a light wrap.

See you soon,
Don

Our Destination in Guatemala

Our mission team will fly into Guatemala City on October 25. We will then drive to Heuhuetenango and be with the children at Fundación Salvación. As you pray, please pray for our team members:

Don Yarborough
Robin Yarborough
Jim Hovendick
Arlene Hovendick
Nola Boughton
John Mays
Karen Burns
Chandler Burns
Larry Odelius
Shaun Lester
David Ummel
Brayden Talbert
Dale Talbert

During the last few days we have had issues pop up in the lives of our team members that have been hurdles to overcome. Sickness and the well being of team members and extended family can weigh heavy on you as you prepare to make such a trip. Thank you FBC for praying.

Dale

Guatemala Mission Trip Packing Meeting

Today some of the members of our Guatemala Mission Team met to pack gifts, supplies, candy, games, and more. These will be given to the children throughout the week and used during the VBS time. Items have also been purchased as gifts for the caregivers and interpreters. All thirteen of these large bags will return empty. Thanks FBC...you have blessed a lot of children!

Dale

Oct. 5: Just Walk Across The Room

Today was a great launch to our "Just Walk Across The Room" emphasis. The worship service was awesome with the testimonies, singing, preaching, and video all coming together to point toward the Savior and encourage us to do the same for others. Classes from 7th grade all the way to our most mature senior adult department have set apart the four Sundays in October to focus on building relationships and sharing the Good News. I have received great feedback on the book by Bill Hybels and would encourage anyone to read it whether they are involved with the church wide emphasis or not.

In the coming days be sure to share the stories of your walk across the room (office, yard, etc.) with us. You can post your comments here or email me at questions@fbcconroe.org. Please also let us know if we can share your information with others.

Walking with you,

Dale

The Man I Want To Be

Men, in recent days some of you have asked me about books and video materials that I would recommend. One that came to mind is "The Man I Want To Be" by Neal Jeffrey. Neal is a former All-American quarterback at Baylor University and NFL quarterback for the San Diego Chargers. He now serves as an associate pastor at Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano.

Click on on the book cover to watch a 13 minute preview of the videos. After watching Neal, please post a comment or email me directly. I know it is impossible for us to accommodate every person's schedule, but I would like to have your input regarding possible meeting times for these six sessions. Which would you prefer: Wednesdays at 6:00 p.m., or Thursdays at 6:35 a.m.?

Session topics include the following:

1. A Man Who Believes - Making Every Day Count in God's Ultimate Plan

2. A Man Who Builds - Leaving a Legacy of Faith for Those Who Follow After

3. A Man Who Is Brave - Turning the Disappointments of Defeat into the Joy of Triumph

4. A Man Who Is Blessed - Reaching Your Potential When God Is in Control

5. A Man Who Behaves - Overcoming the Fatal Flaws That Can Take You Down

6. A Man Who Is Beloved - Staying Plugged In to the Power of Love

I look forward to hearing from you soon!

Dale

Fireproof

Young Adult Sunday School Departments...
Join us Wednesday, October 1, at The Grand in Conroe. We will go to the 6:45 p.m. showing of FIREPROOF. We hope to see you there.

Dale

Curriculum and Materials for Sunday School

Beginning October 5, all adult Sunday School departments will be teaching the same lesson. This is made possible through the use of the Just Walk Across the Room teaching DVDs and workbooks from pastor Bill Hybels of Willow Creek Community Church. All participants will receive a workbook containing discussion questions and for taking notes. Each household will also receive a hardback copy of Just Walk Across the Room. These materials have been placed in each Sunday School classroom and are available for distribution on Sunday, September 28.

Dale

Just Walk Across the Room is Coming