It's a new week and God is good!

We have just spent several days with a group from Arkansas and really enjoyed our time together.  We shared the Gospel with many, many people.  There were fiestas everyday, while vacation Bible School was going on and a group was building a church all at the same time.  It was amazing to see so many young adults working for the Lord.  There hearts were open and willing and even loved on our children while we were together.  During the vacation Bible school time we really got to know many children in the neighborhood that Pastor Miguel will be ministering to.  There are many families in need and the resources are limited.   We ask for prayer for the families that are struggling in the neighborhood for food, jobs, and homes.  Sometimes it can be overwhelming and so we are turning it over to God and letting Him sort out the needs so we can do what He asks us to do. 
We are looking forward to being at the Compassion project again this week to catch up with the children.  Christmas is on the way and there are many ways Nicaragua is celebrating Christ's birth.  The markets are full and overflowing with presents and gifts for people to buy.  The Christmas trees have been available for sale for about 2 weeks now.  Not really much different than the United States.  I pray this year we will see God in ways we have never seen Him before and that we will touch the lives of many children this year.  Nicaragua also celebrates St. Mary quite a bit.  There have been several parades in the last few days in her honor.  Catholism runs very deep in this country and it is difficult to break through that mind set and help the people to know that all they have to do is accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.  The good deeds will not get us to heaven yet even those who profess to know Jesus still think they have to do good to get to heaven.  It is difficult to explain the grace that God has given us when good works is constantly being preached and heard.  I pray that God will take a hold of this country and begin to help the people see God's grace.