Wednesday, June 6, 2018

Into the Heart of the Beast....Almost


Into the Heart of the Beast….Almost

Today, Matt and I joined Tono and three other pastors from Iglesia Galilea and we made a long journey to see if we could get into the Volcano Disaster Zone around Fuego, and then proceed to the church in Zapote. Today was really the first day that Tono felt like that it was even possible to get there, but we weren’t sure we could get in the area. The Volcano has taken out several bridges on the backside of Antigua on the route we would normal take to Zapote, leaving no direct route. Instead we proceeded to take the long way around which went from San Lucas, to the outskirts of Guatemala City, then down towards the coast almost to Escuintla, then to Rodeo at the foot of Feugo, and finally Zapote.

Before we left San Lucas the team loaded two trucks full of donated food, supplies, and essentials to take to the church in Zapote. Upon departure, I would be lying if I said we all weren’t a little scared, but we proceeded trusting the Lord and looking to each other to continually judge the situation. We prayed for God’s protection and success in getting to Zapote.

The good news is we made it to Zapote. The church and the community were in great shape. They were safe and helping out people being evacuated or that had migrated on their own from other villages. Over the last couple nights the church has housed 60+ people. Last night all those staying at the church held a prayer meeting and ate together and it was a sweet time. The pastor in Zapote mentioned that two people had even given their lives to Christ after some impromptu sermons.
All along the way it was amazing to see trucks, and vehicles, and all forms of transportation from all over Guatemala packed with food and supplies to deliver to the affected area. Cars had written their town name or church on the windshield so that everyone knew where they had come from to help. We passed through 4 or 5 check points and staging areas and it was equally amazing to see the Guatemalan Military, Police, and Emergency personnel working hard and getting the job done. In addition there were many religious relief organizations and international organizations all working hard. It is a very hopeful situation.

It was hard to see all the folks that have been evacuated in the back of trucks leaving everything they have, and the many people along the road waiting for the distribution of supplies. They are however, being well taken care of. It was equally hard to see the billowing ash clouds from the areas where rescue workers were digging with heavy equipment.

Because Zapote and the area is in decent shape and is receiving a lot of initial help, Tono and the church are beginning to plan for the weeks following this initial push of help. They want to position themselves to provide some long-term care and ministry in the area. Thank the Lord for the pastors of Iglesia Galilea.

I will remember this day for a long time. It is interesting to muse on God’s hand in placing us in the life we lead. I could have been a kid on the street waiting for food like the many I saw today. I could have been one of those killed by the volcano on Sunday. I could have been born somewhere other than America. But I am who I am. God has granted me and many of you who read this blog such opportunity. It reminds me of the Parable of the Talents in Matthew 25. All of us are called to serve Jesus with what he has given us. How will you serve him? I am glad that I could assist even a little today to provide food and water for those in need. I am glad I got to stand with my Guatemalan brothers as they ministered so affectively today. They are a great inspiration to me. Please continue to pray for all those affected by this tragedy. Pray that God will use the pastors of Iglesia Galilea to do a mighty work in this area and save many souls.

PS. We were passed by the presidential motorcade today as well as stood in middle of the Zapote road with a famous CNN reporter, Harris Whitbeck.
























3 comments:

  1. Thanks for for this update Jared. Thankful to hear how so many folks are serving!

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  2. Thank you for sharing with us all that is happening in Guatemala and the Team’s experiences!!! So blessed by how the team is helping and serving in so many ways to minister, comfort and to be a support to the people in Guatemala. The Lord is sure using you all in tremendous ways!!! We are praying for all of you and may the Lord continue to protect you and give you all the strength you need to keep serving. We appreciate the Team so much!!! Thank you all so much!!! ✝️ Love, Anna Soltis and Family

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  3. Thank you for your report on faithfully bravely delivering donations to the poor precious souls in that affected town in Guatemala We are blessed to hear of your loving exploits May God continue to guide you in your journey for Jesus and grant you joy as you serve Him

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