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.
