Now the Lord said[a] to Abram, “Go from your country[b] and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. – Genesis 12:1 ESV
While walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon (who is called Peter) and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. 19 And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.”[b] 20 Immediately they left their nets and followed him. – Matthew 4:18-20 ESV
Greetings, from the land of never-ending heat and humidity, brothers and sisters. When JinJu and I started on our journey a little over 4 months ago, we knew that the weather in the Philippines would be hot, but we didn’t anticipate it to be never ending. As I write this at 9:30 pm, it is a nice and cool 83 degrees with 86% humidity. Everyday feels like groundhog day… 92 in the afternoon and 79 in the early mornings. However, It has gotten considerably cooler than when we first arrived at the end of May when it was in the upper 90’s to low 100’s. So in other words…. we are slowly adjusting and getting used to the heat & humidity.
Something else we’re getting used to is the early onset of Christmas music. In the Philippines, Christmas starts during the ‘ber months (September, October, November & December). Christmas lights, decorations, trees and music can be seen and heard everywhere we go. This is definitely something we find welcome as it prepares peoples hearts for the reason for the season… the birth of Jesus, our Lord and Savior.
September has come and gone like the wind, and I can’t believe it’s already October. Last month, we were privileged to be invited to a wedding of a member of the Sorok Uni Foundation (Ms. Lady & Mr. Clayton). It was a beautiful ceremony and we are grateful to have witnessed two lives coming together as one in holy matrimony.
We also joined once again to help with the ‘Banana Man’s’ Children’s Feeding Program in Angeles City. We’re getting to know the kids a little more and more each time we visit, especially the ‘Banana Splits’ (children helpers). Please continue to pray for these children, and those like them throughout the Philippines, that God will protect and care for them.
On our way back from the feeding program, we came across 4 youths, sleeping in front of a 7-Eleven store. They were literally sprawled out on the concrete and tile in front of the store. There was a man in front of the store and we asked if the boys were homeless. He said that they were and so JinJu went into the store to buy something for the boys to eat and drink. I woke one of the boys up to see if he wanted something to eat. He nodded yes, and he managed to wake up two of the three other boys. One of the boys refused to wake up and said that he wanted to keep sleeping. From my past experience, these boys usually sniff inhalants to help them stave off hunger pangs. It’s really unfortunate, but that is the harsh reality for many boys and girls like them. This is predominate mostly among boys though. We were able to provide a simple hotdog meal and candy for each of them with an electrolyte drink (Powerade). I hope that I’ll be able to see them again and get to know their story in our future trips. After we parted ways, JinJu and I rode, for the first time, the local mode of transportation (Jeepney) back to our lodging. It was a fun experience and we’ll be using it more often in the future.
On the 28th of September, we joined the Manila New Life Church, for a Medical Mission to Talisay, about 2 hours South of Manila near Taal Lake & Taal Volcano. It’s a rural area in Batangas Province, and the medical mission team was met with a warm welcome. Many patients in need of medical, dental, and acupuncture treatment were attended to, in addition to providing medicine, food, haircuts, balloon art and face painting for the children. Coincidentally, we met a little girl named Jasmine, who was full of spark and energy, and taught JinJu some Tagalog – ‘anak ko si Jasmine’ – my daughter is named Jasmine. ^^
We celebrated our 26th Anniversary and pray that God will continue to use us for many more years to come.
Prayer Requests:
- Our daughter, Jasmine, will be traveling to Seoul from October 13th to 27th. We ask for your prayers for her safety and well-being during her trip.
- JinJu continues to struggle with itchiness and pain in her hands. She will be seeing a doctor during her visit with Jasmine in Seoul. Please pray for a successful diagnosis and a full recovery.
- We have been asked by Elder Jang to consider overseeing the Sorok Uni Foundation’s Center for girls affected by OSAEC (online sexual abuse and exploited children), which is scheduled to begin operations in 2025. While initially hesitant due to the remote location, we have decided to accept this challenging opportunity after much prayer and meditation. We are grateful for Elder Jang’s trust in us to care for these girls.
- May our words and meditations guide and lead these girls to a new life in Christ Jesus.
- We ask for your prayers for strength, endurance, and wisdom as we prepare for this new endeavor and adjust to life in a provincial setting.
- For God’s continued guidance, wisdom, direction and insight for Carleton, as he continues his seminary studies.
- For physical and spiritual protection, so we may always be able to overcome any ailments or obstacles in Jesus’ name.
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