A Step Back in Time

Lorenzo and I (Kay) spent a month in Medellín, Colombia where Lorenzo was teaching Seminary classes. We had not “lived” in Colombia for 20+ years. Our apartment was in the heart of downtown where literally thousands of people pass by every day. I’d forgotten how big Medellín is, the street people, the vendors, and how rapidly the people speak. I had not forgotten how beautiful and warm the Colombian people are.

Street Vendors

I had not forgotten our Colombian church, La Santísima Trinidad, the warmth and welcoming people, and even some familiar faces. What joy for us to spend a great deal of our time with them, to hear and see so many sing praises to our God, and to share the Lord’s Supper with them. It was refreshing to see how they all work together in God’s kingdom, and share the Gospel with others.

Congregation Members

Life seems a little bit better for the Colombian people than before. By their smiles and happy dispositions, you wouldn’t even know if they had a problem. I am thankful for having the opportunity to take that step back in time.

Growing and Blossoming

Upon entering La Santísima Trinidad last Sunday in Medellín, Colombia, my eyes were immediately drawn to the altar. There were four beautiful arrangements of flowers. I love flowers, and always am amazed at the marvelous creation God does when He makes a tiny seed turn into a beautiful flower. I thought of that as the people were coming into church that day. They are happy people who are growing in their faith and blossoming.

We were met with the usual Colombian greeting of a kiss. After many minutes of visiting, a very animated Bible class was led by Jairo. It was thrilling to hear questions and answers given by so many. The seed of the Gospel is at work.

By the time church began, the house was filled. Liturgy was led by Tony and a beautiful law/Gospel sermon given by Oswaldo. The day was complete when we were able to celebrate communion with our brothers and sisters in Christ.

The seed of the Gospel has roots firmly planted in La Santísima Trinidad. It has blossomed into a beautiful congregation. A congregation that is eager to share the Word of God with others. It was such a joy and privilege to see the blessings God has bestowed upon them.  To God be the glory.

Christmas -- Medellín, Colombia

Literally thousands of lights deck the city, from small windows in homes to great expansions over the river. It could be called the city of lights at Christmas time in Medellín, Colombia.

Commercialism has crept into a city where years ago the focal point of Christmas was the pesebre (manger scene). Now you can see blown up Santas along with the sleigh and reindeer, as well as stores full of “stuff”.

However in the homes of the members of La Santa Trinidad congregation, the pesebre is still the focal point. A pesebre that is without Baby Jesus until December 24th. A pesebre whose figurines slowly are moved, making their way to Bethlehem from December 16th until the 24th. This is the time of the posada, 9 days before Jesus’ birth. Tradition is that the children go around to various homes in their neighborhood where they will hear a short devotion, have a snack, sing songs and receive a small gift. It is a time of great excitement.

In our churches, our people are also preparing for Jesus' birthday. A pageant of the Savior’s birth is being practiced. Special choirs gather to learn songs of joy and praise. Their focus is real, they are celebrating the birthday of their Savior, a Savior who came to live, and die, and rise again for all of their sins. Jesus, the TRUE Light of the world has come. That light in their heart and lives is the only one that counts, and makes Christmas what it truly is.

¡Feliz Navidad!

Across the Miles

"So, where are you off to this time?" I ask my husband Missionary Lorenzo. 

"To Bolivia," he answers, "for three weeks."

"We can keep in touch by Skype," he says.

We do keep in touch by Skype, but it still proves to be a long three weeks. I pray for his safety in his travels, the Lord's blessings on the work and that nothing major happens to the car or washing machine while he is gone. I entrust him and myself in the Lord's hands.

So often people ask what I do while my husband is gone. Well, I still do the normal things like laundry (although not as much), snow shoveling or lawn mowing, depending on the season, and keeping things afloat during his absence.

My weeks are full even though I don't have a paying job outside of the home. 

• Monday and Friday - I babysit our 4 year old granddaughter
• Tuesdays or Thursdays - I am a counselor at our pregnancy counseling center
• Wednesday - I volunteer at Michigan Lutheran Seminary

That gives me a day or two to shop or whatever and Sundays to have the family over for dinner.

Then I pray for his safe return.