The last week or so has been jam-packed with testing of faith, beautiful scenery, smiling children, crowded vans, and plenty of mosquito bites. As a team, we have been serving along side Pastor Joel at Calvary Chapel Port Loyola here in Belize city. Upon arriving, Joel welcomed us warmly by letting us know we will be serving at his church which is located on the worst street, in the worst area, of the worst city, with the highest murder rate per capita in the world. Pretty comforting, right? Although statistics state this gruesome truth, we haven't felt fearful living here at all. In fact, we even did some "door-to-door" evangelism in the area. As we walked the streets with our bibles in hand, we saw a glimpse of what sin has done to the lives of the people here. Mothers are living in tin shacks with eight children from six different fathers, children are being forced out of their innocence, incest and rape are common occurrences, and drug abuse is a leisurely activity. What's worse, is that most of the people here claim to be Christians. The enemy has full control of their minds and the people see no way out because they believe this is what life has to offer. Confusion has fallen thickly on the land, and the people cant find their way out. Where are the mighty men of valor? Where are the women of Proverbs 31? Where is the meaning in child-like faith if there are no innocent children to observe? How do you minister to people who claim to already believe? These are just some of the questions echoing in my mind as I live each day here. Satan has torn down any stability and rebuilt the family structure weak and contorted. It hasn't gone unseen by the Lord. His heart breaks for this place, or else he wouldn't send people to be light in the darkness. He is wanting to pick them up and wash the filth of their fathers off of them. So pray. Pray that the people may see their worth and not settle any longer. Pray that the mighty men may be awakened. Pray that the women would give themselves to the Lord before any man. The climate may be hot, but the peoples walk has grown cold. Pray for revival, that we may be the kindling for Gods fire to spread throughout Belize. All is not lost, God is moving.
The church is continuing to grow and discipleship has begun to take root. Every one in the community knows of the church and Pastor Joel by name. They are like the women at the well, trying to drink water but never feeling satisfied in the worlds water. They are beginning to thirst for living water. The people are desperate for prayer and for someone to teach them what love is. I thank God that we may play a small part in that. You can too by standing in the gap in prayer for the nation. All is not lost.
“Grant that I may not pray alone with the mouth; help me that I may pray from the depths of my heart”
