2 Timothy 1:6, 9
The team provided VBS and health clinic in a field near Culuqui on Thursday. The team has acquired four pop-up tents that we set up each day, whether in a school, church or field. The people we saw were surprised that their care was free of charge.On Friday, we held clinic at Galilea Baptist Church, where members of the community were invited to attend. We also see members of the church as well as their family. That evening, a Celebration was held at the church. This was well attended by members of the Ibarra fire department, with whom Pat Boggs and Kevin Bruce had worked all week. Our team had the privilege of serving the firemen, and we all sang hymns and heard a message from Kevin. It was a great time for sharing our faith with the community. We finished the evening by presenting a painting to Shelia Duncan in appreciation for her many years of service and leadership. Three team members, including yours truly, announced our likely "retirement" from future mission work in Ecuador. Many heart-felt farewells were exchanged! Saturday was a day of leisurely activity and of rest. The last evening in Otavalo is typically a time of summing up what has happened during our time in Ecuador. Each of us shared meaningful events, including Augustine's acquisition of new hands. Another told of a man reading the newspaper in the park, and noticing that they were holding the paper very close to their eyes. Recognizing the need for glasses, they asked the man if he would like to be fitted for glasses, and initially he said no. But when he was advised this could be done free of charge, he rejoiced in receiving a pair of glasses. Another team member shared an unexpected blessing. One of our original team members was unable to participate this year, leading to reimbursement from our hotel for funds previously paid for their stay. Unexpectedly, just an hour later, the son of one of the local pastors encountered Shelia at the central town square. Shelia subsequently learned that the young man's parents were in dire financial need. Prompted by the Holy Spirit, Shelia donated the funds received to the family. For myself, I was deeply encouraged by three hugs I received at the celebration. One was from my very good friend, Wilman Varela. Though separated by a language barrier, our respect for each other runs deep. The second was from a church member at Galilea, Luis. Luis has helped our teams many times through the years. He is a man of few words, but works very hard. We ride together in the back of trucks. His hug was profoundly meaningful to me. And lastly, as missionary Kathy Bruce and I hugged, she advised me that, per her reading Facebook, I have a new calling as a grandfather. Later, in reading the devotion of the day written by Philip Duncan, I read the first chapter of Paul's second letter to Timothy. Paul encouraged Timothy, reminding him of his gifting as well as his calling, and how it all depended on Christ more than it did on Timothy's works.The team is now at the airport in Quito, preparing to return to Kentucky. It is always good to come home, but it is also true that, for each of us, part of us remains here in Ecuador. Encouraged by a Savior Who loves us, Tim and Kim
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