praying for growth in 2007

We are looking forward to the new year. And even though it's just a continuation of the year before, just a different day with a different title, each one of us has an opportunity to look back on the years passed and set new goals for the future.

The ministry in Cusco is nearing it's 1 year anniversary. The Lord has shown us and developed in our hearts His passion for the lost people of this city. In the above photo, you can see the group that we had at our home fellowship on Dec. 17th, the last meeting of the year. We are grateful for the work the Lord has done in the hearts of these individuals. We have and are seeing entire families come to know the Lord. It is such a blessing to be a part of. Julia started last April with our first official Bible study, since then her daughter, 15 yr old son, her parents, her sister-in-law and 10 yr old niece have all come into a new relationship with God. We are still praying for the consistency of her parents and sister-in-law.


We also are seeing Jose's family come to follow Christ. Last Sunday, January 14th, was the first time that the family was all in attendance together on the same day. Praise God! We are sharing with them about baptism and praying they will decided to take the next step. In the above photo you can see Jose nervously playing guitar, his first time playing during the time of worship on Sunday morning (Dec. 17th). He just began learning guitar with Ricky a few months ago and already is playing very well! We are praying that Jose will take his studies seriously; as he failed a few courses this last year. He has to do an equivalent of summer school this jan/feb so that he can continue onto the next grade in March. His mom took away his guitar for the time being... which we completely approve of, some things should be priority!

Victor has decided that this February, while the missions team is with us, that he would like to be baptized. He is looking forward to taking this step of faith. Victor says he wants do it in a river so that his old life being buried with Christ will wash away down the river. He understands the truth that it is symbolic, but I like his heart about the matter.