A New Church

Living in Lima (as opposed to a more remote city in Peru) affords us many opportunities: electricity, running water, high-speed internet, Coca-Cola and even Kentucky Fried Chicken(!), to name a few. One thing that such a modern city does not lend itself to, however, is trying to fulfill the missionary task of seeking out areas where the gospel is unknown: Lima is almost 12% evangelical. As my wife and I wrestled through this reality while in orientation in the States, a trusted friend and advisor suggested to us that we make it a point to travel outside of the city to seek out these new work areas.

A couple days ago, I had the opportunity to accompany a co-worker to a remote area of our city with the intent of planting what was to be this village's very first church. I don't speak but a couple of phrases of Spanish, so I relegated myself to observing the way in which God was working through this church planter and his national partners. And as I listened to a Peruvian brother give what I later found out to be his testimony, I prayed. I prayed for this small village; that God would use this church to be a light to the overwhelming darkness of Peru. I prayed that they would be transformed by the gospel to live lives dedicated to Christ. I thanked God for his faithfulness to my family. And I asked God to allow us to have a part in beginning so many more churches during our time here.

View of the mountain from the village below (with arrow indicating location of mountain village).

View of the village below from the mountain.

A cheesy shot that might add a more personal touch to my blog.