Another Post from Terry Hoffman from Panama

July 24, 2010

As we approach the end of our first week, the routine of planning to have time each morning to relax, reflect and share devotional time together has proven to be nearly impossible.  Something seems to come up every day.  The last two mornings the team has been split to go in separate directions.  Yesterday Mike and Brent visited the University and met with a new local missionary, while Barbara, Patty and I went to Old Panama. Today Mike and the ladies went to a birthday party complete with a clown (who happens to be one of our readers), while I took Delores’s van to have the window repaired. 

It is important to note that while our plans seem to be somewhat unstable, they all seem to pivot around two key individuals, Edwin Garcia and Norberto Lasso.  Both men have never hesitated to give of themselves when we are in need.  None of us would even be here without Edwin and his family. His tireless work ethic and desire to serve is admirable.  It almost seems like he can read our thoughts just by watching our body language and actions because he is always one step ahead of everyone (except his wife)!!

Norberto and his family continue to provide lodging, fellowship and be our Garmin GPS when we venture out of the normal commute.  His mother washes our clothes and shares a bedroom with her son and granddaughter so Mike and I can have her room and shower.

If we recall nothing else on this trip, we should all remember the sacrifices and hospitality of these wonderful friends.

Our readers are humble, dedicated, fun loving and eager to learn.  We hear statements and thoughts from them every day that should be compiled into a book.  My favorite yesterday was from Yasmir.  When I asked him why the devil tempted Jesus in the desert he said, “because it was his job.”

Although serving the Lord is not my job now, my hope and prayer is that when I return home I will be one step closer to making it my job.

We are looking forward to the weekend and another week of being immersed in the wonder of God.

News from Panama, Friday July 23, 2010

Brent Cowan writes:

In the short time that we’ve been here in Panamá so much has happened!  There is no doubt that God is blessing our work here.  With every new person met there are new doors open and countless opportunities.  We’ve found ourselves on several occasions wondering where God is going to lead us next.  With so many choices to be made we are overjoyed that God is leading us and making the way clear.  With over 70 students enrolled in our classes we have made some great connections with our new friends.  We’re all enjoying working towards spreading the word of God here in Panamá and are on the look out as to where God is going to lead us next.

Terry Hoffman writes:

July 19, 2010

I have to say it is wonderful returning to Panama.  I feel at home here as always, and coming with the team from Davis Park solidifies my belief that somehow God wants me here.  We miss our church family from Modesto and our relationship with Christ has taken a detour since our relocation to Mississippi. We thought that the mission trips and ties to Davis Park were only going to be fond memories.  Taylor and I attend a church in Oxford MS, who actually sent a youth group to Panama two weeks ago.  The youth minister wanted us to travel to Panama with them, however we had other commitments.  When Mike called and asked again if I would accompany the Davis Park team I felt the strong urge to make the trip.  I miss Taylor tremendously and wish she was here with me to share the experience, however I am confident two weeks of the miracles we see, and the satisfaction of doing God’s work will help me to renew my commitment to Jesus. 

I am very surprised at how the children we see each trip have grown. Alberto and Manuel are young men now, dedicated to the service of the Lord due to the perserverance of their uncle Norberto and the dedication of Walter. I shudder at the thought of how different their lives would be without Walters intervention.  

Edwin’s daughter Alexa was one of my beginner students two years ago.  She is in middle school and a sweet kid who will make Edwin very proud.  I have no doubt she could conduct her own reading session.  Her older brother actually read with two students today when we were short on workers.

Another pleasant surprise is Edwin.  The last two years of conversing with Mike has made him more fluent in English that we are in Spanish. I am amazed at the energy and enthusiasim this man posseses and am confident that God has big plans for him.

Our team meshes well as we are all hard workers and understand our purpose and mission.  Barbara has the toughest assignment with three basic classes, one of which has 25 students!!  Mike continues to strengthen the bonds with all his returning readers.  Most only want to read with him because he has made such a difference in all their lives. Brent uses his quick wit and fluency in Spanish to entertain readers , us and anyone else he meets.  Patty seems to connect with everyone on a personal level.  Her complete organization makes up for the lack of it on my part.  She is prepared for anything and everything, except the giant bugs that seem to appear at each meal.

As we progress through the week, we all pray that the Lord will capitalize on our strengths, and help us to overcome each and every weakness.  That the seeds we plant today will grow, bloom, and bear fruit for many years to come.  We thank you Lord for making all things possible and helping us to make a difference, one person at a time.