Aug 5 The Rains Came Down and the Floods Went Up!
The Rain-out! We were successful in working a few hours this morning…but then the rain came…and it didn’t leave. Many of the patients who were waiting in line stayed for treatment, but others left. According to locals, many of the Ngobe needed to leave because, as the rain continued, the river would continue to rise. Crossing the river at flood stage is difficult, if not impossible. With few patients and the inability to work outdoors in construction and other ministries, we left the field a little earlier than usual.
Frequent rains cause fence posts to actually sprout roots and grow!
Ngobe woman crossing the river after visiting our clinic
Ngobe taking shelter from the rain next to our clinic
Update on Samuel: We continue to pray for the infant who was diagnosed with meningitis yesterday (see yesterday’s blog update for a photo). Little Samuel remains in critical condition in the hospital. The mother said that the doctors and nurses are “fighting for his life” but the prospectus is still very bad. We told the mother, Anita, that people in America are praying for her and her son, and she thanked us. We don’t know how much, or if, Anita has faith in God, but we hope that this experience demonstrates God’s amazing love for her and Samuel. Thanks so much for those who’ve prayed for them both by name. We’ll update you all again tomorrow.
All’s Well! The trip has gone very smoothly, the team has ‘clicked’ very well, and the work has felt very meaningful. The medical and dental clinics, Vacation Bible School, Photo Station, Eye Glasses Station, Pharmacy, and Construction crews have been enjoying their work!
Photo Gallery: Here are various great photos taken in the past couple of days of our mission.
Child enjoying craft time
Child in the Vacation Bible School
Jackson holding a baby in the clinic
Enjoying dinner
Enjoying dinner
Evening team reflection time
Pharmacy crew
Mike taking a swing at the new clinic addition's foundation
Tags: Panama Mission 2009
Anna,
The blog writer is Rev. Mike Hoppe. He is our new associate pastor at Covenant UMC. He was a missionary to Kazakhstan for 3 years. He coordinates missions activities and young adults at Covenant. He does write an interesting blog!
Heather
It looks like your trip started off with some excitement. Prayers to all who are serving as missionaries. Special prayers for Susan and Scarlett. I see that Scarlett is staying busy with the children and here at dinner.
Thanks to the blogger who is sharing your story.
Carol O
We need a spotlight on the narrator of this blog. It is well-written and so interesting! I am amazed at the variety of work you all are doing (not solely medical, nor VBS, nor construction). On this trip, there is definitely a way to put to use all your spiritual gifts. Praying for each of you and for the Ngobe to see the love of Jesus in you.
Anna Barber
(Jeanette’s daughter-in-law)
still praying for you guys! I know the work sometimes is difficult but be encouraged and know that you are employees of GOD! I know that each of you went down to make an impact on those people, but the real blessing is how it changes YOU and your outlook on life and God’s infinite blessings…
Peace Yo!
J