A View From the Ecuadorian Mountain Tops

A quick log at the clock revealed that it was unbelievably early.  Way too early to be awake.  A pounding headache and clogged sinuses caused my weary body to think otherwise, so there I was thinking how much easier it would be if I were facing sickness at home in my own bed rather than in a hotel in Southern Ecuadorian city of Guayaquil.  I pondered whether or not I could be ready for the full day ahead, wondering if I would have the energy to accomplish all that was on the agenda.  To be perfectly honest, I was feeling a little (well, maybe a lot) sorry for myself.  

The realization came that this was not simply a business trip or a vacation excursion.  My mission here in Ecuador is specific, to meet with the missionary and develop our strategy for a major advancement of Christ's Kingdom.  I was reminded that Kingdom warfare often involves struggle and I should not be surprised that the enemy was attempting to discourage me be throwing sickness at me.  So, if the enemy was going to have me awake at 2 AM, I was determined to "make the most of every opportunity."  A time of prayer and worship brought a sense of peace to both my spirit and body and, understandably, I slept well the rest of the night!

God's Word is true when it declares that all things work together for God for those who love God and are called according to His purpose.  Never forget that Satan is a defeated foe!

The weather has turned markedly cooler as the sun sets over Quito.  We have just finished a day of touring the Ecuadorian capital, looking at potential lodging and projects for our 2009 missions trips.  Our prayerful expectation is that "Impact Ecuador '09" will truly impact this amazing South American country.  Please join with us in prayer for this missions initiative.... and let God impress upon your heart to be a part of this great outreach to Ecuador in '09.  I look forward to seeing you in Quito!