Power Ministry

We woke up in the plush surrounding of the Smart I Stay Hotel and enjoyed breakfast fellowship. We headed across the border to Reynosa and followed the Rio Grand littered with dumps of garbage. We were welcomed to a village setting called Senda de Vida. The entrance was paved and residents greeted us for worship. The pastor, Hector Silva de Luna, told us the story of his mission to the people. With only 25 pesos in his pocket and a sensed of a call to build a home for older people, he trusted God knew what he needed and God did provide.
Next we headed into the city center to a large congregation called Alianza Cristiana. Power has a long history working with this ministry it began with a tent with dirt floors and then a dome with no walls. In years past Power has worshiped in the tent in the cold. But this year there is a dome worship center that holds 2500. Power served as greeters and ushers for the 11 AM service. Power sang several rousing Spirit filled songs on the stage. Then we were served lunch in one of the buildings Power had worked on in past years.
Then we went to Refugio Orphanage were we set up and served as leaders for a community festival. There were lots of game opportunities for the children to have fun and win prizes. As in years past soccer balls were most valued. But the best prize was serving and playing with the children. We each had a translator but when we were having fun the language differences disappeared.
After we crossed back we ate at the Golden Corral. We all seemed to eat too much but the best part was the conversations at the tables.
Chris

We began Saturday at The Stepping Stone Missionary Center and enjoyed a full breakfast provided by the pastor’s wife. Then devotions included spirit fill singing and another message on upside down living. We loaded the vans and headed across the Mexican border at Laredo to Nuevo Laredo. It was already a hot day when we arrived at the Blanco Navidad Orphanage. There were two projects, one building portable bunk beds and the other sheet rock the ceiling on both floors of the new orphanage. By 3:30 the first floor ceilings were complete. Upstairs the ceiling work was almost complete with wall board installation begun. Vance who is 98, being born in 1918 was paired up with Joel, who is 18 years old cutting boards for the bunk beds. The heat added to the labor of love. We said goodbye to Starkie who was leaving at noon for his return to Riverside, CA. He encouraged us to help with fund raising so that we could continue to support the ministries we have witnessed and worked on together.
The traffic coming back across the border was intense. There were lines that extended well beyond the middle of the bridge, but thank God we made it back with no problems. This was our first visit in four years due to the violence with the Cartels. Week 2 of the One Trip will be our only visit through Laredo this year.
We went to Peter Piper Pizza and enjoyed the food, fellowship and cool surroundings. (At least 3 went to Burger King across the parking lot but they were able to hide their deeds.) Our van drivers got gas while we began to eat. Then we headed to McAllen driving about 3 hours through the darkness of Texas. For those of us in the back of the van, we can choose to sleep, visit or relax. But the drivers and shotgun are doing the heavy lifting. They keep us safe and in communication with other vehicles as we move toward our next place of service. We are staying in a motel, our first time on this week. After we found our rooms the Prayer group gathered, the van maintenance began and other leaders reviewed what has happened and will happen. We are thankful for all who are making week 2 of our one trip so encouraging.
Chris

We began the day aware that it was inauguration day for our country but focused on the work that lay ahead of us across the border in Acuna. I am beginning to be aware of the shift in daily responsibilities that many carry and for which I am grateful. There is a depth of faith among these men and a willingness to share it for which we all ought to express thanksgiving. So much is done out of the sight of a newcomer. The daily work assignments and even van assignments, connects first timers with veterans, so that we are no longer strangers but one in Christ.
Again the breakfast was awesome and ready to be shared as early as 6 AM. Singing, announcements and devotions helped us move past upside down thinking. Then we got our assignments for the morning in Acuna, Mexico. My van went to the Pastor Raul Sierra’s new church building and home. We had safe passage at the border crossing for which we gave thanks. Then we drove into what looked like a dirt road leading to nowhere. It was littered on both sides with trash of every kind. Then we saw two buildings and the progress already made the day before. I volunteered to be on the roof of the church. We nailed down felt and added drip trim. Then came the metal sheeting. It was screwed in place when it was just in the right spot. It was coated with a rain repellent that made it very slick. It was a 75-degree day and the reflection of the sun baked us all. When you are not one of the guys with a power tools, you have to find a way to help and not got in the way. I felt some degree of confidence and soon we had moved to the other end of the roof. It was time to leave the finishing to two or three of the real roofers.
Once I got down, I could take pictures of the many others who were working on the pastor’s house and the church. Outside the wall sheeting was nearly finished, light fixtures were installed, electrical outlets were wired in and drywall was cut and nailed in the pastor’s house. Then painting was begun. The color was dark blue, the color of our last day for Power Ministry. Some painted the trim and other rolled the pastor’s house. When you have twelve men painting, the work is complete very quickly. There was only one mishap when Joel came down a ladder and found someone had placed a bucket in his path.
We returned to Faith Mission and joined others in lunch and a farewell from Pat Schmeling, the director who is leaving for a new ministry. Then we packed up and headed to Laredo. It took just about 3 hours. We arrived after the sun had set and ate at Rudy’s Barbeque. After the feast, we headed to Stepping Stone, a missionary retreat center that Power has supported for several years. Before turning in tonight, many are helping to prepare the way by practicing worship songs for the morning, doing van team work and praying. We are all praying for another powerful day for God to do more marvelous things.
Chris

Morning came early but included a filling breakfast. Then came a surprise for me, the singing. I do not know what it was but as we began to sing, my eyes were filled with tears, running down my cheeks. What is it about? Was it the songs or the harmony of men singing? I don’t know and part of me would mention it aloud much less write about it. But I have said it happened. Will it happen tomorrow or was it just one of those things. After the message we heard our assignments and headed out to the vans. I was sure of my assignment but ended up in the wrong van. We headed across the border into Acuna, Mexico and right away the landscape changed. The houses looked much different and we soon arrived at the Rodriguez Family house that is being built. The wall framing was complete and we began to unload supplies, equipment and lumber. It was a mass movement, with some sure of what they were doing and others trying to find a place. We added vapor barrier, the exterior sheeting, then moved the trusses, painted facia, ran electrical and added windows. It was later when I worked with Joel Cram lifting the sheeting onto the roof. He, like myself, was on his first Power Ministry trip. He had to wait till he was 18 to make his first trip. And I waited till I was 70. There are others much older, like Vance Luke who is 98 on his 7th trip. But age doesn’t seem to limit sharing on a Power Trip. A lunch crew provided barbeque and we got to meet Moses Rodriquez and his family, and sang for his daughter, Kate who was 6 today.
We received our new assignments and I went with a group on a Joy Tour. We found a grocery store where we bought beans and rice to give out. Then we drove to a neighborhood where we stopped and divided into groups. We went to each house inviting the residents to experience a gathering street revival. By the time we made it back to where we had set up the supplies, a crowd of families and individuals were gathering. When they arrived they were given sweets and welcomed. Singing was followed by messages of Christ. Two from our Power group offered personal messages of faith. Then several came forward and gave their lives to Christ. They were prayed for by all. Then they lined up ready to receive many gifts of food, tee shirts, mittens, caps, sweatshirts and other gifts. Many expressions of gratitude were shared both to God and one another. We all returned crossing the border without any problems. We ate together in Faith Mission sharing another wonderful meal with stakes, bake potato and ice cream. There are so many who make each day a place to serve and for each one, I ask you to continue to pray for us…one trip, three different weeks.
Chris

The day began at 4 AM with my alarm clock reminding me that my Power Ministry week was beginning. My brother arrived and we drove to meet at Magnolia Presbyterian Church parking lot at 5:30 to meet others that were going. Once we cleared the stop and go traffic on the 91 we able to zoom to John Wayne Airport. Once we found Mark, we were able to check our Power Ministry bags and head through Pre Board and on to our seats for the 8:59 flight to Houston. Other than a bit of bumpy ride we arrived for another flight to San Antonio. We arrived about 4:30, the last of the men to arrive for Group Two. We greeted lots of new friends in Christ.
As a first time volunteer, it was a bit overwhelming but soon we were hearing a welcome that eased us on the journey. The prayer reminded us that we were there to work, to serve and to trust God to take care of what we left behind in God’s. Next we drove to Chopstix where we feasted on all the food our eyes and stomachs could consume. It was in the midst of eating that we began to bond around the tables. Then we moved to different vans for the 140 mile trip to Faith Mission in Del Rio. This was one of my old man fears. Would I need to stop and not being the driver, what would I do? This may seem very utility of me but since I am a new participant, would I have the courage to ask? Fortunately the conversation with a new friend, took away all worries. And before long we all made a pit stop on the side of a Texas highway. As we all did our thing, the stars were visible by the thousands. Then we headed onto the road and arrived soon. We had been told to save the bottom bunks to those older. I made it a point to take the top bunk, just to affirm I was not that old yet. After a short meeting we sorted our stuff and helped with assigned responsibilities like cleaning the vans, preparing equipment for tomorrow and uploading pictures. Music was practiced and power point was readied, all for the next day’s devotions. Suddenly I realize that it is 12:15 AM and the room is very quiet. But while many of us sleep, a group is preparing for the next day in prayer. I am excited and ready for sleep. Everyone seems ready to serve. Thanks Brian for asking me to come be a part of Power Ministry.
Chris

Another morning begins with a new twist. Luby’s. How often does a cafeteria open for breakfast for a group of men on a mission trip and from what I understand 3 years in a row. We were the only patrons in the entire building. 76 men, worship time, our speaker, and two guests.
One man 82 years old named Pat Pace a commercial fisherman has spent 40 years ministering to fishermen south of Matamoros, Mexico. He has provided beans, rice and other necessities for the community. His life is completely dedicated serving others. The words he spoke unveiled the limitless amount of passion he has for them and the one He serves. Jesus.
He spoke of a child through the years of his service. The child noticed the continuous generosity and asked Pat, “Why are you doing this?” Pat replied, “God”. The child asked. “Who is that”? Pat shared his faith with the child. Pat realized that at that time in the Matamoros area, that the churches were not taking care of the community. Believing that he was moved by the Holy Spirit to share his faith, he felt led to give directly to the people. His compassion for these people was over whelming. The people of the islands were literally starving from poor fishing equipment, no food and lack of ministry. Through some of his efforts their lives continued to exist.
Later, we traveled to the Magdiel Bible College in Matamoros soon after the morning session. We were greeted and then participated in a praise and worship time in English and Spanish. It was fun. Lots of energy. It was a great day.

My closing thoughts are, that when you get to a place for mission service and plug in where love is poured out into a community and you see the results of the people giving back to you also…. Well, you just don’t want to leave.
We are called out biblically. The scripture below states:
Mark 16:15 Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.
I fully believe that POWER is in the process of accomplishing the task. I can envision a spiritual movement dedicated to reaching numerous countries as well as inner cities. POWER is investing in future generations for Christ as well as developing relationships with men and helping them grow in their faith. They are making the invisible, visible. POWER is grooming the next generation of believers, true believers. Believers that will pass the torch of Christ’s message to take the gospel to the world. That’s all He is asking, He will do the rest.
My thanks go out to the POWER MEN that take the challenge and consume the challenge. They are the real deal and their efforts are truly for the Father.
In the words of Marty, “That is all.”
Walter

Our early morning began at the Border Mission located right outside the US/Mexico Border in McAllen, Texas. Devotion time started with singing and Jon Paul Dennison gave the word for the day.
Our first assignment was at the Refugio Children’s Home managed by Randal Chacon and his wife. The Home is nestled on the outskirts of Reynosa, Mexico. We refurbished some of the existing storage building’s needs. Maintenance tasks were performed and completed prior to returning to Alianza for our lunch. All I can say is in a New Yorkers tone of course, is “The Baked Potatoes are HUGE!”
Later after lunch we traveled to Pastor Benjamin Rettana’s Church. A morning crew erected the 2×4 perimeter walls that morning and we returned to begin the sheeting, electrical and truss fabrication/installation.
After the work was completed and the tools being put away, cords being rolled up, I noticed the crew. The crew was a team more so than other days, it had jelled. The moment of watching all that happen was amazing.
There is a saying, “Many hands make light work.” The written word in Ecclesiastes 4:12, “Though one may be over powered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three is not quickly broken”, come to mind that we were practicing the written word.
How quickly coming together in less than a week is in itself astonishing.
God’s blessings have been upon us and the communities that these missionaries are serving. They have a mindset that is simply this. Lord, we are walking by faith and we will ask you for our needs. I have personally heard over and over that these missionaries pray for their needs and then quickly provisions are provided. They just show up by someone who’s heart was moved by Him. It was provided by God’s grace.
We have seen this too. Our provisions have been provided by the volunteers of the churches and missionary teams. We look out for others and others look out for us.
We are blessed.
Walter
 
 
 
 
 

This morning we were welcomed by the staff of Alianza Cristiana, a 5000+ member evangelistic movement in the heart of Reynosa, Mexico. We were honored by participating in the first of four services held at the facility. I must say “these folks can sing.” Oh my, we were placed between probably 1,800 members and the worship team led by their highly energetic Pastor Mario Perez. With all of our arms raised high to the Father, we sang with the church to many familiar songs in Espanola. Thank the Lord we had the words on a video monitor.
I was very impressed with the absolute genuine worship in the church. Eyes were closed, hands raised, the spirit of the Lord was there everywhere. Brian Park a pastor associated with POWER was our speaker during the service. He brought a message that cut to the heart of all.
One thing impressed me above all was the placing hands on many members who came up for prayer. POWER men prayed out loud over them and you could hear multiple voices speaking out and calling on God. You could also hear some of the emotional responses released from the recipients. It sounded like the singing of birds in the morning. I imagined that every morning the animals and birds in their very own way are singing to the Father.
Beautiful.
This evening this verse came to me and it reminds me of God’s steadfastness and unending love He has for us.
Habakkuk:17-18  Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.
Beautiful.
At noon, We all were fed by Alianza volunteers, a terrific meal. Stories were shared and then off to the carnival, at Rio Bravo, a children’s home.
At the carnival 800 coloring books/bibles were passed out, thousands of hot dogs were cooked, rides and games set up and a soccer field was in play. Every excuse in the book was permitted for helping the little ones win small prizes and soccer balls…. (like 300 of them). The little ones there had huge smiles on their faces. Neighborhood families also attended, participated. I believed many were blessed including us.

Beautiful.
Finally, you never know who you will run into on a mission trip. It happened this evening at dinner. A man I sat across from impressed me the most. His hands were tough from years of hard labor, his eyes were clear and illuminated humility, his voice was soft and he spoke plainly, his skin was weathered and his actions reminded me of a distant memory, my Father. He has been gone for a number of years but I saw my father again in this man. You see, my Father gave all he had unconditionally. He taught me how to live, act, respond, speak, love, respect and best of all love the Father in heaven.
Beautiful.
Walter

A great morning in Acuna. Our group sheeted the newly erected church building with 23 workers in a little more than 3 hours. Everyone had their position, direction and effortlessly it came together. God was at the helm. We are going to be on the road this afternoon and into the evening. I am looking forward to see what is ahead for our group.
I must say Power Ministry has their act together. It has and shares a vast amount of experience from construction trades to interpreters. Everyone plays a vital role. The administration, management, support staff from Faith Mission provided an unbelievable amount of support for our team. It is first class all the way. I would suggest that if you might be seeking involvement in missions, Power Ministry would be a great selection to get plugged in.
This afternoon we traveled to Laredo, dropped off beans and rice after dining at a fabulous pizza parlor. The bulk shipment was supplied by Louie a veteran of POWER.
Once again I am humbled by the fierce dedication these men have for Christ. Again and again these men step up to the plate and share their resources that God has blessed them with. I am recalling the verse, Matthew 25:40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’
Another day has passed but God’s love was shown to dear ones in desperate need of blessings. Power Ministry is on fire for God and He calls them Friend.
Walter

Living in the States many simplistic amenities go so unnoticed. City Walter, Electricity, Sanitary Sewer and Refuse Collection. In Acuna, most of the populous manages a social structure every day without much consistency. But they do it with precision and efficiency. To me it is chaos. To them, it is just another day.
Heaven is described with streets of gold, alabaster, a river clear as crystal. To me it sounds wonderful. But I live on earth and really have no concept of what heaven is really is like.
In Acuna, most Nationals have never visited the US, in others words they have no concept on my reality. Which is better, in reality it is just a point of view.
What I do see is happy wonderful people trying to exist. There is no difference between me or them, we all need Jesus. God has placed all of us here an appointed time, to hear the word at an appointed time, it is our choice to choose to hear and respond.
Today, I was on a JOY i.e. (Jesus, Others and You) Tour of the inner city, probably 130 community members came out of the homes and heard the word of Christ. I saw them lift their hands, sing and cry. I saw them searching for comfort. I saw them requesting prayer. They responded in a way I was unprepared for. I got emotional. How? Well, being a” guy”, I want to fix everything. It is in my DNA. I just want to fix it.

I believe that God has spoken to me today and He said to me “this is their appointed time, love them unconditionally, I will take care of the rest.” But I want to fix it. God again said to me, “No”.
Upon returning back to the mission, preparations were already made for the evening meal. I went to wash my hands in the lavatory. The water came on, the amenities were perfect and I was struck feeling so blessed.

Walter