Breaking News: Santa Claus Gets Dehydrated in Paraguay–Trades Red Suit for Bottle of Water
Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house, every creature was sweating profusely…Certainly an unlikely beginning to a Christmas poem and not likely to become a classic and adopted in mainstream American culture—though it would make a great Hallmark card. We are certainly not dashing through the snow here, but are roasting like chestnuts over an open fire! After 5 days of 100 degrees, an off-course snowflake would be a welcomed sight.
It is always interesting to note the differences in holiday celebrations across the cultures. One of the starkest differences is in the focus of the celebration. For many of us, we celebrate the coming of Jesus as a foreshadow of the culmination of God’s redemptive plan. Here, they celebrate baby Jesus as a baby. There are signs all over that say things like, “May the baby Jesus bless you this season.” A disconnect exists between the manger and the cross for many Paraguayans and has given me opportunities to share with many.
Like many of you, our ministries take a Christmas break. Christmas day we leave for a few days in Argentina and look forward to the rest. After a hectic fall (your fall, our spring) schedule with school and ministry, these days of repose are welcomed. January will arrive with a blast as the first three Sundays I will preach in 3 different churches and then leave immediately for class in Philadelphia. Danielle and I are working through some decision regarding ministries in 2009 that will take shape in January. We covet your prayers.
We want send you warmest 100 degree Christmas blessings as you celebrate Jesus’ coming. We as a family always sing “Happy Birthday” to Jesus on Christmas as a reminder of the purpose of the day. I recommend you give it a whirl this year in your own homes.
May the God of peace, who sent his Son to Bethlehem, richly bless you and your family!
Items of prayer:
3 guys I disciple—Andres, Carlitos, Cesar
Wisdom for ministry assignments 2009
Our fledgling fellowship of Churches to be kicked-off in February
Pastor Pedro Gonzalez, a pastor with whom we work, was just diagnosed with liver cancer. Pray for him, his family, and his church.
For safety for our family and a special year of glorifying Christ in all we do
Feliz Navidad!!!!
Have a wonderful time of rest in Argentina. I will pray as you have requested.
Que Dios los bendiga!
Victoria