(37) days of Piedras

I can't believe I have already been here a month! Where does the time go? I'll admit, at first arrival I had been "counting" down the weeks until this whole deal would be over, but now- it seems as if a month has just slipped through my fingers.

A friend of mine who had spent a few months serving in another country told me that once I get through the language barriers and cultural differences, a part of my heart is going to be given to the people here in Mexico, and that in two years, when it is time to leave, according to God's will, I will never have that part of my heart back. Sounds depressing- but this past week I've noticed a difference in my relationships here. I am growing to love these people here. My relationships are growing more personal and I am becoming a part of the Body here in Piedras.

I spent tonight (Friday) with a very sweet young couple. Cheque (nickname for Ezekiel) and Miriam came over to practice their English. Cheque goes to church with me, but Miriams family moved in august and they now attend another church near their home. For not speaking English in three years, they were amazing. As we sat and talked about our lives, we saw an opportunity to serve an evangelize in another community here in Piedras. In two weeks, I'll be spending every Tuesday walking the neighborhood near Miriam's house. What a blessing they were tonight. Miriam, 24, studied psychology in the university here, and Cheque is still in high school, but is planning on going to preaching school afterwards. They are a great couple and I know they are going to be strong leaders in our Body of Christ.

We have a very busy weekend and week ahead of us. This weekend we have the meeting of all churches @ 7pm, and also a men's group from Memorial Rd. Church of Christ will be spending a week here at the construction site. I found out yesterday that I will be translating for them. (YIKES!!) Keep me in your prayers, and maybe a little "gift of speaking in tongue's" might come my way? Just kidding... But seriously-- pray for me!!

Be strong in the Lord,
Rachel