Rush Files

All-Churches Retreat

2011-03-08T22:01:00.006-06:00

One of our yearly highlights is the all-churches retreat in late February.

This year there were over 80 that came for fun and fellowship. Six of us prepared lessons on the different roles Jesus plays in our life, i.e. Friend, Teacher, Priest, Sacrifice.

Following each lesson there was a time dedicated to the practice of different spiritual disciplines. My (Tim’s) personal favorites were the classes taught by José Luis and Omar on Jesus is my Savior and Jesus is my Lord. It was great to see these young Christians give themselves to study so that they could share why they love Jesus. They were a bit nervous before beginning to speak, but as they moved into their lessons, their love for Jesus and for their audience was obvious. Though we spent a lot of time in the different classes, there were still plenty of opportunities to visit, play and relax. We all took turns cooking and cleaning, which were fun tasks when shared by everyone.

The boys and I set up the tent and had fun freezing to death in our sleeping bags while Karsyn was in little girl heaven as she and Kim bunked in the girl’s dorm. At times it seemed like half of those in attendance were little girls between the ages of 4 and 8.

Escalating Violence in Mexico

2011-03-08T21:59:00.001-06:00

Chaos and Order

Last month we assured you that the violence in Mexico isn’t having a significant effect in Guadalajara. Just after sending that newsletter off, there was a flurry of grenade attacks throughout the city as well as a major road being cut off by a drug cartel. It appears that their motive is nothing more than invoking confusion and fear... in which they are succeeding. Some people here felt pretty shaken up by it.

What we’ve begun to notice though is God’s pattern of replacing our chaos with his order. We’ve been a part of conversations where folks are asking, “How have we gotten to this point? What have we done to let this sort of climate come about?” The fun thing about being here right now is knowing the Prince of Peace. We see God is using this overwhelming chaos to show people they need something more... something they’ve been denying... until now.

... the effect of violence on our friends in Tlajomulco.

A few weeks ago we arrived to study with the family of Jesus and Carmen in Tlajomulco only to find they had three unexpected visitors. Three of Carmen’s nephews arrived on very short notice. They were fleeing from a special fighting unit (which was formerly trained by the U.S. military) called the Zetas. Originally a part of the Mexican army, the Zetas later went to work for a leading cartel. When that cartel’s boss was killed, they decided to work for themselves. Recently the Zetas moved into Zacatecas, where Carmen’s nephews lived, and began recruiting the young men of the towns to join their squadrons. “Recruit” isn’t the right word to use, as they are abducting young people from their homes. Carmen’s nephews spent well over 10 hours hiding on the floor in their home as the Zetas shot up their town. When they thought it was safe, they fled to Tlajomulco.

The nephews, ages 22, 16 and 4, are very nice and polite young men. Their world has obviously been turned upside down, as has that of Jesus and Carmen to a lesser extent. But as chaos tries to take over their lives, they are humbly submitting to listen to the words of Christ. Since the nephews are now guests in their aunt’s home, they eat breakfast with us and open their bibles and read with us. And we have to imagine that God is planting his seed in soil that’s looking for something greater than the world is offering.

Saying Goodbye to Greg

2011-03-08T21:54:00.005-06:00

We said goodbye last week to our last AIM apprentice, Greg Bell. After serving in Guadalajara for over 20 months, Greg returned to Texas. We are going to miss Greg as he’s become part of the family. It was a bit heart breaking when Quincy offered to sell all his toys and give the money to Greg if it would help him stay. (Seriously, how do you turn that down?)

Though we were sad to see Greg go, it’s heart warming to realize the fruit he’s leaving behind. Many from our youth group are now trying to make plans to go to AIM.

We don’t know what will happen with these plans, but it is obvious that they are a result of their admiration for Greg, Zach and our other AIMers. Our youth have seen young people willing to sacrifice for God’s mission and they’ve been inspired to do the same.

Update on Kim's family

2011-03-08T21:28:00.003-06:00

Don and Kay are both on a much needed break from treatments. Don is waiting for the next round of tests to determine if he will need some radiation treatments in his neck.

Kay still has three more treatments to take, but they will be spread over three weeks beginning March 15, so that is quite a break.

Also, Kim’s little sister, Kara, had a baby last week. We are very excited to get to be an aunt and uncle again. Koen Micheal Olson is the 9th Blachly grandkid. What a fun, growing family.

Miss Cindy's Wedding

2011-03-08T21:16:00.004-06:00

When Quincy started kindergarten five and a half years ago, we were nervous. Kim, especially, prayed for God to bless Q with Christian friends. At the end of the parents’ meeting (Miss) Sindy approached Kim to tell her that she would be Q’s English teacher. Sindy went on to explain that she saw on our paperwork that we are missionaries. She was so excited to tell Kim that she was a Christian, too, and that she couldn’t wait to have Quincy in her class. As she was an answer to our prayers, we soon realized that we (especially Kim) were also an answer to hers. She has told Kim in the past that she knows Kim has a completely different ministry here, but sometimes she thinks God sent us to Guadalajara just for her. She has had years of heartache and struggle. But God’s not let go.

This last weekend she invited us to take part in her wedding, where we were to present the couple with a bible and share a blessing with them. Her husband, Oscar, had little interest in God but has recently begun to ask more serious questions. We wish you’d add Oscar and Sindy to your prayers, that God will work in their marriage, moving both closer to him.

Holy Spirit Study with Arturo and Laura

2011-03-08T21:10:00.002-06:00

Last fall, I began studying the Holy Spirit on Friday nights with the church in La Nueva Santa Maria. The study was an encouragement to me as it felt like I was connecting with my “sweet spot” in ministry (baseball term). God used the time to mature, teach, encourage and draw the group closer to Him.

This last month Kim and I began the same study on Monday nights with Arturo and Laura. Arturo is one of our church leaders and his girlfriend, Laura, is a relatively new Christian. Originally I intended to go over this study with the church in Jardines del Valle, but decided instead to teach Arturo and Laura and let them, in turn, teach the church in Jardines. It has been fun for Kim and I to get to spend some extra time with this young couple. (We expect them to announce their engagement very soon!) They generally arrive at our house an hour early to spend time with us as we finish getting the kids fed and into bed. Though we love the study time, I think this extra hour will be what we look back on with the fondest memories.

2011-02-03T09:37:00.002-06:00

God Provides

2010-12-01T10:40:00.005-06:00

Tragedy was narrowly averted when our teammates’ van was struck by a drunk driver. Gerardo and Carola, as well as their two children and a couple of other passengers were able to walk away from the accident. Their van wasn’t so lucky.

For some time, they’ve needed a new vehicle anyway. But what to do now? There just wasn’t support enough to go around. We shared their need with a few who we thought might be able to help and sure enough, God provided. A couple in Illinois has offered a 2001 van to the Garcia family. (For them to bring a car across the border, the vehicle needs to be 10 years old. Perfect!) But where would they get the money to get the vehicle back down to Guadalajara? Another who heard of their need but didn’t have a van to offer, donated $2,000 towards the effort. He had no idea that the Garcias needed that exact amount to travel to the vehicle, drive it to the border, have it legalized, and continue on to Guadalajara.

News, Notes and Prayers

2010-12-01T10:12:00.008-06:00

MEXICO MISSIONARY
RETREAT
We were blessed to be part of an annual
Mexico missionary retreat in early
November. When we got there, much to our
surprise, we were counted among the veteran
missionaries of the group. There has been a lot of movement among missionary families in Mexico this year. We know at least six that have moved to the states and met some of the newest additions to our extended family at this year’s retreat. We felt incredibly renewed by God’s work in those few days.

GOODBYE TO ZACH
This week we said good-bye to one of our AIM
guys. Zach Montandon moved back to Texas
and we will really miss him. He has been like
an uncle to our kids and a great servant to God
in the work here. We are really proud of him
and expect to see God-things in his future. His teammate, Greg Bell, decided to stay on for a few more months. That is fun and exciting for us, as we also have a great friend and co worker in Greg. Both have pretty big transitions ahead.

DON BLACHLY
Kim’s dad is being treated with chemotherapy
for lymphoma. His cancer is improving, but
he had to spend Thanksgiving in the hospital
with possible pneumonia and a blood clot in
his lung. Kim got to go home for a very
quick visit a couple weeks ago and passed along all your prayers and love to her parents. We’ve appreciated your notes, reminding us of your prayers for Don, and for us. (Apologies to Don for posting a picture of him in Cardinal Red, taken before we went to a ball game last year. He's a huge Giant's fan... which made for a nice World Series for him.)

Our kids are really speaking Spanish well again! This is a great praise, as they had lost a lot of their ability over the time in the states. Even Clark will pipe up in group conversations in Spanish and he can enjoy being with large groups of people speaking Spanish all day (which has not always been high on his list.) They still miss special friends and family a lot and Quincy has not found a really good friend within his new group at school. Academically, though, he is doing great. Karsyn has had another marriage proposal from her best friend, Axel. Don’t think that doesn’t truly scare us, since she is 6 going on 16.

Happy Holidays

2010-12-01T09:55:00.006-06:00

¡Saludos! Greetings!
How quickly this year is passing by. We have been back in Mexico for almost 5 months now! Life feels normal, surprisingly enough. We are thankful for the ease with which the kids have slid back into school and how we feel at home in our new neighborhood. We had visiting teammates (Chadd and Nancy Schroeder and their girls) over Thanksgiving and so even that felt pretty normal.

In truly last-minute
Mexican style, a group of
our neighbors joined us
for the meal and brought
mole (a spicy sauce made
with chile and chocolate)
to put on the turkey. So
that was a little abnormal, but it was a delicious addition to our tradition.

El Gran Banquete

2010-12-01T09:21:00.010-06:00

Partly as a farewell party for
Zach, several of the Christians
here hosted a Great Feast like
Jesus described in the book of
Luke. On Fridays the Aimers
and some of the youth group give
out sandwiches near a social
hospital in the Center. They
share the food with homeless people and family members of the patients in the hospital. On this Friday night, our brothers and sisters shared the cost of tacos and a Christian Mariachi band to celebrate with those who usually don’t have much to smile about. Joy was a tangible presence there; lots of laughing, singing along and even a little dancing!

There are some great God-stories
within the event. Fito’s mom
(the young guy who was baptized
a few days later) joined us for the
night. Her feelings about his
desire to be a Christian have
ranged through angry, depressed,
suspicious, and worried. She
made a huge macaroni salad to contribute to the food and she was truly amazed at how God multiplied the salad. It was the salad that could not run out! The same thing happened with the tacos. We bought 600 small tacos and in under two hours of serving, some one said they were gone. On more than one occasion, another person opened the box and found a few more
tacos at the bottom! Our church family here remembers a similar event when God supplied another kilo of tortillas in almost the same spot a few years back. They shared how that event has stuck with them and reminded them that God always provides for our needs.

FITO'S MOM, SOCORRO (SMILING) BROUGHT EXTRA TO SHARE

MANY SHOWED UP EARLY
TO HELP SET UP FOR THE
FEAST. WHEN ALL WAS
SAID AND DONE, WE HAD
OVER 30 MEMBERS,
REPRESENTING EACH OF
THE CHURCHES, ON HAND
TO HELP OUT.

Recent Baptisms

2010-12-01T08:45:00.005-06:00

Two of the house churches have experienced
new growth recently, which has been a great
encouragement to all the believers among us. On different days Violeta (not pictured) and Fito were baptized. Violeta is a nutritionist and a co-worker of the Garcias in the Diabetic Foundation. She is the first person to come to Christ through the foundation and they feel like this is a first fruit after much labor. Their daughter, Melanie, just celebrated 5 years of living with diabetes. Most of you know that they started the only
diabetic foundation for children in Mexico after equipping themselves to help her adjust and manage the disease. They now share the love of Christ with other families experiencing this specific crisis.

Fito is a teenager who lives here in Mariano Otero and has been a part of the youth group for the last few years. He has grown up among us, although his parents are not Christians, so for many it was like seeing a nephew giving his life toChrist.

His parents have been a bit anxious about his baptism and almost didn’t come. Until the last minute, they did not think they were coming... until they decided to test God and his support for Fito’s decision. They had lost a large sum of money, searched everywhere for it and had laid it before God in a challenge. Just before our worship began, they came, saying that the money had appeared on the dining room floor. At one point his mom, Socorro, (pictured below) explained that she felt very humbled by God and was thankful that God made sure they did not miss that important day.

SHARING HER STORY

Socorro and Mario, Fito's parents, were encouraged by Manuela, who told them about her own son's baptism before she was a believer. Manuela had also worried about the choice her sone was making. She has been a christian for almost 3 years now.

August 28, 2010

2010-08-28T18:25:00.001-05:00

Spiritual Seasons
Over the past month we have been visiting the existing churches to evaluate where they are and what direction we might take in helping them along on their journeys. Many right now are experiencing the growing pains of maturing in Christ and are frustrated by this. Relating the phases to the seasons of the year, it seems like a spiritual winter for many. No doubt the recent transitions (including our absence during the last year) have influenced these feelings. Not everyone is headed this way, but there is a large camp that wants to hunker down and huddle together to conserve heat and energy. We pray that the void they feel now will take them closer to God. At times it is discouraging for us as well, but we are hopeful that (just as the seasons change) God will bring them into the fun of spring and summer. Right now we think it is important that they understand that seasons come and go naturally, and that there is good that takes place in every season.

Prayers for Patience and Wisdom
In your prayers for us we especially ask for patience and wisdom. Although we have lived here before, today is new. Coming into this “second term” as missionaries we are aware of the blessing and curse of our past experience. Our goal is to empower disciples here to live deeply in God and in community with each other. More than ever we feel convicted that we cannot be the foundation that any group is built around. We want to encourage and teach without fostering dependence upon ourselves and our presence, modeling lives sustained by Jesus. Easier said than done? Definitely. We are trying to pray over each step we take and allow God to set our direction. We would love for you to share your prayers with us.

August 26

2010-08-26T11:04:00.005-05:00

Hola everybody! It already seems like a long time since we’ve seen you. We are settling in here, slowly but surely. The weirdness of having been gone is starting to be replaced by a sense of normal. But we are still looking at things with really fresh eyes, the way that you do before you become comfortable in a new place.

Starting Over
This summer has been very productive. We’ve moved in and unpacked. We’ve reconnected with old friends and have begun to begin again. Schedules are taking shape and life is filling back up. This week the kids returned to school (3rd Kinder and 3rd Grade). Please continue to pray for our ongoing adjustment, especially as the kids try to return to the world of Spanish. Quincy seems to have picked up right where he left off but the twins have been a bit more hesitant. We know that after a couple of days of Kindergarten it will be as if they never left. Still, jumping back in isn’t always the easiest thing to do. Thanks for remembering our kids in your prayers.

Our New Neighborhood
We are renting a house from one of the Christian sisters, and her family lives just across the street. We are thankful that we get to be here. There is a lot of space, (even a yard!!!!) and we enjoy getting to be a part of their community. The socioeconomic level of the people in this neighborhood is lower than where we lived before and the feel is a lot different. There are people out walking and lots of activity on the street. There are some pluses and minuses connected with the change, but overall it seems like a great place to be living. The picture to the side, taken from our roof, is actually of the houses across the street.

Kaleidoscope -- by Kim

2010-05-04T18:13:00.001-05:00

A little while ago God gave me a picture as I was reading about living stones being built into a spiritual house. It was a glimpse of a kaleidoscope, with bright flecks of color milling around. As I pondered the thought, it contrasted another picture in my mind of a stained-glass window. The two images have similar properties; beautiful designs made up of many small parts. You can only see the color because of the light that shines through them, and the differences are beautiful. Variety is what makes up the pictures and patterns.

In the past I have thought of a church as a stained glass window that reflects the light of God. He sets the design as a master artist, and creates whatever picture He chooses. But lately I think God is pointing me to the kaleidoscope to enlarge my vision and to give my heart peace. Part of the beauty there is in the way that the pieces move. It is a fluid system, alive with activity. It’s hard to describe the picture and the relationship between each part because the pieces are always shifting. The jostling around is actually part of the wonder. Flecks and shaves of color move in and out of contact with one another in intricate designs. Some are fleeting glimpses, never to be seen exactly that way again . . . even if you keep spinning and trying to get it to do what it has done before.

Our ministry is like this for sure, but I think life is this way. It is hard to describe exactly what is going on sometimes, as in a clear picture to report. Especially in house gatherings, people move in and out of contact with each other, although some stay close together for many spins. It is nice to see that as part of the beauty of the kingdom, where God keeps the flecks in motion. When I was looking for stained-glass, I felt disappointed at not being able to see clearly. But maybe I will be able to enjoy this ride. (And I like bumping into you guys.)

Quincy Rush... Mexico Missionary

2010-03-26T21:40:00.003-05:00

This is a link to a video of Quincy, our 8 year old. He was interviewed for a kids' class at the Tulsa Workshop on Mexico.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y0pmEPB3tG8 I think it does a great job showing how normal life is in Mexico while being totally different.

Feeling Just A Bit Awkward (from 1-17-2005)

2010-02-17T13:40:00.003-06:00

I intended to post this on my blogging anniversary but I forgot what the original date was. So, celebrating 5 years and 1 month of awkward moments...

Another Awkward Moment…

After Kim and I bought a chiminea today we needed to find a stand that was just the right size. I looked a little funny using my belt to measure the base of the chiminea and the stand, but it worked. We found one that fit perfectly!

The only problem was that I only had a 500 peso bill and the stand cost 70. “Would this rather robust woman have change for a 500?” I thought to myself. And I don't mind saying, I was a bit shocked to hear her say yes. What was odd was that she had to dig into her bra to pull the change out. Of course I've seen this in the movies, but I don't think I've ever had someone, right before my eyes, make change for me out of their underwear. Then, as she's digging around in there, I realize that I'm still putting my belt back on. How could this possibly look to those just passing by?

Needless to say, I felt just a bit awkward.

Baptism Sunday Video

2009-11-16T08:42:00.008-06:00

Our teammate Chadd Shroeder posted the video of our baptism Sunday at the water fall from 3 years ago. It is BEAUTIFUL! I'd love for you to check it out if you haven't seen it yet.

http://vimeo.com/6842133

You won't be sorry.

Is this just human nature?

2009-10-09T10:59:00.005-05:00

I'm reading a paper on the history of the effects of technology on culture, specifically the printing press's role in history. And I just read this quote: "Throughout the patristic and medieval periods, the quest for truth is thought of as the recovery of what is embedded in tradition... rather than the discovery of what is new."

Sounds oddly familiar.

The Garden and Compost by Kim Rush

2009-06-22T12:29:00.001-05:00

We have lived in the same house these last six years in Mexico and have a small yard space that we share with the two other houses on our lot. It seems like every family picture we have taken here has been in that little yard. You can see the progress of the garden as our family grows from year to year. The garden has reflected the seasons of our life in Mexico as much as it displays the rainy and the dry seasons of the climate. Periods of time have passed when life demanded too much and the garden was neglected, lacking water and care. But as the kids got a bit older, and life became easier, that shows in the garden as well.

A couple of years ago, we started to compost our organic trash. The burial of the trash was really a decision Tim committed to, and my part was the saving of scraps. (If you know me, you know I am naturally good at saving scraps of all sorts). This decision is also a reflection of what had been growing in us; more simple, organic principles at work in ourselves and our churches. It seems that so much of our growth and faith can be illustrated in the compost, so much that I cannot explain everything God has taught us there. The garden, and especially the composting time, has become a favorite spot of refuge and prayer for both of us.

The most exciting principle God has shared is the promise of life. The house church we have spent the most time with in Jocotan came from such a rough past. Their lives were full of pain and scarred by cycles of hurt and abuse. From the time we met them (and with growing certainty even more today), we felt that only God could make a difference in the bitter reality they were living. But sometimes we saw nothing good happening, and it was discouraging and sad. At those times, some struggling seed would sprout from the compost . . . something that could have been trash sprouted to become a healthy, amazing plant. It never ceases to bring hope in our hearts for the Kingdom of God to reign over the chaos.

We have had countless spontaneous plants pop up: pumpkin, jalapeño, avocado trees, tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, garlic, beans, flowers and most recently a pineapple plant! We try to do our best with what God has placed before us, and some have matured to produce fruit. Many we have given away, in hopes that the same seeds we are planting will begin to reproduce in other places. There is a small garden in Jocotan with Serrano chili, cucumber, pumpkin, tomato and avocado. These were not the first plants growing there, and hopefully will not be the last. Spiritually speaking, we pray that the plants mature to bear fruit and that the fruit is shared to nurture the whole neighborhood. We pray for more gardens to grow and spread.

More wisdom God imparted through the garden (for us seeing it has been more meaningful that hearing it): The best soil has plenty of fertilizer, (which left to itself would have been a stinky mess). Unless a seed dies and is buried, it will not grow. We need to give over our trash to God, he certainly has better things planned. The plants must have light and water. The ones that have sprouted in the shadows will stretch across the yard to the sun. We make mistakes. Sometimes our best efforts to help are damaging, like when I tried soap suds for organic pest removal (suggestion from another gardener) and all but killed off three big, beautiful tomato plants. But God revived them. What we watch other gardeners do, we will imitate. Home grown fruits taste better and has more meaning to us than what someone else has grown for us.

The most recent chapter is that we have a new neighbor after a year of having the garden to ourselves. Since the rainy season has not begun yet, this is another promise from God that He is really the one taking care of our garden. She wants to learn to compost, and she loves plants. Ha, I just realized that her name is Eva (Eve). Coincidence? In addition to caring for the garden, she is buying all of our potted plants from us, with the promise that we can buy whatever back if we have space when we return. One of our first cucumber plants is almost ready to be enjoyed. I was showing her the plants she was buying and she said excitedly, “Oh! I have a cucumber!” My insides said, “What? You have a cucumber?” She has not paid us or done any of the work. But God says that while one plants, another waters, and still another reaps the harvest . . . only He provides the increase.

I had some verses hanging on our bedroom wall as a banner, (now they are in Eva’s house). “As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it sprout and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” Isaiah 55:10-11.

There is a modern proverb that says “More things grow in the garden than the gardener sows.” Very true. Thank you, God.

Family Update for June

2009-06-15T13:52:00.009-05:00

Celebrating Six Years
At the end of May, we celebrated our sixth year anniversary here in Guadalajara. It has been a wild and crazy ride to say the least. We are so thankful to God for all that he’s provided along the way. We’ve been blessed to be a part of a large simple-church network in Guadalajara, while focusing the majority of our attention on a the house church in a neighborhood that is marked by violence and addictions. We want to say thank you for all of your care, support and prayers. Especially in the scarier moments, we’ve been reminded that you are with us on our journey, lifting us up. Thank you so very much.

Jocotan
Each time we gather with our brothers in Jocotan, we prepare ourselves for a whole new adventure. One couple continues to face very difficult struggles. They are at odds with one another constantly. The one good thing about their struggle is that they don’t try to fake anything. They are real and honest so problems are dealt with as a community. We do not know if they will choose to be faithful to God or to each other. This makes are hearts very heavy. The other couple seems to be maturing more and more. They’ve also encountered a lot of stress. After time of fear and uncertainty, they’ve continued moving forward with Jesus. They are ministering to friends and have family members coming closer to God along with them. Please pray for all of us to place our hope and trust in God. There has been so much godly transformation and so much attacking from Satan.

Math Class in Jocotan
My Math class in Jocotan is coming to a close. It has been a learning experience on many levels. (I want to track down my high school math teacher and apologize for any and all distractions I caused in class.) Kim joined me this last week for a school party. We were touched to see all tha t the school is offering to this neighborhood and were encouraged to be a part of such a ministry in the name of Jesus. We don’t know what the harvest will hold, but seeds have been planted. Please pray for Sadai and Lupita, my most faithful students. Their lives are in such chaos that it often leaves me speechless. (Lupita’s dream is to be a drug runner and her dad is the manager of a famous strip club in Guadalajara.) Only Jesus can change their life’s course.

All-Church Farewell
On the last Sunday in May, all of the churches gathered together to say goodbye to us and the Pruett family. The Pruetts were a part of the original mission team that arrived in Guadalajara in 1998. When we arrived in Guadalajara in 2003, the Pruetts opened their home to us for our first month. They have been a great encouragement to us and to the churches in Guadalajara. They will be returning to the states (San Antonio) in July.

Sunday was very good. It was wonderful to be with the Christians from all over the city, gathered together as one family. We pray that our guys from Jocotan will stay connected to the body and continue to grow in their relationships with other Christians. We also lift the other groups up to God and pray that He be a powerful force that unites them together and fills them with His character and Spirit. We pray for our co-workers who will remain here to be surrounded by God’s presence, protection and blessings.

Crafts in the Park
Our good friend Adriana has begun a ministry in the park in her neighborhood. Each Saturday night she gathers the kids together for a Bible story and a craft. We love that God placed the needs of the kids on her heart and she obeyed His call. She is an answer to your prayers to the Lord of the Harvest. She’s been cautious to stay on the good side of the parents. This last week she asked Kim to join=2 0her to make cards with the kids. She was excited and surprised when a dad approached her afterwards to thank her for what she’s doing. He said he is afraid to let his girl play in the park by herself. But he is grateful that Adriana is making the park a place that his daughter can learn about the Bible.

Car Trouble and Headaches Galore
This last month has been horrible on our vehicles. The Taurus, which is the newer car with fewer miles is also our least reliable. This worries us all the more since it is the Expedition that was just released from the shop after a 40 day stay. During that span, the Taurus has been in and out of the shop due to a problem the mechanics were unable to diagnose. We’re hoping that if it breaks down on us, it will do it here and not while driving across Mexico later this month. Hopefully the Expedition is ready to make the trek north as well. Please pray for our safe travel and peace of mind.

What’s The Plan?
Our plan is to leave Guadalajara on the 25th of June for a year furlough, or for what some call “home assignment”. We will drive to Tulsa so that we can leave a load of our stuff, as well as the Taurus, before heading on to California for the month of July to be with Kim’s family. We will return to Tulsa at the beginning of August in time to get set up before the kids start school. Tim will also begin taking masters courses in communications at the University of Oklahoma. To do this, he’ll spend two weekends a month in Lawton as the courses are designed to be weekend intensive. Our plan is to return to Guadalajara in June of 2010.

the flu goes on

2009-05-08T16:17:00.004-05:00

So I thought this flu business was winding down. After all, it seems CNN has stopped talking about it. But we just found out that the schools will remained closed until the 18th of May. Until two days ago, they were saying there were no reported cases in the state of Jalisco. (Guadalajara is in Jalisco.) But just recently they've said that there are 15 cases plus 11 more under observation. Four of those cases were reported to be grave. Sadly, three have died. I think that's influenced the decision to keep the schools closed.

2009-05-06T10:16:00.038-05:00

Rush Family Update

One Crazy Summer

April has been a crazy month. The two weeks of Spring Break were a lot of fun. We got to do out-of-the-ordinary things and spend time with people that are not in our regular schedule. Grandma Kay came for 10 days and that was a blast.

She went camping with us and was a great trooper. She made camping a lot easier. Now, two weeks after the kids returned to school, everything has been shut down because of the Swine Flu scare.

Teaching English in Jocotan

Closing out 08’ we began realizing that we were being given the opportunity to plant a new church. This would mean not getting to spend every Sunday in Jocotan. With this in mind, we wanted to find more times during the week that we could be in Jocotan; both with our church family as well as the community. We’ve shared in the past about studying the Holy Spirit together on Friday nights and teaching Math two hours a week in a school for those trying to graduate from junior high.

In January we began teaching English for an hour each Thursday night. The church had the idea of inviting their neighbors into their home and offering this free class as a service. We generally have 5-10 students, half of which are not Christians. Three of our AIM students have been helping out, which allows us to break up into small groups and practice our pronunciation or grammar lesson as well as enhance personal relationships.

Camping Under the

Volcano

Over Spring Break, we went with a group of about 15 to camp under the Volcano of Colima. A friend from the kids’ school is beginning to farm the land and planned the 4 day, 3 night excursion. The trip was a perfect microcosm of mission work.

It was a once in a lifetime experience filled with culture-shock, out of the ordinary living conditions, hard work, and a lot of hurry-up and wait moments all wrapped with just a taste of danger.

The dad who invited us, Gerardo, is a very spiritual man who describes himself as catholic-christian. He spent 11 years studying to be a priest but is now married and has a son just a year older than Quincy.

Being Easter weekend, we were expecting the opportunity to share our faith, and even worship together. A few of the others who joined the group, however, were not the least bit spiritual and weren’t too thrilled when they found out we are missionaries. (That is always an uncomfortable moment.)

So our course changed. Instead of opening our Bibles together and spending time singing, we tried to love people who at times were very difficult to love. It put a fresh perspective in our hearts about our ministry. Living side by side and working with people who are just getting to know God (or do not know him at all) is not the same as spending time with Jesus people.

We should not be so surprised to not see God’s fruit in their lives when our very purpose in ministry is to take the essence of Jesus to places that need Him. We also tried to encourage Gerardo, who seemed to be disappointed as we believe he was also hoping for some sort of a “spiritual” weekend as well.

Swine Flu

So life is again out of the ordinary because of the swine flu outbreak. On Monday our school opted to have all students and staff wear surgical masks. Later that day, all schools were closed until at least the 6^th of May. The Government has asked everyone to avoid public gatherings and (without alarm) take necessary steps to prevent further outbreak. Since we were with a sister on Sunday who was ill and on Monday was afraid she might have it, we’ve pretty much stayed at home the last four days. Our sister went to the doctor Tuesday and has been cleared.

Guadalajara has not had any confirmed cases, only some people in observation. No one else that we know is sick at this time. However, we have canceled our group activities, including the all-church gathering for this Sunday. Thank you for your prayers. We feel good about the way the government and health officials are handling this outbreak.

Making the Most of it

Kim’s taken advantage of the time to get a head start on packing up the house. She’s also spent time doing school work with the kids. We keep in contact with people mostly through phone calls. I’ve gotten a lot of reading done and have even been inspired by Kim to pack up a bit of my office.

Since I haven’t been able to go to the gym, I’ve been having “exercise class” with the kids. It is quite different, but still a workout and so much more fun. Doing lunges at the gym is one of my least favorite things. However, Karsyn likes to hold hands when we do them together at home, and it actually makes them easier. When I try to touch my toes, the kids are trying (and achieving) touching their knees with their noses. Quincy can really pump out the push-ups and Karsyn kills on the chin-ups, though she still thinks they are called hick-ups. Clark, well, Clark giggles. A LOT! Yesterday, after I put them through a good workout, I let each child take a turn leading. It was sort of a follow the leader workout program. It was the first time I’ve done somersaults (Clark leading) since I was 5. Now I’ve got a whole new kind of post-workout soreness.

Working with

AIMers

Since last May we’ve had the privilege of working with a team of 6 AIM students. Cory and Toni Burns have coordinated their time here and have done an excellent job. Kim and I have enjoyed the role of “fun aunt/uncle”. By that I mean we get to have fun with them without being responsible for them.

Cory and I have been teaching the book of Ephesians to the AIMers and, as mentioned earlier, 3 of the AIMers have been helping teach English in Jocotan once a week.

We’re about to enter an interesting time of transition as 3 new AIMers will be arriving shortly while our current team of 6 begin returning home. (There is no set return date so they will be leaving between July and November.) Please keep these young people in your prayers.

Happy Cinco de Mayo.

2009-05-05T10:16:00.001-05:00

It still strikes me as odd that Cinco de Mayo is not celebrated in Mexico as much as in the U.S. I don’t know why. But have a happy 5th of May anyway.

The school closings in Mexico have been extended until the 11th of May. People are still supposed to remain at home as much as possible, but I don’t think that is really happening. The kids haven’t left the house since coming home from school last Monday. They are doing surprisingly well though. Kim’s keeping them occupied and all are surviving well.

We did have friends from the kids’ school over on Sunday and had a blast with them. We worshipped, studied and took the Lord’s Supper together. Then we made sushi, colored shrinky-dinks and even roasted tiny marshmallows over candles.

swine flu

2009-04-27T14:48:00.003-05:00

Taking Quincy to school today, I noticed EVERYONE had a surgical mask on... even the guy directing traffic. (That was odd.) They were even handing the masks out to the kids as they entered the school yard.

The lady that opened the door for Quincy and helped him get his backpack out of the car asked something about, "Who wants to leave their kids today?" It was all kind of quick and hurried, but left me puzzled as to what she was communicating. Kim took the twins an hour later and the same lady received them at the door. Kim reported that the lady said the same thing to her but then expanded on it a bit. She was saying that if you don't want to leave your kids here, you don't have to.

Kim just now picked the kids up from school and came home with the news that all schools in Mexico have been closed until the 6th of May. Everyone is encouraged to stay home as much as possible.

I'm curious to see if people will really stay home or not. My first impression is YES. I've been at home for most of the morning, but when I was out, there seemed to be a lot less trafic.

2009-04-15T19:15:00.014-05:00

Rush Family Update for April

All-Church Retreat
In March, about 90 of us gathered for a weekend retreat. We were only a few miles outside of town, but it felt like 100. It was great! Cabins, tents, bugs, nasty showers, camp fires, hiking and soccer games... this place had it all.

The classes were great, but I think the highlight of the weekend was the time we spent alone with God. After each class time, we had questions that were prepared to help us examine our past and the effects it was having on our present relationship with God as well as its effect on our present Christian community. Chadd, Cory and I each taught a session, while Joe wrapped up each class and tied it into the questions he’d prepared for us.

Julian’s Family

Julian, our brother from Jocotan, (on the right, with his brother Nahum) invited many from his family to join us for the retreat. His brother, mom and nephew accepted the invitation and had a wonderful time. Julian and his wife Lilian have been spending a lot of time sharing with Julian’s family and we believe we are beginning to see the fruit that God is bearing in their lives. Please keep this family in your prayers. We believe Nahum and their mother (Felipa) are both making decisions about baptism.

Lilian Reaching Out
Lilian (on the right side of the table, sitting across from Quique and Monica) is gifted in evangelism. She’s also experienced a great change in her life which is noticeable to all of her family, friends, co-workers and bosses. If she hasn’t started the conversation, they will... asking why and how she’s made such a drastic change. A group of ladies in Jocotan have recently asked her to basically start preaching to them. They want to know more about what’s happened to her.
Please keep Lilian in your prayers. Though she has a great heart, she can be a bit overbearing at times. We pray that God blesses her with great wisdom when teaching about his peace which has taken over her life.

Baptisms in Ciudad Granja

In March we had our first baptisms from the new church plant in Ciudad Granja. Cory and Toni Burns have been working to plant a church there among a family of believers for some time. Finally, Quique and Monica (in the center, surrounded by Gerardo and Cory) decided to be baptized into Christ. We rejoice with the Burns and the young church in Ciudad Granja.

Ministry at Ker Liber
God is continuing to open doors at the kids’ school. Whether it is time Kim spends volunteering, presentations we are invited to attend, parent classes we are a part of, or just hanging out watching the kids practice soccer, we feel like God continues to bless us with opportunities to talk about his grace.

Omar
Please keep Omar in your prayers. One day he’ll seem to be back on track and the next we’ll be blindsided again by his poor decisions. We are
certain though that God hasn’t given up on him.
Please pray.

Furlough
We’ve decided to take a year-long furlough beginning in July after the kids are out of school. We will travel to California to spend time with Kim’s family before heading to Tulsa in time for the kids to start school there. While in Tulsa, Tim will begin working on a Masters in Communications from Oklahoma University.

It will definitely be hard to pack the house into storage and say goodbye (for a year) to so many wonderful friends. But we are very excited about reconnecting with family and friends in the states.

Seminar in Morelia
On Saturday, the 28th of March, we traveled to Morelia for an all-day conference. The missionaries there invited Dr. Gailyn and Becky Van Reenan, from Mission Alive in Dallas to come and share some ideas with us on taking the next steps in our missions. There were leaders from five different mission works present and many of us are at the same places in our ministries.

While listening to the Van Reenans share with us, it was fun to be reminded that we are a part of a large team of church planters in Mexico. Some are older, some younger, but we are each working towards the same goal; to share Jesus with this great nation.

After the all-church retreat

2009-03-16T10:23:00.002-05:00

I just want to thank those of you that read this blog and prayed for the retreat. (That means you, mom and Kara.) We had a GREAT time. There were almost 90 who attended. That number looks low, in retrospect, as there seemed to be over 100 kids... such a fun atmosphere!

The campgrounds have men and women's dorms, but we took our tent so that the kids would sleep better. (Last year, people would turn the lights on at all hours of the night and the kids would wake up and cry.) It was really fun.

On Saturday we had three classes, I Can't Do it, God Can, and I'll Let Him. The classes were very well done, but I think the real growth will come from the questions Joe Pruett put together for each person to answer individually after each session. We'd all find a quite place and spend between 45 minutes and an hour taking a personal inventory. I think the time alone served to help us evaluate how our past (our fears and struggles) are effecting our present reality.

On Sunday we worshipped together. Quite a different experience, 90 together instead of 15 or so. The youth put together a play, Gerardo had a sermon, Chadd took a moment for us to bless Guiye's 3 month old baby. (Guiye isn't a Christian yet, but is walking in that direction, as the Mexicans would say. She knows her baby doesn't need to be baptized, but longs for a blessing for her baby. It was quite powerful.) Sergio led us in praise. And we divided into groups of 10 or so to take communion where we spent time praying together. It was beautiful.

Thanks for being a part of the retreat through your prayers.

All-Church Retreat

2009-03-10T12:39:00.003-05:00

The picture above is of Clark and Gerardo at last year's All-Church Retreat. I'm not sure why, but it is one of my favorite pictures. You can't even see Clark's face, but seeing his little hands lifted up in praise touches me. I almost want to question how much a little kid can praise God, but God says he's ordained their worship. So I'll leave it at that.

I also love the connection he's making with Gerardo in the photo. I'm pretty sure his hands are lifted because that's what Gerardo is doing, not the other way around. I guess little eyes are always on us.

And I love that Gerardo notices Clark. Clark wasn't a distraction to Gerardo, he was a blessing. Of course that was Gerardo's decision. He could have been annoyed by the little mimic or he could value the opportunity to share his love for God with the little pair of eyes watching him.

This week we are preparing for this years' retreat. Would you mind keeping this retreat in your prayers? In a lot of ways, it is like the picture above. We are a part of a church that has some Gerardos... stronger Christians who want to help their younger brothers, and a ton of Clarks... babes in the faith who desperately need guidance and friendship.

Family Update

2009-03-08T16:05:00.002-05:00

Teaching Math
In January Tim began teaching a math class a few hours a week in a school that helps adults work towards their junior high graduation. The school is located in Jocotan, just two blocks from our church family. He was expecting to be teaching adults, but most of his students are between the ages of 13 and 18. The class changes in size each time so there is a lot of starting up only to start over again the next week. There aren’t books for each student nor is there a copy machine to use for tests and homework assignments. But Tim and the class have been quite resourceful. Tim is having a good time and most of his students seem to be enjoying themselves.

Tim’s happy to be helping them get an education, but especially excited to be meeting new people in Jocotan. By faith we believe God is allowing us the chance to plant kingdom seeds through math classes.

Marriage Seminar
On Valentine’s weekend, we traveled to Leon where we were invited to do a marriage seminar for the church there. The first night Tim talked about seeing the image of God in our spouses. On the second night he spoke about the Holy Spirit's role in recreating the image of God in us. We were glad to have a young couple from our church accompany us on the trip.

Tim had a great time teaching and we were so encouraging to see the church that our friends planted in Leon just a few years ago. We were able to spend a good amount of time with Shawn and Barbara Gary as well as with Omar and Tana Palafox.

Teaching at the kids’ school
Also in February Tim was invited to teach at the parents’ class he attends twice a month at the kids’ school. He worked with another dad on a presentation entitled “Molding Your Own Reality”. That just happened to be the chapter of the book they were assigned to present. The idea was that what we believe about ourselves and our world is the truth that we live. We believe God purposely gave him this opportunity. Tim was nervous about the class but excited to get the chance to teach.

Omar
A few weeks ago we wrote you concerning our good friend Omar so we won’t revisit all the specifics. He is still pretty tough to deal with though he is showing signs of surrendering to God. It’s hard though. Please continue to pray for Omar and his wife Lupe and their two children, especially to heal the hurt of all that was said in anger. In the very midst of his struggles, Omar is still being used by God as a light in his community. Lupe’s family continues seeking God, and knows that the peace of God has been growing in that house. We are truly amazed at God’s power to show Himself in the midst of chaos.

Another praise to mention at this time is the love the other leaders have shown for Omar and Lupe. We were certainly not alone in admonishing and rallying around them. We are thankful to see the body working together in this way.

Stress in Churches
Jocotan isn't the only struggling church at the moment. It seems like Satan is attacking each church right now in very overt ways. However, we are not totally discouraged by this fact. We believe that God is allowing each church an opportunity to mature and grow through this difficult process. We are preparing for an all church retreat in a couple of weeks. Please pray for God to use the time to help the churches recognize Satan’s schemes, surrender to God’s power and to unite us.

Kim’s New Neice
Kim and Karsyn traveled to California for a week in February to see the newest addition to the Blachly family: Khloe Gwin Olson. They had such a wonderful time getting to reconnect with family and getting to hold baby Khloe. Kim says it felt like a real luxury to get to be there at that time. The boys did survived well while she and Karsyn were gone.

Family update for January

2009-01-09T11:02:00.012-06:00

Happy New Year from Guadalajara! We hope that your holiday season was equally fun and renewing. Thank you for your prayers and support. We know that God was at work in us and around us to bring a lot of joy and peace especially during the past month. We felt so tired leading up to the holidays, that we were honestly dreading some of the festivities. But God answered your prayers for us and we really feel rejuvenated.

Yuli’s 15th
In November we were honored to serve as god-parents for our friend Yuli’s 15th birthday party. Turning 15 is a big deal for girls in Mexico. They dress up like princesses and receive their last doll which is symbolic of leaving their childhood behind. The day traditionally begins with a Catholic mass and then the party lasts into the night. As a relatively young group of churches, we are still enjoying the firsts of many new traditions. This was a special day for the churches to come together.
Everyone enjoyed a time of worship as well as offered words of encouragement for Yuli and her family in their continuing walk with God. It was a great blessing to see the youth, especially, having fun making it memorable and honoring to God at the same time.

As Yuli’s actual birthday was on the 31st of October, she asked all the little kids to come in their costumes. Her aunt even made Karsyn a special Snow White costume, which she wears every chance she gets.

Planting Seeds at the Kids’ School
To be honest, the kids’ school is probably our largest source of stress. Schools operate differently here and it often collides with our idea of how much pressure/stress should be put on a small child. Having said that, the kids’ school seems to be one of our richest fields in which to sow seed. With soccer practice, parent groups, social events and such, we feel like we are constantly in conversations with other parents that lead back to Jesus. Sometimes we are even amazed at what we hear coming out of our mouths. That sounds weird, but God keeps popping up in places we weren’t expecting.

One of the greatest blessings of this season has been our growing friendship with the Perez family. Alejandro and Nallely have two sons (Alexis and Axel), the youngest of whom is in the kinder-class with our twins. They are a family that respects God and wants their kids to grow up knowing him and loving him. They are the friends who were with us when we walked into our ransacked house this fall, and we really believe God had us ministering to each other through that. Our prayer for this year with them is that we will continue to grow together in God and that Jesus can become the center of our friendship. We have met with them once for a time of worship and pray that will continue this year.

Missionary’s Retreat
For Thanksgiving, we traveled 3 hours to Guanajuato for the annual Missionary Retreat. There were upwards of 40 missionaries and perhaps another 40 kids. Jason and Heather Thornton from Tulsa, Oklahoma came down to encourage the missionaries; teaching several classes as well as just hanging out with old friends. It was great!

We had a huge meal together which made us all feel like we were at home (minus the week’s worth of turkey sandwiches to follow). The majority of the missionaries (as well as the Thorntons) are old friends from our days in Lubbock. So we had a blast reconnecting. But it is also fun getting to meet new missionaries and create new bonds.

Family Comes to Town
Over the last couple of months we’ve been blessed by visits from family. Tim’s dad, Terry, came down for a quick visit in early November and Kim’s aunt Pam and uncle Pete came down at the first of December. As well, the Thorntons spent some extra time in Guadalajara and we were blessed to keep them for a couple of nights.

Of course it all passed too quickly, but we are so grateful for their visits. We loved taking all to eat our favorite tacos and hanging out just visiting.

Visitors to Jocotan
Our family in Jocotan had a surprise visit over the holidays from their family from Tijuana, Mexico. Lalo, the oldest brother in the family, was instrumental in the conversions of his brother and sister, Omar and Lilian. In answer to Omar’s prayers for one of his brothers to come home for Christmas, Lalo, and several other family members arrived unannounced late Christmas Eve.

About four years ago, Lalo was a homeless addict living on the streets of Tijuana when he met Jesus. Sometime later, he returned to Guadalajara to take his son home to live with him. While here, he shared with his family all that Jesus was doing for him and in him. At the time, Omar and Lilian were in dire straights, wishing for lives of peace. Through an ex-Aim student, God brought us in touch with them the day their brother Lalo was returning to Tijuana.

The point of all that rambling is to somehow set for you the feel of thanksgiving and awe in these brothers and sister reunited for the first time in Christ. Now two and a half years later, it was amazing to sit and listen to this family reconnect over the holidays. It was as if every time we were together we were a part of an incredible worship assembly. They just couldn’t stop talking about the amazing grace they are seeing in each other’s lives and how God is changing their family. There was a lot of sharing, crying and laughing. Sometimes we also just sat in stunned silence, soaking it in.

Holidays in Mexico
Having spent the last three Christmases in the states, we weren’t quite sure how this holiday season would pass.

We agreed to spend Christmas Eve with our family in Jocotan, but were dreading it a bit as we just aren’t late-night people. The tradition here is to eat together at about 11:00 at night and then party into the wee hours of the morning. We warned them that we wouldn’t be able to stay that late but would need to get home early and put kids in bed. “So what time should we come?” we asked. They replied, “Oh, anytime after 8:00.” Ha! That’s the time our kids go to bed!

In the end, we arrived at about 5:00 for the pre-party. Madaline turned 2, so we had a birthday party first. Then the Christmas festivities began around 8:00 or so. We stayed until almost midnight but it was wonderful! Our kids all fell asleep on their bed and didn’t complain a bit. And the conversation turned toward the blessings of Christ. As much as we were missing our families, the tone of the night made it worth it. We were so thankful for how God has so radically blessed our family in Jocotan.

On New Years’ Eve, we were camping with 4 other families at a lake, inside a dormant volcano, two hours from Guadalajara. It was a lot of fun. It was the first time we’ve taken the kids camping and they all had a blast. Even our dog, Zeke, enjoyed herself.

hungering for righteousness

2008-12-09T11:23:00.001-06:00

I was thinking this morning about Jesus’ words, “Blessed are those that hunger and thirst for righteousness for they shall be satisfied.” It struck me that there is a great difference between hungering and thirsting for righteousness and hungering and thirsting to be right. One will be satisfied. The other… not so much.

November Update

2008-11-03T16:31:00.027-06:00

News from Jocotan
The last few months we’ve seen highs and lows in our ministry in Jocotan. Omar, our strongest leader, has struggled a lot with his past life. As we’ve mentioned, he spends the week working a few hours from home but usually comes back to Guadalajara for the weekend. He went through a period where Satan was filling his head with lies. He could feel himself becoming more and more violent. He even broke his hand punching a wall. We think he’s turned the corner and is aware of Satan’s scheming, but we still worry for his safety and the safety of his family. The pull and damage of his past addictions has been a constant struggle. Please pray for God to be his constant strength and for the church (including ourselves) to rest in and put trust in God’s power.

Omar’s wife, Lupe, has been regularly reading her Bible and sharing what she’s learning with her family. They have been passing through a time of stress and crisis, and keep asking her what God has to say about their situation. They’ve even begun calling her “the Priest”. They say it jokingly, but also respectfully. She is pretty quiet about it,
but you can tell that she’s very excited about the direction Jesus is taking her and even more so to see her family responding as well. If you remember, she has seemed afraid to make the decision to be baptized because of the strong Catholic tradition in her family. But now, her family is excited that she is getting to know God in such a personal way. This is a great praise, and we expect God to do something amazing with the whole family. We pray that when Lupe is baptized, her family will be there.

Lilian and her husband, Julian, are continuing to share their faith with Julian’s family. If they are not together with us on a given Sunday it is because they’ve gone to be with Julian’s family to read the Bible together with his mother and brothers. His mom, Felipa even attended the Ladies’ Retreat with Lilian and Kim. They have also recently begun sharing their faith with another family in Jocotan, (Gameliel and Dominga). They are beginning to pray in a new and excited way that God will grow His church in their neighborhood.

Independence Day

The churches came together on the day before Mexico’s Independence Day to worship and celebrate together. Everyone met at the entrance to the forest, just outside of Guadalajara, and drove a few miles to a clearing where we had

space to assemble, eat and play together.

Omar and I were in charge of directing the Lord’s Supper. Omar began sharing about the struggles he’s been encountering lately.

He shared about his real need for communion with Christ and his body today. It was wonderful watching how the body responded to him in his pain and hurt. We are blessed to be a part of something much larger here in Guadalajara. God ministered to Omar through his family. And we believe that his family ministered to each other even as they were focusing on Omar.

Weekly Study in Jocotan
In September we began studying the Holy Spirit each Thursday evening in Jocotan. Together we’ve been encouraged to see the Holy Spirit’s role in renewing our inner selves. The study has helped us grow in our awareness of God’s work in our lives. The study is helping us make sense of the struggles and pain we go through as the Spirit has to throw out some of our old “furniture” before bringing in the new.

Ladies’ Retreat

For the first time in five years, our ladies planned an over-night retreat that was attended by over 30 women. As many had never had a similar experience, it was very exciting and spiritually nutritious.

Kim says the best part was getting to watch Liliana and Felipa (her mother-in-law) enjoying the time so much, sharing laughter and tears with the other ladies. Since we meet regularly in smaller

gatherings, the time together as a larger group gives our younger believers more opportunity to grow with more mature Christians. Plus, it was just fun for the ladies to get out of the city for a night away.

Robbery
On Sunday, the 19th of October, our house was robbed. We were less than a block away, playing in a small park with our kids and another family for a couple of hours when it happened. We returned home to find the doors opened and quite a mess inside. They honestly didn’t take that much. They left everything that wouldn’t fit into my backpack. That’s right, they loaded up MY backpack with the goodies. But they did abscond with my laptop, wedding and engagement rings, video camera and a few other pricey items.

On the bright side… we’ve been trying to reach out to the family we were playing with at the park. They walked through our ransacked house with us and began telling us about when they were robbed a year or so ago. They each got a bit teary when the husband told about their kids’ Christmas presents being stolen. Going through this together, we’ve felt like our relationship quickly moved into a new zone. In the moment, I kept thinking, this is a God-moment, but how can we minister to them right now? Looking back, I think God used us by allowing us to be ministered to by them. Kind of weird, but it deepened the relationship.

Kid’s School

All three kids are in school this year. Quincy is in the second grade and Karsyn and Clark are in the first year of kindergarten. (They have 3 years of kindergarten in Mexico.)

Now it seems that our schedule is full of birthday parties and school events. Kim goes to school each Tuesday and helps out with the English classes. I attend a bi-monthly parents’ class.

Quincy has started soccer this year so that gives us two more afternoons a week to rub elbows with other moms and dads as we watch the kids play. It has been fun connecting with some of the parents and developing deeper friendships. Sometimes though, it is tempting to stick with the ones we know; the ones we are comfortable with. You can be praying for our vision and our boldness. It is incredible to think that at each gathering God is aware of the one hurting and in need of comfort.

Some of our conversations head toward how God makes life good, and we want to be talking more about that and less about the weather.

We pray that we keep our eyes open so that we’ll be aware of the brokenness around us, and the grace to speak what God wants to say in the moment.

Something you might like to hear

2008-10-27T11:44:00.002-05:00

I haven't listened to this sermon yet but have it on my ipod. I was going to wait until going to the gym tomorrow, but I don't think I'm going to make it that long.

For those of you that know Craig Hicks but haven't heard that he is back on staff at Memorial, I thought you might like to hear this sermon. He and dad preached together yesterday. I think it is going to be a great story of real church... Christ's family loving one another and blessing one another with mercy.

You can click on the following link:

http://www.workshopmultimedia.com/memorial_drive/

And then look for the title:

Sunday 10 26 2008 AM Memorial Drive Craig Hicks And Terry Rush A New Beginning 32kbps

and enjoy.

When Your Underwear Is No Longer Safe

2008-10-20T15:49:00.002-05:00

A few months ago Kim wondered if maybe the hiding place for our monthly money wasn’t a good one. “Might this be the first place someone would look?” she pondered aloud.

Well, I don’t know if it was the first place or not, but the thieves that broke in yesterday certainly left no pair of underwear unturned. (I’m wondering if they didn’t try on a couple of pairs out of spite.) But they didn’t discover our new hiding place. So I say, Kim, good job. Still, they did pack some of our treasured belonging into my own backpack and, thankfully, were gone before we returned home.

Funny moments:

Clark came into our room holding one Spiderman slipper saying, “Oh no, I can’t find the other one!”

Karsyn kept following us around asking if she could play with the gifts (supposed to be future Christmas presents) she found lying at the bottom of our closet. Sorry grandma.

Quincy told me I need not worry about the mess in his room. That was already there when we left for the park. (This was especially comical as it was almost word for word what I said to my dad 30 years ago when we were robbed in Tulsa.)

Good News:

Our dog was with us. Otherwise she’d have probably made new friends and left with them.

Most things can be replaced. Some things, like Kim’s engagement ring, held sentimental value, but tucking our children into bed, we knew the most precious gifts were safe.

Sad News:

They didn’t take my ipod. You read that right, DIDN’T! It is sooo old, I was hoping for an excuse to replace it. Seriously, it was on the bed with everything else they left behind. They moved it but didn’t want it. How about that… discriminating thieves.

But they did take my cell phone. The phone needed to be replaced anyway, but now I have to reprogram all the numbers. Agh!

For Prayers:

Ok, seriously now… We would appreciate your prayers for our safety and that of our team here in Guadalajara. In the last few months, we’ve had many discussions about crime and particularly violence in Mexico. It is a sad trend that seems to be on the rise.

Must See Video

2008-10-10T13:49:00.003-05:00

One of my friends here, Brian, made a short video to send back to Sunset in Lubbock for a presentation on Guadalajara. It was so good I sent it on to all our supporters.

I thought I'd also post the link here for anyone that might be interested in seeing what's going on in GDL.

After Brian interviewed me for the video, I realized that everything I said started with, "Well, I thought this was a bad idea, but..." Reminds me that God is a bit smarter than me. I'm glad he's leading, even if I'm slow to understand his direction.

Click on the link below to view the video.

http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fvideo.google.com%2Fvideoplay%3Fdocid%3D-5011269188132084610%26hl%3Den&h=06214520099c047b9383daa0929fe111

Also, notice that in the first few seconds, on the left hand side, Quincy tackles Josiah Burns and then just walks away.

Missionary in Need

2008-09-23T10:18:00.003-05:00

Since many of you who read this are involved in missions around the globe, I thought I’d share with you the need of a missionary that has been one of my heroes for the last 15 years.

Belinda Moore is a missionary in Lazaro Cardenas, Michoacan. Many factors have recently come together which have necessitated Belinda’s move back to the states. (Among other things, Belinda is the grandmother of Noah Henderson, the baby with Tay-Sachs I wrote about previously.)

Have you ever wondered how missionaries move back to the states? Churches and individuals are bombarded with requests from many great works. So which of them want to donate to a missionary coming home? …a bit of a quandary eh.

Still, Belinda will need to raise about $5,000 to move her home back to the states. And I just happen to know of a fun way you could help her out. Belinda is a great artist and is selling her work to help cover this cost.

So I want to encourage you to check out her blog (link below) to learn more about her. From her blog you can click on Shell Seeker Gallery to view some of her paintings.

When you hang your new painting all your friends will want to know where in the world you got it. “Why, Lazaro Cardanas, Mochoacan, of course”, you’ll reply. I happen to have a Belinda original, that’s been hanging in my living room for 10 years, of which I’m quite proud. So give it a look-see.

http://www.shellseeker1.blogspot.com/

Pictures of the kids

2008-09-08T20:41:00.009-05:00

My how they grow up so fast. Quincy turned 7 two days after this picture when we were celebrating the twins birthday.

Clark and Karsyn just turned 4. There are 4 candles but it's turned sideways so you only see two.

What a little cuttie.

Looks like someone is ready to do some roller blading! But oops, did I forget my pants?

Our kids absolutely love the AIMers. Brian doesn't mind at all that Karsyn is trying to comb his goat-tee.

Karsyn is playing with Jane's hair. She thinks she's making it pretty. ...I'm not really sure about that.

Karsyn is eating a fruit called Pitahaya. It is quite cool looking with its hot pink outer peal and white, yummy, kiwi-like fruit.

A Great Idea

2008-09-01T12:03:00.003-05:00

I want to share with you something my brother-in-law, Eli, does with some in his church in the Sacramento area. I don't know what he calls it, but it's something like an Art Retreat.

They go away together for a night or two and do Art. Before hand, Eli picks a theme, and the theme could be anything really... Mercy, Redemption, Sin, Love, Joy... and each person creates some sort of art that is inspired by that theme. (I think many stay up all night working.) Then each person presents his masterpiece and explains how it ties in to the particular theme. In this way, there isn't a teacher and many students... all teach when it is their turn and all are students. Sounds like a lot of fun to me and I'm not very art-savy.

Another cool thing about this... it isn't a youth retreat or a young singles or men's or whatever retreat. It's a combination that spans the congregation. I think it would be fun to witness as the 16 year old and the 59 year old actually connect and learn from each other.

Would Christianity Like Me?

2008-08-15T13:49:00.001-05:00

In Donald Miller’s Blue Like Jazz, he tells of the conversion process of Penny, a very insecure college student. When she was getting to know a fellow student who practiced her Christianity in a whole new way, Don writes:

“Penny began to wonder if Christianity, were it a person,
might in fact like her” p. 46).

That quote has stopped me in my tracks. I’m surrounded by a hurting and insecure world. There are people all around that would just like to be liked. In their own misery, I doubt they’ve even considered that there might be more to Jesus than an empty religious ceremony. If he were here, he’d like them!

And the good news is, he is here! Now, how to show them that he really, really likes them?

2008-08-05T17:56:00.010-05:00

Welcome to One Crazy Summer ’08 Version
I’m sure we’re not at all unusual to be enjoying a crazy-hectic summer. (Do they make them any other way?)

For as long as we live here, I can’t imagine we’ll ever grow accustomed to the short summers. Quincy’s last day of school was the 27th of June. (That is just too late if you ask me.) The day before, the 26th, we received a campaign group from Grass Valley, CA.

After the group left, so did Kim and the kids for two weeks. They returned a week ago and that leaves us with two more weeks until school starts.

24 from Grass Valley, California joined us for one week.
The group from Grass Valley originally planned to go to Hawaii, but those plans changed when their airline went under. Since they couldn’t afford other tickets, the group of 24 quickly made plans to join us for a week of service and fun. (Eight of the 24 were actually relatives! Kim’s sister’s family as well as her mom and cousin were a part of the group.)

We painted a school, and also the home of one of our Christian sisters, visited sick kids in a children’s hospital and fed hundreds who were visiting family members in the hospital. We helped with a Kid’s Club put on by the church in Jardines del Valle, and helped the church in Jocotan provide a kid’s day in their back yard (with plenty of face painting). And we still had time to make a day trip to the beach.

After the group left Kim’s family stayed a few extra days so that we could have a little time alone with them. Then Kim, kids and grandma Kay flew back to
California together. Kim along with her two sisters helped her brother move from San Diego to New York. While they were driving across the country, grandma Kay and papa B. kept all seven grandkids.

Last year we proposed to Jocotan that we serve their community with a campaign group. They were not open to the idea. This year, however, they organized two service projects.
We feel like it shows a shift in their desire to reach out to their own neighbors

Follow Up
Between the group from Grass Valley and the groups from Texas and New Mexico that joined our team earlier in the summer, the church has sown seed throughout Guadalajara. We expect that God will bring fruit that we might never even know about. But we are encouraged by some of the open doors that we are beginning to see in our own neighborhoods.

The groups from Texas and New Mexico worked together to clean up the colonia where the Shroeders, Burns and AIMers live. They worked for a day cleaning up the streets from fallen trees (normal after summer storms) and trash. Since then, the AIMers have been constantly approached by people in their colonia asking if they were a part of the group that helped clean up their streets. They continually express their gratitude that these young people would care about their neighborhood.

One night we took our group to a taco stand that we’ve just recently discovered. With a group of over 30, we practically took the place over. I’ve returned a couple of times since the group left and they keep asking about the youth that were with us. Two high school boys that wait on tables continue to ask about specific guys that were here and tell about specific conversations they had.

We’re anxious to reconnect with the teachers who helped us paint their school as well as some of the families that brought their kids to our Kid’s Day events. One dad called last night and invited our family to join them for a family outing in the coming week. We’ll see how it goes.

Thank you in advance for your prayers. We know that our job is to plant the seed and allow God to cause growth. So we covet your prayers, begging God to bring fruit to Guadalajara.

Jocotan Leading us into Ministry
Months ago a friend of Omar’s, Jose de Jesus, joined the assembly in Jocotan. It was one of those neat church moments when we were able to minister together to Jose, who feels all alone. After his mother passed away he was left alone in the house with his father who is basically a very angry man. I think I mentioned at the time that in our effort to encourage Jose, we as a body were encouraged by all that was being shared.

This past Sunday Omar (pictured to the left, helping out at the kid's day) told me that Jose’s dad had a stroke and now it’s up to Jose to take care of him. Omar has been visiting them and spending time praying with them. So before I left, we walked around the corner to Jose’s house and prayed together. Because of his sudden frailty, Jose’s dad is softening. How wonderful to see Omar noticing open doors and having the courage to walk through them.

After telling this story to Kim last night, she informed me that Jose’s sister was actually at the Kid’s Club in Jocotan when the guys from Grass Valley were here. She’s recently moved out of Jocotan into a nearby colonia. She expressed to Kim that she wants us to remember her and invite her to events in the future.

Visiting the Church in Cerro del Cuatro
While the family was away, I had lunch with the AIMers along with Gerardo and Martin from the church in Jardines del Valle. Martin planted the church in Cerro del Cuatro and he studies with them each Wednesday night. He invited me to join them later that evening for the study.

I don’t know why, but I feel like we’ve got a special connection with Cerro del Cuatro. For some reason, every time we’re with them we walk away encouraged.

We had a wonderful study on Acts 5. We discussed the apostles being thrown into jail and even beaten and told not to tell about Jesus. It was fun to see these new Christians find applications to their own lives. Martin asked them if they are good Christian people, might others still find reason to dislike them, and even mistreat them. Serafin answered that no, if they are Christ-followers all people will like them. So Martin invited them to look at the text again. I just watched as the Bible reformed their ideas about Christian living. Their eyes were being opened to the fact that suffering at the hands of others isn’t out of place in the Christian’s life. Instead, it was actually a place the apostles found intimacy with their savior.

On another note:

In May, (Memorial Day to be exact) we celebrated 5 years in Mexico. It sure doesn’t feel like 5 years, but at the same time, it feels like Amherst was really just a dream. To celebrate, we all took parasite treatments!

Hi Mom

2008-08-05T13:17:00.004-05:00

This is a test.

Random Blog

2008-07-30T11:43:00.001-05:00

I haven’t blogged in awhile, so thought I’d do a random post.

First, Kim and kids got back last Thursday. OOOH, how good it is to have them home. I went through culture shock the first few days… these kids are LOUD! … but totally worth it to have them home again. I’m reminded that I’m more than blessed by such a wonderful wife and three great kids.

I’m reading Blue Like Jazz. I’m probably the last minister to read it. And I am enjoying it, even though it has a quirky style. Does anyone else think it’s odd that the cover is purple instead of blue? (I’m also reading Sacred Rhythms which is an absolute favorite of Kim’s.)

Did you know that Lorena Ochoa is from Guadalajara? (Do you know who Lorena Ochoa is?)

I saw Batman last week before the family got back. I loved the first hour and a half. Sadly, its two and a half hours long.

Anyone watching Pushing Daisies? Kim and I love that show.

Last thing… when I was at the Cardinal game a few months back with dad and Dusty, we noticed something funny about the music they played before each batter stepped to the plate. The batters (for the home team) get to pick whatever song they want to be played, I’m assuming for motivational purposes, as they approach the batter’s box. One guy, Barton, who looks like Crab Man, had a love song played which sounded like Barry White. It was really an odd choice.

But it got Dusty and I to thinking… what if preachers did the same? So what music would your preacher approach the pulpit to? And why haven’t we started doing this?

Road Trip Anyone?

2008-07-16T11:15:00.002-05:00

Kim's brother Chris is moving from San Diego, California to Syracuse, New York. He planned with his little sister, Kara, to make a cross country road trip so he could have his car with him. Big sister Kelcy heard them making plans and thought maybe she'd like to go. Thus, they thought it wouldn't be right not to include middle sister Kimmy.

So they left from Ridgecrest, Ca yesterday morning. At the moment, they are somewhere West of Denver. If you'd like to follow along on their little journey, check out Kara's blog. Sounds like WAY too much fun!

http://ericandkara.blogspot.com/

I think Grandma Kay ought to be blogging her experience as well. She's watching all SEVEN grandkids for the week!

Happy 31!

2008-07-14T21:38:00.001-05:00

Tuesday, July 15th marks my dad’s 31st anniversary with Memorial Drive in Tulsa.

I think that says a lot about my dad, as well as the Memorial Drive Church of Christ. Congratulations to you both.

On dad’s blog he’s listed 31 things he’s learned in those 31 years. I thought I’d list two things I’ve learned from his 31 years.

1. Walk by faith.
2. Walking by faith is a whole lot of fun!

A Special Prayer Request

2008-06-23T17:26:00.002-05:00

This is Adah and Noah Henderson, the children of Jacob and Amanda Henderson (Missionaries in Mexico City). As many of you know, Noah has been undergoing tests for Tay-Sachs. The tests came back positive today.

Please pray for a miracle.

If you'd like to leave a note of encouragement, you could do it on Grandma Belinda's blog. http://www.shellseeker1.blogspot.com/

Everywhere Psalm

2008-06-10T12:26:00.002-05:00

The following was written by Kim as we traveled across Mexico last March. It was inspired by Clark’s constant reminder to us that God is “ev-we-weaw”. This has been reproduced without permission. (Shhh… don’t tell Kim.)

Everywhere Psalm

In the sun on my back and the classics:
smiles of my kids, the tears of a friend,
my marriage and how two have become a family.

the vast stretch of space and a cocoon;
a seed and a tree, possibilities and promise;
my past, present and future.

my nervous stomach? well, move in here.
my thoughts, words, decisions. move in here.
my self. Here.

The cattle on a thousand hills.
The drivers of a thousand cars?
in millions of plants and each distinct flower;
Humanity, Hearts. Here. my Hope.

more of You, move in Here;
to the familiar of home, realms unknown
and beyond the scope of imagination.

From the mouth of a three year old boy,
“God is ev-we-weaw.”

He who has ears to hear…

2008-05-30T14:31:00.003-05:00

I’ve always thought of the above phrase simply as Jesus’ way of getting the Pharisee’s attention. Then I read Psalms 115. Now, I think Jesus is communicating something very specific.

Starting in verse 4…
“But their idols are silver and gold, made by the hands of men. They have mouths, but cannot speak, eyes, but they cannot see; they have ears, but cannot hear, noses, but they cannot smell; they have hands, but cannot feel, feet, but they cannot walk; nor can they utter a sound with their throats. Those who make them will be like them, and so will all who trust in them.”

It appears that Jesus is leveling quite the accusation. It sounds like he’s calling them either idol worshippers or idol creators… or both! It is easy for us to see, 2,000 years after the fact, that the Pharisees were bowing down to the idol of tradition. And because of that, though they did in fact have ears, they couldn’t hear.

But what of us today? What if we replace the word “tradition” with the word “heritage”? Does that strike a chord with any of us?

I need to ask myself, do I do what I do (how I worship, evangelize, experience God…) because God has led me to this point? Or am I simply allowing what my heritage has always done to dictate how I continue on? And I think Jesus is quite clear on this point. Doesn’t he warn us to never put our hand to the plow and then look back? I can’t look for God today if I’m constantly looking over my shoulder to see if the history of my heritage approves.

Sadly, if your heritage has become your idol, you won’t be able to hear what’s being said.

Psalm 147

2008-05-27T12:27:00.001-05:00

Praise the Lord.
How good it is to sing praises to our God,
How pleasant and fitting to praise him!

Don’t know why, but it struck me today… that phrase, “it is fitting to praise him.” So I ask, what song are you singing today?

Family Update for May 08

2008-05-20T14:28:00.019-05:00

May 20,
We had a wonderful time getting see so many of you during our month of travels through Oklahoma and Texas. We were constantly reminded that God has blessed us with bonus family. Thank you, thank you, thank you for all of your love, care and support.

Church in the Park
Just after we arrived back from our furlough, the church in the northern part of Guadalajara hosted all of the churches for an assembly in the park. More than 80 of us met under the shade trees to celebrate God together. We sang, ate, studied and played together. Writing this now, a month later, I don’t remember which songs we sang, nor what was preached. But I remember the smiles and the connection of hearts. God was worshipped and he encouraged us all.

Power of Prayer
Lilian, our sister in Jocotan, has been reaching out to one of her co-workers, Anna. Anna recently told Lilian that her son-in-law had been arrested and wouldn’t be released unless her family paid an absurd bribe. Lilian, a new Christian, told Anna about how loving and caring her church was... how they help the poor and would love to help her. So Lilian invited Anna to our assembly in the park where all the churches would be together and she could ask them all for money. (Let us go ahead and say, we are so grateful this happened on a Sunday where all the churches would be together and there would be many wise Mexican brothers that could help us navigate these waters.)
Our teammates Gerardo and Carola Garcia took charge of the situation. They didn’t want to do anything that would hurt Lilian or even embarrass her. Still they didn’t feel like they should give Anna money at this time. Instead, they offered to pray together for Anna’s family. So we all gathered around and placed hands on Anna and prayed for justice to be done. Anna cried. Lilian told us later that she thought it was exactly what Anna needed.
The next day Lilian called us all to inform us that Anna’s son-in-law had been released from jail without any bribe being paid. It was incredible to see how this encouraged the church. Though none knew the young man, they had prayed. And God answered in a powerful way. We were all left looking for another opportunity to pray for God’s power.

Omar’s Growth
Though Omar is an amazing Christian, he is quite timid and feels like he has nothing to offer. He’s ashamed of his tattoos and how they speak of his past life. But in the last month, we’ve seen Omar draw from his past experiences to minister to others.
One of he Christians in La Piedad, a couple of hours outside of town, recently fell back into his addictions to drugs and alcohol. Omar has connected in the past with this man, Martin. So he took it upon himself to take the bus trip to his home and, quite frankly, chew him out... in love. Omar shared with us later what he told Martin and it was evident that God was using Omar to speak truth in this horrible situation. Because of Omar and other Christian brothers who also spoke truth, Martin has stopped drinking and doing drugs. Omar even arranged for Martin and his son to find work with him.

All-Church Retreat
On mothers’ day weekend, the churches retreated to our favorite retreat spot, just outside of town. It wasn’t the best weekend to get away and many were missed. Still, there were between 80 and 90 in attendance.

We spent the weekend together, singing, playing and studying God’s word together. Joe Pruett prepared 4 lessons that encouraged the church to delve deeper and commit to spiritual disciplines. We spent a lot of time divided up into groups discussing what was being taught. I (Tim) was especially encouraged to hear from some of the youth what they were learning and what they were taking home from the retreat. They spoke of a renewed commitment to take time to seek God out.

Many came prepared to do skits, or puppet shows or even share testimonies. The church was greatly encouraged by all that was shared.
We closed the retreat with the baptisms of Manuela and Rosa from Cerro del Cuatro.

Baptisms
Three years ago, at the same retreat place, Jose Luis and Julianita were baptized into Christ. One of their co-workers shared Jesus with them and has since planted a church in their home.

Through this new church Jose Luis and Julianita have reached out to their family and neighbors. And so, at the retreat, Jose Luis’s mom and sister-in-law were immersed into Christ. It is exciting to see that God isn’t done yet with this family.

Visiting Cerro del Cuatro
Both Jose Luis and Julinaita have taken interest in the past in Omar. I think they’ve seen a bit of themselves in him and so have taken care to encourage him every chance they get. This past Sunday they invited our church to come be with them to worship together. Thirteen of us traveled together on Sunday to Cerro del Cuatro, which is located on the south western edge of town. Our two new sisters in Christ were there as well, with their families and a couple of neighbors.

The AIMers Have Arrived
On Thursday, the 15th, 6 AIMers arrived to intern with our mission team. We are all very excited about what they have to offer the work here. I’ve been reminded that God used past AIMers in a pretty powerful way to plant the church in Jocotan. I don’t even know how much those AIMers are aware of God’s power through their efforts. They planted the seeds and began watering the soil. Two years later, one of those AIMers introduced the family to Kim and I and we just happen to be blessed to see the growth. But we’re reminded that God uses his whole body for his purpose.

New Pics

2008-05-20T10:28:00.009-05:00

This is one of my new favorite pictures. Clark is singing with his good friend Gerardo. While I'm at it, maybe I'll share a few other favorites.

Quincy with his cousin Campbell in Tulsa. Campbell just turned 3, by the way.

Our favorite mode of transportation.

Look ma, no tooth!

Karsyn's bonus cousin, Kira, teaches her how to color eggs.

I think Clark's eyes were a little bigger than his belly.

Tim and Noe

2008-05-13T09:32:00.001-05:00

Tim is traveling right now with his dad and brother. I imagine Wendy is sad to not get to be there to complete the sibling set and see grandma. This has been a busy season for us and so Tim’s blog has gone MIA for awhile. I thought I would just send out a note as a surprise for his return on Friday.

Tim is a great dad and I have almost never had to do all the school runs, meals, baths, tucking ins, etc. I feel very blessed in that aspect (really more like spoiled.) Because of our schedule of life here, we get to share in the parenting tasks and in our ministry. Most of all I love to listen in on his talks with the kids, the funny ones and the ones that leave our three excited about some big or deep idea. They love to have all his attention and when he makes a big deal about something they did well, they all really light up.

At our church retreat this weekend he made a little friend named Noe (Noah.) It was so cute to watch that little guy follow him around and reach up to take his hand. It reminded me of the blessing our kids have in Tim and really proud to see him loving this other little guy whose life has already been so much harder. This picture makes me think also about Dusty’s recent thoughts about the children and Jesus, how they had little to offer and could not “receive” teaching from the great Master. But how great for us that Jesus just wants to let us bask in His attention and make our hearts lighter.

In case you were interested...

2008-04-25T11:32:00.002-05:00

In case you were interested...

- We are actually back in Guadalajara. We returned two weeks ago yesterday.

- Kim's mom arrived the next day and her dad a week later. (They both left this morning.)

- Kim turned 31 while they were here (the 15th).

- Really fun stuff is going on with the work here... but it'll have to wait for the newsletter.

- My folks celebrated 40 years of marriage last Saturday. It is rumored that my mom thanked my dad for 35 great years.

- 3 years ago yesterday (the 24th), my nieces Campbell and Ana were born.

- I'm sitting in a coffee shop right now, while a movie is being filmed to my right. How can I get into this film, I wonder.

2008-03-13T19:18:00.006-05:00

We leave on furlough tomorrow so I thought I'd post some pictues before we go.

Here, Quincy is modeling his swim wear. All but the pijamas are required for his Friday swim class at school.

It looks like a couple of kids found the rubber stamps.

Karsyn looks pretty angelic here. The scream coming from her brother's mouth at this very instant tells me she is NOT.

Quincy and his best friend, Juan Pablo. Juan Pablo's a good kid. Which reminds me, my best friend in the 1st grade was not! I think 1st grade was when my dad's hair first started turning grey. Seriously, Dad ordered me, more than once to stop playing with Johnny.

Buzz, Sleeping Beauty and Buzz. We often find Sleeping Beauty passed out somewhere waiting for her prince to come kiss her. She can be pretty patient too. (Thanks to the grandparents for keeping us stocked with dress-up outfits.)

Ceci, Abby and Karsyn just hanging out together after visiting the butterfly reserve. They were in heaven.

Family Update

2008-03-12T17:08:00.006-05:00

We feel like this month has passed by so quickly. We are getting ready for a month of furlough and already feel a little tired. Pray for God to keep us safe in travel, give us some time to rest and be to at the center of all our conversations along the way. We wish that we were going to get to see all of you this time, but we are trying to keep it short so that Quincy will not miss much school. Please pray that our time away will be renewing for us, not too hard on kids, and a time of growing for our church.

Jocotan
A good friend of Omar’s joined us two weeks ago in Jocotan. Chiche (Jose) shares a similar background with Omar, struggling with addictions. Because of those addictions, he’s now very alone. At some point during our time together, we began to minister to Chiche as a family of Christ’s. And ministering together, we experienced everything we were hoping to offer. God encouraged us and, I believe, renewed our spirits. You could see it in the eyes of each that spoke to Chiche. As they told about God’s power and comfort that they’ve experienced, it was as if they were reliving it. I especially noticed Jose Julian’s growing excitement. And Jose Julian never said a word. But he was soaking in all that was being said. He’s been struggling lately and the words spoken around him were taking seed, again, in his heart and mind. It was a beautiful day. Chiche assured us that he would be back. He usually works on Sundays, but he’d do everything that he could to be back with us soon.

Please be in prayer for our group as they desire to minister to other family members and friends. In particular, please pray for Felipa (Julian’s mom) and her desire to know God better as well as, Chuy (Lupe’s brother) his wife (Nena) and their new baby boy. All of us have been praying for specific fruits of the spirit to be filling up our lives. For the sake of anonymity, I will not attach names to these specific requests: self control, patience, faithfulness/perseverance, wisdom, and acceptance/contentment

Sponsors’ Weekend
We had a blast hosting almost 30 friends and supporters from the states in February. I think each left excited about what God is doing in Mexico. (We also invited friends of ours in Mexico City to come to Guadalajara and share about their similar work with simple churches.

(From Tim) My favorite part of the weekend was after lunch on Sunday afternoon. Everyone, Mexicans and those from the U.S., were invited to share what God is doing in their lives. Mexican brother after Mexican brother shared what God has saved them from and how grateful they are to God and to whichever Christian brother it was that God used to lead them to Jesus. Though I’ve heard most of the stories before, I was still blown away.

Planning for such a weekend involves a lot of hassle and headaches, but in the end we always feel like it was worth it. One of the extra benefits, besides being with old friends (and new), is the process itself. We spend a lot of time figuring out what we want to share and how we want to share it. And each time we feel God reminding us of the good things that are going on; that he is powerful and at work among us.

Sad News
One of the men that came for the sponsors’ weekend, Tim Hartman from Yukon, Oklahoma, passed away two weeks ago. The plane he was piloting crashed near Oklahoma City. We only met Tim for the first time when he came to visit. However, it just so happened that his brother, Doug, was my (Tim) coordinator when I was an AIMer in Lisbon, Portugal. We ask that you pray for Tim’s wife and two sons as well as Doug and the entire Hartman family.

Quincy’s School
We continue to enjoy opportunities to be involved at Quincy’s school and meet more and more of his classmates’ parents. Tim attends a parents’
“Coaching” class every other week and we take turns volunteering once a week, receiving kids as they arrive at school.

This month the first grade put on a book fair for their parents. Each group of students took turns presenting the books that they authored together. It was quite cute. And once again we were reminded that Quincy is a natural with the microphone.

A good idea!

2008-03-06T13:00:00.005-06:00

Seinfeld had a quote I used to repeat a lot. "People, they're the worst." It's not that I don't like people... it's just that they can cause problems sometimes.

Then, on my dad's blog some time ago, he wrote, "People are some of God's greatest ideas." I love that quote much more than Seinfelds... and it's true. No matter how annoying we can sometimes be, we ARE some of God's greatest ideas.

Which brings me to Clark. Clark has been running around the house lately singing, "I am a good idea. I AM a good IDEA!"

Perhaps Clark doesn't always have the best ideas... but he IS a great idea.

Speaking of ideas... one day I plan on telling one of our twins, when they're in trouble, that they were an accident. Sure, their sibling was planned, but they were not. Good idea?

Calling all ex-AIMers!

2008-03-01T09:17:00.003-06:00

We just found out that AIM-a-Palooza is a go this year! If you're an ex-AIMer, please make plans to attend. You won't be sorry.

Check out this blog: http://aimapalooza.blogspot.com/2008/02/aim-palooza-2008.html and make a comment so we'll know who's going to be there. It will again be in Tulsa following the Friday night session.

Can't wait to see you.

If you attended last year... what was your favorite part?

(I'm not in charge... but suppose the people who read this are... is there anything you'd like to see happen at this year's a-palooza?)

This Can’t Be Good

2008-02-18T19:55:00.000-06:00

We got a form Saturday from one of our supporting congregations. Each year they send us a self-evaluation form to fill out and send back. This morning I sat down to work through it and send it in. However, I noticed something different about the form. All the questions were the same, but the title was different. This time it read, “Final Performance Review”. Um… should I be concerned about this turn of events?

Here Comes Mine Pucker!

2008-02-15T17:06:00.005-06:00

Have you heard Larry Boy’s song, “I Love My Lips!”? Well, it could have been written for Clark. For some reason he thinks his pucker is bigger and perhaps better than everyone else’s. Thus, he was running around yesterday yelling, “Here comes mine pucker!” and hurrying to give kisses. Very fun.

This photo is of the poor boy when he’s not puckering. Perhaps he’s in line for a visit to the dentist. Dr. Curtis, can you help the boy?

Let's Celebrate!

2008-02-13T20:34:00.002-06:00

Well, tomorrow is the big day.

Love renewed. Mystery awakened. Hope eternal.

The love affair, for me, began in 82. It was a wonderful, whirlwind romance with all the ups and downs one could hope for. Our first outing together. Hot August nights. The roar of the crowd. (Of course, you know I’m celebrating pitchers and catchers reporting to Spring Training. Right?)

It’s been a long winter with not many signings to speak of. Even still, there’s always hope. Unless of course you’re a Cubs' fan.

February Family Update

2008-02-07T20:40:00.000-06:00

February 5, 2008

In January the city finally woke up from its holiday slumber. It has been fun to get back into the mix of things again. God has been encouraging us and growing our faith in Him this month. He seems to be opening more doors for us and the churches here in Guadalajara.

Jocotan
As we mentioned last month, exciting things are happening with our house church in Jocotan. In January, we as a church were able to travel together to the home of Jose Julian’s mom, Felipa. She and a few of Julian’s brothers and sisters live in the colonia of Tuluquilla. (Though we’d still consider Tuluquilla to be a part of Guadalajara, it is 45 minutes from Jocotan.) Felipa was very warm and welcoming and appears to be excited to learn more about what has created such a change in the lives of Julian and Lilian. Even a couple of Julian’s sisters were eager to join us when we began to sing. However, more extended family happened to arrive who did not like the presence of our group or that we were worshipping there together. We ask that you continue to pray for this mission point; that God will not allow a negative voice to become an obstacle in reaching to this home.

Also, the brother of Lupe (Lupe is Omar’s wife… does this get confusing sometimes?), Chuy, joined our assembly one Sunday with his wife, Nena, and their two children. Chuy has visited with Omar in the past, expressing interest in what we’re doing because of the drastic change he’s seen in Omar’s life. It seemed that Chuy and Nena enjoyed their time with us, but they were pretty quiet (so it is hard to tell what they were really thinking.) Later Omar assured us that they did, in fact, have a good time. This was especially encouraging to Omar as Lupe seems to be held back in following God by how she fears her family could react. She was comforted by her brother’s desire to seek God openly and we pray that she will be moved to courageous steps of faith and seeking.

Answered Prayers

As we mentioned, we believe God is displaying His power in an exciting way here. Tim has partnered with our teammate Cory in the last couple of months to begin trying to reach out into two colonias on the other side of town. Cory began reaching out to a family in Lomas del Paraiso and asked Tim to join him in prayer-walking through the colonia and looking for more “persons of peace” as Jesus refers to them in Luke 10. They, similarly, began prayer-walking through the neighborhood of Alcalde Baranquitas where we have been ministering to a couple of friends over the past two years. And though they’ve just begun doing this on a consistant basis, it appears God is already opening more doors.

At our last team meeting we were sharing about what we’ve seen God doing in these colonias. In
Alcalde Baranquitas the extended family of our friend Sindy has gathered for a “prayer meeting” and they have dedicated themselves to seeking God together and to trying to encourage each other to live as a testimony to their neighborhood. We are really amazed at God’s work here. It excites us to see evidence of Him moving about in this city. Afterward our teammate, Gerardo, mentioned the opening of a new home in that same area because of the death in the family of one of the Christians from the North. They worshipped together in that home this month. There are Christians there who have no church fellowship at this time and other family members who were talking about wanting to be baptized. We praise God for His wisdom and ask for your prayers to steadily partner with God in whatever He wants for us to do.

The details surely get hard to follow in letters like this, but for us it is the details that make the stories so amazing and point to God’s direction and His hand in our lives and in our work. In your prayers for us, pray that we will walk in faith and seek God more and more.

We’re Getting AIMers!

For those that don’t know, AIM stands for Adventures in Missions, and is a program for 18-25 year olds designed to give them experience working with missionaries around the world. Our mission team has had AIM students come in the past, but the last ones were here when we were very new to Guadalajara. So, we feel like it’s a first for us. Kim and I were both in AIM and worked with the program while we were in college. At the missionary retreat, we were reminded of how God has blessed us with the relationships we made while working there. All of our American teammates were also AIMers at one time, and we were with many others who share the same connection and are also serving now in Mexico as missionaries.

Date night with Karsyn

2008-01-28T20:20:00.000-06:00

Well, date morning anyway.

This morning Clark had an appointment with a kindergarten for testing. (Do we do that in the states?) Thus, Karsita and I went on a breakfast date. It was really a lot of fun. I learned that she’d like to have a baby sister and she wants to name her Miss Cimina. Later, I realized she was trying to say cinnamon. I asked her what other names might be good and she said, “Auntie Kara! Because she’s a big gi-yal and has long hair. But she’s cool.” I’m not sure why she had to throw the ‘but’ in there, but oh well.

The first photo was taken at the beach with her special braided hair. The second picture is what happens after you take those tight little braids out. For some reason the boys thought they were great… thus made her even sadder still.

The Family

2008-01-25T16:02:00.001-06:00

This is the most recent family photo. Que Guapo!

A City on a Hill

2008-01-22T16:48:00.000-06:00

Driving home after Christmas in Oklahoma this year took a VERY LONG TIME. We had a few hiccups along the way, but the trip was mostly uneventful. On the second night, it was after dark and we were still an hour away from Matahuala, our destination for the night, when I remember the wear and stress getting to me. We’ve never had anything too bad happen on the highways in Mexico but we’ve been warned about driving on the highways after dark. It’s just not safe. So you can imagine how I felt once the lights of Matahuala came into view. I knew we were almost there… almost to our place of rest for the night. There was a peace that came over me as I took in the lights of a city on a hill. We were almost there; almost to safety.

Matthew 5:14 – “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.”

That city on a hill is what I want to be. To those around us, it’s what we offer… peace, rest, safety. To the unwed mother, to the struggling addict or the broken and bruised reed, I want to offer something other than judgment. Doesn’t the Bible say something about “a smoldering wick he will not snuff out.”? To be honest, that’s not always me. But it’s where I’m headed.

Don’t Give Me Any Lip!

2008-01-20T11:38:00.000-06:00

…no really, could you please take this back.

The other day Cory and I went to get tacos. I can’t remember which meat I ordered but it sure wasn’t what I received. I’d never had LIP tacos before. But to be honest, they were quite tasty. The meat was like really good pot roast except a bit more fatty. Still, I couldn’t stop thinking about what I was eating. It reminded me of the first time I had tongue tacos. I tossed one in the street when no one was looking. I just couldn’t shake the feeling of the cow tasting me while I tasted the cow. (I did eat all the lip, by the way, with some onions and lime and just a bit of salsa.)

So what’s the worst you’ve been served?

I will tell you the funniest I’ve seen served… The first time my folks came for a visit my dad ordered some sort of stuffed fish. He couldn’t resist checking to see what it was stuffed with. He shouldn’t have looked. There were tiny octopus arms staring back at him with their little bitty suckers. Dad couldn’t stop yelling, “Oh my goodness! Oh my goodness! Mary, oh my goodness!” The Pruett boys thought dad was very funny. Little did they know he wasn’t trying to be.

Can You Help?

2007-12-17T13:51:00.000-06:00

Well, I don’t usually steal so blatantly from someone else’s blog… but I read this on my dad’s today and wanted to share the opportunity with those of you that don’t also read his blog (that’s you mom).

So the following is a letter written by a missionary named Roger Dickson. (I actually met him in Swaziland, Africa in 94.) He’s a humble man and a great missionary.

It’s pretty hard to read all the way through, but I dare you to. And then ask yourself what you can do to help.

AFRICA INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS
P.O. Box 1919
Bellville 7535,
South Africa
Dr. Roger E. Dickson

MISSIONARY TRASHES PLEAS FOR BIBLES!

I AM A FRUSTRATED MISSIONARY! Maybe my wife, Martha, and I are in a unique ministry. Africa International Missions is a continental effort to help anybody, anywhere in Africa. So the pleas come in from everywhere. And what do I do with the pleas for Bibles for which you have NO MONEY JUST TO PAY THE POSTAGE BILL TO SEND THEM OUT?

YOU THROW THE PLEAS IN THE TRASH AND BEG FOR FORGIVENESS!

You think I'm kidding. Not on you life. We receive so many pleas for the word of God that there is no possible way to answer them. And so, we just throw the letters in the trash. Here are some pleas that went to the trash:

"Sir, we have Bible group discussions every Sunday before church starts to study the word of God. But sir, we do not have Bibles to use for the group discussions, which has been one of our major problems to study the Bible. Christians cannot learn the word of God without the Holy Book. Therefore, as the deacon and the leader of the group, I am standing on behalf of my group to beg you to send us some Holy Bibles to make available to our group." Hanson Ofoe Agu, New Town, Ghana

We threw this plea in the trash.

"We walk in the villages and preach the word of God. Many people come asking questions and then repent of their sins. But the problem which we face is that we need Bibles. Please send us Bibles for us to preach the word of God well." Patrick Mubisa, Chitipa, Malawi

Straight to the trash!

"I came from a Muslim family by the grace of the Almighty God. I gave my life to Christ. Since then I have a big problem with my family who sent me out of school and out of the community. The last message I heard from my friends before I ran to Gambia was that my family wanted to kill me because I changed to being a Christian. The purpose for my writing to you is to plead for Christ sake ... send me a Bible and Christian literature for me and my wife." W. M. Majaro, The Gambia

Yes, this one went to the trash!

"The village where we are has been greatly struck with diseases, which has resulted in many deaths, leaving many children homeless and many orphans. We are writing to request your help or assistance for materials. Right now, we are greatly requesting for 70 Holy Bibles. Our members cannot afford to buy Bibles and many have not opened a Bible since they were born. Beloved brother and sister, we are greatly praying and fasting for you to help us out with this great gift anyone could receive. We really have many numbers of false religions. We want to try our best to reach all of them with the truth of God's gospel." David Gbuyi, Gunedogun Village, Nigeria

TRASHED!

"I am your brother and a believer also. I am nine years old this year. I worship at the above church mentioned inside this note. In God's name, I am begging you people with all my mind and the love of God, provide me with one Bible through your good office." Eze Nnadozie, Benin City, Nigeria

TRASHED!

"Please, I am an evangelist here in Ghana who preaches in the market and at truck stations. I preach also by moving from door to door from different houses for the salvation of lost souls. Through the preaching, many people have been converted to God. The majority of the people don't have Bibles. They come to church empty handed. So when there is the need to open to the Bible to search for the word of God, there is no way for them. Please, I am pleading with your ministry to come to my aid by sending me 20 Bibles." Emmanuel Kwamina Ephraim, Ketan Sekondi, Ghana

TRASHED!

"My name is Maureen Watch Eze. We fellowship in a Bible believing church. The church has about 100 members with a man of God who is also a devoted man of God. I am serving as a worker in my church, leading the Sarah Group Evangelical Team. The Sarah Group comprises of women above the age of 60 in our church. Our aim is to reach out to souls for Christ, especially those above 60. Most of them appreciate welcoming mothers of the same age, and thus we have won many souls by God's grace. My purpose for writing today is to make a request for Bibles. We are 23 in the Sarah Group and 15 of us do not have a Bible and cannot afford to buy one. I am appealing to you to kindly send us 15 Bibles." Maureen Watch Eze, Benin City, Nigeria

Had enough?

"Please, I am a man of 42 years of age and my wife and I have five children. But sir, we do not have a Bible to use for church service. We are not the only people who go to church without a Bible. Most of the members of the church do not have Bibles to use, and our preacher always tells us to bring our Bibles to church. But we do not bring them because we do not have them. The fact is that most of us just do not have Bibles. And as a true Christian you need to have a Bible to use for daily learning and studies since without the Bible you cannot learn the word of God. I am asking you to come to our aid by sending some Holy Bibles to make it possible for everyone to have access to them to use for their studies. God bless you for having it in your mind to grant us the word of God. I cannot wait to see the parcel of the Holy Bibles you send to us. God bless you for your kind heartedness towards human-beings." Maxwell Agbarkey, Ashaiman, Ghana

What kind of missionary would trash such requests from a continent pleading for Bibles? A missionary with funds to do so, that's who.

WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF YOU RECEIVED REQUESTS AS THIS DAY AFTER DAY AFTER DAY, BUT COULD DO NOTHING ABOUT IT? WHAT WOULD YOU DO?

That's right, just go out to eat and spend $15.00 for the meal. You just "ate" THREE BIBLES that we could have been sent to requests as the above. So, before you blame the missionary who trashed the request, remember, "Thou art the man, also."

(Yes, this is one of those email messages that should be passed around like all that other stuff. If you can pass on some joke, then surely you can pass on something as this. If your heart aches for Africa like ours, then do something.)

Me in 8 Nutshells

2007-11-17T10:01:00.000-06:00

Well I, Kim, was tagged twice on Tim’s blog and since I have never posted it would be pretty easy for me to post twice as much. I can be frightfully long winded, so there will be only a few, brave souls that make it all the way to the end of my post. I am cheating, I was not going to tag anyone since I almost never blog. But I am going to tag my neice, Kira and nephew, Ethan.

1-- I contribute my strong tomboy streak largely to my older sis, Kelcey. When we would play house as kids (since she is older) she always got to be the mom. I got so used to being the make-believe dad that once when I was about 3 or 4 I informed my fam that they could call me Jeffery. They said “no”.

2--Around 4th grade, my best friend Ariana and I used to play soccer at every recess with the boys. We were very conceited and highly talented athletes, always running just as hard and fast as we could. Probably after watching me run my heart out and strut over a great steal, one of Kelcey’s friends said to her “Your sister runs like a boy, does she walk like a girl?”

3--I am by nature a packrat. It pains me to throw cool or possibly useful stuff away. Also in 4th grade, (as tradition for all of us) my Grandma Chrystal took me to the capital building when I was going to start studying CA government. As we walked through the metal detectors, I set off all the bells and whistles. We stepped aside and she asked me if I had anything metal in my little purse or pockets. All of the security agents and Grandma were cracking up by the time I was done emptying all the treasures from my purse. It was a collection of flattened scraps of metal from parking lots. Fascinating stuff!

4--Living in Russia and Mexico has only added to my already thrify, almost miserly self. When my little sis, Kara, was here visiting I was talking about turning our leftover fajitas and chilaquiles into a great egg casserole the next day for breakfast. She said “Kim, if you were not a missionary, I think you would make a great . . . (now here is where I expected her to say gourmet chief or something related, but no) . . . cafeteria lunch lady!” Oh the shame! Sadly, it so fits. We never bought hot lunch on “Cook’s Choice” day because we knew that was cafeteria code for leftovers. (Well anyway, the breakfast was delicious.)

5--Not all tomboy, I am afraid of spiders and creepy-crawlies in general. I used to play outside a lot with my brother, Chris. Once we were both up in the apricot tree and when he turned around I was shocked to see that there was a lizard clinging to the back of his t-shirt. Instead of telling him and having to help get it off, I said “Let’s run to the house!” It was a good little distance, and thankfully the lizard bailed off before we got to the fence. (I am pretty sure I have never told him that story!)

6-- I love projects and like to throw a little creativity into everything I do. Tim has thought I was crazy more than once because of another bright idea. One of my all time favorites was knitting a hammock after moving back to CA from Russia. I really think projects are therapeutic for me, it was my form of combating reverse culture shock. I am thankful to have parents that let me make messes and allowed me to follow some whims. I want to be that kind of a mom.

7-- Here are a bunch in one, since my time in almost out. I am a relationship person; loyal to a fault; cower at conflict; love to make life more liveable; cry at the drop of a hat; love to sing out loud and be silly; love to read out loud to myself or anyone who will listen; love Tim and being married; love being a mom of three and that has also been the biggest challenge in life so far.

8—Here is the social worker in me coming out. My most recent fascination has been a program I heard about this week on the news called One Laptop Per Child (OLPC) and the idea is to provide kid friendly laptops to students in poverty stricken areas (especially in third-world countries.) The more I think about it, I love the idea. The goal of the company is to alleviate poverty by empowering students with access to knowledge, technology and global communication. But it really relies on the creativity of the members to improve their communities by what they are given. Neat, huh? Anyway, until Nov. 26 they are running a promotion for the program that if you give one laptop, you get one to keep or give to the child of your choice. I wonder what great good God could do through this. Here’s the link for anyone interested: http://www.laptop.org/en/vision/index.shtml

Thanks, Tim, for letting me hijack your blog and ever indulging my crazies.

Rush Family Update

2007-11-05T17:23:00.001-06:00

If you'd be interested in reading our monthly newsletter, you can check it out at http://www.saturnroad.org/html/bm~doc/mexico-rpt_october-2007.pdf

2007-10-29T21:55:00.000-05:00

I have been tagged by Maggie Harris. Truth be told, I was also tagged by Doug Townsdin right before I had my tonsils taken out but never played along. So here goes…Here are the rules. 1)Each player starts with eight random facts/habits about themselves. (2) People who are tagged need to write a post on their own blog (about their eight things) and post these rules. (3) At the end of your blog, you need to choose eight people to get tagged and list their names. (4) Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them they’re tagged, and to read your blog

1. The most interesting One Thing to ever happen would be my 30 ft. fall from a cliff when I was an AIM student in Portugal. But since I’ve beaten that dead horse, I won’t retell it here.

2. I’m a direct descendant of Benjamin Rush. “Who is that?”, you ask. If you look on the Declaration of Independence and find Benjamin Franklin’s name, Rush’s is right above it. I could probably give you 8 facts about him easier than I can about myself. Interesting fellow! My youngest son’s name happens to be Clark Benjamin.

3. I’ve been in a couple of pretty interesting historical settings. I was in Russia in 96 when they almost returned to communism. (Dennis Wilson had me convinced it would happen and had me deciding what I’d do if they returned. It was quite the teaching moment!) And I was in South Africa weeks after Nelson Mandela was elected president in 94. As we were leaving the airport, upon arrival, the missionary that picked us up (Paul Miller and Monica Smith-now-Fox went as well) pointed out a pile of rubble where someone detonated a bomb the week before in protest to the elections.

4. This is kind of gross, but I like to snack on spinach by putting a huge chaw of it in my mouth and continuing on about my day. Kim’s not a fan of the habit, though she’s happy to see me eating my veggies.

5. I find it very interesting that my parents were converted by missionaries. The College Church of Christ in Abilene, Tx sent missionaries to Quincy Il, somewhere around 68. Really, who would target Quincy? I’m so glad they did! My oldest son’s name is Quincy.

6. James Kinnaird was my best friend in AIM (class of 90). 5 years later, he and his beautiful wife coordinated a young AIMer in Perm Russia by the name of Kimberly Blachly who would later marry me. (James’s oldest son’s name is Timothy. No, not really named after me, but I thought that piece of info would fit in nicely here.)

7. The only noticeable skill I’ve ever exhibited has been dissecting rats in biology lab at Texas Tech. Really, it was like a freaky thing. I believe each person has THEIR gift that they can do better than anyone else. I was saddened to find that was mine. I couldn’t really skin rats at parties to impress girls.

8. I used to swear I’d never be a preacher, never do mission work and NEVER go to Africa. After I had done all three I began swearing that I’d NEVER marry a super model. It worked!

I tag Kara Lane (Blachly) Olsen. http://ericandkara.blogspot.com/ By the way, my daughter’s name is Karsyn Lane. I think I’ll put their links up just in case you’d like to catch up with them. So I also tag Doug Oaks http://thedougout24.wordpress.com/, Pat Sheaffer http://sheaffersaimreport.blogspot.com/, Doogle http://allaboutcanaan.blogspot.com/, Theresa Wilson http://denniswilson.com/theresa/ , Beau Hart http://beauahart.blogspot.com/, Cheeky Susan http://cheekyness.blogspot.com/ and Clair (Maguire) Wilson http://www.gingerpixel.com/.

Happy Chocolate Day!

2007-10-29T17:43:00.000-05:00

My sister-in-law, Kara (http://ericandkara.blogspot.com/), informed me that yesterday was National Chocolate Lovers' Day and I forgot to celebrate. I just thought the rest of you might want to know in case you missed it too.

Angie Burns

2007-10-08T18:49:00.000-05:00

I want to direct your attention to another blog. Over at http://paigeforeman.com/blog/ Paige Foreman is honoring/roasting Angie Burns who just happens to be one of my favorite people. If you haven't already, please stop by and tell Angie why you love her. And then be sure and tell the juiciest story you know about her.

This is Angie's cheering section ready to hear her speak at the Tulsa Workshop last March.

This picture was in the same folder. I don't think Angie will mind if I add a photo of the kids.

Baseball Picks Anyone?

2007-10-03T14:22:00.000-05:00

What's wrong with me? 3 posts in 2 days?

But the games are about to start. Oops, I just checked and the Rhillies and Rockies are in the 2nd inning. Oh well.

Phillies vs. Rockies
Cubs vs. D-Backs
Red Sox vs. Angels
Yankees vs. Indians

Who've you got?

I'm saying it will be Red Sox over Yankees and Phillies over Cubs, with the Red Sox winning it all.

Heroes? Goats? Bartmans?

Jesus came looking for me

2007-10-03T10:35:00.001-05:00

Well, it was actually Jesús, Lupe’s brother. (Lupe is Omar’s wife… we probably need a score card, don’t we?) We’ve been praying about open doors into Lupe’s family and have only met them on a few occasions. Jesús has been by their house a couple of times. He’s rather soft spoken, but we’ve tried to be kind and let him know we’re interested in him. Though we’ve only spoken a few times, he came by Omar and Lupe’s house on Sunday looking for me. (I was in Dallas at the time.) Thus, I’m curious as to why he came by and am asking for you to be praying about Jesús. He could be coming by to ask for money or help with paper work. But we’re hoping it has something to do with Jesús looking for Jesus.

Would you mind praying that this has to do with Jesus and not something to do with me being a gringo? Thanks.

Ode to the Q

2007-10-02T16:17:00.000-05:00

Feats of Strength.

I thought I'd post a few recent pictures of Quincy. He turned six in August and is in the first grade.
Best buds. This is Cooper Pruett the youngest son of Joe and Elaine. All three of their kids are giants.

Festavis for the rest of us! The Q and I about to have some birthday cake.

Why we love our tortillas!

Dallas Anyone?

2007-09-27T22:03:00.000-05:00

I just happen to be going to Dallas this weekend to speak at one of our supporting congregations. Anybody going to be in town? I'll be at Saturn Road Church of Christ in Garland.

If you don't speak Spanish, I suggest you come here me in the a.m. speak to the Spanish congregation. If you don't speak it, you'll be shocked at how well I do. If you do speak Spanish, I suggest you come here me in the p.m. when I speak to the English congregation. Cause if you do speak Spanish, my version of Spanish might be a bit offensive to your ears.

It will be a quick trip and Kim and Kids won't be with me. I'll probably be booked up for my only whole day there, but wouldn't mind getting to say howdy to anyone that pops by!

Some pictures

2007-09-24T17:17:00.000-05:00

Here's a few pictures from our trip in August. There were a couple of nights on the cruise when we had to dress up. Thankfully, we had a few tuxes from Aunt Kara's wedding.

Karsyn with her cousin Kaya. Aren't they too cute.

The name's Rush, Clark Rush

The Q looks good!

Here's the family in Sitka, Alaska. You can just barely see the ship in the background.

The cousins looking good for supper. (Ethan, Quincy, Canaan and Clark)

Listening to God

2007-09-13T12:28:00.000-05:00

Something caught my attention this morning while reading I Samuel 3. God keeps calling out to Samuel, but Samuel mistakenly thinks he’s hearing from Eli.

This leaves me with two questions: When God calls out to me, do I know it’s him or am I turning to others with questions I should be taking to him? And, how hard am I making it for others to listen to God? I’m afraid that if someone were to ask me to help them distinguish God’s will in their lives, I’d too eagerly draw on my own experiences. Thus, there’s a good chance I’d think they should go to AIM or be a missionary or become involved in house churches.

I want to be like Eli and direct them back to God.

It’s interesting now, looking back at I Samuel 3:1, to see how the story begins. “In those days the word of the Lord was rare.”

just a few thoughts

2007-09-11T09:58:00.000-05:00

I'm probably the only one who still checks this blog to see if I've written anything. But thought I'd share just a couple of thoughts.

First, the cruise was great! I'd rather do that than Disneyland. The view from the elevator on the ship every morning was as good as I've ever seen. And the food was beyond belief. Besides all of that, Kim's family is too cool. I'm so lucky to have married into such fun.

Also, if you haven't read Dusty's blog this morning you really need to check it out. http://rustydush.wordpress.com/2007/09/10/preparing/#comments

And while we're at it, if you haven't found Rex Boyles http://www.rexboyles.com/blog/ and Craig Hicks http://craigallenhicks.wordpress.com/ on the web yet, you are missing out.

Grandma's Fornia

2007-08-20T10:03:00.000-05:00

In just a few minutes I'll be off to the airport to join my family in Californai. Or as Karsyn says, "Grandma's Fornia, where we'll see my birthday!"

Kim and kids have been there for almost two weeks now. I can't wait to see them tonight! We'll spend a couple of nights with Kim's grandpa and then a few more with her sister Kelcy and her husband Eli. On Thursday we're having a big birthday party for all three kids. (Clark and Karsyn's birthdays or on the 23rd and then Quincy's will be on the 25th.) On the 25th we'll be flying up to Seattle where we'll set sail to Alaska on the 26th.

Doesn't it sound odd to hear of a missionary family going on a cruise? I almost feel guilty about it, even though we aren't paying a dime.

I hope the rest of you have a fun time getting back to school.

Rush Family Update (with more pictures)

2007-07-31T14:28:00.000-05:00

July 30 , 2007

The Church in Jocotan
Yesterday was a great day in Jocotan. They invited more of their family to come be with us and to share a big meal together. (Omar is pictured to the right with his mother, Lucia, and his sister, Flor) They even invited Tim’s friend Felipe, whom they’ve met once or twice, to join us.

Because of a huge rain storm, most of the family wasn’t able to arrive until after the study time. (None have cars so they had to wait for the rain to let up before they could take public transportation.) But after we ate together, Omar took the lead in sharing communion. It was very encouraging to see him take the initiative to draw the family together, even those that might mock him for it, and tell them why we were about to share the bread and juice. Felipe really enjoyed the experience and commented how he’d like to be a part of the church in the future. Please keep praying for Felipe. He continues to study with Tim and loves spending time with our family, but drags his feet when the conversation turns to discipleship and commitment to Jesus.

Summer Interns
This summer, our team welcomed two interns from ACU. Carissa and Marcela (with our teammate, Toni, and Kim) spent two months living with the sisters in Mariano Otero. They were full-time Spanish students while involving themselves with various ministry opportunities. They spent time with each of the missionary families and most of the churches at least once. They came with great attitudes and willingness to do anything they could think of or that we could ask of them. They were especially helpful to our family as we hosted a campaign group from Alaska. As Tim was on bed rest after his surgery just before the group arrived, the interns helped Kim with some of the leg work needed to organize a couple of the days’ events and joined us during all of their free time.

Campaign Group

A group from Juneau, Alaska came to work with us for a week in July. They were led by Bruce Baird who was Tim’s roommate when they were AIM students 15 years ago in Lisbon, Portugal. The group consisted of 3 adults, 4 high school students and one very cute baby.
As none spoke Spanish, it was a new experience for all of us. Our past groups have been mainly Spanish-speaking.

We put them to work painting a house for our sister Adriana, as well as painting and cleaning in parks, serving food to the poor and visiting a children’s home. They also brought clothes they had collected to give away.

Though they couldn’t speak with those they were sharing with, it was fun seeing how communication was taking place. We gave the majority of the clothing away while we were in Mariano Otero.

The church there is well known in the neighborhood and everyone also knows that the “gringos” who come through are friends with the Christians. So even though we didn’t pass out literature or invitations to a specific event, they knew he clothing was a gift from the church.

On Sunday they joined us in Jocotan where we had somewhat of a bilingual worship time. It went surprisingly well going back and forth from Spanish to English. Both Lilian and Omar were excited to share their stories with the youth. They said that the young people impressed them and taught them a lot about being faithful, since most have known God from their childhood. But, I think the youth were more impressed by hearing from Lilian and Omar about how their lives are being radically changed by God.

Connecting With Other Churches
Though the churches each meet in their own neighborhoods, all who lead in the different groups desire to foster a greater sense of community between the churches. Through monthly leaders meetings as well as all-Church assemblies, training times and other occasions, even the more recent members of our family are feeling united to the brothers and sisters from across Guadalajara and La Piedad (3 hours away). Being a part of a larger family helps when a particular church goes through a period of crisis, such as what the church in Jardines del Valle experienced when several had serious health problems at the same time.
As with any family, when one member is hurting or struggling, the whole family is affected. This last month our brother Martin Camarena, from La Piedad, began drinking and using drugs again. This breaks our hearts as he is such a wonderful man who God uses mightily to advance his kingdom. We hate to see Satan gain ground in Martin’s life. But we’ve also been given reason to praise God as His church has reached out to Martin and his wife Rosa. We were especially grateful that Omar also offered to call Martin and give support as a Christian brother who understands because of a similar past. We see this as a growth step, as he used his unique past struggles to minister within the body. Our teammate Nancy was saying that Rosa and her kids seem more peace-filled during this crisis than in times past and it appears to be largely due to feeling connected and supported by other Christians. Please keep the Camarena family in your prayers.

Quincy’s Graduation
On the 5th of July, Quincy graduated from Kindergarten. God provided for Quincy (and our family) a great beginning to his educational experience and we do not take this for granted. He really answered all of our prayers in this area. We are curious to see how things change and how God will work as Quincy moves to a new school in September.

Almost Like New

2007-07-17T11:11:00.000-05:00

Well, I went to the doctor yesterday and I’m almost done with the whole healing process. He told me I could begin being more active, but couldn’t do anything strenuous or lift anything heavy. Nor could I bend over. (That one is still weird to me.)

That is good and bad news as we have a campaign group arriving today from Alaska. It is good that I can drive them places and hang out with them, but bad that I can’t really be involved in the work part of it. And though I can speak more, my throat still gets sore after talking. And the leader of the group is my old friend Bruce. (We were AIMers together in Portugal over 15 years ago.) I’m sure there will be many stories that will need to be relived. Thankfully, Kim is on top of things as she’s done most of the prep work while I’ve been laid up the past two weeks. (I nominate Kim for mom and wife and missionary of the year. She’s been incredible.)

I can’t remember if I mentioned this in the comment section of the last post, but the original surgery went well (2 weeks ago). But last Monday I started coughing up blood and they ended up having to go back in and redo some stitches as well as cauterize a vein. Fun stuff.

Funny Side Note:
When we went to the doctor’s office yesterday, we parked in the parking garage and took the elevator two flights up. (Mom, if you’re reading this… go ahead and turn away now.) When we got in the elevator and the doors closed Kim was feeling silly, and lunged at me as if we were going to make out in the elevator. However, there was someone trying to catch the elevator that we were unaware of and he hit the button to open the door and ride up with us. Kim was in mid-lunge as the doors suddenly opened. PRICELESS! Kim could not stop laughing and apologizing to the guy who couldn’t stop giggling to himself and looking away.

on hold

2007-06-28T11:21:00.000-05:00

Well, the surgery isn’t cancelled but it has been delayed. When I said I wasn’t sick; that was wishful thinking. I felt at the time that I might be coming down with the colds the kids are sharing. It’s now official: I'm sick. But, we’ve rescheduled for Tuesday which gives us a little more time to get prepared.

They’re Coming Out!

2007-06-26T17:02:00.001-05:00

For years, everyone, but my doctor has agreed, they’ve got to come out. They are huge and do not belong there. (I’m talking about my tonsils here.) Each doctor says, “Oh, let’s try this or that thing and watch them for a while first.” Of course, that’s what the doctor in Lubbock said before I moved to Amherst. The doctor in Amherst said it before moving to Guadalajara and the doctor here said the same thing before I changed doctors. Of course the new doctor said the same thing. But all that has changed now! (Even when I was a little guy, I remember my dentist asking my dad and my dad asking our family doctor, “Are you sure those things shouldn’t be pulled out?)

The weird thing is they’re coming out at a time that I don’t FEEL sick. I am sick… or my tonsils are anyway. I’d love to go into detail, but it would only be fun to do so if we were sitting across the table from each other and I could see the look on your face.

Anywho, Friday’s the big day! You might want to keep my wife and kids in your prayers as the recovery time for an adult is quite a bit longer than the recovery time for a child. I’m not certain which way it goes for an immature adult, but we’ll find out.

2007-06-18T07:26:00.000-05:00

Happy Fathers' Day to all you proud papas. Especially mine! And it just so happens that my dad is turning 60 today, the 18th of June. Can you believe it? 60! Click onto his link to the right and join his eBirthday party.

This is the fam at our Fathers' Day Baseball extravaganza. Kim and a few others rented the baseball rapido field and we had a HUGE day. All the kids got to bat each inning and run the bases. It was way fun.

Looks like Kim needs a Cardinal jersey for Mothers' Day next year. ...just what she's always wanted.

Quote of the Day

2007-06-11T11:15:00.000-05:00

From Philip Yancey's book on prayer, "We who barely comprehend ourselves are approaching a God we cannot possibly comprehend (p. 48)."

Or, myself to Karsyn just a few minutes ago. "No, no punkin, we don't eat anything that falls into the potty."

Cline Paden

2007-06-08T09:54:00.001-05:00

I just read a friend’s blog on the funeral of Cline Paden. For some time now I’ve wanted to visit with someone who attended the funeral to find out if it did him justice. Of course, how could a couple of hours of anything do justice to a man like Cline. However, my friend and teacher, walked away renewed and inspired. Sounds like he spent time with Cline.

This got me thinking about a speech I had to give at Texas Tech almost 10 years ago. The assignment was to interview someone and then give a speech on the topic of the interview. I chose Cline, though I really didn’t know what the topic would be. It didn’t matter, Cline did.

I just sat in awe as he told me his story; about his desire to do mission work. He told me about his sadness when he realized God didn’t share that vision for his life. Instead, he learned, God wanted him to help train other missionaries.

The interview probably lasted an hour and a half. In the end, I might have asked two questions. But we had a theme: The Power of One. I told my class at Tech about the power of one person stepping out in faith, doing what they believe is right. When I took my seat after my 10 minute speech, I overheard two of the cool kids in class saying to each other, “Man, I really need to do something with my life.” Ha. Cline wasn’t even in the room, and he was inspiring college kids to reach for something higher than themselves.

American Idol

2007-06-05T08:03:00.000-05:00

Have you heard the news that Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson are going to be fired from American Idol? I have no idea if it is true or not, but that's the headline on my AOL news. The shocker is that Brittney Spears might be in line to replace Paula. Eeck.

Who would you suggest? I see the creepy guy who played Greg Brady being a good choice.

That’s What She Said

2007-05-20T19:20:00.000-05:00

The other night, at the dinner table, I heard Kim say the following: “Clark, stop putting that fork between your toes and put it back on your plate.”

In her defense, she’s now claiming she said that last part with a smile on her face. I’ll let any of you mothers of small children make the call on that one.

Do you think Karsyn's misery is the source of Clark and Quincy's happiness?

An Odd Fear of Gravy

2007-05-15T16:00:00.000-05:00

The memory is really quite vivid. We’d be sitting there in church in Quincy, Illinois trying to be still. Songs were being sung, trays passed, prayers prayed. Then it would happen. We’d begin this slow and low song, almost like a funeral dirge... and I’d start to cringe. Though the verses passed at a snails pace, I knew the chorus would hit us with a rush… a very scary rush. Before we’d even hit the chorus, I’d see it: a huge, almost pond-size, bowl of gravy with a lone hand reaching up as if grasping for a life preserver. Then it would start. “Up from the gravy he arose, he arose…” Scared me to death! And I don’t mind saying, it made me quite leery of those mashed potatoes and gravy we’d be having soon after.

My friend James Glasscock was always afraid of some mysterious stranger named Andy and questioned why he would want to walk with him and talk with him. Once again, it was due to these crazy church songs. “Andy walks with me, Andy talks with me, Andy tells me I am his own.” That’s enough to frighten any small kid away from church.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
On another note, my mom begins a new journey today. My folks now have internet in their home! So welcome to the web family mom.

That means you guys need to watch your language from here on out.

Baby Ana

2007-05-07T11:10:00.000-05:00

This last weekend I overheard a part of a conversation going on in our backseat between Quincy and his friend Allison. They must have been discussing cousins because I hear Q say, “My cousin Ana died when she was a baby. But don’t worry cause she’s with God now. Well, I don’t know if she’s still a baby or not.”

It was two years ago today that Baby Ana passed away, breaking all of our hearts. Two years ago today she stepped into a realm that we don’t understand but can only imagine. We won’t know if she’s a baby or full grown until we, one day, are blessed to step through to that same realm. (I’m guessing full grown, however that plays out with a redeemed body. I’m betting she looks just like her mom.)

Until then, our prayers are with Wendy, Chris, Hayden and Ana’s twin sister, Campbell-bell. May God bless you today with much peace. We love you.

What you might have missed.

2007-04-30T14:08:00.000-05:00

Does anyone know what Adolph Hitler, Colin Powell, Jessica Lange, Luthor Vandross, Don Mattingly, Carmen Electra and Joey Lawrence all have in common? If you said they were all born on April 20th, you win the prize. (Angie, tell them what they’ve won!) Whoa! (Said with my best Joey from Blossom voice.)

It seems that April is a busy month for birthdays. Also celebrating were Jed Clampet, Axel Foley, the 6 Million Dollar Man (Or was it just one million?) and Superman’s dad (Marlon Brando). You have to wonder what the party would be like if Chuck Connors, Jackie Chann and Steven Seagal celebrated together. I’m pretty sure I’d rather go to the party for Jay Leno, David Letterman, Conan O’Brian and Jerry Seinfeld.

Lew Alcinder could come too. (Real name anyone?) Peter Rose probably wouldn’t get voted in and no one would know where to send Saddam Hussein’s invitation. Perhaps we could get Barbara Streisand to perform, though I hear she’s shy.

Even Shirley MacLaine celebrates one of her birthdays in April!

And after all that partying, surely someone would end up in the Betty Ford (also April) Center.

Also celebrating would be Kris Smith and Greg True; both April 1st babies. (You have to watch out for anyone born on the first.

Jeff Gearhart’s birthday was in April. Jeff, can you believe Herbie, not John, Hanckock’s birthday is on the 12th!

Paul Miller celebrates in April and boy is he getting old!

Anna and Campbell (a.k.a. Campbell-bell) Chapel were born in April.

And on April 15th, when everyone else is celebrating the paying of taxes, we in the Rush house party in honor of Kim who just turned 30! (She’ll always be 29 to me.)

Imagine all the stories Tom Clancy (also an April baby) could tell.

Sensational Journalism

2007-04-23T11:54:00.000-05:00

Is it just me or are others bugged with the sensational journalism that seems to enjoy whichever current tragedy or massacre?

I heard CNN teasing a later story this morning by saying, and this is not a lie, “Would the Virginia Tech tragedy have been avoided if students were allowed to carry fire arms?” And then something along the lines of following up this “debate” from the state where it is allowed.

People! Is this really a “debate”? And, please don’t let that state be Oklahoma.

While I was away...

2007-04-17T15:07:00.000-05:00

While I was in Tulsa, Kim’s sister and her two daughters came to Guadalajara. Kelcey brought Kira and Kia to Mexico so that Kim wouldn’t be alone. I came home to find Kira turning my little Karsy into a cover girl.

Kira told Karsyn how to pose, and Karsyn did it.

I’m thinking Kira has a future in photography...

...these photos were taken by her.

...and Karsyn might be a future model.

So it's been a while.

2007-04-01T18:04:00.000-05:00

I got back from Tulsa on Tuesday. What a fun trip! The singing at Memorial on Wednesday was the best I’ve heard in recent memory. …just to be topped by the singing at AIM-a-palooza on Friday night.

The classes were great. So fun to hear what God is doing in his church all around the globe. And the fellowship was a once-in-a-lifetime treat. So many friends, so little time.

And then there’s family! Even my grandma was there. I hadn’t seen her in 3 years.

I even got to golf. I’m horrible and only golf for social reasons. But it was great spending 3 hours chasing my stray tee shots with Dad, Dusty and Shawn Mays. (Shawn and Arleen are recent additions to the family. Well, Arlene was voted in, but Shawn is in somewhat of a probation period as he’s a Cub fan and can’t kick the habit.)

Which brings us to tonight. The first pitch is less than an hour away! Is anyone else suiting up?

Off to Tulsa!

2007-03-19T22:12:00.000-05:00

One more sleep!

Tomorrow morning we take Q to school and then head right on out to the airport. I should be in Tulsa by 5:00 p.m. I do have my doubts though. I'm not sure I can make it through customs in Houston during the hour provided, back through security and on to my gate. I'm betting I get the next flight.

Kim heads back out to the airport about that time, here in Guadalajara to pick up Kelcy and her two daughters. I'll be back in time to spend a couple of days with them before they make their way back to California.

Hope you all have a great week. I'm really looking forward to seeing many of you in Tulsa.

Baseball Season!

2007-03-15T22:35:00.000-05:00

Today we had our second baseball practice! The team, it turns out, has been practicing since August. Cory Burns found out about the team two weeks ago so Josiah and Quincy have practiced with them today and last Thursday. We're not sure if they'll get to play in the games or not.

We're really not even sure how many more times they'll attend practice. It is a blast, but they are behind the rest of the kids and don't have the attention span. The practices last for over 2 and 1/2 hours. The boys have a blast... for about an hour and a half. I think we'll keep going back as long as the boys want to, but will try not to push them for our entertainment. (And it is entertainment!)

It's hard to make out the ball, but Quincy is connecting in this photo.

Josiah takes off for first after hitting the ball.

One of the funnest things is coming home and re-living the day. Q and I sit down at the table to eat and he tells me about all the great things he did. (As if I weren't there to see them.) So far, the real highlight has been getting hit in the face by grounders and not crying. Happens more than you'd think.

He didn't exactly catch it, but notice how he stays in front of the ball. We all know he didn't learn that from his dad.

Quincy's not exactly the biggest kid on the team... but he's looking good!

Rush Family Update

2007-03-13T11:58:00.000-05:00

This is our most recent newsletter. We've been having problems sending it through our AOL Groups. So if you no longer receive it but want to, let us know and we'll add you to the list.

Also, thank you so much for your prayers for us. We know that the work we are a part of is so richly blessed because so many are watering the fields with prayer.

Growth in Jocotan
Almost immediately after Omar’s baptism, he began talking about those he wanted to share his story with. Since making the decision to change his life, almost a year ago, Omar began escaping to his home after work, avoiding the streets along with the people and the temptations in them. Just recently, though, he’s begun reappearing, and reconnecting with old friends and acquaintances. Many (if not all) are asking him what’s different. Why the change? Some have even asked, “Are the brothers paying you to change?” To which he’s responded, “No. I’ve just started reading the Bible, and it is changing me.”

Many are making fun of Omar for not joining with them as in the ‘good ole days’. Others see Omar’s changed life and want the same. It looks like God is positioning him to impact more and more old friends. Please keep Omar in your prayers. As exciting as this is, it is often slow and taxing. Right now, Omar feels alone in his neighborhood among his friends.

José Julian
One of the first ones Omar began talking about reaching out to was José Julian. José Julian is the husband of Omar’s sister Lilian, though they’ve been separated for three years. José Julian is an alcoholic and wants to change. Omar feels responsible for José Julian’s lifestyle as they were friends even before they were brother-in-laws. And Omar’s influence was one of the factors that lead José Julian into drugs and alcohol. Now, Omar wants to influence him for Christ. We can’t tell you how fun it is to hear Omar talk like this without prompting from us. He really wants to share the gift that God has given him in changing his life for the better.

On one Sunday morning, when just Omar, José Julian and Tim were sitting together, Omar was confessing his desire over the weekend to return to his old way of life. José Julian, who was with us for just the second time and hadn’t said much up until this point, began encouraging Omar, “Cuňo (short for brother-in-law), don’t give up. See these changes you’ve made. You’ve made me think I can do it! Cuňo, I want these changes for my life too! Don’t go back now.” Tim sat in awe of what Jesus was doing among this family.

With the steps toward God that José Julian is making, Lilian is more and more open to reconciling their marriage. Jesus is actually causing healing in this broken home! As you pray with us, please focus on the marriages in our body: for God to unify the couples and bring them closer together as families as they draw closer to him. It is exciting seeing how the transformative power of Christ has become a testimony of God’s power and that it will also increase their influence for God in their neighborhood. It seems like God is already answering our prayers about the feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Baseball
Around the corner from our home is a children’s home called Ciudad de los Niňos (The City of Children). For quite some time we’ve wondered how we might be able to minister to them. However, they are a catholic-run orphanage and we were told by others that they didn’t allow volunteer work from non-catholics.

Tim passed by the other day and saw some of the kids out throwing a baseball around. So the next day, he stopped by the office and asked if he could help them out coaching baseball. Tim was passed on to Juan Pablo who has just recently organized a baseball team among the kids and is very eager for some reinforcements. Thus, Tim is now helping, twice a week, coach 13 to 16 year olds. His first practice was last Wednesday and he LOVED it. The kids have hardly any baseball experience, but still had a blast.

Q School
Good news on the school front: we’ve found a school for Quincy that we really like that is very close to our home. Thank you so much for praying with us about it. When Kim took Quincy for the entrance evaluation (that’s very normal in Mexico… even for the 1st grade), she met a neighbor of ours who’s son will be in the same class as Quincy. Her name is Carina and Dario is her son.

Other Prayer Requests
Please keep praying for the leadership growing among all the churches in the area and for the time the emerging leaders spend together each month. Omar has been attending these meetings with Tim and we pray for more contact between our church and the others in the area.

Tim will be traveling to Tulsa for the workshop there at the end of March. Please prayer for safe travel, renewal, and God’s working during that week. He will be speaking Thursday morning about what God is doing in Guadalajara. Kim’s sister and nieces will be here while he is gone.

Quote of the Day

2007-03-07T12:21:00.000-06:00

"The only statistic I can ever remember is that if all the people who go to sleep in church were laid end to end they would be a lot more comfortable."

Attributed to Queen Victoria, taken from The Shaping of Things to Come by Frost and Hirsch

Blood Diamonds

2007-03-04T20:22:00.000-06:00

Has anyone seen this movie? Very intense. Too much violence. But the violence is different when you get the feeling the story is truer than you might have imagined. Thus, how true is it? Someone in Tulsa ask our Africa-expert Clint what he knows.

If you haven’t seen it, I’d suggest you go right now.
____________________________________
For those that might not know, Dennis Wilson left today for Cozumel, Mexico. He and Theresa and family are moving there to take over a children’s home. He will spend the month of March in a complete emersion language school. Theresa and kids will arrive after the school year ends. Please keep this wonderful family in your prayers.
____________________________________
Quincy keeps asking us when baseball season is going to start. I was pretty proud of that until I realized his true motive for asking. We turned off our cable after the World Series and do not have plans to start it again until baseball season starts. He must have put two and two together and he really misses Discovery Kids.

I’m missing American Idol and Law and Order myself.

Comings and Goings

2007-02-25T10:37:00.000-06:00

I woke up this morning worried about two things; both involving travel. (I have to admit that I’m much more of a worrier than I should be.) First, I was thinking about how grateful I am that we won’t be driving out of Mexico this year on furlough. It seems that Nuevo Larado and the border in general is becoming more and more of a war zone (drug wars). And it is so frightening passing through there with the family.

The other is the drive we’ll make in a couple of hours through Jocotan to be with our church in that neighborhood. It is a very poor neighborhood with all the stereo-type action… lots of drunks wandering around, lots of unattended kids playing in the streets. And to get to the family's home, we have to back down a dead-end street. I hate it! I’m always afraid a small kid is going to run, unseen, behind the car. This scares me for the child, but also for my own. If we were to hurt one of theirs, getting out ourselves wouldn’t be a certainty.

So this morning, God had this to share with me (from Psalms 121).

“I will keep you from all harm – I will watch over your life; I will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.”

Again, I’m in awe that this all-powerful God, can communicate to us on even the most obscure level, speaking to fears that are ours TODAY.

TULSA!

2007-02-22T10:23:00.000-06:00

This is what I’m looking forward to in Tulsa…

I love listening to my dad talk about what all happened during the day; the behind the scenes look. I love listening to Dusty talk about what he heard and what he thought about what he heard. (I have to admit, Dusty is about 5 years ahead of me, spiritually speaking. He tells me what he’s thinking and it takes me that long to understand/ come to terms with/ agree with what he said. He might be a prophet… or I might just be slow.)

I can’t wait to have breakfast with Angie Burns. I can’t wait for AIM-a-palooza at the Thornton’s on Friday night. I’m going ahead and planning on tearing up during the flag presentation on Friday evening. The standing ovation gets me every time.

I’m stealing Jay Jarboe, and Sherry too if she’ll come, for a cup of coffee at some point. Jealous?!

What about you? Favorite memory? What excites you?