What a week! Clearly the end of summer has hit us and the impending schedule of fall is on the verge of beginning. The girls already came home with their first report cards and they are doing so well. We are so proud of how quickly they have adapted to their new classes and are enjoying their new friends. Payton is still struggling in her very own "empty nest" syndrome. She is coming along better these last few days (especially since her Nana is back) and we hope soon she will get right in her own groove.
Zackery got to stay with us again for some good quality time on Friday and Saturday. He is so funny and getting more and more comfortable over here...Although we know we are like a "treat" now since he gets the benefit of being spoiled over here and then gets to go home with Bonnie and Chip, which he loves going anywhere, so it is a perfect fit for him. We are continuing to pray for this little mans future family (even if it is not us) and that he will be raised in fear and admonition of the Lord. The Copes have been so wonderful to us, giving us tips, and of course helping in our classes with Christian Family Care Agency. What a blessing they are in their ministry and we pray that God would richly bless them in every way.
Well, onto MBC -- Our new Pastor of Multiplication has arrived and he is truly a blessing to have. I pray Cheryl and I get to know him much better over the following months and that he will be a blessing to our church and missions activity. Speaking of Missions activity I have put up all our the posters and child sponsorship packets for our interaction with FHI. I pray all those packets are taken and we have to call and ask for more so that every on of the 150 children enrolled in the program in Nyamirama are sponsored. More to come on these exciting partnerships as things continue to be led by God.
Pops comes in this weekend and I nor the kids can wait. We don't get to see him but maybe twice a year, but I am thankful for the time we get to spend. The girls are always excited to see Pop Pop and look forward to bugging and annoying him 24/7 over the Labor Day Weekend.
Well, another week gone and another week closer to glory. Please continue to pray for family and friends who do not know the Lord. Pray for all the Missionaries in the field working to add to the Kindgom and those here who are also working on the same goal. Encourage each other as that day approaches and as 1 Thessalonians 5:11 "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing."
Sunday, August 27, 2006
Friday, August 18, 2006
Day 10 Final Thoughts - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 11th ,2006)
Day 10 (Leaving Central Java Indonesia for Home - Arizona) -
This is my last entry as today I leave for home. Again I am saddened by the fact that my time here has come to an end. As I reflect back over the past 9 days I cannot help but feel conflicted. On one hand I am so very grateful that the Lord called me here to serve and witness the unfolding of his will for "A"and the people of his village, but also the pure majesty of his will for us. We tend to take for granted everything we have, and also the time we are here on this earth. Stopping to realize even though it seems long to us it is but a vapor in the overall plan.
I am torn becasue I wish I could bring my family here to experience all God has revelaed to me and allowed me to particiapte in while continuing to help these people rebuild. I know I have to leave and fulfill my commitments to my family, but I leave a piece of my heart here in indonesia when I step on that plane this morning.
I pray my new brother in Christ grows and matures in faith and that more of his village is open to and responds to the Lords calling in their lives. I also pray for my dear servant friends who serve faithfully here in country reaching out to these wonderful Muslim people. Yes, I used Wonderful and Muslim together....because thats what they are...thats what we all are "Precious to God". He wants so badly for us to know him personally and to have a relationship with each one of us that he paid the ultimate price. We need to praise him and worship him for his is worthy.
If you are from Mesa Baptist or my family and reading this I Thank You from the bottom of my heart for your prayers and support while I was here. I also want to challenge you to step out of that comfort zone, say to God "I will go Lord" not to appease someone else, not to appease yourself, but if your being called you know that obedience is the only solution...you must go.
Jesus said in Matthew (Chapter 9 verse 37-38): “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.” - won't you please prayerfully consider this scripture to be revelaed in your life.
**I dedicate these journals and writings to my brothers who were also called to go with me but were suddenly cut short in the process. Brian, Drew -- Your sacrifice was large and your rewards will be great. I pray God puts us together soon to share in his majesty on the Field** -Your Brother in Christ. - Gabe
This is my last entry as today I leave for home. Again I am saddened by the fact that my time here has come to an end. As I reflect back over the past 9 days I cannot help but feel conflicted. On one hand I am so very grateful that the Lord called me here to serve and witness the unfolding of his will for "A"and the people of his village, but also the pure majesty of his will for us. We tend to take for granted everything we have, and also the time we are here on this earth. Stopping to realize even though it seems long to us it is but a vapor in the overall plan.
I am torn becasue I wish I could bring my family here to experience all God has revelaed to me and allowed me to particiapte in while continuing to help these people rebuild. I know I have to leave and fulfill my commitments to my family, but I leave a piece of my heart here in indonesia when I step on that plane this morning.
I pray my new brother in Christ grows and matures in faith and that more of his village is open to and responds to the Lords calling in their lives. I also pray for my dear servant friends who serve faithfully here in country reaching out to these wonderful Muslim people. Yes, I used Wonderful and Muslim together....because thats what they are...thats what we all are "Precious to God". He wants so badly for us to know him personally and to have a relationship with each one of us that he paid the ultimate price. We need to praise him and worship him for his is worthy.
If you are from Mesa Baptist or my family and reading this I Thank You from the bottom of my heart for your prayers and support while I was here. I also want to challenge you to step out of that comfort zone, say to God "I will go Lord" not to appease someone else, not to appease yourself, but if your being called you know that obedience is the only solution...you must go.
Jesus said in Matthew (Chapter 9 verse 37-38): “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.” - won't you please prayerfully consider this scripture to be revelaed in your life.
**I dedicate these journals and writings to my brothers who were also called to go with me but were suddenly cut short in the process. Brian, Drew -- Your sacrifice was large and your rewards will be great. I pray God puts us together soon to share in his majesty on the Field** -Your Brother in Christ. - Gabe
Day 9 In the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 10th ,2006)
Day 9 (On-Site in Earthquake Zone, Central Java Indonesia) -
Today as previosuly mentioned is my last day in the field herein Indonesia. Tomorrow I leave this tropical land and its people and their families to return to my own who
eagerly await my return. I am excited for the day today as we get to present the textbooks and Uniforms to the children and their families at the school today. God has been so gracious with his provision of funds for this and with his perfect will of getting it all in the time needed. The Children start school one week from today, but they are all coming to school today to receive their books and uniforms. They are extatic, the staff is extatic, and we are extatic.
We arrive at the Elementary School around 10:30am and are greeted with a multitude of people. The children, their friends, and most have brought their mothers from the village to see them get their items. The staff greet us with the warmest sincerity and they ask us to sit and eat a bit before we pass out the items. The conversation is jovial as the mood of th morning is jubilant. Kids are running around playing,
singing, and the parents from the village are looking over them as they play...who would have thought these people had been through so much and yet were still so happy to be getting back to school. We have a lot to learn from this culture.
Finally the moment had arrived to pass out the textbooks and uniforms. Smiles were endless and a all of a sudden a group of kids and parents encircles "Pak" and I to shake our hands and tahank us personally for our work and provision for them. Tears flled my eyes as I shook each little childs hand and parents as they streamed through a line next to each of us. For the first time in my life I realized what it felt like to God when he blesses us: Unconditional love without borders, colors, politics, or agendas, just Jesus with his love and mercy.
Today as previosuly mentioned is my last day in the field herein Indonesia. Tomorrow I leave this tropical land and its people and their families to return to my own who
eagerly await my return. I am excited for the day today as we get to present the textbooks and Uniforms to the children and their families at the school today. God has been so gracious with his provision of funds for this and with his perfect will of getting it all in the time needed. The Children start school one week from today, but they are all coming to school today to receive their books and uniforms. They are extatic, the staff is extatic, and we are extatic.We arrive at the Elementary School around 10:30am and are greeted with a multitude of people. The children, their friends, and most have brought their mothers from the village to see them get their items. The staff greet us with the warmest sincerity and they ask us to sit and eat a bit before we pass out the items. The conversation is jovial as the mood of th morning is jubilant. Kids are running around playing,
singing, and the parents from the village are looking over them as they play...who would have thought these people had been through so much and yet were still so happy to be getting back to school. We have a lot to learn from this culture.Finally the moment had arrived to pass out the textbooks and uniforms. Smiles were endless and a all of a sudden a group of kids and parents encircles "Pak" and I to shake our hands and tahank us personally for our work and provision for them. Tears flled my eyes as I shook each little childs hand and parents as they streamed through a line next to each of us. For the first time in my life I realized what it felt like to God when he blesses us: Unconditional love without borders, colors, politics, or agendas, just Jesus with his love and mercy.
Day 8 In the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 9th ,2006)
Day 8 (On-Site in Earthquake Zone, Central Java Indonesia) -
"Pak" told me when we got up this morning that he would never let a team come in and not get to see some culture and learn a little history of the peopel were are reaching out to, so "today" he said is an "R&R" day. Perfect since today is Sunday and both of us could use a little rest..but in my heart I still long to be with those in the villages that we have been frequenlty involved with this week. After a 7am Sunrise service at the WV building we headed off for a "Culture Filled" day.
Our 1st stop today was Borobrodur, the oldest and largest buddhist temple in the world. it was constructed between 450-and 700 A.D. Built by the monks over multiple generations, this stands as the holiest place to Buddhist monks across the globe. As yu can see from the pictures it is a tiered facility showcasing stone carved stories and 7 different levels to the complex, where the pinnacle is of course "Nirvana" the 7th level in the Buddhist religion.
The local custom is to reach into the bell shaped stone monuments and try to touch Buddha's belly..If you do legend says you will be blessed with good luck. "Pak" and I could not bring oursleves to tocu hanyones belly let alone Buddhas, so we moved on.
"Pak" then took me back tothe city proper where the sultans palace is located. Even today as has been practiced for hundreds of years a "Sultan" rules the province. The Sultanate has been in place as mentioned for hundreds of years, but recently has become more of a historical and cultural display than an actual ruling body. "Pak" wanted to take me to the palace to take a tour, but unfortunately by the time we got there is was closed. On our way our however a local man asked us f we wanted to still see some areas of the palace that were not officially closed such as the "Water Castle", a section within the palace
walls that was constructed with pools, and living quarters for the 1st few generations of Sultans for their wives, concubines, and servants. The waters of the pools are said to house evil spirits and people are heavily encouraged not to touch the water in any fashion. "Pak" and I did not feel any evil, however that does not mean it does not exist and so we continued on with this as a 1 time visit. As you can see the carvings are a bit unnerving and represent a very evil setting around this place. On our way out we saw several local artist shops where some of the artists were making Batik (local craftsmanship and dress) outside for us to view. It is an interesting process and one that very few are highly skilled at.
We wanted to finish our day the same way we started it, which was to worship our Lord and Savior so forsaking dinner we headed to the small church plant 'Pak" started in a rough area of the city for the evening service. We gathered with the membership (about 10) and had a wonderful time of worship and sharing (none of which I could understand since it is all in Indonesian). "A'" was there and after service "Pak", his wife and I led him through a short study of John to continue discipiling him in his faith and answering any questions he wanted to ask.
As I write this journal tonight I feel saddened as I have but 1 day left in this wonderful place with these wonderful people. I thank God for his faithfulness and his provision for all the good work and things we were able to accomplish only through his divine provision, but I can't help but shed a tear in knowing my time is now coming to an end.
"Pak" told me when we got up this morning that he would never let a team come in and not get to see some culture and learn a little history of the peopel were are reaching out to, so "today" he said is an "R&R" day. Perfect since today is Sunday and both of us could use a little rest..but in my heart I still long to be with those in the villages that we have been frequenlty involved with this week. After a 7am Sunrise service at the WV building we headed off for a "Culture Filled" day.
Our 1st stop today was Borobrodur, the oldest and largest buddhist temple in the world. it was constructed between 450-and 700 A.D. Built by the monks over multiple generations, this stands as the holiest place to Buddhist monks across the globe. As yu can see from the pictures it is a tiered facility showcasing stone carved stories and 7 different levels to the complex, where the pinnacle is of course "Nirvana" the 7th level in the Buddhist religion.
The local custom is to reach into the bell shaped stone monuments and try to touch Buddha's belly..If you do legend says you will be blessed with good luck. "Pak" and I could not bring oursleves to tocu hanyones belly let alone Buddhas, so we moved on."Pak" then took me back tothe city proper where the sultans palace is located. Even today as has been practiced for hundreds of years a "Sultan" rules the province. The Sultanate has been in place as mentioned for hundreds of years, but recently has become more of a historical and cultural display than an actual ruling body. "Pak" wanted to take me to the palace to take a tour, but unfortunately by the time we got there is was closed. On our way our however a local man asked us f we wanted to still see some areas of the palace that were not officially closed such as the "Water Castle", a section within the palace
walls that was constructed with pools, and living quarters for the 1st few generations of Sultans for their wives, concubines, and servants. The waters of the pools are said to house evil spirits and people are heavily encouraged not to touch the water in any fashion. "Pak" and I did not feel any evil, however that does not mean it does not exist and so we continued on with this as a 1 time visit. As you can see the carvings are a bit unnerving and represent a very evil setting around this place. On our way out we saw several local artist shops where some of the artists were making Batik (local craftsmanship and dress) outside for us to view. It is an interesting process and one that very few are highly skilled at.We wanted to finish our day the same way we started it, which was to worship our Lord and Savior so forsaking dinner we headed to the small church plant 'Pak" started in a rough area of the city for the evening service. We gathered with the membership (about 10) and had a wonderful time of worship and sharing (none of which I could understand since it is all in Indonesian). "A'" was there and after service "Pak", his wife and I led him through a short study of John to continue discipiling him in his faith and answering any questions he wanted to ask.
As I write this journal tonight I feel saddened as I have but 1 day left in this wonderful place with these wonderful people. I thank God for his faithfulness and his provision for all the good work and things we were able to accomplish only through his divine provision, but I can't help but shed a tear in knowing my time is now coming to an end.
Day 7 In the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 8th ,2006)
Day 7 (On-Site in Earthquake Zone, Central Java Indonesia) -
Back on track and back on an early schedule. We are headed off to a village in the hills south of Bantul and closer to the Indian Ocean area (south coast of Central Java). The name of the village
is Kali-Dada. We are scouting out the village for needs and to speak with the village Duku (Senior Elder) to talk about possible husbandry opportunities for his village to bring in supplemental income for those that cannot make enough of a living for their families since they live so far out of the city. We are greeted as we are everywhere we go, pleasant smiles and warm greetings from all we come in contact with.
After speaking and having tea with the leader "Pak" tells me there is a cave up in the village and that he wants to go explore for a bit, there is a guide from the village that can take us up there and it would be good to honor it with a visit since the village is proud of it. Well ,who am I to turn down spelunking ??? So, off we went with the guide up 500 or so feet of cliffside until we reached the cave entrance. We had no flashlights with the exception of the one little pen light I had from Cabela's that I brought with me for a "just in case" reason. well, here it was the "just in case" time to use it.
Not until about 1/4 of a mile back into the cave did 'Pak" and I realize it probably wasn't the smartest decision we had every made...lets see why -- well 1) This place just had a devastating earthquake 2) another Aftershock hit us this am while we were driving down to this village and 3) Is a cave the safest place to be in weaist high water surrounded by mega tons of rock?.
Well despite those thoughts and the feeling of walls closing in around us we forged ahead knowing God was in control. We reached an area where we could have continued to go all the way through to the other side of the mountain, but decided to turn around and head back instead. God's grace was sufficient for us and we were not about to push the envelope anymore!
After leaving the cave and heading back down the mountain "Pak" decided we should cover a few more remote villages on our afternoon work and see what supplies / aid we in apparent need. Several villages were no different than before, most needing clean water, tarps and blankets/mats. "Pak" took quantities down and we returned in the late evening again tired but fulfilled with God's provision for the day.
Back on track and back on an early schedule. We are headed off to a village in the hills south of Bantul and closer to the Indian Ocean area (south coast of Central Java). The name of the village
is Kali-Dada. We are scouting out the village for needs and to speak with the village Duku (Senior Elder) to talk about possible husbandry opportunities for his village to bring in supplemental income for those that cannot make enough of a living for their families since they live so far out of the city. We are greeted as we are everywhere we go, pleasant smiles and warm greetings from all we come in contact with.
After speaking and having tea with the leader "Pak" tells me there is a cave up in the village and that he wants to go explore for a bit, there is a guide from the village that can take us up there and it would be good to honor it with a visit since the village is proud of it. Well ,who am I to turn down spelunking ??? So, off we went with the guide up 500 or so feet of cliffside until we reached the cave entrance. We had no flashlights with the exception of the one little pen light I had from Cabela's that I brought with me for a "just in case" reason. well, here it was the "just in case" time to use it.
Not until about 1/4 of a mile back into the cave did 'Pak" and I realize it probably wasn't the smartest decision we had every made...lets see why -- well 1) This place just had a devastating earthquake 2) another Aftershock hit us this am while we were driving down to this village and 3) Is a cave the safest place to be in weaist high water surrounded by mega tons of rock?.
Well despite those thoughts and the feeling of walls closing in around us we forged ahead knowing God was in control. We reached an area where we could have continued to go all the way through to the other side of the mountain, but decided to turn around and head back instead. God's grace was sufficient for us and we were not about to push the envelope anymore!After leaving the cave and heading back down the mountain "Pak" decided we should cover a few more remote villages on our afternoon work and see what supplies / aid we in apparent need. Several villages were no different than before, most needing clean water, tarps and blankets/mats. "Pak" took quantities down and we returned in the late evening again tired but fulfilled with God's provision for the day.
Day 6 In the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 7th ,2006)
Day 6 (On-Site in Earthquake Zone, Central Java Indonesia) -
5 straight days of going non stop has taken its toll already on us, we have overslept and are running late today. Our mission is two-fold today: 1) to find, and negotiate a good price for textbooks needed for all 180 students are the school in "A"'s village that we visited 2 days ago. and 2) Find a place that has all the uniforms for the first graders. We were told the other students has their's already but since the first graders are new coming in they have no uniforms and their parents most likely do not have the funds to buy them. It is a Friday and we are praying we are lucky enough to find a places that have both of our needs in stock and can deliver them on Monday before I leave Tuesday Morning.
"Pak"'s wife eyeballs a shop for the Uniforms right away as we are driving in an area of the city we are told to go to and look around. So, we drop her off to go and see what they have and what price they will charge. She is Indonesian so it is better if she negotiates to get a locals price vs. the price they will raise it to due to knowing westerners have more money than typical
Indonesians. "Pak" and I wait for about 45 minutes when finally he gets a text message from her saying she has reached an agreement and I can come pay now to finsih the transaction. She was able to get all of teh 1st graders unfiorms for under what we expected and they are bagging them up for us as we are walking up to the shop./ God Is AWESOME !!! What a praise to have this item cared for so very quickly.
Since most of the morning was used up procuring the uniforms we decide to pray over lunch and ask for provision of the uniforms for that afternoon. Once we finished lunch we headed over to the textbook printer and no sooner than about 15 minutes after we walk through the door we have found the proper textbooks for that particular school and the proprietor is so generous in the discount he gives us that we are able to provide the entire school, every grade, and every one of the 180 students ALL of the textbooks they need for the entire year. If your a skeptic of Jesus and your reading these blog entries are you not getting a clear picture of God's divine intervention and his evident will in this trip and the effort to reach these people with his message...I pray you are because we are jumping and singing his praises this afternoon. This shop owner even has all of these in stock and we deliver them for free on Monday as requested.
What an Awesome Day, and what a day to marvel at God's will being displayed for all of us to see so clearly.
5 straight days of going non stop has taken its toll already on us, we have overslept and are running late today. Our mission is two-fold today: 1) to find, and negotiate a good price for textbooks needed for all 180 students are the school in "A"'s village that we visited 2 days ago. and 2) Find a place that has all the uniforms for the first graders. We were told the other students has their's already but since the first graders are new coming in they have no uniforms and their parents most likely do not have the funds to buy them. It is a Friday and we are praying we are lucky enough to find a places that have both of our needs in stock and can deliver them on Monday before I leave Tuesday Morning.
"Pak"'s wife eyeballs a shop for the Uniforms right away as we are driving in an area of the city we are told to go to and look around. So, we drop her off to go and see what they have and what price they will charge. She is Indonesian so it is better if she negotiates to get a locals price vs. the price they will raise it to due to knowing westerners have more money than typical
Indonesians. "Pak" and I wait for about 45 minutes when finally he gets a text message from her saying she has reached an agreement and I can come pay now to finsih the transaction. She was able to get all of teh 1st graders unfiorms for under what we expected and they are bagging them up for us as we are walking up to the shop./ God Is AWESOME !!! What a praise to have this item cared for so very quickly.Since most of the morning was used up procuring the uniforms we decide to pray over lunch and ask for provision of the uniforms for that afternoon. Once we finished lunch we headed over to the textbook printer and no sooner than about 15 minutes after we walk through the door we have found the proper textbooks for that particular school and the proprietor is so generous in the discount he gives us that we are able to provide the entire school, every grade, and every one of the 180 students ALL of the textbooks they need for the entire year. If your a skeptic of Jesus and your reading these blog entries are you not getting a clear picture of God's divine intervention and his evident will in this trip and the effort to reach these people with his message...I pray you are because we are jumping and singing his praises this afternoon. This shop owner even has all of these in stock and we deliver them for free on Monday as requested.
What an Awesome Day, and what a day to marvel at God's will being displayed for all of us to see so clearly.
Day 5 In the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 6th ,2006)
Day 5 (On-Site in Earthquake Zone, Klaten Indonesia) -
My day today started much like the previous days, but this time I was headed off to Klaten - another area devastated by the earthquake and north east of the Yogyakarta proper area. today is different since "Pak" is not with me. He and his wife are taking care of some needed
administration and I am under the watchful eye of the FHI staff. Food for The hungry Indonesia has been working in country since the Tsunami hit Banda Aceh in late 2004, however most of the folks I am riding with today are either new to the area or just recently arrived to assist the victims here in Central Java. Dr. "D" is originally from ethopia and just an amazing man of God. he is a humble man of great education and experience in his all but 38 years. He is moving his family to Melahbo (Banda Aceh area) in the next month or two and has not really seen them in over 4 months.
As we talk time flies by and we arrive at a village in desperate need of water purification and filtration pumps to clean out the solied water in some of the older wells where the soli levels rose dramatically during the earthquake. One of OUR (like I am actually part of the FHI team right?) goals was to inspect about 6 wells in the village and also figure out what kind of cleaning agents/ chemicals might aid in the most timely cleaning of the water. This village is also where FHI is working with local materials to build some temporary houses for about 50-60 residents of the village. These temporary houses as you can see from the photos are very basic and not earthquake proof like the ones "SP" are building, but there are also about only 1/10th the cost and these people need shelters with the approaching "wet" months starting in August. Each of these houses can house up to 6 people and can be built for about $300 U.S. Dollars each.
Some of the houses are almost done and you can see the joy that the owners of these homes have as they anticipate them being completed. All of the receipients have either been widowed by the quake or are in the late stages of their lives with limited mobility or are crippled in some manner. We partake in a lunch provided by a small planted church in this village and speak with the pastor of the local believers. He tells us that 1 month prior to the quake he was told by God to preach the same message 4 weeks in a row (The sermon was on service and loving your neighbors as yourself). The congregation could not understand why he preached the same message over and over and some even wondered if he had lost his mind. The day after his last sermon (May 25th) the quake hit the very next morning.
As I approach the end of this day writing my journal I am reminded how blessed we are in the U.S. and how the Lord has really blessed or nation. I pray more people will come and assist this area over the next few months and pray that lives will be changd for Jesus through all the work that is going on from the Christian NGO's and teams travelling over to help.
My day today started much like the previous days, but this time I was headed off to Klaten - another area devastated by the earthquake and north east of the Yogyakarta proper area. today is different since "Pak" is not with me. He and his wife are taking care of some needed
administration and I am under the watchful eye of the FHI staff. Food for The hungry Indonesia has been working in country since the Tsunami hit Banda Aceh in late 2004, however most of the folks I am riding with today are either new to the area or just recently arrived to assist the victims here in Central Java. Dr. "D" is originally from ethopia and just an amazing man of God. he is a humble man of great education and experience in his all but 38 years. He is moving his family to Melahbo (Banda Aceh area) in the next month or two and has not really seen them in over 4 months.As we talk time flies by and we arrive at a village in desperate need of water purification and filtration pumps to clean out the solied water in some of the older wells where the soli levels rose dramatically during the earthquake. One of OUR (like I am actually part of the FHI team right?) goals was to inspect about 6 wells in the village and also figure out what kind of cleaning agents/ chemicals might aid in the most timely cleaning of the water. This village is also where FHI is working with local materials to build some temporary houses for about 50-60 residents of the village. These temporary houses as you can see from the photos are very basic and not earthquake proof like the ones "SP" are building, but there are also about only 1/10th the cost and these people need shelters with the approaching "wet" months starting in August. Each of these houses can house up to 6 people and can be built for about $300 U.S. Dollars each.
Some of the houses are almost done and you can see the joy that the owners of these homes have as they anticipate them being completed. All of the receipients have either been widowed by the quake or are in the late stages of their lives with limited mobility or are crippled in some manner. We partake in a lunch provided by a small planted church in this village and speak with the pastor of the local believers. He tells us that 1 month prior to the quake he was told by God to preach the same message 4 weeks in a row (The sermon was on service and loving your neighbors as yourself). The congregation could not understand why he preached the same message over and over and some even wondered if he had lost his mind. The day after his last sermon (May 25th) the quake hit the very next morning.As I approach the end of this day writing my journal I am reminded how blessed we are in the U.S. and how the Lord has really blessed or nation. I pray more people will come and assist this area over the next few months and pray that lives will be changd for Jesus through all the work that is going on from the Christian NGO's and teams travelling over to help.
Day 4 In the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 5th ,2006)
Day 4 (On-Site in Earthquake Zone, Bantul Indonesia) -
This morning "Pak" and his wife took me out to go check up on a close friend in a different village where her familys house had been damaged from the earthquake. She had been a caregiver for a family member in "Pak"'s family for sometime and they had not seen or heard from her since the quake. Her families house was in shambles
but some of the walls were still up and that was a blessing to them. While we were walking around the area we noticed some villagers had begun to find alternative ways to get rid of the rubble instead of constantly stacking it in piles next to the road. They had devised a plan to dig large and deep holes next to their homes to bury the rubble. We stopped by one home and the hole had to have been at least 8 feet long, 4-5 feet wide and at least 40-50 feet deep. Any further and they would have hit water so they stopped and started filling it with the rubble. Others were working on repairing roofs and some were mixing cement for the re-building process.
From there we headed back to "A"'s village to look and inspect the condition of the local elementary school that serves the children of the
village. We met with the school leadership and the 5 faculty members underneath her responsible for teaching the kids. The school was actually in great shape. Made out of mostly concrete with rebar, it withstood the earthquake quite well with the exception of large cracks in the walls in different areas. We asked if there were needs that could be met and they indicated to us that the students had lost all of their new school textbooks to the earthquake since most of the students take them home to study. The school runs 1st grade through 6th grade and abotu 30 children per grade. We offered to look at providing some of the need if they could provide the estimated costs and where to get the materials if we could assist.
Lastly as the afternoon sun was heading down we decided to see if we could get to the village of Kali-Adem on Mt. Merapi. The village was in the news for being completely wiped out by one of the pyroclastic flows that came down Mt. Merapi. "Pak" had not had a chance to visit it and figured this was as good of a time as any to go check it out and also see the refugee camp set up for the villagers that had been evacuated a few days earlier when it seems as though Mt. Merapi was going to erupt.
As you can see from the Photos ash and hot gas were still spewing and the trees all around were covered with ash. We made it up to the village that was destroyed and you can see in the 1st picture the ash trail it left behind. Just breathing up that close with all the ash in the air was difficult and not wise to stick around to long as the ash gets into your lungs and coats them which if exposed too long can be harmful and even fatal.
By the time we got back (about 9pm) it was time to crash...we thank God again for another productive day and pray he continues to allow us to serve these people who are hurting and afraid as Jesus served 2000 years ago.
This morning "Pak" and his wife took me out to go check up on a close friend in a different village where her familys house had been damaged from the earthquake. She had been a caregiver for a family member in "Pak"'s family for sometime and they had not seen or heard from her since the quake. Her families house was in shambles
but some of the walls were still up and that was a blessing to them. While we were walking around the area we noticed some villagers had begun to find alternative ways to get rid of the rubble instead of constantly stacking it in piles next to the road. They had devised a plan to dig large and deep holes next to their homes to bury the rubble. We stopped by one home and the hole had to have been at least 8 feet long, 4-5 feet wide and at least 40-50 feet deep. Any further and they would have hit water so they stopped and started filling it with the rubble. Others were working on repairing roofs and some were mixing cement for the re-building process.From there we headed back to "A"'s village to look and inspect the condition of the local elementary school that serves the children of the
village. We met with the school leadership and the 5 faculty members underneath her responsible for teaching the kids. The school was actually in great shape. Made out of mostly concrete with rebar, it withstood the earthquake quite well with the exception of large cracks in the walls in different areas. We asked if there were needs that could be met and they indicated to us that the students had lost all of their new school textbooks to the earthquake since most of the students take them home to study. The school runs 1st grade through 6th grade and abotu 30 children per grade. We offered to look at providing some of the need if they could provide the estimated costs and where to get the materials if we could assist.Lastly as the afternoon sun was heading down we decided to see if we could get to the village of Kali-Adem on Mt. Merapi. The village was in the news for being completely wiped out by one of the pyroclastic flows that came down Mt. Merapi. "Pak" had not had a chance to visit it and figured this was as good of a time as any to go check it out and also see the refugee camp set up for the villagers that had been evacuated a few days earlier when it seems as though Mt. Merapi was going to erupt.
As you can see from the Photos ash and hot gas were still spewing and the trees all around were covered with ash. We made it up to the village that was destroyed and you can see in the 1st picture the ash trail it left behind. Just breathing up that close with all the ash in the air was difficult and not wise to stick around to long as the ash gets into your lungs and coats them which if exposed too long can be harmful and even fatal.
By the time we got back (about 9pm) it was time to crash...we thank God again for another productive day and pray he continues to allow us to serve these people who are hurting and afraid as Jesus served 2000 years ago.
Day 3 In the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 4th ,2006)
Day 3 (On-Site in Earthquake Zone, Bantul Indonesia) -
Well up early again and off to the village where "A" and his family are. I forgot to mention that yesterday we had promised to help an elderly gentleman and his wife clear away a large area of rubble and start helping him reset his
foundational walls for where his home used to be. He is well over 60 years and there is a ton of broken bricks and rubble to clear -- it will be a full day today. I have been very thankful to God today for the cloud cover as it is roughly 92-98 degrees everyday and approx 80-90% humidity all day long. You can;t see it here in this photo but I was drenched from head to toe with sweat and I imagine lost a few pounds of water weught today as well.
During intermissions of the clean up effort today we kept being invited back to Pak "J"'s house for tea and local food (wonderful potatoe like food called sincon/ Kasava here in America, coconuts, goat meat, rice, vegetables, and local tropical oranges). Their hospitality overwhelmed us and we gladly accepted as it would have been rude otherwise. Pak "J" and his family put out quite the spread for us and if it were not for the work left to be done I imagine we would have fallen asleep on the bench they had for us to sit on inside their shelter. Great food and conversation we had as we learned more about
Pak "J" and how he had grown up in this village and used to sell grass to the owners of the cows at a local factory nearby to make money for the family. He also remembered the Japanese occupation during the younger years of his life. His daughter was wondering if when we came back we could bring more westerners who were un-married so she could marry one to blend the "white" into her family bloodline. This was very comical to all around but I think she was very serious. On the way back to "Pak"'s house we stopped to eat at a local Javanese restuarant and "WOW" what a culinary delight -- Rice, Javanese meatballs, hot peppers and loads of vegetables to boot....truly a wonderful meal of local cuisine all done in a buffet style at a roadside establishment that is very popular. I think the meal cost about $4 U.S. for all three of us to eat and drink. Too much food today..but wonderful getting to know these villagers like we have...the bonds are unmistakable.
Well up early again and off to the village where "A" and his family are. I forgot to mention that yesterday we had promised to help an elderly gentleman and his wife clear away a large area of rubble and start helping him reset his
foundational walls for where his home used to be. He is well over 60 years and there is a ton of broken bricks and rubble to clear -- it will be a full day today. I have been very thankful to God today for the cloud cover as it is roughly 92-98 degrees everyday and approx 80-90% humidity all day long. You can;t see it here in this photo but I was drenched from head to toe with sweat and I imagine lost a few pounds of water weught today as well.During intermissions of the clean up effort today we kept being invited back to Pak "J"'s house for tea and local food (wonderful potatoe like food called sincon/ Kasava here in America, coconuts, goat meat, rice, vegetables, and local tropical oranges). Their hospitality overwhelmed us and we gladly accepted as it would have been rude otherwise. Pak "J" and his family put out quite the spread for us and if it were not for the work left to be done I imagine we would have fallen asleep on the bench they had for us to sit on inside their shelter. Great food and conversation we had as we learned more about
Pak "J" and how he had grown up in this village and used to sell grass to the owners of the cows at a local factory nearby to make money for the family. He also remembered the Japanese occupation during the younger years of his life. His daughter was wondering if when we came back we could bring more westerners who were un-married so she could marry one to blend the "white" into her family bloodline. This was very comical to all around but I think she was very serious. On the way back to "Pak"'s house we stopped to eat at a local Javanese restuarant and "WOW" what a culinary delight -- Rice, Javanese meatballs, hot peppers and loads of vegetables to boot....truly a wonderful meal of local cuisine all done in a buffet style at a roadside establishment that is very popular. I think the meal cost about $4 U.S. for all three of us to eat and drink. Too much food today..but wonderful getting to know these villagers like we have...the bonds are unmistakable.
Day 2 In the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 3rd ,2006)
Day 2 (On-Site in Earthquake Zone, Bantul Indonesia) -
This morning we woke up early to get a head start on the day. We visited three different villages and the clean up effort is underway by mostly villagers now sine most of the NGO's (Non Governmental Organizations) have left. We delivered more tarps and mats to the Village today as well as received a call from the more radical village asking for more mats. About 10am we found our way to a village where a military man names "T" was healing from a broken ankle that had gotten infected shortly after the earthquake took place. His village was selected by "SP" to have some earthquake proof homes built there so that the villagers could watch and learn how to build them using the local materials available in the area.
Also met with another man who had a compound fracture of his right leg from the earthquake. He invited us into his tent to tell his story and thank us for the work and provisions were had supplied. He indicated that his employer was holding his job or him until he could return (which is not normal) after healing.
In the afternoon today we visited the base camp operations for for "SP" and "FHI" to see if we could come along side and assist them in any of their efforts in and around the effected areas. Met Dr. "D" "W", "M" and "D" and got some insight as to where the areas were that they were working in. Their focus has been up and around the area of Klaten conducting well inspections to assess the turbidity of the water and what could be done to clean i,t or if building new wells was more appropriate and effective. They indicated we could come back on Thursday and spend the entire day with them.
This day has flown by -- so much devastation , so much need and, so little governmental help. The people were told that they would receive disbursements of 90,000 rupiah per month for food and supplies and around 30,000,000 rupiah per
household that had a completely destroyed home, but nothing has been given out and their is also no cleanup assistance being sent from the government either. Most of the villagers are stacking their piles of rubble next to the streets in hopes that the government will send trucks through the villages to haul it away -- but 1 month now and no sign of any trucks or money.
This morning we woke up early to get a head start on the day. We visited three different villages and the clean up effort is underway by mostly villagers now sine most of the NGO's (Non Governmental Organizations) have left. We delivered more tarps and mats to the Village today as well as received a call from the more radical village asking for more mats. About 10am we found our way to a village where a military man names "T" was healing from a broken ankle that had gotten infected shortly after the earthquake took place. His village was selected by "SP" to have some earthquake proof homes built there so that the villagers could watch and learn how to build them using the local materials available in the area.
Also met with another man who had a compound fracture of his right leg from the earthquake. He invited us into his tent to tell his story and thank us for the work and provisions were had supplied. He indicated that his employer was holding his job or him until he could return (which is not normal) after healing.In the afternoon today we visited the base camp operations for for "SP" and "FHI" to see if we could come along side and assist them in any of their efforts in and around the effected areas. Met Dr. "D" "W", "M" and "D" and got some insight as to where the areas were that they were working in. Their focus has been up and around the area of Klaten conducting well inspections to assess the turbidity of the water and what could be done to clean i,t or if building new wells was more appropriate and effective. They indicated we could come back on Thursday and spend the entire day with them.
This day has flown by -- so much devastation , so much need and, so little governmental help. The people were told that they would receive disbursements of 90,000 rupiah per month for food and supplies and around 30,000,000 rupiah per
household that had a completely destroyed home, but nothing has been given out and their is also no cleanup assistance being sent from the government either. Most of the villagers are stacking their piles of rubble next to the streets in hopes that the government will send trucks through the villages to haul it away -- but 1 month now and no sign of any trucks or money.
Day 1 in the Field - Yogyakarta, Indonesia (July 2nd, 2006)
For security and the well being of the Missionary and his family in Indonesia I will only refer to him as "Pak" throughout these entries.
Day 1 (On-Site in Earthquake Zone, Bantul Indonesia) -
I am shocked by the amount of sheer devastation in this area. Villages are completely gone and seas of tarps and tents are all that can be seen among the rubble of fallen buildings, mosques, and homes. We met with "A" and his family ("J" his father, "H" his uncle) today surveying the damage and asking for the needs of the villagers. We provided several tarps and mats/blankets to some of the residents as well as two large tarps to "H" to use while he was in process of rebuilding the walls of his home that as 90% destroyed.
An elderly gentelmen pulled me aside and tried to communicate with me a need but I could not understand -- so he pulled my arm and led my to his home where his wife lay ill and unable to move from physical damage from the earthquake. The missionary told me he was asking for money to bring in a doctor and provide medicine for her, but immediately the missionary was told by on of the locals that his family had seen a doctor that his children could afford to provide this need. It seemed to me strange that this need was so evident and he seems very sincere, but I was educated further on the social politics of these villages and the extreme precaution that must be taken when handing out aid and supplies. Lists must be made and needs must be prioritized with consent of the elders so as to avoid social jealousy within the community. How I wish we could just meet all the needs......I am being stretched and I need God's guidance to make sure my emotions do not take control of the moment and supplant what God is intending.
Most of the afternoon we have spent visiting another village that called Pak V. on his cell phone asking if we could deliver some tarps for their use. The Mosque in their village was severly damaged and they were in need of some tarps to provde shelter for the students of the Pasantran school that the mosque runs.
This village is considered much more "radical" and is associated with a very large Muslim organization called Muhammadiyah (I snapped this picture while driving by so it isn't the best quality, but snapping one in the village was not appropriate). We delivered the tarps and mats and found a very sincere gratitude from the people we interacted with despite their obvious knowledge of our Chiristian faith. Dusk is falling now and our day has completed its work, we will venture back to "Pak"'s home to rest and replensih for tomorrow.
Day 1 (On-Site in Earthquake Zone, Bantul Indonesia) -
I am shocked by the amount of sheer devastation in this area. Villages are completely gone and seas of tarps and tents are all that can be seen among the rubble of fallen buildings, mosques, and homes. We met with "A" and his family ("J" his father, "H" his uncle) today surveying the damage and asking for the needs of the villagers. We provided several tarps and mats/blankets to some of the residents as well as two large tarps to "H" to use while he was in process of rebuilding the walls of his home that as 90% destroyed.
An elderly gentelmen pulled me aside and tried to communicate with me a need but I could not understand -- so he pulled my arm and led my to his home where his wife lay ill and unable to move from physical damage from the earthquake. The missionary told me he was asking for money to bring in a doctor and provide medicine for her, but immediately the missionary was told by on of the locals that his family had seen a doctor that his children could afford to provide this need. It seemed to me strange that this need was so evident and he seems very sincere, but I was educated further on the social politics of these villages and the extreme precaution that must be taken when handing out aid and supplies. Lists must be made and needs must be prioritized with consent of the elders so as to avoid social jealousy within the community. How I wish we could just meet all the needs......I am being stretched and I need God's guidance to make sure my emotions do not take control of the moment and supplant what God is intending.Most of the afternoon we have spent visiting another village that called Pak V. on his cell phone asking if we could deliver some tarps for their use. The Mosque in their village was severly damaged and they were in need of some tarps to provde shelter for the students of the Pasantran school that the mosque runs.
This village is considered much more "radical" and is associated with a very large Muslim organization called Muhammadiyah (I snapped this picture while driving by so it isn't the best quality, but snapping one in the village was not appropriate). We delivered the tarps and mats and found a very sincere gratitude from the people we interacted with despite their obvious knowledge of our Chiristian faith. Dusk is falling now and our day has completed its work, we will venture back to "Pak"'s home to rest and replensih for tomorrow.
Saturday, August 12, 2006
Life Uninterrupted
Well, I will have to re commit to updating every 2 weeks and not every 2 days. It is difficult enough to sit down and relax for 5 minutes, let alone try and reflect, sit down at the computer and type this blog every 2 days.
Cheryl's back went out again a week ago today (well yesterday but who counting). She thinks it was a combination of gym workouts and then Thursday when she was helping the teachers out at school she stood for over 3 -4 hours making copies for the classes. My back would be sore as well. She was down for 2 1/2 days and we both began to wonder if the long term effects of her treatment we paid all that coin for late last year were really effective or not.
Alexxis and Natalie have decided to forego any activities this fall and instead save up for excursions and fun things for teh Disney Cruise/ Florida trip next March (2007). They are really excited and came up with a wonderful way to save funds for it. We were really pleased to see such sacrifice and good forethought on their parts for wanting to put of immediate gratification for something down the road. Gos is relly working in these girls lives and we could not be more proud of them
Payton on the other hand is very excited that she will be starting her 1st tap and dance class with her best friend Brookie on September 13th. For 1 hour a week they will tap, dance and scream their hearts out at a beginner class through parks and recreation in Chandler. What fun they will have and it will be fun to see them put those hours and hours of princess waiving, dressing up, and role playing the disney characters to good use.
Alexxis, Natalie & I have been fighting a winter cold (and nasty chest cough) for about 2 weeks ow and we are praying it all goes away soon. It is horrible for it to be Hot, Humid and sick all at the same time.
Had to procur a new washer this week after our old one bit the bust this week. Oh well what's another $900 right -- pocket change right? Whatever! Can't take it with me so might as well use it for what it can do down here...
Well -- thats the update, more in another week or two...Pray all is going well in your life and if ya get a chance drop a comment off on this site and let us know your thoughts or just say hello....We Love you all.
The Phillips Five (hopefully 6 soon) !
Cheryl's back went out again a week ago today (well yesterday but who counting). She thinks it was a combination of gym workouts and then Thursday when she was helping the teachers out at school she stood for over 3 -4 hours making copies for the classes. My back would be sore as well. She was down for 2 1/2 days and we both began to wonder if the long term effects of her treatment we paid all that coin for late last year were really effective or not.
Alexxis and Natalie have decided to forego any activities this fall and instead save up for excursions and fun things for teh Disney Cruise/ Florida trip next March (2007). They are really excited and came up with a wonderful way to save funds for it. We were really pleased to see such sacrifice and good forethought on their parts for wanting to put of immediate gratification for something down the road. Gos is relly working in these girls lives and we could not be more proud of them
Payton on the other hand is very excited that she will be starting her 1st tap and dance class with her best friend Brookie on September 13th. For 1 hour a week they will tap, dance and scream their hearts out at a beginner class through parks and recreation in Chandler. What fun they will have and it will be fun to see them put those hours and hours of princess waiving, dressing up, and role playing the disney characters to good use.
Alexxis, Natalie & I have been fighting a winter cold (and nasty chest cough) for about 2 weeks ow and we are praying it all goes away soon. It is horrible for it to be Hot, Humid and sick all at the same time.
Had to procur a new washer this week after our old one bit the bust this week. Oh well what's another $900 right -- pocket change right? Whatever! Can't take it with me so might as well use it for what it can do down here...
Well -- thats the update, more in another week or two...Pray all is going well in your life and if ya get a chance drop a comment off on this site and let us know your thoughts or just say hello....We Love you all.
The Phillips Five (hopefully 6 soon) !
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
Life Fully Underway
Well, school is officially underway again for the girls and they are so excited to be back and making new friends. Natalie has begun 1st grade and is now attending for the full day vs. the half day schedule she was on last year.
Payton is also adjusting to all her sisters being at school, and now she has free run of the house and mom during the day......What POWER she now wields. The first day back Cheryl allowed Brookie to come over to play and of course the following day Payton thought "well we've dropped the sisters of at school, it must be time to go get Brookie" -- well that didn't happen so needless to say she is learning to get along on her own for the first time.
Cheryl is also in transition - 2 kids in school and only 1 left in the house for most of the day unless you count me..LOL. She is getting to the gym again to strengthen her back and feeling better all the time...just tired from being a shuttle service all summer.
I am doing fine as always -- decided I want to try for a Triathlon sometime in 2007 -- Either Havasu or maybe locally here in Phoenix if I can get myself in shape for it by then -- lots of cardio, but that is my strength so maybe it will work out....
We start our Foster/Adopt class tonight for the next 10 weeks in hopes of adopting this little guy (Zackery) -- Pray God's will be done for this little guy and for the little one God has planned for us as well...We know he is faithful to us and 'I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" - Philippians 4:13
Please continue to pray for those in Israel as they continue to be the scapegoats in a war they did not start, and also pray for all the civilians on either side who are caught in the middle. More updates to come and hopefully on a more regular basis (every 2 days or so). Bookmark this site and you'll always be up to date -- FYI my trip to indonesia update will be posted shortly so if you haven't seen those pictures already -- come back soon.
Blessings to you all.
Payton is also adjusting to all her sisters being at school, and now she has free run of the house and mom during the day......What POWER she now wields. The first day back Cheryl allowed Brookie to come over to play and of course the following day Payton thought "well we've dropped the sisters of at school, it must be time to go get Brookie" -- well that didn't happen so needless to say she is learning to get along on her own for the first time.
Cheryl is also in transition - 2 kids in school and only 1 left in the house for most of the day unless you count me..LOL. She is getting to the gym again to strengthen her back and feeling better all the time...just tired from being a shuttle service all summer.
I am doing fine as always -- decided I want to try for a Triathlon sometime in 2007 -- Either Havasu or maybe locally here in Phoenix if I can get myself in shape for it by then -- lots of cardio, but that is my strength so maybe it will work out....
We start our Foster/Adopt class tonight for the next 10 weeks in hopes of adopting this little guy (Zackery) -- Pray God's will be done for this little guy and for the little one God has planned for us as well...We know he is faithful to us and 'I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" - Philippians 4:13
Please continue to pray for those in Israel as they continue to be the scapegoats in a war they did not start, and also pray for all the civilians on either side who are caught in the middle. More updates to come and hopefully on a more regular basis (every 2 days or so). Bookmark this site and you'll always be up to date -- FYI my trip to indonesia update will be posted shortly so if you haven't seen those pictures already -- come back soon.
Blessings to you all.
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