October 11, 2021
Buenas tardes, Friends,
Yes, this update is tardy. . . But our last trip was significant. . . Actually, it was beyond significant for Richard and me. Since the clinic opened in 2003, we have started each day with devotions to support our mission statement: “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” Proverbs 31:8 & 9. Even prior to the covid virus I became concerned about the lack of attendance at morning devotions except for two or three of the12.
The Covid virus was so severe in the Buen Samaritano area that my concerns plummeted. I shared my concern with our board. And upon arrival in Floron I decided to invite two pastors and wives for dinner. I shared my concern and queried if the Floron Community was even aware we were a Christian clinic. Pastor Jon said the community is fully aware the clinic is Christian; however, his next comment initially stunned me and then blessed me, “The problem is inteyif – clinic and water – in the patient waiting area, maintaining social distance and masked. I first opened my heart to them how our board, Richard and I, and many others had daily prayed for their protection in the many, long months of covid that took unspeakable numbers of lives daily. And I knew that God could n.;hklot continue to protect Buen Samaritano with halfhearted allegiance to God, Our Father. . . His Son who shed His blood. . . and ignoring the power of the Holy Spirit residing in each of us. We must whole heartedly return to Him.
Thus, we launched the devotional “En Contacto” (In Touch) for Mondays through Thursdays; and Friday will continue to be reserved to take turns with each person preparing a devotion. That first Wednesday Pastor Jon and his wife led a devotion using a Ken doll and I Corinthians 12:12-27/ one body with many parts. Perfect in unifying the clinic staff and water technicians. Toward the end of the month Pastor Gabriel will lead devotions. We look forward to Pastors Jhon and Gabriel visiting in the future and other community pastors for devotions.
Now this may sound like a small matter to you. . . But this is Buen Samaritano Clinic and Water’s Biblical foundation. . . and it needed some shoring up. . . for such a time as this.
Here are pictures you have supported and allowed by your faithfulness and obedience to God.
This past week Buen Samaritano was contacted and requested aid for a 90-year-old mother with her invalid son. They live totally isolated. Thus, one of our hospital beds, medical supplies and food were supplied.
Do you recall Juliana as an infant? She has a 3-chamber heart and major vessels are transposed. Incredibly she has graduated from high school, and she was just baptized. We have no idea how long her heart can sustain her body, but we and her family are all thankful for her every day.
What a joy! Pastor Gabriel assists an elderly man in the use of the “In Touch Messenger” which includes the Bible and sermons by Charles Stanley. “The Messenger” recharges by solar power or an electrical outlet adapter. All Messengers (over 150) were donated to us by “In Touch Ministries”.
Some of our staff and friends helping to build a church in a very remote area.
Please continue to pray for our staff and the country as they continue to work through these challenging times – Covid and financially. Richard returns to Ecuador this coming Friday for three weeks. Please keep him in your prayers for safe travel and health.
Dios les bendiga,
Richard and Elizabeth <><