Rubie Palmer First Year Missionary - Lima, Peru

Last Blog

Thu, 10 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Dont worry, I just am writting this to let you know that because I am joining the World Race, my blog address will now reflect it. Please read more of my adventures at http://rubiepalmer.theworldrace.org

Support update: It is coming in. I will be on my way to Africa! Praise the LORD!! I still will need about $5,000 more once I get there, so feel free to support me. Thanks to all who have really prayed and sought the Lord with me. May the Lord bless you especially.

Greatfully,

Rubie Palmer

http://rubiepalmer.theworldrace.org

Death Moutain

Wed, 9 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Would not advise to climb if you are already sick. I cant really remeber the two days following... Oh well, whats a little adventure without sacrifice?

SUPPORT ME IN THE WORLD RACE

Thu, 27 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

I have made a commitment to the World Race, and will stay with the team till Nov. 2008. This is a support video updating you on life thus far. I need $1,750 by April 15. Please click on the Support Me! link on the left... thank you all so much! Being the hands and feet of Jesus to the rest of the world would not be possible without you!

SUPPORT ME IN THE WORLD RACE

Thu, 27 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Baby washing in Cochabamba

Sat, 22 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Today was our first full day in Cochabamba, a beautiful city 7 hours from La Paz. The nights are cool, and the days are in the mid 70s. A perfect temperature. We are staying in beds, with hot showers, in a serene location, on the side of a mountian. We have a campfire pit, and many trails going through grassy medows. Easy to feel spoiled. We are here for one week, then will go to the rainforests to help out in orphanages. That is the main ministry we will be doing while we are here, and helping with constuction of existing and new orphanages. We are working with Mike and Bonnie Timmer, who are associated with International Teams, a Christian organization all over the world.

Here is what we did today: we went to the main plaza, and joined a Bolivian in his ministry to the poor street women and children. We sent up a tent in the center, got the water truck ready, and washed well over 40 kids and gave them all bread and milk, and every kid got new clothes. Me and Gretchen were at the infant station, and for two hours scrubbed little tiny babies. It was so awesome. All but two of our kids screamed their heads off, but we made a great team. Suprisingly none of the guys wanted to help out with the washings...hahaha. But some of the girls braided their hair, and then the guys played with them and changed out the dirty water for us. These kids had dirt crusted everywhere. I hope we get to do this next week.

Heart Update

Sat, 15 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

There is something drawing when the family of God operates as it was intended to. When a group of desperate people throw themselves at the throne floor of the Almighty King. It is drawing, impacting, and rare. For possibly the first time in my life, I am realizing how awesome it is. I have grown so much in the past 2 months, since my life's path has intersected with the body called the World Race. My relationship with the Lord has gone to levels I never even thought about, nor dreamt about. My prayers are becoming more intimate and dangerous, and my faith is strengthened every day. I know, beyond any doubt that I can never settle with the same prayers I was praying before I left. I truly desire more meat, more depth, and more involvement in His kingdom then ever before. As we grow together in Christ, we truly are becoming the hands and feet of the King. Daily adoring, praising, and desiring to be changed for His use; laying down our entitlements, flesh, and lives to be more useful to Him. The body is truly edifying, enriching, and amazing. When people (this group I am in) humble ourselves in His presence, God sees it and smiles. Ministering together becomes more successful. This is a picture of Him. The more I learn, the more I live and walk, the less satisfied in anything else I am. I think of the model Jesus left us as He lived, He was very intentional to serve and edify His 12 disciples. It was then that these12 learned men went to the corners of the earth to change history. God is changing me; I am in a learning process that in the past 2 months has taught me more then I ever thought possible. It is hard, yes, but enriching beyond words to describe. I am deeply thankful for the Lord for this opportunity to be on the World Race. The intention was for me to be with this group through Bolivia, then back to Chincha/Lima for one more month before heading home. That would mean I would break off from the group after April and be back home in May. I can't help but ask, "Is my time with this body done?" It feels like an awkward break off, but I know God will have me go where is best. If God wants me to stay, it would roughly cost an additional $10,000. This includes everything, enough money through November 2008, plane tickets, food, lodging, everything. The plan the team has is to be in Africa for 4 months, India and Nepal for 1 months, then finish in Asia. That number makes my heart skip a beat, because it is more money then I have ever had. But, I am learning to walk by faith, to not doubt God and put Him in a box. He is great, capable, and can, with pleasure, provide for me this amount. Family and friends, would you take great care and pray with me over this? If God wants you to give, ask Him how much specifically, and let me know. I don't want you to give out of obligation, but obedience. Please let me know, don't write checks just yet, send me an email and I will reply. Know too, that the money you give is an investment in my spiritual growth. My heart is genuinely for Christ, nothing else. Not to travel the world, but to be in His will. Not for more stamps on my passport, but to continue to learn what it is to be a disciple of Christ with this body.

Nauta, Peru

Mon, 3 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Lots have gone on since I wrote you last. God is good, faithful, awesome, and changing me. Our team just got back last night from Nauta, Peru. It is a two hour bus ride further into the jungle of northern Peru from Iquitos. We lived on a boat (about 30 of us in TIGHT quarters!) for two weeks. Many mosquitoes, huge spiders and other bugs, and the most humid and hottest place I have ever been. We showered in the river (Maranon a tributary to the Amazon), washed our dishes in the brown water, etc. We worked along side a church there, whose vision is to work with the youth and children. We put on a two week "fiesta con Dios" (like a Bible school) for the kids, in which I was a major part of the lesson/drama time. We also meet everyday with the teenagers for a time of discipleship. Along with all of this, I went on a walk with one of my team members and we met a lady who had an abscess on her neck, which was causing her terrible pain. She lived in this shack on stilts (for when the waters rise) with her two daughters, one of which had two little kids and had a stomach tumor that they had operated on three times, but was not better. We prayed for her, and then went back every day thereafter. She is a believer, but felt that her pain had been caused by previous sin. We assured her it was not, and told her to read her Bible and continue to pray. As missionaries we are not doctors, nurses, rich, and cannot solve all problems. But, we do certainly can share the Healer and Giver of Life to all! I went back the following day, and she was smiling, saying her pain was gone, she had woken up at 4 am prayed, and then studied Rom. 8. She was healed!! When I go to do house visitations it is easy for the people to want Jesus because they want Him to heal them. I never want them to think that He always will, and that the most important thing is for them to want Him over all. This lady did, and by God's grace, He had also healed her! I serve a Risen and Powerful Savior!

In Nauta, we were able to experience spiritual warfare up close and personal, particularly me. One night, I encountered a demon for the first time, and was able to recognize it for what it was, and though I was unable to speak or move at the time, my heart and soul screamed, "the blood of Jesus is over me!!" I soon as I thought this, it left in a hurry. It was so real; I tried to reason that it had not actually happened. But it had, I could not help but praise Jesus and the power of His perfect blood for the next half hour or so. What does the devil think he will gain when he messes with one of God's own? Instead, I have been built up, experienced freedom in a more intimate way, and am able to discern evil spirits better. I have been going through Hebrews, and the book is just filled with awesome insight on the blood of Christ Jesus, and how He is the only sacrifice for our sins.

I know if I go on much longer, I will lose your attention. I could write book on things I have seen God do, break my heart for, and how He is changing me. One of our last nights on the boat, the lights were turned off (to lower the number of thousands of mosquitoes) and we were worshiping. My legs were dangling off the side of the boat. The clouds then opened up, and there were billions of stars in a strip just over our boat. I knew it was God just smiling on us. I felt like Joshua taking one of the 12 stones out of the Jordan River as a testimony to His faithfulness. As our worship came to a close, the clouds came back over. He is so encouraging and so good. Now that we are back, we are going to work with a church here in Iquitos for the remainder of the time here. It is in a poor neighborhood, and our focus will probably be very similar to that in Nauta.

For prayer and praise for me: since I wrote the last newsletter, I have slept so well, no pain, and I haven't taken medicine to help my back. Praise God! The opportunity to stay on this team, and continue on with them has opened up. I don't know if that is a route God wants me to take, but I can't close the door without asking Him. A lot of things would have to fall into place, and a lot more finances would have to be raised. Please be in prayer with over this, as I need to make a decision soon.

Join the Awakening: Discipleship & Missions

Fri, 29 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Awaken to the Adventure

Disciples aren't born; they're made. It's a process that takes time, discipline, and God. In reality, it looks more like waking up than attending a class.

As part of The Awakening, you can undergo a discipleship program like no other, experiencing four months of intense training in another country to prepare you for the ministry that awaits you for the rest of the year.

Join The Awakening

Your mornings will be spent in training and your afternoons ministering in local communities, activating what you've learned. In the context of experiential learning, you will be discipled by mentors who want to see you grow deeply in your faith.

You will be part of a community of other individuals who share your passion and desire to come alive in Christ. This time will challenge and stretch you in new ways, and you will never be the same.

Become a part of The Awakening in either Latin America or Africa and discover your role in the kingdom of God.

You were made for greatness, to experience the abundant life and freedom that Jesus promised. As they awaken, current participants are saying:

I don't think that I will ever have such an opportunity to give up all of myself and all of my expectations as I do here. (Emily Tissot, Latin America)

The Bible study has... turned into a church. So, we have church at noon Tuesday-Friday under the tree in front of the market. I love watching as people just bring their stool/chair/water container... and join in the singing. We are going through the book of Galatians, and it is cool to see how freedom is effecting their hearts. (Denise Eckert, Africa)

For more on The Awakening, visit the First-Year Missionary website.

So Long

Sun, 17 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Friends and Family,

I realize it has been a long time since I have written you all. However, this has not been my intent. I finally received my computer, but now have no internet. I am out of Chincha, it has been an amazing five weeks down there with the World Racers. God has done some really awesome things, healings, financial provisions, new houses, childrens programs, and His word is being spread. I will write more when I have time. Right now, I am in Iquitos, Peru. One of the only cities in the world that the only way to get there is to fly (if not the only city). We got here Friday afternoon, and will be here for one month. It is extremely hot and very humid. There is almost no escaping the sweat. Tomorrow morning we leave, to head down on a barge outside a little town on one of the tributaries of the Amazon. We will be sleeping, eating, and fellowshiping on the barge for two weeks. We will minister to the little town, and then will head back to Iquitos for the last two weeks, working with a church in a very poor neighborhood. I am super excited, and this morning at the church service I got to preach a little, and I talked about how revival is here in Peru, and how exciting it is to be here at this transforming time. God is doing something so huge, and I feel so blown away that I am here at this time, to share in the work. I will not have internet connection while in the thick of the jungle, but will share pictures and what God has done when I get back to Iquitos. Pray for us as a team. There is 27 of us, and we will be in close quarters. This is when Satan tries to attack, and disunify our team. We know we are going into a dark place, please pray for spiritual discernment, strength, and authority. Also, for the sickness to avaid our camp and the bugs. I also ask that you pray for sound sleep, as we will be sleeping on the boat floor and in hammocks. Personally, for my back that spasms as I sleep on the hard floor (even though I have a pad), and to communicate more effectively my heart with the team and with those I will be sharing with. I will write as soon as I can. Know that I pray for you all daily, and hope that you are getting a taste of what God is doing at home!

Please check out my teammates posts and videos at www.theworldrace.com My teammates names are Mark Stratman, Laura Johnston, Tammy Peters, and Steve Wright. They have written blogs about what God has done and is doing in Los Jardines.

God Bless.

Peruvian Update

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The LORD is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot. The lines have fallen for me in pleasant
places; indeed I have a beautiful inheritance. Psalm 16:5&6

Dear Friends and family,

Hola desde Chincha, Peru! I arrived safely a week and a half ago. My time home for Christmas was wonderful, and a well needed rest. I have hit the ground running here in Peru. I am so excited to be back in the saddle again, and be apart of what God is doing here in Peru. Some changes have come about since I have returned. The other guy that is down here with me has a tumor or something on his liver, and has not been released from the doctors yet. This makes traveling around the city solo to dangerous for me. At the same time, God has provided an alternative. Go God!! A group has just arrived here from the same organization (the World Race). It is a group of 25 people (broken into smaller teams of 5) all in there 20ʼs who are spending 11 months of their lives traveling to 11 different countries ministering to others, and living in tents, having very limited budgets. The heart of this program is discipleship, and with the given circumstances and close living quarters, it is pretty intense. They just started on the ﬁfth of this month, and I have been with them a week. I will join them while they are here in Chincha doing earthquake relief, and then we will go to the Amazon jungle (Iquitos) for one month, then to Bolivia for another. From there, they will go on to South Africa, and I will go back to Lima for my time remaining (approximately one month). If and when Jason gets better, he will most likely join us. This really excites me, and I am really enthused to be apart of a larger team, and ministering together. Already I see God's hands in how He made this possible, and the team members he has joined me with.

I have been placed in the team that is involved with Pastor Nestor's neighborhood, Los Jardines. The name of his village literally means "the gardens." We had the idea of planting a garden in the center, and proceeded to go through the hoops to make this possible. After a week of this bureaucratic jungle, the mayor granted us permission to create a garden and even donated 20 trees, 25 different ﬂowers, and grass. Praise the Lord!! We do not have a large spending budget, but the Lord made it possible to build a beautiful garden! This may not seem like anything huge, but it just is a testimony on how much God cares for us! We are also planning on some kind of teaching for the children. Kind of like a daily school, where we can teach them morals, Bible stories, and the importance of making Jesus their all-in-all.

Family, friends it is hard for me to express to you my thankfulness for God in my life, for intertwining me with this opportunity and for
allowing me to be apart of something eternal. It truly is worth every penny, and every hour, and every prayer. God continues to save people, and bring them into His fold. Be encouraged. God is so good!!

Monkeys swinging

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

I am back in the saddle again. I arrived safe in Lima on this last Monday, Juan and Natalie (my host family down here) picked me up with bleary eyes ready to go to bed. That made three of us. The following day I hung out with them, and we were able to go to the zoo. I loved it. It has been since I was about two years old the last time I was there, so I was in need of a revisit. I must say I was facinated by all the animals, especaily the monkeys. =)

I went for a short trip to Chincha. The World Race is here (about 25 people ages 21-30), and spending one month in Chincha at Los Jardines and Tambo de Mora. Jason (the other teammate here), is in the states still. He found out he has a begnin tumor on his liver, and is seeing specialists. Please keep him in your prayers as he trusts God during this trying time, and desires to return asap. This has left me in a time of decision. Without a teammate, it makes my moving about the city restricted. Seth Barnes (yes the founder of this organization) has been talking to me about joining the World Race for the next three months. Please pray as this would be a different turn in my focus. One of my concerns is not fulfilling committments here in Lima (and the relational connection I have with my host family). I will update you more about the decision when it is made in the next few days.

Christmas Newsletter

Sun, 9 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

"The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who WILL save; He WILL rejoice over you with gladness; He WILL quiet you by His love; He WILL exult over you with loud singing." Zephaniah 3:17

Dear Friends and Family,

Hello again from South America! The sun is shining, and I hear the version of "Let it snow" playing from my neighbor's house. Reminds me of Christmas. Time here has flown by, as always feels like I have been here for only a blink. But, I also realized that in this short time of only a few months, my life has changed significantly. I have seen destruction of things and lives, and the extreme opposite of new life, new construction, and new hope. I have been blessed- truly- to sling a shovel, give an encouragement, or pray with a needy soul. This last month I was back in Lima. I was able to take Spanish lessons, as well as host several conversation classes in English in exchange for my classes, and for ladies of the church I have been attending. In the down times I have spent delving deeper in the word, and spending lots of time praying, hashing through what God is teaching me, and listening. This has truly been enriching. I have also gone back to Chincha this last week with another group from New York. I spent all my time in one church that we have been working with (Iglesia Adoni). I was busy digging footings and pouring cement all week. I still enjoy working my body, but it is getting harder as the sun becomes more relentless.

Before Christmas, we are going to go back to Chincha and visit the place where we helped plant a church with Pastor Nestor (Los Jardines). We have spent our time at the other locations the last two times we have gone down there. I am eager to go back and continue to solidify those relationships. The month of January is going to be busy for us. We have a large group coming for one month to help with the earthquake relief projects, as well as another one week group coming again from New York. Please pray for the logistical details, as well as God to continue to provide opportunities for new relationships as well as the gospel to be spread.

I really have been able to be apart of something world-revolutionizing. This earthquake and things that have happened as a result have changed people's perspective and the way they will operate from this generation on. Perhaps for the first time, many Peruvians are seeing that there is something greater then worrying about possessions and food. It is a fragile and crucial time for them, and encouragement and resources to help them make the next step are desperately needed. Please continue to pray that God equips those of us who go down there with discernment and overwhelming love for them and continue to be sensitive to their true needs.

And for me, I would covet prayer as I trust Him to do these things, and let Him lead the way.

Blessings this holiday season,

Rubie Palmer

Driven Deeper

Sun, 25 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

I was thinking of enlightening you on a hilarious story, but I think that will have to wait on another day, another blog.

I do want to update you all on my spiritual standings. It is easy for such a driven, goal-oriented person as me, to feel useless after one schedule-less day. But, I have been reminded (by my previously written goals), that I wanted this time of my life to be clear of obligations and spend time basking in the presence of the Lord. It is so easy, here, and back in the states to fill our lives with "things." None of this is new to you. But, to intentionally not have that or do that really requires a daily self reminder to me.

Near to the place where I was taking Spanish classes, I found a Starbucks. There is nothing like a good cup of coffee, a journal, a place that feels like home, and time to spend with the LORD. I have been reading a book written by the guy who founded AIM, on listening prayer. I have been using it more as a guideline for prompting questions that I process. This has proven to be an excellent way to deepen my relationship with God. It has been incredible times for Him to speak to me, and just as the author writes, I find true to myself: every time He speaks, He confirms His love for me. I have read what I have written in my prayer journal over the past year, and everything seems to be cyclical. I was always trying to go deeper in my prayer life and personal relationship with Him, but I was always praying about the same things. I really feel like being down here, I have had my eyes opened and my heart has been able to experience a more depth of understanding then ever have before. My relationship is more personal, I am able to communicate on a more intimate level, and He is continually teaching me new things. I have been able to just let go of the drive to be busy (though I still am on certain days), and just soak up who He is.

So if nothing else comes from this mission trip (which more will happen), my new level of a relationship with the LORD has been irreplaceable.

A real man is...

Mon, 12 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Thank you soldiers for giving me this opportunity to be here in Peru, experiencing life away from busy schedules, and the norm.

This is an excerpt from a good bye letter sent to me by my brother who is now serving us in Iraq. Be encouraged.

This is the hour that our country, our families and our loved ones, need us. It is the reason we agreed to raise our right hands in solemn oath, to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies. We all want to spend our long fifteen months in combat, and earn our plane ticket home. So getting into Iraq will do a lot to raise morale.

In short, I am happy, healthy, and whole. God is watching over me, and He has got me. I'm good. Thank you for your prayers and intercession on my behalf. I feel like I don't have to pray for myself, or worry about myselfyou do that for me. I continue to look for ways to let my light shine in the darkness, and believe me, the darkness is all around. Funny thing is, the darkness isn't scary. It's where I belong. The light belongs in the dark. So pray that God would give me the opportunities to be make the difference in the lives of those around me. They desperately need Jesus, just as we do.

You can pray for our leadership, as we prepare to figure out just how to go about the mission; how to deploy troops and equipment. You can pray for us as we get acclimatized to the hot weather. You can pray for all the family we have at home, that God would keep them out of harms way, and that they would patiently wait for the day we get to come home. There will be the marriages and families that dissolve in the absence of the Soldier. Pray.

I love you all, and miss being at home. There will come a day when I get to do that, having earned the freedom that we all enjoy.

My brother, now deployed in Iraq

Significant Poverty

Fri, 2 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

I walk the streets of Lima or Chincha everyday. It is hard to measure what destitute and poverty and need is. But, being here has given me at taste of world poverty. I have seen the families of Chincha crammed into tarp and grass tents with no food, and lack of clean clothes and safe water to drink, sharing a communal toilet (hole in the ground with a tarp around its vicinity). I have seen those with no legs left on a side corner begging. I have also walked by people lying in the sidewalk, wondering if they are still breathing. I have seen the women begging on the corners, with their little children baking in the sun. I have seen the infants with diaper rash so bad they can not be held properly. I wonder if life still has the same meaning to them like it does to me? Can I comprehend this truth? I wish I would get used to it, but it is always so hard to see people like this; I get a queasiness in my stomach every time I see it. I was talking to a guy in Chincha- he was about my age and he was telling me how his friend broke his leg in five places during the earthquake. Because the hospitals were so overflowed during that time, they just amputated his leg. This is the case for many people. I have seen little girls pushing their old grandpa's in make-shift wheelchairs. They take plastic lawn chairs and put it in a wheelchair frame. It is hard to realize that the people aren't just at a temporary place of need, but this is the way of life for many down here. And, there is no significant change in site. It burdens my soul to see things like this, and it would not be so if people had put themselves in these situations. And then I think, they too have to live 24 hour days. I feel desperate like them, "Why does it have to be like this?" Someone told me that a person was hit by a car in rush hour, was laying in the middle of the road and no one dared to stop, they needed to save themselves 2 minutes of time, and for fear that they would be framed. This is an undeniable reality that won't go away overtime.

Chincha

Sun, 28 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

I am home from another one week trip from Chincha (pronounced Cheen-cha). This last trip has been wonderful, hard, and sweaty. The previous two trips have commenced of alot of destruction of walls and cleaning rubble. This last trip was a time of construction. We were able to split into two groups (we had 13 people from New York), and helped dig and start to pour the foundations of two churches. The work was harder then the last two trips (which I did not know was possible), and the weather continues to get warmer. I was able to continue to solidify relationships that I have made on the previous trips. I also was able to go to Pastor Nestor's community (although this project was not focused there) and visit friends there. Victoria's sons are on their way down from the Highlands, and will soon begin school and their life with her, her husband, and Melany. Also, the community has received temporary houses (bamboo poles with tarps and thatch) from Japan Platforms, and have been able to have something a little more secure. Victoria was happy to let me know that she has begun a discipleship class with others in the community that is being taught by Pastor Nestor. They are going through the book of John. Another woman also informed me that she is attending as well. We asked them what they had been learning, and their faces lit up with the excitement of learning all these new things! What a transformation!! A guy named Luis also let us know that he and his mom are attending the church sessions, and very eager to know more too! Luis accepted the forgiveness of the LORD and found what it is like to have new life. A little background on him, on our last trip Jason, Bob, and a gal from the states who was here on a one week trip went to his house and were able to talk to him and share the gospel with him. The night before, he had tried to commit suicide, and he was in deep despair. His mom was also distraught, and they really could see no light. But, praise God for Him reaching down and saving them and showing them that there is a different life! And to see them now, you never would have known that a few weeks before he did not think life was worth living. This is the God I serve!! Only He can transform a life!!

The other highlight of this last trip was able to see a sweet potato farm that was purchased by some people from the states. It is a 7 acre property that will have a simple campus built on it, with the plan that it will be used to teach Peruano men in an intense discipleship program, and farm part of the land for an income. The men will then go out to the ends of Peru, and eventually to the ends of the earth, spreading the gospel. We were able to see this new purchased land and pray over it. It was awesome getting a glimpse of the potential of this. I started to think how cool it was, the potential and changes it would bring. Then, God reveled to me that this plot of land, as well as what I have been involved with here in Peru is that this is a PROMISED LAND. How significant! That changes this plot of land into something so huge and magnificent that only Jesus could have in mind.

Mission Update

Sun, 7 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Friends and Family,

I love you so much. This last week has been one of hard, and I mean hard labor, as well as a time of evangelism and mission work. We picked up 4 individuals from all over the states last Saturday and headed to a city about the population of Spokane, which is 3 hours by bus south of Lima. It was hit very hard in the August earthquake. We went to help out a church called Iglesia Emanuel, the pastor's home as well as church was shook up pretty bad. Almost all of the buildings were made of adobe, pretty much hardened dirt. And when the quake happened the houses fell apart. We worked at the church for two days helping disassemble and clean up Pastor Dessy's home, as well as adjacent classrooms (he has a program with Compassion International feeding and teaching 150+ children 3 days a week). When that project was finished, we went to another neighborhood of a Pastor who just started a sister church less then 1 month ago. It took him 4 years to build a simplistic adobe home, and in 2 minutes it was almost completely destroyed. We spent two days cleaning his home, as well as helping out some neighbors. The government is trying to help, but the devastation is going to take a lifetime to rebuild. The most help people receive is from the outside. So, if their home is destroyed, they have to rebuild it themselves. So, think of a single mom, or an elderly person, or a husband who drives a taxi 16 hours a day to provide for his family, take being the poorest of the poor, and now everything you have is gone. And on top of that, looters take what little you have. And now it is up to you to not only make ends meet, but build a new home. Everyone here is also taking advantage of the situation. So where as before water was 14 soles, now it is 30. And where a grass roof was 5 soles a section, it is now 20+. I hope you are getting the picture that life here is hard, and very often depressing for these people.

After working in the 2nd neighborhood (Pastor Nestor's), our leader Bob suggested that we do some door to door evangelism. After discussing this, the following day, we prayed together and broke into three teams, each team having a translator. My team consisted of Bob Cooley (the missionary down here), and another Bob (in his 50's and from Michigan), as well as Pastor Dessy's oldest son, who was our translator. We went to the first 'tent' and talked with the lady, asking her where she was when the earthquake hit, and how we could pray for her. They are ready to accept prayer, and most of them are eager to receive forgiveness, and say the sinner's prayer. But, it is also necessary that they hear and know the consequences of sin, and how there is a gap that it creates between us and God. And also that it requires actions of obedience, and their must be a heart change. We explained this to her, and she said she would think about it.

After meeting with her, we went to another house where most of the adobe walls but two sides had fallen, and there were tarps around where adobe was missing, and a grass roof. The radio was playing and after knocking, she was not coming. I was just about to recommend we move on when a woman, most likely in her late 20's early 30's came to the 'door.' We started asking her where she was in the earthquake, how many kids she had, ect. She invited us to come in, and showed us what was left of her humble abode. She started to explain that she was fearful of looters, and had not really left her house in a year. Her husband works alot, and her two sons (like 7 and 8 years old) are in the Highlands living with her sister, so they can go to school. The schools are shut down for the most part in Chincha because there are no buildings. Her beautiful two year old daughter, Melanie, was lying on the bed, with no bottoms on. As I was listening to her I began to get a real sense of hopelessness and depression that was consuming this lady. I asked her if she knew someone who could take her fears away, and she stated that she prayed to a little shrine everyday. Obviously that was out of fear too! The Holy Spirit began to speak through me, and I began talking about a Gentleman who so desires to take all our worries away. God began to manifest himself in that one room house! His presence was so real, that we both saw so clearly our desperateness without Him. She was so lonely without her sons, and wanted so badly for things to be okay. But, when she heard that it was not necessary to be gripped with fear, and that Someone wanted to be her comfort, her provider and companion, she readily accepted Him!! Both of us were crying at the overwhelming love God has for us! We felt compelled to give her money to purchase a ticket to see her two sons in the Highlands. I have tasted and seen that God is Good! How much He desires for each one of us to let Him be our all-in-all!! By the way, her name is Victoria!

We encouraged Victoria, as well as the others we talked to, about the importance of joining a church, and being in fellowship with other believers. We gave them flyer's for Pastor Nestor's church, and encouraged them to come that night. I did see Victoria there that night, leaving her house for the first time!!

The following day we went to a town called Tambo de Mora, which is apart of Chincha. The devestation there is way worse. Water filled the town, about two feet deep, 30 minutes before the quake. What was once a cute happy town, is now devastated, nothing is fixable. We went back to the main town and bought 400 pounds of rice, blankets, and Bibles. We distributed bags of rice, and blankets to the people of Tambo de Mora, and the Bibles to Nestor's neighborhood. Something so little, that brought so much to many. On Saturday we went back to Nestor's neighborhood to work a little, as well as pass out the Bibles. Victoria found us working, she was clean, dressed up, as well as her daughter. She had told me that her daughter saw the Gringo's coming in the van, and came running after me, and when I didn't see her she was utterly disappointed. So I picked her up, twirled her around, and gave her the biggest kiss! What a transformation, even for a little 2 year old!!

After passing out the Bibles, the neighborhood asked us to play volleyball with them. I must inform you that people here do not get to know their neighbors. Some will live within yard of each other for years, and never know each others names. So imagine the implications of a neighborhood getting together for a few hours of volleyball!! We had so much fun, Peruanos as well as Gringos were smiling and laughing from ear to ear for a whole afternoon! If this is God's Kingdom Come, I want to taste so much more! Later on that evening Nestor had church (which meets by candlelight in part of his thatch home), and their were so many people! We realized later, without even knowing it, that our few hours of evangelism, had played a vital role in planting a church!

And this is only a little portion of what God has done in one week. I am excited to see how He will continue to use me and change me for His kingdom purposes! Please pray for the many thousands of people who's lives and bodies will never be the same. Pray for the little church that is forming in Nestor's neighborhood, and please pray about donating to the Earthquake relief fund (you can specifically give through AIM's website). I have seen what a little money does, but I have seen and tasted what a huge God can do! Gloria a Dios!

Until later,

Rubie Palmer

Check my pictures to see pictures of Chincha and Tambo de Mora.

Arrival in Lima.

Sat, 22 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Today marks my third day in Lima. I have spent the last few days trying to orient myself to this massive jungle, get my laundry done, and get to know the Cooley's (the missionary couple down here). Tomorrow we will pick up 4 Americans and head to Chincha and possibly Pisco to do 8 days of earthquake (terremoto) cleanup. Chincha was hit very hard. The devastation has totally demolished the city. I am anxious to work up a sweat serving the Lord. Many people forget about the devastation in the world when the next natural disaster happens. But, people are still sleeping in tents, and have no food, and all their possessions looted. Even many people in Lima have forgotten their own countrymen.

Yesterday I met Dana, an interpreter for AIM. She may join us in Chincha. I was expressing my intrest in taking spanish lessons, and she stated that she may get me into a language university for free, if I do a conversation class with Peruanos who want to learn English. Sounds like a fantastic opportunity! So be in prayer for that as well as our time in Chincha, where we will be rebuilding the church, and a pastor's home.

If I could choose

Wed, 22 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Time is coming closer. As I think of really how soon it will be till this adventure begins, I am excited, nervous of the vast unknown, and so desperate to become zapped with being fluent in the language. People... never in a million years would I have dreampt this up for me! Only Jesus, whose perfect blood was innocently shed to cover my multitude of sins, could have given me this life I do not deserve! To be honest, if it were left up to my demise, no way would I ever leave my comfort zone!And going some place 'international' would have consisted of being on my private yacht (yeah right), just enough shade covering my face, floating around the Greecian Islands. By the way, I would have a butler offering me martini's.

But if I have told the LORD to take my life, change my life, and make me whole, to cause me to live no longer for my desires, I have willingly given up my comfort zones. So knowing that this is the only option, and ultimately the best option, and most fulfilling- I am so excited!

Pray for me. I am about to go to Lima, Peru to find Jesus even there too.

Manifest Intensity

Thu, 19 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

In a way, I am thankful for the lives freedom costs, not because lives are dispensible, but because it gives me an appreciation all the more to see the flag flying high and to know that though chaos rages all around me, my feet stand on free, protected ground. Generations before me have secured this, not fully understanding manifest destiny; but being sure that this was the only option.... So it is for every Christian- generations long before us secured in their hearts not to let the flame of Jesus Christ dwindle and though it cost many their lives- they have been willing to wave the flag of Truth, knowing if manifest destiny was going to continue, the truth must be told and lived out.

I am a nobody walking among giants. I see what others can offer to this goal and understand that I have a long way to go. But, praise God that He pursues me with more intensity then I can return. He makes any calling possible. Do you believe that?

Peace in War

Sun, 10 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

It is hard to pen together coherent thoughts when things seem to be happening a million miles an hour. Today embarks a bitter sweet journey for me, my family, and my brother. In a Holy Spirit lead send off, we covered my brother with songs, prayers, and tears, as he goes to spend the next 18 months in the heart and heat of Iraq. His mission is extremely dangerous, and he has been chosen to lead about 40 other soldiers in providing safety for the rebuilders of Iraq. I cannot begin to describe my thoughts, desperate crys for safety, and showers of guided discernment for this man, a true Army Ranger, with officer class, who is undoubtedly and absolutely abandoned to God. I found myself almost mourning as if it were a living funeral. But, then I am reminded of God's providence, even when my finite mind cannot understand. In everything- He IS Faithful!

Also, I have decided to go to Peru to help establish a base for future FYM's, and work with AIM's new missionaries Bob and Becky Cooley. This has been a very prayerfully considered decision, as I believe going anywhere else would be disobedience. Please continue to pray that God sets the stage, works out the details, and prepares me for this new adventure. I believe this will be a year where He teaches me to be independently dependent on Him.

I smile because of the L ORD.

-Rubie Palmer

SUPPORT!!

Tue, 1 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Here is an update on my financial support:

IT IS FINISHED! PRAISE GOD!!

Please continue to pray for God's guidance in preparing my heart to go, and to bless those who freely sacrificed financially for me.

-Rubie Palmer

Confusion made Simple

Fri, 27 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

I have a tendency to fill my schedule with to many committments. This is an area where God continually tries to break me from. Funny, it is easy to excuse- as most addictions are, by wanting to delay the need to acknowledge. More and more He seems to bring the topic of rest. This is something I throw in the cracks of my life, not giving it the room it requires. So, this past week I have been saying "no" to things, giving Him my attention. Besides, you can't fall in love without spending specific time with Him. It is so refreashing to just sit and listen. To focus my mind and heart soley on Him. To undivide my attention and desperately drink. And this is what He wants to give me every second of every day!!

One of the things I so enjoy about Jesus is that He has no hidden agendas. He says so bluntly what is required. An inspiring example is in Matthew 10 where He sends out the Twelve just after He says, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest field." Then in simplicity: "Do not go among the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans. Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel. As you go, preach this message: 'The kingdom of heaven is near.' Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy,drive out demons. Freely you have received, freely give. Do not take along any gold or silver or copper in your belts; take no bag for the journey, or extra tunic, or sandals or a staff; for the worker is worth his keep. "

What a refreshing reminder of the simplicity amongst a whirlwind of confusion.

The power of the cross

Thu, 29 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The first sunny day here in Spokane, I drive home from work the windows down and wind in my hair, music blasting. I take my cute chiuauah for a walk in the historic, beautiful, yet trendy Browne's addition. Kind of a forgotten gem in the city because of the kind of people living there, but I feel so fortunate to live just outside of this European style neighborhood. I hear someone call behind me: two Mormon missionaries. I am wearing my Campus Crusade for Christ sweatshirt. I think: "if I blow them off, no big deal, they get that by a lot of people." Instead I see it as an opportunity to learn. After standing on the sidewalk talking for an hour and a half we decide to meet again. Concequentlty, I have met with these missionaries and talked with them on numerous occasions. During this time, Jesus has really showed me that it is not my pride permitted to talk- so often I just want to prove to them that they are wrong. But, I have no part in the Salvation Story- I am saved by His mercy and grace. I own nothing, I owe all. So often I have a pride issue. Wow, if anything I am learning from our meetings is how to speak when the Holy Spirit wants me to, not when I feel I have a good point to make. Also, how the simplicity of the cross is enough. IT IS ENOUGH!! Praise the LORD!! There is no such thing as a restored gospel- Jesus is the gospel. I have no right pretending I am a major contributor to the process of salvation- I just realize and admit I am so lost without it. While researching the truth of the Trinity I read the greek and hebrew meaning of Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see," means that persuason is not the outcome of imagination but is based on fact, such as the reality of the resurrection of Christ. It is the immediate instument of perservation, is dependent upon and made to work by the power of God; while faith does not enable the power of God to keep us, the power of God, creating and sustaining faith, enables it to keep us secure in our state of salvation.