Christmas Newsletter

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