Information from the Isthmus

2010-06-16T11:34:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog,

Well project has come to an end. Last night I spent a little time reflecting on what I learned in the past 6 ½ weeks here in Panama. After some thought and prayer I came up with this: The Gospel truly does change both lives and even communities.

Yaremis was a student from the National campus that I saw come to Christ last year at the end of my time in Panama. Even now, a year later I still vividly remember the visible change in her face and character the day she accepted Christ.

In the past year Yaremis has continued to grow in her love for God and love for others. This year as part of commitment dinner at the end of project where we challenge students to commit to reaching their world for Christ, Yaremis stood up and shared her testimony of a changed life and the passion it gives her to share the Gospel with others. For me, seeing Yaremis today vs. a year ago I can hardly believe it is the same person as she is constantly being renewed and transformed into the image of Christ.

The Gospel is for Christians too. This may sound silly but it something I became even more convicted of. Just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in Him, rooted and built up in Him… We need to keep the Gospel central to our Christian walk and daily remind ourselves of it.

Over project much of my attention was focused on serving the Canadian staff and students, ensuring that they were equipped and available to reach out to the campuses. In doing this I was able to see really how much God transformed so many of the Canadian students who came to Panama. I believe that a great part of this was due to the fact that the students not only were sharing the Gospel with others, but also reminding themselves of what the Gospel is.

The Gospel has the power not only to transform lives, but communities as well…. One of the highlights of the Panama project for me is the ‘Adventure Cycle’ where we head out to remote communities in the mountains and there reach out to the people by serving and working alongside them during the day and showing the Jesus film at night. The idea is to help a missionary who is reaching out to these areas plant churches. This was my 6^th such trip, and although I arrived thinking I knew what to expect I have been in awe of what I saw.

This year our project went to a village called Sancona, high in the mountains of the Cocle province in the interior of Panama. Before going we had been told that, unlike the other communities we had been to, Sancona had a small local church that existed. The power of this small church, or rather the power of God through the church, amazed me.

In most of these communities the people generally wear a weathered, detached look on their face, families don’t seem to be loving towards each other, there is limited community activity and often times alcohol is a factor. In Sancona we immediately saw that none of these applied

As we began getting to know the people, and saw the difference in this community versus the other communities in the area, we asked them what made the difference. When asked, one of the people from the area (who was not a Christian) said “The Word of God. Ever since the church began and people started sharing the Word of God people in this community have stopped fighting like we did before.”

Up to this point I had been assuming that the difference in the community must be the Word of God and the presence of His church, but to hear it come from people in the community really blew me away. As I processed this, I realized that while I believed in my head that the Gospel was the answer for these communities, I needed to actually see it to really truly believe it with all my heart.

So with these three ‘stories’ fresh in my mind, and having spent some time reflecting on what God has done these past 6 ½ weeks in Panama I am now more convinced than ever of the need to simply share the Gospel, Jesus Christ with people and allow God to do the transforming work. Further, in order to do this I need to continually remind myself of the Gospel in order that I too may be changed continually.

So for now I’m off. Thank you so much for all your prayers, support and encouragement. I am sad leaving Panama, yet feel so privileged and blessed to have been a part of what God has been doing down here for these past 4 years.

Con carino

Steve

Week 4

2010-06-04T11:26:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog

Well this post will be a bit rushed as I am just taking a few minutes that I have between packing/wrapping everything up from the Campus Cycle and preparing everything for the Adventure Cycle (where we head out in to the rural villages to witness out there).

Campus Cycle ended on a really big high. Last night we had a Commitment Dinner where we challenged the Panamanian students to commit themselves both to God and to being involved in the university ministry. The night was a great success, with 40 Panamanians coming out. It was a good night of testimonies, vision casting and hanging out and eating some really good food.

We will be heading off a little later today for a weekend retreat, followed by our adventure cycle. It is always an exciting time and one that you really need to depend on God as you are out of your comfort zone and nothing really is in your control (even now we are trying to fix our generator...)

Hopefully I will have a few minutes later today or this weekend to update, but if not...talk to you in a few weeks.

Steve

Week 3

2010-05-28T08:59:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog

I can't believe it but 3 weeks are up already and we're heading in to the final stretch of our times on campus here in Panama. This week has been a bit of a battle on two fronts, both spiritually as we face opposition (which is good because it means we're fighting for the kingdom) and physically as we put our all into the work down here. But its also been very encouraging as we can reflect on what God has done, and is continuing to do on the campus.

On Sunday I had the chance to preach at 'La Comunidad', which is the church we are attending while in Panama. I shared from the book of Colossians focusing on our need to be rooted in Christ. We also took a look at Epaphras, the man who planted the Colossian church and his example of receiving the Gospel and then bringing it back to his own people. God was gracious in giving me a message despite the limited time I had to prepare.

I want to introduce you to a grandpa, his name is Jason Elford.

Jason (the red head on the right) led Fredrico to Christ two weeks ago on the Santiago campus. Fredrico, who grew up Catholic and had a lot of knowledge of the Bible, says he once trusted on his good behaviour to go to heaven and was thrilled to hear of Grace and Jesus Christ's provision. I've had the opportunity to spend time with Fredrico and he constantly is smiling and resting in the fact that he is saved by grace. As Fredrico received the Gospel he is now also sharing it with other students, and last week had the chance to share the good news and see someone come to Christ....spiritual multiplication!

Back in the city things have also been going well. The Canadian students have been taking lots of steps of faith, many of them commenting on how much they've grown through the challenges they have faced on project. It isn't easy stepping out and sharing your faith everyday, especially in a different language and different culture. But we have all found God to be faithful and He has worked both in our lives and in the lives of Panamanians.

Below are some photos of our time on campus...enjoy!

Steve

Erin (L) sharing about Canada with one of the Panamanian students she met

Panamanians and Canadians sharing in prayer time at the weekly meeting

Wes and Melanie doing follow up with Christian

The weekly meeting at the UTP campus. Lionzo (national director) is challenging the students to become leaders who will make the difference (for Christ) on their campus.

Week 2

2010-05-21T09:52:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog

Its been a really incredible week down here in Panama, and I would like to start with a story from the Santiago campus.

SANTIAGO

Melanie went up to Santiago Monday (leaving at 6:30 in the morning and getting back at 11:30 at night!). When we got there we had a chance to talk to some students before heading to the cafeteria where a couple of students had follow up appointments with some students that they had shared the Gospel with. I sat down with Jason (a Canadian) and Frederico, a student who had accepted Christ the previous Thursday. Throughout the conversation Frederico kept on emphasizing that his salvation depended solely on Jesus and that Christ had forgiven him! It was so exciting to see him talk about that.

As we were talking, I noticed that two other tables filled up with Canadians and Panamanians. It turned out that they were all follow up appointments. Over our lunch time we met up with 19 Panamanians to take them through our first lesson in follow-up which is focused on CHrist being the source and assurance of our salvation! This for me is a huge miracle as follow up is always the missing link. As we spent the day on campus, several times students approached us asking when they could meet up again! It really is evidence of God at work on the campuses here!

LIFE IN PANAMA

Life in Panama has been going really well...but busier than ever. I am so thankful for my staff team as they lead the students out on campus. One of my privileges is to be able to visit each team and be a part of what they are doing. Always a highlight of my day is being able to go out with some of the Canadian and Panamanian students and share the Gospel.

I've really noticed a difference in the way things are working this year on project. SO much more when we head out to talk to students, we are going out with Panamanian students. This has been really evident in Panama City, especially on the UTP campus where the movement is really being led by the students. For me it is so exciting to know that the Panamanians have caught the vision and are taking the initiative to reach out to their campus.

So please continue to pray for us! Time is flying by so fast down here, and the project is already almost 1/2 over. A couple of prayer requests are:

- English classes - three of the teams are putting on English classes as a way to reach out to students. It is a great way to connect with new students and build relationships with them

- Spiritual Growth - One of our objectives is that the Canadian Students would grow in their personal walk with the Lord. Pray that as they give themselves to the ministry that it would be coming from the overflow of God working in their lives

- Direction - Pray that Melanie and I would continue to lead the project with Wisdom

PICTURES TO COME

Steve

Panama Week 1

2010-05-14T13:15:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog

Its hard to believe that we’ve already been here for almost two weeks, the time is really flying by. So far things have gone great! We have an awesome team of both staff and students and we are quickly becoming a family. Some of my closest friends today are people I met when I first came to Panama 4 years ago. It really is a special time as you work side by side with others for the kingdom.

First I want to introduce you to Melanie, she is my co-director. She is from Sherbrooke, Quebec, is married and has two cats. We get along great and I’ve been really enjoying speaking French with her….it usually results in us laughing our heads off. A personal goal of mine this project is to become tri-lingual (English, Spanish and French).

The team is also great…we’re a group of 31 from across Canada (as well as Japan, Nigeria and the Bahamas). God has been great in bringing us together and we really get along well. We have divided the group into 4 teams on 3 different universities: Universidad de Panama (2 teams), Universidad Tecnologica (UTP) and Santiago.

We have just completed our first week on campus. The first few days were challenging for the students as they adjusted to sharing with people in another culture and language. But through prayer and hard work they are seeing God work through them. Already we have seen several students come to Christ and start the follow-up process.

As director I have had the chance to visit all of the teams this week. A typical day for me will be to meet with Melanie in the morning then head to campus to join a team for the day. On campus we will meet up with our staff to encourage, pray and help direct them. Then we look for opportunities to head out with the students to share. So far I have had many great conversations with the students.

THE STORY OF CARMEN

On Wednesday I went out with Julia (Canadian student from SFU) to share and we met Carmen, a 2nd year student at UTP. Carmen had gone to a school run by monks and believed in good works for Salvation. As we began sharing the Gospel we quoted John 3:16 to which she replied ‘I have heard that so many times, every day for 12 years, it’s a bit monotonous now.” As we continued sharing with her she admitted that ‘I’m envious of a Christian friend of mine, she really has a relationship with God and is joyful. That’s what I want…’

As we shared the Gospel with her, she seemed to light up as she understood what grace was, and that her sins could be forgiven. As we explained to her salvation Carmen said that the only thing that was missing was her faith. She said she wanted so much to accept the Gospel but just had no faith.

As we arranged to meet up with Carmen again I asked her if we could pray for her. She said yes and then asked if we could simply pray that she would be able to accept the Gospel. It was so apparent that she understood both the Gospel and her need for it so please join us in praying for Carmen.

Well that’s all for now. Thank you for continuing to pray for us!

Steve

Panama Project 2010

2010-05-10T15:27:00.001-07:00

Dear Blog

I’m excited for something big this year. Throughout my preparation for Panama project God kept on reminding me of how big He is and how big his plans are. They’re not limited to any one country or person, but are for all people everywhere. Much of this reminding has come through reading the book Isaiah and prayer.

And things have definitely started out big!

ON Friday we had a lunch for involved Panamanian students to come meet the Canadian students. Overall we had 60 people, Canadian and Panamanian and were able to hear the Panamanian student’s vision and heart for their campus which reflected what our Lord’s heart is for the world. It was exciting because this is just the start and there is so much more to happen.

Our time in Panama so far has been focused on training the Canadian students for their time in Panama. It has definitely been a lot of work (up to 12 hours in a day!) but it has been enjoyable, we’ve been full of energy and we’re really looking forward to being full time on campus next week!

Take a peek to the right → to see our prayer goals for the project!

Your friend,

Steve

Do not let your heart be troubled...

2010-04-15T16:17:00.001-07:00

Dear Blog

My heart was a bit troubled yesterday. Mostly to do with life and the big picture of things (what program to stick with? Future etc...) but it was all triggered by the little things....namely the details for Panama project.

I had written down 'International Teams Finance Conference Call - 11:30am PDT' so at 11:30 I phoned in...only to find out that my call had been at 10am, the 11:30am call was for National team members....I guess in that moment I felt a bit of inadequacy (Read: A lot of inadequacy) as director of Panama Project...and then also in life in general. I tried to get back to work but my heart was troubled....so I grabbed my Bible, headed to the ocean and spent a bit of time in prayer and was led to John 14.

Let not your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in Me. - John 14:!

Ahhhhhhhhhhhh relief.

That really answered lots of my 'bigger picture' questions...namely: What of my life? Well I just need to trust God, He's been so faithful so far, I need to trust that He will be to the end.

As I got busy about Panama work again today I still had a few lingering questions about my ability to lead the project (Note: I think this is a good thing to know that I can't lead on my own...but God will through me) Out of the blue Melanie, my co-director sends me an e-mail:

"Steve, thank you so much for taking care of that (budget issue)! You have no idea how great of a leader you are."

I think that was God reassuring me He is with me....

So only 17 more days to go...I can't wait!

Steve

Back Again

2010-04-05T14:41:00.001-07:00

Dear blog

Well its been almost a year but I'm back again...and heading back! This May/June I'll be directing the Campus for Christ summer project down to Panama...and I'm super excited, although admittedly a little nervous about being the one in charge. Already it has been quite a bit of work getting things prepared (more work than I thought) but its good. A lot of my duties so far have involved planning the trip (setting the vision, schedules, goals, details, setting up a staff team etc...) THankfully I'm not directing this alone. Melanie Gane (staff in Quebec) is co-directing the project with me. But together we can't do it and even in this preparation stage and planning I've realized the need to depend on God through it all.

So stay tuned over the next few weeks as I prepare to head to Panama. While in Panama I plan on updating regularly and between now and then weekly.

Until next time,

Steve

Wow

2009-06-19T09:47:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog

Wow where to start. What a lot has happened in the last two weeks.
1. Decided to go back to Canada
2. Went to the interior on the Adventure Cycle
3. Summer project came and went

So I'm not really sure where to begin, and seeing as I as up by 4 am for the third time this week to get people to the airport, I'm not sure how coherent this will be....but here it goes.

First of all, wow, I'm heading back to Canada. As some of you may have known I had been offered a ministry job down here in Panama, but after much prayer and some good guidance from the word I am heading back to Canada. I am so excited because the decision was made after some clear guidance from God, so I know He wants me back home. On the other hand it leaves me very little time to prepare to make the change....

I will be excited to have Starbucks again...Lindsey bought me a cup of coffee and brought it to Panama for me

Who is your hero?

However I could not have asked for a better end to my two years down here in Panama. The summer project was amazing. Our goal was to leave 39 "Movement Builders" in Panama. A 'Movement Builder' is someone who is:
Committed to growth in their personal walk with God
Committed to personal evangelism and discipleship
Committed to work with Vida Estudiantil
Committed to helping fulfill the Great Commission in this generation

Near the end of the project we selected and challenged the students already involved and those who we had just met during project to do these four things. Those who said 'yes' were invited to our commitment dinner, where our vision was shared and they had a chance to commit to building the movement. In all, 44 students committed, an amazing end to my two years knowing that there are 44 students now willing to continue the work I came here to do.

Students posting their commitments

Moving from the city and the campus we headed out to the interior of Panama for a week to work along side Pastor Correa to share the love of Christ with 2 remote communities of Palmar and Las Sabanas. The trip went well and around 100 people were shown the Jesus film. Also alot of groundwork was laid for Pastor Correa to continue the work in these two unreached communities. In many ways as we were up there in the mountians it definitely felt as if we had gone to the ends of the earth with the Gospel.

So a lot has happened, and I appologize for only scratching the surface in sharing all that has gone on lately. Overall I have just been blown away by God's faithfulness to completing his promises and leading us all the way.

Steve

The end is near...

2009-05-29T12:37:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog

1 week left. It hit me yesterday that I only have 1 full week left on campus, and how thankful I am. Not that my time on campus is coming to an end, but rather thankful to what I've been a part of. Last Monday I gave the training segment to the Canadian team down here and talked about selection process, that we need to select the leaders who will be the foundation of the ministry in years to come. For me it was surreal giving the talk as I thought back to the first time I stepped foot on the campus and there was nothing in terms of a student movement. One of the highlights for the past couple weeks for me has been seeing the Panamanian students taking the initiative and having the desire to share their faith. It has been amazing!

I've really been amazed that God chose me to be a part of the birth of the student movement. And it has been like a birth...lots of pains and hard work, but now comes the joy, which is really the best word I can use to describe how I feel. Joyful, thankful and blessed to be a part of the birth of a movement.

The next week for me will definitely be bitter sweet. There will be huge moments of joy and huge moments of sadness as the reality of this transition sinks in, but through it all I will rejoice!

Steve

2009-05-18T16:32:00.001-07:00

Dear Blog

Before coming on STINT I did a test called the Birkman. It is a long personality assesment which as a team we have found out is incredibly (read scarily) accurate. On the test it showed that I have a high activity score...meaning I like (need) to be doing stuff. Maybe this is why I love project so much...We are busy busy busy...

Here is what I have done today...a typical day on project...

7:15 - Rise and Shine
7:30 - Actually get out of bed...
7:30 - 8:15 - Devocionales, breakfast and shower
8:15 - 9:00 - Travel to the University
9:00 - 9:30 '- Team meeting and prayer
9:30 - 10:30 - Go out with Patrick and Krista sharing the Gospel
10:30 - 11:30 - Enter a classroom and share a talk on succesful relationship followed by the Gospel...get contacts at the end
11:30 - 12:45 - Share the Gospel some more...this time a girl named Margarita accepts Christ. She is currently going through really hard times which she shares with us.
12:45 - 1:00 - Eat 2 Empanadas
1:00 - 2:00 - Go sharing with Fidel (Panamanian student). See a student named Abraham accept Christ
2:00 - 3:00 - Discipleship with Mike...we talk about plans for future and project
3:00 - 5:00 - Team Bible study...head over to a cafe where I eat some more...from there walk back to campus
5:00 - 6:00 - Meet with a student Luis, we go over his testimony that he will be sharing this week at an outreach
6:00 - 6:30 - Travel to office
6:30 - 7:00 - Downtime...but also check e'mail, set up for training
7:00 - 9:00 - Training time with the Canadian team...travel home
10:00 - Arrive home...shower, check e'mail, talk with roomate and off to bed

So all in all a very busy schdule, but I love it. Anyways just though I would give you some insight in to my life...

Steve

Panama project 2009

2009-05-15T10:53:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog

Sorry for not writing in two weeks...I've been so busy with PANAMA PROJECT 2009!! Starting May 3rd, 20 Canadian staff and students arrived for a 6 week missions project down here in Panama City. Since their arrival we have been busy first with orientation/training and then getting on the campus and sharing our faith. It has been an amazing first two weeks of project. The students are great and are really enjoying sharing the love of Christ with the Panamanians. I have really enjoyed working with them...although it is quite tiring.

I somewhat feel like I'm doing my readers an injustice by not sharing all the things that have been going on this week and all that God is doing. From people being saved, faculties inviting us to share the gospel in classrooms etc... But the following is by far one of the most exciting things that has happened to me in campus ministry...read on!

The story starts Wednesday morning on the bus. I was thinking over my past 2 years in Panama, and the devil was trying to discourage me accusing me that I hadn't accomplished anything. Arriving on campus I met up with my team. While waiting, a student approached me "Hey Steve! What are you doing here? Remember me, Luis?" I quickly filed through the directory of Panamanian faces I have in my brain and drew a blank and said "Well I'm here with a team of Canadian students, but I'm sorry I can't remember who you are?"
Luis replied "You shared Jesus with me in 2006 when you were part of some Christian campaign that came here. And hey, I just want you to know, when you left I got hooked up with a local church and have been serving God ever since."

WOW!! You just never know what God will do as we step out and obey Him. I was also so thankful how God showed me, and in a subtle way said to me "You see Steve, I have used you in an amazing way to impact my kingdom in ways you can't even imagine and ways that you don't know."

Yesterday I met up with Luis again to catch up on the past 3 years of our lives. He told me how He came in to a relationship with Jesus through Panama Project 2006 and when we left, got involved and is now serving at a local church. Reconnecting with us, Luis is also excited to help us in reaching out to his campus. He plans on sharing his testimony next week and is excited to share his faith.

So as I step out to campus I just think of how awesome it is to know that I am part of something so much bigger . I find so much comfort in the following verse...it gives me such confidence.

Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. - Philippians 1:6

In Him

Steve

PS Some of you may not be familiar with my lingo...Panama Project is when a group of students from Canadian campuses (there are 17 down this year) come and partner with the Panamanian ministry in evangelism and discipleship. We will spend the next month on 3 different campuses sharing the gospel and doing discipleship. From there we will head in to the interior to work within some rural communities showing them the love of Christ.

The Kingdom

2009-04-26T17:17:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog

Sorry its been so long since I wrote. Things here in Panama are going well...although we haven´t only been in Panama recently. With our Panamanian visas expiring we fled the country as fugitives and landed in El Salvador, homeland for two of my teamates. There we ate pupusas, saw Volcanos, ate some more, relaxed and got to know the friendliest people on earth. One of the highlights was meeting up with Selegna and the Stint team in El Salvador. We spent an afternoon together visiting ruins, sharing stories and experiences and generally just connecting. I am always amazed at the depth of relationships that can happen instantly between Christians...together as one body we instantly have that connection.

One thing that I think has been the over riding ´lesson´I have learned this year on STINT, and definately what I have been learning about recently is the immensity of the Kingdom of God. It has no boundaries, no limits, its unstoppable, unquenchable and will never end!!! I get excited just writting that. It was exciting to meet up with believers in EL Salvador and see what God is doing there. Its exciting being a part of the work down here, and next week it will be exciting to recieve 20 Canadians who are coming from across Canada to serve in Panama 6 weeks. Wherever I look on a map I can just think of what GOd is doing there....how His Kingdom is expanding.

I will leave you with a couple of my favorite verses from this year...

Colossians 1:6 (NLT)
This same Good News that came to you is going out all over the world. It is bearing fruit everywhere by changing lives, just as it changed your lives from the day you first heard and understood the truth about God’s wonderful grace.

Daniel 2:44-45
In the time of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed, nor will it be left to another people. It will crush all those kingdoms and bring them to an end, but it will itself endure forever. This is the meaning of the vision of the rock cut out of a mountain, but not by human hands—a rock that broke the iron, the bronze, the clay, the silver and the gold to pieces.
"The great God has shown the king what will take place in the future. The dream is true and the interpretation is trustworthy."

As I sign off I know that people, part of the Kingdom, are reading this around the world! Until next time..

Steve

The pursuit continues...

2009-04-16T15:29:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog

This past week we had tables set up in various faculties sharing what Vida Estudiantil is as well as having the SOULarium set up. SOULarium is a set of 50 photos ranging from mountain ranges, homeless people, birds, kids playing, planes, old married couples etc.... Some dark pictures, some joyful, all of them intriguing. The point being its not just what you see, but how you interperet what you see. Using a series of questions from which people answer the question with the pictures, it opens the doors to deeper spiritual conversations. Twice this week I began a conversation with the SOULarium and it ended with someone accepting Christ!

As we are now back on campus full time and in succesive weeks momentum is gathering. We are seeing more of the students, having more follow up and seeing more students come out! Today at our weekly meeting there were 30 people...keep on praying for our goal of 40! We are almost there! It was exciting as probably 10 of the people out this week were new. Some invited by friends and others coming from contact through the table.

1 Corinthians 15:58 says Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. I have again been thinking about how God pursues people and uses us in his pursuit. Of the two people I saw come to Christ this week, one had talked with two of my teamates before and the other I had known for a year. It encourages me to think that next year, the next STINT team will talk to someone who says "Well last year some Canadian guy shared with me..."

So until next time keep up the good work wherever you are.

Steve

PS Tomorrow the team and I head to El Salvador to flee the country as our visas expire. We will be back in action here on Tuesday.

Pursuing...

2009-04-06T20:51:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog

The past couple weeks we've been back on the campus working hard. Its been fun (sometimes tiring) and overall a good experience. Last week we spent the mornings entering all the 1st year classes in the Biology, Architecture and Law faculties to explain to them who we are and invite them out. So far we haven't seen too many 'results' from this, but we know God will use it.

One thing I have been realizing is how much God pursues people. Last week at one of our follow-up meetings with Jenifer, her friend Patricia came along. Through it, she voiced her obvious distrust (and hurt) for evangelical Christians. We were able to talk a bit before she left, but as we prayed after wards this verse came to mind...

2 Peter 3:9 - The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.

I realized that even though Patricia still is angry towards Christians and Christ, God will continue to pursue her...through us, or Jenifer or other people...and although today she wasn't ready to repent and turn to Jesus, He is still pursuing to her.

Today I spent my day out sharing, talking to people about Jesus. Karina and I talked to Cesar, a 1st year Law student who studies outside of the city, but was at the National campus for the day doing paperwork. Cesar was a Catholic who had, in his words 'half-way opened my heart to Jesus'. Talking about Semana Santa (Easter week) and Jesus' death, we shared the Gospel with Cesar and the need to fully repent and accept Jesus as Lord and Saviour....and he did! As we continued talking, Cesar told us how 2 years ago he had been at the university when 2 Canadians who barely spoke Spanish tried to talk to him...although not ready to recieve the Gospel then, God kept pursuing Cesar until today.

So with that, we will continue our work of sharing Christ with the lost. We look forward to taking off this weekend to Boquete (highlands) for our Semana Santa conference with La Comunidad (Church).

Until next time,

Steve

PS On another note, this past Sunday while playing in my soccer league I recieved my first yellow card EVER! After a combined 27 seasons of playing organized sports (soccer and rugby) I had never once recieved a yellow card...until Sunday. I am actually quite proud...it was a handball.

Count it all joy

2009-03-27T11:55:00.001-07:00

Dear Blog

James 1:2-4
Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

It's definitely been a trial for me the past week. Friday, as I was helping register for the Crossfire retreat my bag was stolen. In it was all my documents (Passport, visa) Wallet (credit card, cash) Camera (+3 lenses) among other things (Bible, hat, sunglasses, keys...). It was amazing how the 'peace of God that passes all understanding' came over me. In the moment I remembered how God had brought James 1:2 to my mind earlier in the day, and decided to count it all joy. From there we got on the bus and headed out to the retreat.

One of the new songs we sang at the retreat was 'Love Enough' by Hillsong United..here is the pre-chorus:

We’re living in the Saviour today
And this day is what we have now
In this moment we have chosen to praise
And it’s changing how we live now

I was struck by the 3rd line as I sung it Friday night. "In this moment we have chosen to praise" It is so true. I often think of Job in this moment. When all his world crumbled around him his wife said to him, “Do you still hold fast to your integrity? Curse God and die!” (Job 2:9)

I love Job's response in v.10

But he said to her, “You speak as one of the foolish women speaks. Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?” In all this Job did not sin with his lips.

Everyday we are faced with with adversities, large or small, and we have a choice. We can curse God or we can accept the lot God has given us and choose to praise. Friday night I made the choice to praise God despite the loss, and God rewarded me, really showing me His love that He has for me.

The rest of the crossfire retreat was amazing. Focused on the will of God, I know my boys were challenged a lot to take their faith to a new level. One of them, James, took the decision to accept Christ as his Savior! In all it was a great weekend.

Coming back to the city, God built patience into me as I spend the first two days going to the police station and embassy. In all honesty, I was really blessed to have a fairly straightforward experience in getting the reports and applying for a new passport. Wednesday I was back on campus. Thursday, after another day on campus I came home sick and am once again needing to make the choice to praise God even though I don't feel like it....

Until next time...

Steve

PS No pictures as I don't have a camera anymore...sorry.

2009-03-20T12:10:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog

I just want to check in and say hi! This week has been good. It started off heading up in to the mountains with Lindsey (+2) and Todd on a set-up trip for the summer project that is coming in May/June. We headed to two new villages to arrange places to stay, logistics and get to know the area....

God has always spoken to me through creation (part of growing up in the most beautiful place on earth I guess...) and being up in the mountains really drew me closer to Him. Returning to the city, Wednesday was our monthly 'Day Alone with God'. A day we dedicate to spend entirely with Him, reading, praying etc... I was struck by how clearly God pointed at areas in my life through His Word. Things I needed to fix as well as promising me His help.

Today I am off to my 4th Crossfire retreat. The theme this weekend is 'God's will'. It couldn't come at a more oportune time as I am currently seeking what God's will is for my next step as STINT draws to and end. However I am comforted by my devotion this morning

"When you have a right relationship with God, you have a life of freedom, liberty and delight; you are God's will."

Man what a blessing and what a comfort!

I hope you can rest in that today as I am...

Steve

Changed lives

2009-03-13T12:48:00.001-07:00

Dear Blog

Today in our 'Min Prep' (a course we are going through as a team that touches on Theological and practical aspects of what we are doing) we did a brainstorm on verses that motivate us to evangelize. One that came to my mind again was Colossians 1:6

This same Good News that came to you is going out all over the world. It is bearing fruit everywhere by changing lives, just as it changed your lives from the day you first heard and understood the truth about God’s wonderful grace. (New Living Translation)

It motivates me because it helps me see the big picture. The Gospel is an unstoppable force that is moving across the world and I am a part of that. It also motivates me because it says the fruit is "changed lives". This world needs more changed lives.

Last night us guys went to see "The Watchmen"...it was sick and we left partway through. On the taxi ride back we discussed a bit of what we had seen, and realized that although the movie was sick, it also showed that our world is in need of change. People's lives need to be changed. Its also a worldwide phenomenon, not just 'Hollywood'. Last week we had a chance to visit paradise as a team. We went to San Blas, a self governed Kuna comarca that consists of 365 white-sand palm tree fringed islands. Away from the modern world, the people there were still in need of changed lives.

Part of Colossians 1:6 also talks about "just as it changed your lives". It got me thinking, how is my life changing now? How is your life being changed right now? It is a very interesting question that I have been pondering this afternoon and will continue to ponder for a while....

Anyways just a few thoughts....enjoy some pictures of paradise below!

Steve

:)

The lovely STINT team

Sigh...

Fruit

2009-03-06T10:51:00.000-08:00

Dear blog

One of the passages that has come up again and again through our STINT year has been John 15. In summary, it talks about the need to abide in Christ to bear fruit.

STINT this year has been different. To be honest one of the hallmarks of our first few months on campus was that it was, to be honest, not too fruitful. (Note: We did see some amazing things happen, there was steady growth...but we all felt like it there was something more to be had) As a result we realized that while we were putting in a lot of effort, what really needed to happen was for us to step back and pray.

So coming back in January we have really tried to emphasize prayer. Taking more time to do it. Doing it more earnestly. Asking for specific things etc... And God has been answering.

John 15:16
You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.

This is exactly what we have been seeing. We are bearing fruit, but more than that the fruit is remaining. A constant 'struggle' in Panama is follow up. People eagerly accept the Gospel, but often times we will never see that person again, or they will never come to any follow up. It has seemed that this semester a corner has been turned and more and more people are remaining after accepting Christ.

Juliana, Jennifer and myself in Interamericana

3 weeks ago as Lindsey and I went to Interamericana where we specifically prayed for "1st or 2nd year girls". Walking in to the cafeteria we met Juliana and Jenifer, who are both 1st/2nd year Tourism students. We really connected with them and when we shared the Gospel they both were moved and accepted Christ as their Lord and Savior. Since that day, they have showed up to every follow-up appointment and are constantly eager to learn more. This Wednesday during our follow up both girls prayed out-loud. For me it is such a joy to hear new Christians pray as they are still learning to trust their Heavenly Father. They pray in a shy way, but with words that are straight from the heart.

Sharing with Juan and Karina

This past week Juan Carlos was making a video to send to UBC titled "A day in the life of a Stinter". I spent Tuesday helping Juan take pictures and film. I decided it would be good to pose for a couple pictures with a disciple of mine Joel (2nd from right). When we met up with him he was with two of his classmates. After posing for a picture (see above) I nudged Juan and said "Go for it, share with them" Juan took the initiative and shared with the Gospel with them and they both accepted Christ. Joel was a great help in answering some of their questions. Both of them have been coming to follow up.

So praise God for the fruit we have been seeing. Please continue to pray alongside us as we reach out to the lost students of Panama.

Steve

What I usually eat for lunch. I LOVE beans and rice

Of course we need help too. Here is our STINT team in a group discipleship with Todd and Marielena

Welcome to the Jungle!!!!!

2009-02-27T10:37:00.000-08:00

Dear Blog

Deygedi!! (Hello in Kuna) Last Sunday afternoon the team left the 'jungle' of the National bus terminal in Panama City to the real jungle of la Comarca de Kuna Madungandi (A special territory governed by the Kuna people of Panama that lies between the provinces of Panama and Darien). We went down with Todd and Marielena, as well as 3 Kuna missionary/pastors who have been reaching out to their people for years and were our way of being accepted by the community. Arriving in Bayano, we loaded our stuff onto a dugout canoe (motorized) and took off on a one hour boat ride along the lake to the community of Icandi (pop. 700-800) to spend 4 days working alongside the Kuna missionaries ministering to the people.

The village as we approached at dusk

We were greeted at first by one or two extremely shy kids, but soon after it was a flurry of people coming down to see (read stare at) us and help us take our equipment to our thatched hut that would be home for the next few days. After the people set up our hammocks, Lindsey and I went off to cook dinner over an open fire. We wrapped up the evening with a bit of an overview, some worship and prayer and then off to 'bed'.

Lindsey and I cooking dinner

Over the next two days we would get up at 5:30 to begin the day. After breakfast and quiet time our group would divide up, each heading out with one of the Kuna missionaries who would act as our guides and translators. We spent a good part of each day visiting families, helping them with chores, learning about their lives and sharing about ours. Over the couple days we had a few opportunities to direct these conversations to spiritual matters. One thing that was always a constant was the kids who would follow us and cling (literally) to us wherever we went.

With the kids walking around

Each day during the day the men would be out fishing, harvesting or hunting leaving the children behind with the women. The pastors/missionaries had arranged each day to have a woman's Bible study. While they did that it was up to us to keep the children busy. We told Bible stories, taught them songs and played games.

Women's Bible study

The third night there we had the chance to show Magdelena (a version of the Jesus film as viewed by Mary Magdelene). After realizing our portable generator wasn't starting we were fortunate to find that someone in the village had one and lent it to us in exchange for the gas we had brought. About 150 men, women and children came out to see the film, some dramas and testimonies from the Stinters and hear a short Gospel message at the end.

Juan sharing his testimony before the Jesus film

Wednesday morning came and we packed up and headed back to 'civilization'. Reflecting back, it was an amazing experience to be accepted and be able to live with this community that really hasn't changed much in the past couple of hundred years. Probably the highlight was the fact that the local Kuna missionaries were able to use our presence to ask permission from the Silah (chief) to build a church in the community. Construction is set for March 15th! As well the kids impressed me. It was obvious that in their culture kids are not highly valued and they were starving for love and affection from us. Constantly wanting to hold our hands, put their arm around us etc... and of course have their photo taken!

3 little Kuna girls

Please continue to pray for Icandi, as well as Pastors Lino, Artemio and Lazaro as they continue to reach out to Icandi and many other Kuna communities across Panama.

Until next time,

Steve

Texi and I, she adopted me as her Baba (Dad) while we were there

The village

Vision

2009-02-20T09:37:00.001-08:00

Dear Blog

This past week Mike Woodard and Dorrie Block (staff from Canada who will be leading the Summer project) came down on a vision trip...essentially to check out Panama and the ministries so they can better plan the project. We had a great time meeting up with Panamanians as well as traveling up and down the country to meet and see the different ministries. It was a great experience spending a week with both Mike and Dorrie as they have such experience, wisdom and love of the Lord.

Something that has been growing on my mind more recently is 'What's next?' For the first time today I counted the days until I am back in Canada and in 140 days I will be done my debrief in Toronto and back in Canada 'for good'. On one had that is a long time. A long time to focus on the ministry in Panama, to see God work, to finish off the race I have started here. But on the other hand, I have more of a sense that it is time to start acting on some of the 'daydreams' I have about my return to Canada. I'm sure the fact that Mike challenged me to join staff this week has spurred on some of this thinking, but really it has been something on my heart recently. So please just keep on praying for my future. Although as I learned in a team devotional this morning really all I need to keep doing is hoping and trusting in God.

Steve

Mike, Lindsey, Dorrie and I up in Boquete planning out the summer project!

STINT...

2009-02-13T09:31:00.000-08:00

Dear Blog

Its been an interesting past couple of weeks. I remember talking to a couple of team mates of mine recently and they both said the same thing to me "STINT (our year in Panama) is not easy." And I would have to agree with them. Don't get me wrong, I have awesome times down here, I feel amazingly blessed to be able to be here...but at the same time it isn't easy. There are lots of reasons sometimes it gets tough. Different culture, away from home, living-working-breathing with a team... and spiritually we often find ourselves under attack. Also as God's children He takes us through hard times and disciplines us. I read this encouraging verse today,

Hebrew 12:5-6
And have you forgotten the encouraging words God spoke to you as his children? He said,

“My child, don’t make light of the Lord’s discipline,
and don’t give up when he corrects you.
For the Lord disciplines those he loves,
and he punishes each one he accepts as his child.”

So although STINT is tough at time, it is encouraging that God is using it to shape me as His Child. And although I pass through tough times, I can look back and say that each time God has used it to correct me or shape me or teach me....

On Monday I had a bit of a frustrating morning. I had had a conversation with a student that really just went in circles. The past few days of ministry on campus had been a little dry so to speak and I was feeling a little defeated. I took a half hour after lunch to do some devotionals on campus before my next appointment and came across this

Psalm 62:1

I wait quietly before God,
for my victory comes from him.

It put me a bit in place, realizing that I was really more just frustrated with myself and being impatient. But also it gave me a lot of hope knowing that my victory (or victories in life) all will come from God. Fortunately God is also loving and caring for His children and didn't make me wait long for Him to provide me some victories.

Wednesday, Lindsey and I went sharing at Interamericana University. Specifially we had been praying that day to meet 1st or 2nd year girls, as the girls Lindsey works with are all nearing the end of their degrees. Walking in to the cafeteria we met Juliana and Jenifer, two 2nd year Hoteleria students. We had an amazing conversation that ended with the praying to recieve Christ! We look forward to following up with them on Monday...and they are too. I bumped in to them yesterday and they reminded me of the follow up, always an encouragement.

So anyways Stint is hard, but God is good. Today we're taking our monthly 'Day alone with God' and it reminds me of Psalm 23. That although we pass through the valley of the shadow of death, God will also lead us beside still waters.

Until next time,

Steve

Happy Birthday

2009-02-07T13:31:00.001-08:00

Dear Blog

Happy Birthday to me!! Its interesting how the years come and go. I was reminiscing with a friend today and it was almost 3 years ago since I first came to Panama...how the time passes. Really there has been nothing singificant about this birthday (as opposed to last year, the big two-five). However one thing that is true is that God has been faithful. I've been reading through Jerimiah and today I came across this verse: Jeremiah 31:17 "There is hope in your future..." I was simiply comforted by reading this knowing that there is a hope for my future and that hope is in Christ...its for this hope that I'm in Panama, and I had the chance to share that last night.

In celebration of my birthday we held a 'Dinner for friends' last night. A couple of the students involved with Vida Estudiantil from Interamericana invited their friends over to the girls for a birthday dinner for me. 10 of us enjoyed a relaxed time and some amazing cooking by Lindsey. Before cake, I took the opportunity to share with the students why I was in Panama - which gave me the chance to share my testimony with them.

After my testimony, Gabby also added a bit of her story and we had a short conversation with the students about being a Christian. Our prayer is that the seed that was planted will grow in their hearts.

Well off to enjoy my birthday celebrations.

Steve

Chilling with Louisa, Gabriela, Steve and Vivian

...

2009-02-06T09:27:00.000-08:00

Dear Blog

......it's Friday and I don't have much to write...hmmmm

Check back tomorrow!

2009-01-31T15:30:00.000-08:00

Dear Blog

I am leaving you with a gift - peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid - John 14:27 (NLT)

Yesterday was our monthly 'Day along with God'. A day each month we take during the week and spend it with God, whether that be enjoying his creation, reading his Word, praying etc... I spent the day mostly reading and praying. Through the day (somewhere between a coffee shop and a park) I really felt God telling me to accept his gift of peace of mind and heart. I like the way the NLT calls it the gift of peace, because like the gift of Salvation it is something that we need to accept in faith. I cannot enjoy Christ's peace of mind and heart unless I fully trust in Him.

I would say that reading this passage was also timely for me. Thursday I met up with the youth pastor from Crossroads and the conversation started like this:
'So the big question Steve, Sunday is February, you leave in July. What's next?'
The honest answer is that I have no idea. I'm not sure what God has in store for me but I feel He is telling me not to worry, to trust in Him, and just to seek His kingdom everyday.

One great thing about applying the Bible to your life is that it does change things. Last night (rather early this morning) I was talking to a friend in Canada via Skype and they commented how I looked well rested. The truth is I am, I am at peace.

That being said I'm looking forward to another busy week ahead! We will again be full time on the university, but despite being full time it always just feels like there isn't enough time! However I just need to live, rather rest, in the peace and strength of the Lord.

Until next time, enjoy these pictures from the recent premiere of Magdelena (an update of the Jesus film, as seen through the eyes of Mary Magdelene)

Steve

We were blessed to be able to show the movie at the main theatre...Jesus (center) came to watch!

Bienvenidos!!

Watching the end credits!! The theatre was full!!

Classic Karina, Steve, Raquel photo

Power of Prayer

2009-01-23T10:04:00.000-08:00

Dear Blog

"If you ask anything in My name, I will do it" - John 14:14

I was struck this week by the way God answered my prayers. As classes started up again, we also headed back on to campus. Our week was focused on evangelism, simply going out and talking to students. Being the summer semester there aren't too many students around, although the peacefulness of the campus seemed to create a great atmosphere in which to share our faith.

Each day before heading our separate ways on campus we meet as a team to pray. On Tuesday (our first day on campus) I really prayed for the chance to share the TRUTH of the Gospel, that Jesus is the only way to Salvation. Heading out with Lindsey we went to the Law Faculty, normally a chaotic mass of students, and were greeted by an empty foyer apart from one or two students sitting around. Seeing one, we approached Roberto, a second year law student. We immediately struck up a flowing conversation about life, Canada, Panama and progressively Spiritual topics. As the conversation progressed a verse came up

"I am the way, the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father but by me" - John 14:6

Soon his friend Alberto came and after an hour of conversation we went through the 4 Spiritual Laws booklet - which clearly explains the Gospel and the TRUTH of Salvation through Jesus alone. They both accepted Christ that day and even joined us for lunch. Pray for follow up with these guys!

Wednesday morning came and I headed to the airport with Mackenzie. Afterwards I took care of a few things and headed on to the campus in the afternoon, not having really prayed about the afternoon of evangelism. In the end, nothing happened of significance.... (Although Mack did get home safely!)

Thursday morning came and once again we met to pray. I prayed that I might be able to share the love of Christ with someone. Heading out with Raquel towards Architecture, we approached Lorena. It turned out she wasn't a student but as she was driving through the University she got a flat tire. As we were talking to her about faith I felt led that I should fix her tire. So I asked her and she was more than happy to let me fix her tire...which I had the privilege of doing twice when it turned out the spare was also flat. Although many words weren't used, I believe that we were able to show her Christ's love by helping her out in need.

As I write this I'm still processing the past week, but I definitely have been convicted to pray more specifically. Which is actually something as a team we are doing. Look on the right column of this blog and you will see our prayer goals for this semester. Please join my team in praying for these things!

Until next time keep fit and have fun!

Back!

2009-01-19T11:45:00.000-08:00

Dear Blog

Welcome back! After a few weeks of travels and holidays I am back home in Panama City, ready to begin the new semester. This morning we met up as a team and had a little time to refocus on the work on campus as well as share about our holidays. Among the sharing we asked the question "What did God teach/show you during your holidays?" It was encouraging to hear how God had directed our thoughts over the past few weeks. One thing God showed me was having a heart of voluntary service towards him. I was especially challenged by this since over holidays I didn't have scheduled times to share my faith or of ministry. However as I went around I really felt burdened to pray for the people I came in contact with...hostels owners, boat drivers, passengers beside me on the bus etc... I also had the chance to share with several people what I do...often times leading to interesting conversations. One of these people I talked to was Paul, who lives in Puerto Viejo in Costa Rica.

Paul had originally moved to Costa Rica with his wife as missionaries. After completing their mission they felt led by the Lord to stay in the town and set up an Organic Coffee and Chocolate shop in town and remain as the 'salt and light' of Jesus in the town. It was super encouraging to talk to Paul and hear his heart for the town, and most of all knowing that God was there working among those people. Check them out at www.caribeanscoffee.com and take my word, it is some amazing coffee!!

Anyways, after a few weeks of campus we all look forward to getting back in the mix of things tomorrow as we head to campus.

Here are some pics from my holidays!

IN the snow with Spatz!

Visiting the Grandparents

Caribeans coffee on the Caribean

Caribeans coffee store

Mark and Mack in the waves

Merry Christmas

2008-12-27T09:27:00.000-08:00

Dear Blog

Merry Christmas! It is hard for me to believe that I have now spent two Christmas' down here in Panama. Above all, I think I'm having another one of those 'time flies' moments. However on the other hand Christmas with Jon and the girls last year seems so far away.

Our celebrations for Christmas were great this year. Christmas Eve is the big day in Panama and we kept ourselves busy from morning until...well the next morning. Overall it was a more mellow time, but I really felt I spent some quality time with my friends and 'family' down here in Panama as I visited a couple of houses and church through the night.

Christmas day we celebrated Canadian Christmas (ie the 25th) with a brunch made by Lindsey, present opening in the afternoon and then Turkey Dinner made by Lindsey and yours truly. It was a really great time to spend as a Stint team family, and we all also managed to call our families. I felt that Christmas day was really special as the focus seemed to continually go back to Jesus, whether it was praying before and after opening gifts, reading the Christmas story or general conversation, we truly did celebrate the birth of our Savior.

Overall I have really enjoyed the past few days to relax and reflect. So here is wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

2008-12-19T14:56:00.000-08:00

Dear Blog

Feliz Navidad! Its hard to believe that in a few short days it will be Christmas. Things down here in Panama have been a little out of the ordinary lately with trips to El Valle and then Santiago. We are now back in the city for a week full of Christmas parties, plays and dinners. So far it has been a really good time to connect with friends and in community worship the king who came.

Today as part of our Christmas themed team meeting we shared our favorite Christmas verse. Mine came from Matthew 1:21-23:

She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins. All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet:
Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son,
and they shall call his name Immanuel (which means, God with us).

Verse 21 and 23 really get to me. 2 names, 2 promises. Jesus and Immanuel. He will save us from our sins and He is God with us.

A cool story....

Last May I briefly met a girl named Cielo from Santiago. She had become a Christian when a couple of Canadian students approached her and talked to her. I met Cielo again last Monday when we went to the Santiago Christmas party where I also met Elizabeth, who had been invited by her cousin Yoljanie. Yoljanie told me that she too was a new Christian who had been introduced to Christ by Cielo only a month and a half earlier! For me it is so exciting to see this chain of spiritual multiplication happening in such a real way! Following 2 Timothy 2:2, Cielo is taking the things she has heard and passing them on to her friends and family!

Lindsey, Cielo and Juan going over some material at a training session in Santiago

We've also been busy with Christmas parties and celebrations...

The Vida Estudiantil Christmas party in Panama City

Anyways thats all for now.

Until next time FELIZ NAVIDAD

2008-12-14T11:05:00.000-08:00

Dear Blog

This past week I've really reflected on how much God blesses me in my life. Last Friday, Steve and Robyn Strongitharm and kids came down to visit us on a Shepherding Trip. Steve and Robyn were my leaders in 2006 when I first came to Panama for 2 months. Jessica (from my team last year) also came as part of the trip. I was really just thankful for the relationships I have in my life. I never really thought that I would see Steve and Robyn again. Last time I saw them Robyn was pregnant...now they have 2 kids!! We spent most of the week in El Valle. As well as being a relaxing time Steve really led us through some insightful devotional times as well as helping us look ahead and plan for next year. (Unfortunately I didn't bring my camera...but hopefully I will be able to steal some pictures soon...) Overall it was a really encouraging time for us to spend as a team and with them. Our devotions focused on John 13-15 where Jesus repeatedly tries to focus the disciples attention to the issues that really matter...abiding in Him, loving as He loves, serving as He serves..

Yesterday I was able to be a tourist in my own country. As a team + Jess we rented a van and drove to the other side of Panama to visit some Spanish ruins. It was truly a beautiful day. On the drive back (oh how I miss driving!!) I reflected again on how God blesses us. I didn't come to Panama to see these things, but God had them in store for me....

The next couple of days will be busy as we head up to Santiago to visit/encourage the ministry up there. That is followed by coming back down to Panama for a few days of year end dinners etc... to wrap up the year.

Take a look at my Calendar...

Due to the humidity/heat down here in Panama the Advent Calendar is quite a challenge. Most of the chocolates don't come out as they are slightly melted/stuck to the plastic....

Until next time...

Steve

Enjoy some pictures...hopefully they will warm you up...

The view as I ate dinner last night...

MONKEY!!

In Portobello

Fuerte San Lorenzo...

End of the semester

2008-12-05T11:17:00.000-08:00

Dear Blog

Today is the last official day of classes at the University. Even though the exam period doesn't officially start until next week, many of the students have been busy this week with final projects etc...

So far I haven't really had a chance to reflect on the year/semester but hope to do so this week coming up as some Canadians come down for a 'Shepherding' trip. Overall I would say I am satisfied with what has been happening and the direction that the movement is going in...but there is still lots of work to be done!

As seems to be the norm for this time of year, we are super busy with activities for the end of the year/Christmas season. One small thought I've had a bit of late is how the coming of Christ is being celebrated around the world...in some places with big concerts and lights and in other places in secret and in the quiet.

Last year Christmas in Panama was something special as I was away from all the normals that I usually associate with Christmas. I wonder what God will show me this year...

Steve

The Stint team along with a couple of our Panamanian friends decided that our Canadian Thanksgiving was so good that we would celebrate a 2nd one with American Thanksgiving

Last weekend I went to a Worship concert in the province of Colon where my friend Jose Andres and his band played

Around the world

2008-11-28T10:08:00.000-08:00

Dear Blog

The past couple weeks I've been going back to the book of Colossians and been finding it above all else, very encouraging. One verse that has especially struck me is from Chapter 1, verse 6.

This same Good News that came to you is going out all over the world. It is bearing fruit everywhere by changing lives, just as it changed your lives from the day you first heard and understoof the truth about God's wonderful grace.

There is so much packed in to this verse that encourages me. First of all to read that the Good News is going out ALL OVER THE WORLD. The other week God encouraged me that the Word of God is not in chains. It is unbounded and moving!

I also love how it is BEARING FRUIT EVERYWHERE BY CHANGING LIVES. One of the fruits of the Good News is changed lives. I often think of my own life and just how much God has been constantly changing me and its a process that won't stop. Also I look around at the students around me and am amazed at how God is visibly changing their lives: realigning their priorities, giving them purpose, raising self esteem, giving them a vision to reach the world etc... The list goes on. Sometimes for me this is the most exciting part about being in the business of disciple-making...you can't measure the impact of a changed life. All of a sudden the girl who used to just want to get through university and get a job is telling her friends about Christ. The boy who could barely look you in the eye when he talked to you is walking up to strangers and standing in front of crowds and boldly telling them the of the love and life Jesus offers.

This week really has been a normal week. Talked to some students about Christ. Had a few Bible studies. Had a few meetings. But what has really encouraged me is that each of these things is a part of the advancement of the Good News around the world and a part of changing peoples lives...

Until Next time

Steve

Last weekend we went to a place called El Valle. It is 2 hours out of the city and up in the mountains a was actually quite cool. We went with a family of friends and celebrated Juan Carlos' birthday up there.

The Canadian girls with Laura and Andrea who are part of our Family down here

Juan and I improvising on some dance moves.

We headed down to the beach for a day

First week back and getting inspired

2008-11-14T08:48:00.000-08:00

Dear Blog

Well I've now finished my first week back in Panama after our Dominican trip. To be honest it was a bit tough. Whether it was me missing the Dominican, Canada, the ministry being a bit slower, extra work I had to do...the list goes on and in all it made for a tough week. Although through it I probably had the best devotional times I've had in a long time. On Thursday I was able to give the talk at our weekly meeting. I shared from 2 Timothy 2 and v.8/9 really stuck out to me "Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, the offspring of David, as preached in my gospel, for which I am suffering, bound with chains as a criminal. But the word of God is not bound!"

The word of God is not bound.

In the past couple days I have found lots of comfort in those simple words...I have also been inspired by some friends of mine back home.

The first inspiration came from my friend Russ. Last week his baby daughter Elyse, went in for heart surgery. Throughout this Russ has been keeping us up to date through e-mails. In his last e-mail Russ signed off with "Standing on the Rock - On behalf of the Gorsline's - Russ" I can't imagine how hard it must be for be for Russ and Yvette and all the extended family to simply watch...but I was inspired by the faith in that although Russ is just standing, waiting and watching, that he is standing on the unmovable Rock.

Ian is another good friend of mine. Recently he heard that his plant will be closing down early next year. This week I was talking to Ian on Skype and he said this to me "Stevie, I'm actually looking forward to what the Lord has in store for me. It's easy for me to say I trust in Him when I know where my income is coming from, but now He is going to test my faith and its going to be tough, but I'm looking forward to having to trust in Him. It's going to be a real test of faith."

Both of these stories got me thinking about the abundant life Christ promises us in John 10:10. I believe that these men are both experiencing it. The abundant life isn't perfect health and a good income. Abundant life is being able to have joy in the midst of the hard times in life. It is the confidence and hope that we can have in Jesus no matter what life brings us.

Until next time...

La Dominicana

2008-11-10T19:38:00.000-08:00

Dear Blog

I had to wait a day before I wrote this update because I think I am still processing all that happened over the past 10 days or so. I think Isaiah 55:9 sums it up when God says:
For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
So are My ways higher than your ways,

As part of the planning team for the trip, we had our ideas, our ways of doing things. What we found when we arrived and made ourselves available to God was that He had his ways planned out and we were blessed to go along with Him as He impacted lives in the Dominican Republic. Israel, a Dominican student who started to help us out said "When God calls you to go somewhere, He is going to prepare things for you to do there." This struck me as we saw God open door after door during the trip.....Israel has also comitted to staying with the movement and disciple the male students.

Over our 10 day trip we say Panamanian students grow in their faith, Dominican students come to faith and a movement be born on the 1st University in the Americas (Universidad Autonomo de Santo Domingo).

Some of the trip highlights include:
- Showing the Jesus film to 250 people in a poor neighbourhood of Santo Domingo
- Sharing the vision of Vida Estudiantil live on national TV
- Going out sharing with Lorenzo, a Panamanian student, and seeing people's lives impacted for eternity
- The concert and fiesta we held outside the main Library at the University...several hundred students heard the Gospel as well as interacted and learned about Vida Estudiantil
- A solid core of commited students left behind to continue the work

As a staff member, a big highlight for me definately was just seeing the project itself become a reality. Not in my wildest dreams would I have said two years ago when I first came to Panama that a trip like this would be possible...but with God all things are possible.

IN all it was a ten day trip, but at the end of it I was reminded that these 10 days have had an impact on eternity. Not only through the people who we saw saved, but more importantly through the Dominicans who were left behind that will continue the movement.

Oliver sharing with some students.

The Panamanian/Dominican/Salvadoranean team

Laura sharing her testimony at our Fiesta

Arriving at the UASD campus

Talking with the people after showing the Jesus film.

Prospero and Leyla - the Dominican staff who will lead Vida Estudiantil

Retreat and off we go!!

2008-10-29T12:45:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog

How are you? Hope things are going well...feel free to write me at steve.scott1983@hotmail.com and tell me whats up.

Life down here is flying by and things are really going well. I've realized how important consistency is and have been blessed to have a good long run at the University of full weeks without too many meetings/sickness/other commitments etc... One of the things that has really encouraged me has been my boys. I am currently meeting up with 5 guys on a regular basis at the National university: Joel, Alexis, Obed, Luis and Diego. What has really impressed me as of late has been their desire to not just show up at a Bible study etc... but to make a difference in their University, to be the ones reaching out.

This past Monday I had the opportunity to go out with Luis to share our faith. It was exciting and Luis was excited. We met up with Fransisco, a 1st year Architechture student. Although Fransisco didn't really believe in anything, he knew about who Jesus was. As we explained to Fransisco God's plan and who Jesus was and what He did Fransisco began to understand and try to hide his smile. For me it was a really cool moment to see Luis take the steps to led Fransisco to Christ that day. Pray for follow up with Fransisco...

This week has been great, but also pretty tiring, partly because last weekend we went on a youth retreat for the weekend with Crossfire. Between running around with kids, worship sessions until 1:30 in the morning and general mayhem not much sleep was had by our team...but it was worth the effort. Saturday night we saw several students recieve Christ as well as many more be challenged to really start living out the Kingdom of heaven here and now.

As I write this I am counting down HOURS until the Dominican republic...I'll be at the airport in 47 hours!!! I think I am begining to understand the significance of taking the Panamanians on a missions trip. Each time I talk with the students who are going they cannot stop showing their excitement. They have all been blown away by God's faithfulness in providing for their needs and are expectantly waiting to see what's next....

I look forward to writing you when I get back from the Dominican, until then please keep us in your prayers....

Here are some pictures from the retreat for your enjoyment...I sure enjoyed it.

Lindsey and I were excited that our friend Paolo has a Canada t-shirt....too bad he's a leafs fan.

Being the 'good king' in a illustration for the youth

Giant pillow fight....

My small group...it was pretty small for the retreat but AWESOME

A play in six acts....Really I don't think there are words to describe what happened

Continuation

2008-10-24T10:23:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog

Mark 4:26-29
And He said, “The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground, and should sleep by night and rise by day, and the seed should sprout and grow, he himself does not know how. For the earth yields crops by itself: first the blade, then the head, after that the full grain in the head. But when the grain ripens, immediately he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come.

Wednesday night when I arrived at Crossfire, one of the leaders, Josue, came up to me and said "Steve, you made a huge impact on my friend's life two years ago." Intrigued I asked him what he meant. He told me that two years ago, when I came to Panama the first time, I had been able to give a talk to a class at the University of Panama. One of the students in that class, Juan, listened intently and was impacted by the Holy Spirit. Fast forward two years and Juan went to talk to his Christian friend Josue. God had continued to work in Juan's life and a couple of weeks ago Juan began talking to Josue, telling him the story of a classroom talk two years ago. That night Juan accepted Christ into his life!

I was really encouraged and humbled by this story. So encouraged to see how powerful God is and how he is working in so many different ways. I was humbled to know that all I can do is serve Him, the harvest truly comes from Christ.

Sometimes as I go about the University sharing the Gospel or talking to students and don't see immediate fruits I wonder what's going on. But God knows all I have to do is keep on sowing the seed and be ready to put the sickle to the harvest.

Love,

Steve

Battlegound

2008-10-17T11:07:00.000-07:00

Dear blog

On Wednesday when I was walking through the law faculty I was handed a flyer encouraging a protest aginst a number of things. Just before I discarded the flyer I noticed the bold letters at the bottom
'Without a fight, there will be no victory!'

As I read that I was reminded of Ephesians 5 and the armour of God - especially verse 12 - For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.

I was really reminded that I am in a battle, that I'm not simply just putting on events or talking to people etc... but that there is something much more at stake here. Further I was reminded that it is going to take a fight on my part...that victory won't come easily, but that we do have a helper....

Some students from VE after an evangelistic concert at the University

A full week and a day at Interamericana.

2008-10-10T10:21:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog

Well today is Friday and we've just spent a full week at the University. It seems like its been a while for me since I've been able to go everyday to my assigned campus. Between some staff training (We took a theology course) or heading to UTP for the week of values where we were able to share the Gospel in every first year class its been a while since I put in a full week at the National and Interamericana Universities.

Definately the highlight for me this week was Bolivar, a 1st year Engineering student at Interamericana. Last weekend I really started praying that as a team we would see someone come to Christ this week. Also in making a campus plan for Interamericana, I shared with Lindsey how I really want to see a male student saved there and come through with the follow up. Wednesday morning Bolivar accepted Christ while Lindsey and I talked to him. Pray for him that he would continue in follow up and grow in his relationship with Christ.

Another highlight for me lately has been seeing Gabriela, another student from Interamericana, grow in her faith. We met Gabby last year and saw her commit her life to Christ. Lately it has been really cool just talking to her and seeing her not only grow in her own faith, but see her have a heart to reach out to her friends.

Well until next time, here are some pictures of us down in Panama for you to enjoy...

My Stint team at the Aniversary Dinner for Cruzada Estudiantil

Lindsey, Laura, Gabby

Hanging out with some Panamanian friends at a concert...

The men of the STINT team

Disciples

2008-10-03T20:59:00.001-07:00

Dear Blog

I have some great news. As you know my focus down here is evangelism and discipleship. Through all the busyness and work we do, we try as hard as we can to keep this as our central focus in what we do and how we invest our time and energy.

I am proud (in a humble proud, the glory doesn't go to me) to say that I have seen several new disciples raised up this year....look at the picture below...

Yes that is right, I have raised up five new disciples (or fans as they are commonly known) of Arsenal football club. Each of these new fans are being trained in the way of Arsenal, learning that as part of one team we must partake in the joys and trials of following the gunners.

For those of you most interested in the spiritual side of things, the campus work is continuing to go well. God has been faithful in keeping those who are his and is working in many ways at the university...

Abide

2008-09-16T08:23:00.000-07:00

John 15:4,5
Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. 5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.

A thought struck me as I was praying the other day for our team and our effectiveness in evangelism: My quiet time is an essential part of evangelism. Jesus' words that we will not bear fruit unless we are abiding Him are ever true. Often times I feel that I need to be getting out there and working, whereas I believe often times it really should be the opposite, I need to be staying back, abiding and then heading out.

On another note, Lindsey had her birthday this past weekend, here are a couple of pictures from the weekend....

Making a human pyramid at the beach on Taboga Island. Aside from a mid-afternoon storm it was a great day....until Juan Carlos put out his back, then it became an adventure...

We celebrated Lindsey's actual birthday at the Santana's house so we could be with a bed-ridden Juan. Unfortunately Karina wasn't here for the picture...

Until next time...

Week 1

2008-09-12T12:26:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog

Well we've just completed our first full week on Campus. I have to say it was a very encouraging week for me. I was reminded today of Mark 4:26-29:

26 Jesus also said, “The Kingdom of God is like a farmer who scatters seed on the ground. 27 Night and day, while he’s asleep or awake, the seed sprouts and grows, but he does not understand how it happens. 28 The earth produces the crops on its own. First a leaf blade pushes through, then the heads of wheat are formed, and finally the grain ripens. 29 And as soon as the grain is ready, the farmer comes and harvests it with a sickle, for the harvest time has come.”

Thursday aftenroon I met up with Bernie, a student who had been on and off involved with Vida Estudiantil last year. As we sat down and talked for a few minutes he poured out to me how much of an influence we have had on his life, his witness with his friends and his personal walk with the Lord. As I thought about it I realized that this is what the kingdom of God is. We plant, we sow, we water and God in His own way, in ways we don't understand and often times don't get to see, makes it grow and grow.

On another note I am legal in Panama for another 3 months. It seems I have found a permanent solution of simply renewing temporary visas....

Steve

My beautiful team...

2008-09-07T14:27:00.000-07:00

Backrow: Karina, Raquel, Lindsey, Steve
Frontrow: Juan Carlos, Derek aka Juanchito, Diego

Of course my life in Panama would not be complete without my fish. While they have been named already, I have two cleaner snails that need to be named...please send me your suggestions

Settled in

2008-09-04T22:48:00.001-07:00

Dear Blog

Well finally I am writing to you from my new apartment down here in Panama. ITs been a crazy couple of weeks, first finding apartments, then settling in etc... Its been really cool coming back down to Panama. Arriving I definately felt at home down here and as I've been reconnecting with friends etc... it has been a really encouraging time just to catch up and talk.

Its also been good knowing God is here with us and going ahead of us. After a frustrating week of not finding anything in the way of apartments to live in, God provided us with two within an hour. They were also pretty much exactly what we were looking for...so praise God.

Also this past week Lindsey came down so our team is now complete. We look forward to being on Campus full time next week and I look forward to writing you some stories...

Steve

Arrived!

2008-08-23T16:28:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog

Well I´ve arrived in Panama for another year...thanks for sticking with me. Thing have been good so far and God has been good. One of the main ´lessons´ I learned while back in Canada for two months is that God is a God who provides, whether it be relationally, financially or even just providing a campsite when I needed one. I am keeping this in mind now as I am back on the apartment hunt for round two. Prices have gone up, there aren´t many 3 bedroom places available and everyone tells me the same story. Yet through this we know God has a place provided for us, He is the God that provides...

Besides that I´m feeling good. I am definatley excited to be back for another year, to continue to meet up with friends and students and continue the adventure.

I would also like to introduce you to my new team (I don´t have proper internet yet...so a photo will come once I do) but they are Juan Carlos HErrera, Karina Campbell, Raquel MEza, Derek Radcliffe and Lindsey Davies....

Steve

Start your engines..

2008-08-08T10:19:00.001-07:00

Dear blog

Its been a while since I last updated, I guess I figured there was no information coming from the Isthmus to report...however I have been busy. The past month and a half I have been back in BEAUTIFUL CANADA (mostly the best place on earth aka British Columbia) and have really enjoyed my time. I won't get in to details but here are the highlights:

- Reconnecting with friends and family
- Summer camps: MSBC Teens camp and also leading the work crew up at Echo Lake
- Backpacking in Manning Park
- Day Camp
- My mom's cooking

It really has been a good month and a half. God has blessed me with so much up here and I am thankful, however its time to start packing my bags again and head down to Panama for another year. Here is my itenerary:

- Sunday morning speak at Parkcrest
- Wednesday take off to Toronto for Orientation conference
- Monday August 18th, fly to Panama

Thank you for your prayers and love....here we go again!!!

The end of a year

2008-06-27T13:55:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog

First of all sorry for never finishing off my last blog, before I could finish it off our internet was cut...the reason: we have come back to Canada!

After 10 months of laughing, crying, trusting, hoping, ups and downs and really just living an adventure, our time in Panama came to an end and we boarded a jet plane and took off to the land of the true north strong and free, CANADA!

The last week I spent in SOuthern Ontario having a debrief with the 2 other Stint teams from East Asia and North Africa. It was a great time re-adjusting into the Canadian culture as well as sharing stories of what God has been doing around the world. It was a relaxing time and really expanded my vision for Global missions.

So dear blog, you might be wondering...what's next? Well over the next 6 weeks I'll be in BC connecting and re-connecting with people, working at summer camps, speaking at PBC and then (drum roll) RETURNING TO PANAMA near the middle of August.

Until next time...

Barreta

2008-06-13T16:14:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog

The past week we spent working alongside Pastor Correa in the community of Barreta.... More to follow....

1 week left

2008-05-24T17:43:00.001-07:00

Dear Blog

The past few weeks have been flying by. Life has been very busy with the Canadian students, but also very rewarding. This past week we put on an event called 'Estoy de Acuerdo' which means 'I agree' in the Architecture faculty. All week we did creative promotion, where we would stand still in a group for 30 mins wearing shirts that say 'Estoy de acuerdo' with a sign counting down the days. We kept silent about what we agreed about, which provoked a lot of interest from the students. Friday at noon we held the event in the courtyard of the faculty building where we showed a short video and had two testimonies shared with a common theme that having a personal relationship with God can help you through the toughest circumstances.

As I sit here I realize it is my 2nd to last Saturday in Panama City. Next Friday we head out to our R&R location for a weekend of training and also relaxation before heading off on our 'Adventure Cycle' for a week. When we get back from that we will be saying goodbye to the Canadian students and also starting our goodbyes here in Panama as it will be our last week here before heading back to Canada....man the time flies by!

Please pray as we essentially wrap up our campus ministry for the year.

Steve

PS I will try to put up some pictures soon.

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-11T13:48:00.001-07:00

Dear Blog

Well Mom, if you're reading this...Happy Mother's day!

To the rest...

The only way to describe the past couple of weeks of my life is NON-STOP. As you know, the summer project of Canadians is down here and we've been working hard at the university with them. It has been a super encouraging time for me. My role on campus has definitely changed as I am now leading a team of 5 Canadian students, through this I am seeing the effectiveness of discipleship as we see them team up with Panamanians we have discipled and see them go out together to share the Gospel. The week has been filled with encouraging stories, and I love seeing the excited faces of the students as the come back and tell of their stories from that day.

Of course my brothers have been down the past couple weeks. So my life hasn't been stopping in the evenings as we've been going out and spending time together. It was great seeing family from home, but I am definately enjoying today, taking a day alone with some rest.

Steve

Running the race...

2008-05-06T15:37:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog

May is here and that means summer project! Last week a group of 20 students and staff came down from Canada for a 6 week missions trip here in Panama. They have come to help us work on the University campuses for the month of May, and then in June we will be heading out with them into the Interior on the adventure cycle, where we will be working with poor families in the day and putting on Gospel presentations during the evenings.

After spending last week training and orienting the Canadians, today we heading out on Campus with them. It was exciting to be walking around the campus today sharing with one of the Canadians Kaitlyn (it was her first time sharing the Gospel with strangers). As I walked around several other groups of Canadians passed by also sharing on the campus. I am excited because as I look at our current student ministry, many of our current leaders were raised up through summer projects.

For the next 4 weeks I will be working alongside Sarah in the Law and Architecture faculties. Our team consists of Andres, David, Kaitlyn, Marie (All from Ontario) and Eliane (From Montreal).

It is really exciting for me to be leading a summer project, as we not only get to see Panamanians have their lives changed, but also the Canadian students (This is the first missions trip for everyone of the students who have come down). So please pray for fruit both in the Panamanians and Canadians lives'.

Bible Study

2008-04-28T16:21:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog

So today I got to the university after getting out of immigration 'early' (Since immigration lost my papers, I was in and out with another temporary visa in a few minutes while the others where waiting on their year long visas). Getting out early meant I was able to get to my noon Bible study. As I sat there, Alexis and Roberto, two guys I met through our English class, walked up. The week before they had come to our weekly meeting and Alexis told me it was the first time he had ever heard anyone read the Bible in his life, I had shared the gospel with him and he was clear that he needed God but did not have him however said he needed more time to think about the decision.

As they sat down we talked about life for a few minutes and then I began the study. I decided to go over the Gospel with them using the 4 Spiritual laws. As we started this, 2 of their friends, Nimble and Ginny came up and joined us. As we went through they were all fully intent on understanding God's plan, especially Alexis who asked question after question after question. After covering the Gospel, Alexis stopped me and asked the others 'Who wants to become a Christian right now?' They all smiled and one by one said 'Yo (Me)'. Turning to me, Alexis said 'I know God knows our hearts and thats what matters, but could you lead us through a prayer?' I did and each one of them individually received Christ into their hearts.

We talked for the next 30-40 minutes about security of Salvation, what comes next in the Christian life as well as some more of God's promises as to what happens to us when we receive Christ. It was by far the best Bible study ever.

Preaching and prolonging...

2008-04-19T22:11:00.001-07:00

Dear Blog

Today I hit a kinda personal milestone in that I was able to preach in Spanish!! A friend of mine, Ezekiel had asked us if we would talk at his church's young adults meeting on Saturday night and I had the privilege of sharing with them a bit about Vida Estudiantil as well as the Biblical basis for us to WIN, BUILD and SEND. It was a great experience for me, and although I know my spanish is far from perfect I really enjoyed the challenge. (Also I believe that the talk went well in terms of communicating from God's Word...)

I really feel that my Spanish has taken some big steps forward in the past month or so. I made a really concerted effort to talk as much as I could and learn. This included starting to meet up once a week with my friend Andrea for help with grammar, pronunciation, reading and listening skills. At the time I half questioned if it was worth studying grammar again if I was going to leave in a couple months. But this brings me to my next point.....

...I am staying down in Panama for another year!! It's now official that I have been accepted for another year of Stint down here in Panama. After a drawn out decision making process I felt peace about coming back for another year to continue the ministry that I am apart of down here. I look forward to the new challenges, opportunities, ups and downs and essentially another year of life down here.

Until next time...

Crossfire retreat

2008-04-16T14:35:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog

"I can't talk to you right now..." was what Mark, the youth Pastor for Crossfire, told me Saturday night. We both knew we were about to burst out crying as we saw student after student stand up telling us they had given their lives to Christ that night. Among us leaders we were speechless and overjoyed to see God work in such a powerful way. The theme of the youth retreat was 'Tell the world' and our focus was on Evangelism. Saturday morning had been spent teaching the students the gospel and simple ways they can share it with friends, family or strangers. For many of the students, the gospel was only becoming clear to them for the first time. Saturday night, Mark preached the Gospel and gave the students the opportunity to receive Christ and God brought in the harvest.

And that was only half way through the retreat.

Sunday morning brought on a life changing experience for the students. We got onto buses and headed to Ancon Hill, which overlooks Panama city. There we had a devotional time before heading out in teams to 5 malls in Panama City where the students put into practice their evangelism training from the day before. It blew my mind to see middle and high school students, although slightly nervous, excited and willing to go out and share the gospel with strangers...for most of them it was their first time sharing the Gospel with someone. It was even more exciting to see them come back from the experience bursting full of joy and excitement and stories of how they were able to share the Gospel, and in some cases see some people accept Christ.

God transformed lives this past weekend. I am still not sure which gets me more excited. Seeing 30-40 people give their lives to Christ on the Saturday night or seeing 170 students equipped to be able to tell others about Christ for the rest of their lives. Either way it was the best weekend ever.

Plans

2008-04-04T12:23:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog,

I was reading my devotional book a few days ago and came across this: "A man's heart plans his way, but the Lord directs His steps.' - Proverbs 16:9 Later that day my friend Bryan randomly e-mailed me and included the verse - Proverbs 16:9. I find it funny how God has figured out I'm dense enough that he needs to tell me at least twice before I listen up.

So this week my prayer has been that although I am planning out my ways for the day (and future) that God would direct my steps and I would be willing to following and adapt to where he puts me.

This morning I headed to campus with Jessica...late. We had planned on going sharing together but after her registering for classes in the morning by the time we got to campus she had to go to her Bible study. No problem thought I, because while she was going to have her Bible Study I had scheduled to go out sharing with Lorenzo, one of the students involved with Vida Estudiantil. I met up with him at a prayer meeting and at the end he said that he had an appointment with another staff member (Secundina), and if we could go out sometime next week. All this took place at an open air theatre where we often meet up with students. Now while we had been finishing up our prayer meeting, Jessica had been sitting on the stage, with Secundina, waiting for some girls to show up to her Bible study. Instead of a Bible study showing up, a birthday party did. A group of a dozen or so first year students had come with a cake and were just hanging out and eating. Secundina started talking to them and soon after called Lorenzo, Jon and I down to talk with them. In the end Jessica, Lorenzo and myself (along with a Jon, Secundina and Elaine) had the opportunity to share the Gospel with a dozen students in one place and see some of the pray to receive Christ!!!

It was so cool to see God direct my steps in that way. I had planned on going out sharing in my way....but God directed my steps to share His love in His way to people He had already chosen.

Until next time.

Just a random picture of me enjoying the love of my life...MALTA!!

FIRST WEEK!!

2008-03-28T11:22:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog

Well its been a long week but oh so worth it. This week we hit the ground running at the National University. Monday thru Wednesday we had information tables set up in the Humanities, Science, Architecture and Law faculties. Each day hundreds of students passed by getting information on the group, signing up for Bible studies or eating our free candy. The highlight for me was Tuesday afternoon. In the morning I had been a bit worried what would happen at 1pm, when I had to go over to Interamericana to have my Bible Study. However through the day more and more of the students involved with Vida Estudiantil stopped by and started helping at the table. By the time 1 o'clock rolled by the table was being completely run by the students. It was exciting to see them taking leadership and reaching out to their classmates and university!

The Band on stage...

The week culminated on Thursday afternoon when my friend Jose Andres and his band, along with Oliver put one a concert at the open air theatre in the centre of Campus. Despite the mid-day heat lots of students came out to listen to the concert and hear 2 students give their personal testimonies. Again it was a great time to connect with students as well as reconnect with students from last semester. As I walked around taking pictures students kept on stopping me asking how they could be a part of Vida Estudiantil and what else we do.

Students gathered under the trees to stay out of the sun while they came to the concert

So thank you for your prayers...they worked!!! Although I was super encouraged by what I saw this week I have such hope that I won't know the full impact of this week until eternity. I just think of Ana (one of the students who gave her testimony at the concert), it was last year at a similar concert that she came to know Christ and has since grown in her faith and continues to share it with others. My prayer is that from the students who came out that there was another 'Ana' in the crowd.

Ana sharing her testimony

Next week we start up with Bible studies on the national university and keep on trucking across the street at Interamericana.

Retiro

2008-03-22T18:08:00.001-07:00

Dear Blog

Its been a while since I wrote. After spending a great (and pretty busy) ten days with my parents life is returning to 'normal'. This weekend we had a Student Retreat here in Panama to launch off the new school year that starts this Monday. 23 of us packed up and headed to Chilibre for 2 days of training and hanging out.

The purpose of the retreat was two-fold, to give training to the students as well as the vision of Vida Estudiantil and how they can reach their campus. At the end of the retreat each student was given a T-shirt and a challenge to step out for their campus.

Racataca boys...showing off our new green colours. (I'm assuming that makes us enviromentaly friendly)

The lovely Vida Estudiantil

This next week coming up is going to be busy. The National University starts up again (its like our September). Among all the students coming out with be thousands of first years stepping into the University for the first time, many of them looking for a place to fit in. Pray that we will be able to reach out to all these students. Among all this I will continue to be working across the street at Interamericana.

So my request is that you please pray for this week that we would be able to meet and connect with as many students as possible. That all the planned events would work out (we plan on setting up tables as well as having a Concert on the Thursday).

I'll let you know how it goes...

Parents in town

2008-03-11T14:51:00.000-07:00

Dear Blog

Last night my parents came down. After enjoying 1 night in my own bed after Lindsey's dad left, I am back to sleeping on an air mattress as I make room for my parents. I am looking forward to spending the time with them. Today they came to the campus with me and were able to see some of what my day looks like. They even paired up with us (me and mom...dad and Jon) and we went out sharing with students on campus.

The next few days will be busy as I balance work and entertaining my parents but it should be fun. In general the work is going good. We have a small core of commited students at Interamericana now and is exciting as we make plans for the future. We are also ramping up to start at the National University as students are coming back to register for courses.

So thank you for reading this and most of all praying for the work down here...

Until next time....

Steve

Around and around we go...

2008-03-06T07:05:00.000-08:00

Dear Blog

Its been an encouraging week. Although not everything has gone to plan, I was sick for a couple days and received some not great news from a friend; I look back at this past week and am encouraged and uplifted.

Here's why:

Psalm 105:4
Look to the Lord and His Strength,
seek His face always.

This past week has been marked by prayer. Both in a personal way and also corporately, and that is why it has been an encouraging week. The verse Psalm 105:4 was given to me by two different people (from two different continents) at the end of last week. Interesting how God speaks to us....

La hermosa Republica Dominicana

2008-02-29T07:45:00.000-08:00

Dear Blog

Well I'm back from an amazing trip to the Dominican Republic. Although I was only there for a short time (6 days) I saw God accomplish a lot of things through our visit. The purpose of the trip was two-fold: make preparations for a Panamanian team to come on a missions trip and also to gather and train the DR staff and students giving them a vision to reach their campus.

It is interesting how you enter a place with your own expectations of how it is going to be, what it will be like etc... I often find this happens to me on a day to day basis as I head out to campus or a Bible Study expecting one thing and God shows up with something totally different (and better!). I was pleasantly surprised at how beautiful of a city Santo Domingo was...and even more surprised at how HUGE and BEAUTIFUL the UASD (National) campus was. It actually reminded me of my UBC campus back in Canada...just tropical.

The Library

God also blew my mind with our training sessions. Each night over 30 Dominican students, staff, teachers and church leaders came out to listen to us give training and teaching on God's plan to reach the world, Spiritual multiplication, How to share your faith and living life in the power of the Holy Spirit... again I had expectations of only a few people showing up...and God blew them out of the water by bringing out so many faithful and excited people who truly want to see their campuses, country and the world changed.

Each day God seemed to do something unexpected in the DR. Friday morning, Tania, Jess and I had told students that we were to have a prayer meeting inside the library in the morning...only to arrive and find that the library was closed for student elections. Slightly frustrated that we couldn't get to OUR meeting point, we sat down in front of the doors and began to pray. Eventually all the students who were coming saw us there and joined in. As we sat there praying a girl came and sat beside us, also wanting to get into the library when it opened. She discreetly started eavesdropping on us, and eventually asked if she could join us in prayer. However when we asked her (Arquinia, an 18yr old student) to pray...she stumbled a bit and then asked if someone else could. After our prayer time, Tania began to ask her some spiritual questions. The girl said she was a Christian, but Tania continued in sharing the Gospel with her. At the end she realized that she never had begun a relationship with God through Jesus and prayed to receive Christ. (Equally exciting news is that she has been coming out to follow up appointments this week!!!) As amazing as that was, it was also so encouraging to be there with 1/2 dozen Dominican students and have them see how it is possible to simply share your faith with your fellow students.

Tania sharing...

So that is a short summary of my time in the DR. It is a beautiful country with beautiful people and if you feel like going on holiday there I suggest you do, and take a few days to go see the city and meet the people.

Random friends

2008-02-13T10:52:00.000-08:00

Dear Blog

According to my facebook account I have 507 friends. Now the majority of them are people that are from my past and have managed to connect with online. About 100 of them wrote me birthday greetings the other week which was much appreciated. Even so, it is only a minority of them with whom I stay in regular contact. When I think of my life there are thousands and thousands of people I have met and become friends with to varying degrees. Some have been best friends and we've moved apart, others have been in my cabin at summer camp for a week, or come to my youth, or played sports with.... I think that even here in Panama I have been introduced to more than 507 students on campus. So why am I thinking about this...

Well Sunday morning I was woken up by the phone. It was my friend Kyle Wilson, who is currently a missionary in Nicaragua, calling to let me know he was in Panama. We managed to get together a couple of times this past week and catch up. However the truly random thing to happen this week was Monday night. I was talking to Tricia on the phone and decided to join her and Laura going to the movies (which was pretty random for me). Upon entering an empty theatre I hear a familiar voice....'Steve?!?!!?' turning around I see that one of the 4 other people at the movie was my friend Jayson Garrison from Vancouver...passing through Panama City for 2 days while backpacking through Central America.

This isn't the first time something like this has happened to me (actually the 7th time in a foreign country...pretty crazy actually) but it has got me thinking about people in my life and the impact we can have on others. My grandma e-mailed me last week telling me how a lady who had been in her Sunday School class over 60 years ago found a postcard from my Grandma from the 40s and has managed to reconnect with her.

What impact has this had on me? Well its made me realize how unique relationships are, and as 'random' as we like to call them, I truly do believe that God has put all those people in my life over the past for a reason, and continues to put people in my life for a reason...so my objective is to simply make the most of these relationships...

A new look

2008-02-10T14:14:00.000-08:00

Dear blog

Well as you can tell, the blog has a bit of a new look. The most important change is a little to your right ---> where I've added a 'coming up this week' list. I'll be updating this weekly so you guys can know what to pray for.

Life has been going well. As many of you know this past week was a bit of a milestone as I hit the big 2 two-five on Thursday. To be honest with you all, I went through a bit of a roller coaster the past couple weeks as I began to think of life, love and what I'm doing next year!! After spending a few days struggling with this alone and letting it bog me down and turn into worry I took my anxious thoughts to God and funny enough, He took them away.

One night especially I was praying and felt led to ready Song of Solomon...not exactly what I was hoping for, but went ahead and read. What God showed me was the big picture of this couple falling in love and being together. However in chapter 5, the bride (me) hears her bridegroom (Jesus) calling at her door but when she goes to find Him, He's not there. This is how I had been feeling lately, I can hear God's call, but when I go to look I can't see where He is. The book continues with her getting the others to help her look for her bridegroom and in the end they are together again. So that's where I stand now...want to help me in my search? Send me an e-mail steve.scott1983@hotmail.com

So as I move on into a new year in my life I am excited for what is going to happen this year. In a way, the past few days its become even more exciting as I don't know where I will be but God does and He is going to reveal it to me in His time.

Ephesians 2:10
For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God has prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

Man that's an encouraging verse.

Oh here's a couple of pictures for your viewing pleasure...

Enjoying some fine Panamanian coffeewith Jon and Sarah.

A bunch of friends from church/the university and us headed out of the city during Carnivales

WE'RE BACK!!

2008-01-31T13:36:00.000-08:00

Dear blog

I can't tell you how good it feels to be back. After a week filled with meetings and preparations we got back on the University campuses full time this week and man it was great (And man I'm also tired...). After spending a good part of last week and the weekend getting ready, Sarah and I trooped off to campus first thing Monday morning to try and secure a table to put at the entrance of the university for the week. We managed to secure it for Tuesday and on, so spent the rest of the day getting our feet wet... hanging out, re-connecting with a few students and praying. And man we need prayer. To be honest as I sat there Monday at campus I felt intimidated among the students as Satan was trying to discourage us. Most of them come from upper class families and seem to have everything. That night at home I read Psalm 73 where the author looks at the rich and wicked and for the first 16 verses wonders if they have it right...in v17 comes the kicker '..until I went into the sanctuary of God...' so Monday night I spent some good quality time with God and got ready for the battle the next day....

Tuesday morning we arrived and set up the table and for the past few days we've been busy handing out CDs (with articles from a Christian perspective, testimonies and games), Bibles, talking to students, sharing with them what Vida Estudiantil is and of course sharing JESUS... Using the table as a means of getting our name out among the students and drawing students to us, we were able to have alot of meaningful conversations with the students...definately one of the highlights was seeing Tricia lead a girl to Christ on Wednesday!

Another highlight was for me was talking to Enrique, a 3rd year student at Interamericana...I had met Enrique (and his crew of friends) last semester and God had placed him on my heart. So Tuesday I bought my lunch and asked him if I could sit down with him while I ate. As we talked a couple of students nearby were talking about our table and the fact that we were a Christian group. A girl then turned and asked Enrique was a Christian. When he said he was she started laughing and saying that there was no way he was. I then asked Enrique why he thought he was a Christian and what it meant. We were able to have a good conversation about religion and what it means to have a relationship with Jesus....pray that Enrique would truly turn to Jesus and have a meaningful and full relationship with him.

Sarah snapped a paparazzi shot of Enrique and I.

Our lovely team at the table

Overall our team is tired from a week's work, but excited because we know God is moving on the campus and in lives. Even just now I was encouraged as I received an e-mail from a student who grabbed a CD at our table and said they want to help us reach out to the students!!

So until next time blog, keep praying for Interamericana and the National campus as we start up there.

Welcome Back

2008-01-16T11:06:00.000-08:00

Dear Blog,

'Welcome Back!' was the first txt msg I got arriving here at home in Panama. I have been away the past two weeks in Peru with Jon, visiting his mom and family friends and traveling around the country. It was an amazing experience that I will try to sum up with a few pictures.

The Classice Machu Picchu shot...

Psalm 90:2-4
Before the mountains were brought forth,
Or ever You had formed the earth and the world,
Even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God.
You turn man to destruction,
And say, "Return, O children of men".
For a thousand years in Your sight,
Are like yesterday when it is past,
And like a watch in the night.

I read this Psalm as I sat up, way up, in the Andean mountains, looking down at the ruins of the 'great' civilization of the Incas. God is so much bigger than these mountains he created, and this vast empire was but a moment in His eyes.

Some famous Incan wall...sorry no deep thoughts on this one.

This picture for me is interesting. It was taken in a GIANT monastery. Here we have a cross with its shadow. As we went around Peru the evidences of religion where everywhere...giant cathedrals, hills with giant crosses. However the reality that we encountered most was that these religious monuments only produced a slim shadow of true faith in so many of the people. However the 'shadow proves the sunshine'

COOL STORY

Vida Estudiantil here in Panama has started a partnership with the Dominican Republic and plans to send its first missions trip there this August. So while in line for security on the way back from Peru the girl behind me asked me to help her...when I noticed she had a Dominican passport. I started talking to her a bit (in spanish) and told her we planned to go...
Later as we waited to board our plane she came and sat beside us....where I noticed her seat was next to Jon's. I told him this, but what I didn't tell him was that I was praying that he would be able to share the gospel with her.
During the course of the flight they talked and we learned quite a bit about the Dominican. Then 15 minutes before we began to descend I looked over and there was Jon going through the gospel with her. In the end we got her contact information (our first contact in the D.R.!!) and I was amused and amazed at how God strings together little 'coincidences' to encourage us and do his work.

HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS

So when I got back to Panama in my heart I was returning home. Now this isn't to say I've forgotten about beautiful Vancouver (in fact probably the past few days I've had more longings for things from there), but more a reflection of something God taught me.
1 Peter 2:9-10
But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.

Ultimatley my citizenship is in heaven, but here on earth I am part of God's people. Here in Panama I am following God's will and therefore I'm home. If God leads me back to Vancouver then that will again be home...or Moroco, or Panama, or Spain, or Burma or wherever....it will be home.

Pictures

2007-12-31T11:58:00.000-08:00

Dear blog

Well I thought I would give you a few pictures just to remember me....

For those of you who have forgotten...this is what I now look like.

This is Isla Taboga. An Island 45 minutes off the coast of Panama city. I've been here a few times to get away for a Saturday and a little sun on the beach.

A few weeks ago it snowed in Panama. It was fun seeing the kids play in the snow, many for the first time. It was odd how the snow only landed in one parking lot.

Here are a few of the guys involved with Vida Estudiantil. This picture was taken at our year end banquet.

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and an Update

2007-12-30T21:06:00.000-08:00

Dear blog

Well better late than never....HAPPY CHRISTMAS. I hope you had a wonderful Christmas spent with friends, family and remembering Jesus. Personally I had a great Christmas morning, reading Isaiah 52-54 before the nativity story, definately put things in perspective as I sipped on my wonderful Panamanian coffee.

The past few days i have been away at a groundbreaking event...Panama's very first winter conference. Students and proffesionals from around Panama came together for a three day conference focused on Spiritual Leadership and Administering your life. It was a great time to meet students from aroudn the country, learn lots and enjoy buffet food! I am presnetly sitting here at home digesting both my last meal and all the things I learned...

So finally Happy New Year. The next couple days will see the end of 2007 and the begining of 2008. I hope that you take some time to reflect on the things God has done this year and what you can do for Him next year.

With that I am off...

Steve

Another lesson learned

2007-12-19T21:02:00.000-08:00

Dear blog
One thing that continually happens as I am down here serving the panamanians and helping them learn to build a movement is that they teach me something. Yesterday we had our planning meeting to map out 2008. The second item on the agenda after our devotional was '2008 National Calendar'. I was happy with this as one thing Panamanians lack is organized planning....but the lesson I learned is what they planned. Instead of what I expected (going over national holidays, days that classes start/end, etc...) they began by planning out their prayer retreats, special days of prayer and the like. It kinda blew me away once again how dependent the Panamanians are on prayer (as we all should be).

Well thats all...I just got back from our year end party (it went really well) and I'm pretty tired.
So untill next time.

Steve

David and the promised pictures

2007-12-14T09:49:00.000-08:00

Dear Blog

Well I am back from my trip up to David. It was a really good time up there. We met the people involved with Campus for Christ up there, toured the university campuses and even had a chance to finish up my Christmas shopping. The people up there were super friendly and I am excited about going back sometime. The weather up there was very nice. One day we went to a town called Boquete in the mountains and it was darn right cold.

As promised, I have some more photos of the people who have been keeping me from you.

These adorable children are Embera natives from the Parara Puru tribe. Last week, Tricia, Sarah and I were invited by two of the girls involved with Vida Estudiantil at Interamericana (Zuly and Andrea) to go with their class on a trip up the river to visit the tribe. It was a great day to see the natural beauty, see a different culture and connect with the students.

Here are some of the guys from Vida Estudiantil at the national campus. This picture was taken in my english class, where we offer the students a place to learn and practice their english conversational skills.

This is the imposing front of the Law Faculty. It is here and the Architecture faculty where I spend most of my time at the university, meeting and talking with students.

This is probably the thing that keeps me away from you most. Here in this picture is my friend Diego, who is in my Bible Study. I love to just hang out with the students I know, and while doing this I am able to meet their friends and connect and share with them. This also allows the students to start sharing their faith with their friends.

So there you have it dear blog. I hope that our relationship is better now and that we can continue to keep things out in the open. I should be around this week to let you know what is going on. Also the university is finished, with all the students in final exams. Hopefully that means I have more time to talk with you, but I also have lots of meetings and also a friend from Canada coming.

Take Care,
Steve

A little bit of my life...

2007-12-06T17:43:00.000-08:00

Dear Blog,

I am sorry I haven't written to you in a while. Life has been very busy. I have heard that people have been looking at you and wondering what is happening. They tell me you seem so lonely. I am very sad to hear this. Hopefully I can do a few things to cheer you up. For you see, while we have been apart, many things have been going on in my life. I know this is no excuse for me not to write and in fact I have a confession to make.....I've been seeing other people. I know this might be hard for you to take, but let me show you some pictures and hopefully you can understand....

(Editors note: Blogger was taking sooooooo long so after waiting for one picture to finally come, i gave up....check back later to see them)

Well blog, the picture above is of TUAL. As you can see, often times students come and sit around here to hang out, pass the time, or study. I have a confession. Oftentimes I will randomly just walk up to these students and share with them and talk with them. Sometimes they enjoy the talk and we met up more....

I have some more bad news for you my dear blog. Tonight I am getting on a bus to another city called David. I will be gone for a week. I am going to meet some more people who are involved with Campus for Christ up there. I hope to get to know them and the city so when some friend of mine come from Canada in the summer, I can send them there.

Well that's all. I hope you understand and maybe we can strengthen our relationship when I get back...

Love,

Steve

Isla Grande

2007-11-26T11:33:00.000-08:00

Panama often identifies itself as 'The land between two oceans' This past weekend our team, accompanied by Brent and Celeste headed off for a long weekend to Isla Grande - an Island just off shore on the Caribean coast. The weekend was spent doing team building exercises, training.....but who am I kidding. We had an awesome weekend to kick back and relax and enjoy God's creation and a bit of down time.

On Saturday we took a boat tour, through mangrove forests and then onto a private island. It was just us and the man who 'manages' it. (Tells you to pay a couple bucks) It was BEAUTIFUL. The whole time I imagined I was a pirate as they used to occupy these areas.

Relaxing in a hammock

We're now back in Panama city. Brent and Celeste are still here for a couple more days. So between having them and campus ministry its back to being busy...but I'm truly refreshed. It's been a true blessing having them with us and they have passed on so much wisdom, encouragement and even an early Christmas.

Interamericana, Leaders and Jesus

2007-11-20T12:19:00.000-08:00

Well I have a lot to update you on...alot has happened in the past week

First of all my time is now going to be divided between two universities, Universidad de Panama and now I am going to begin working on Interamericana. Interamericana is a private University located right beside the national uni. 3 weeks ago two of my teamates, Sarah and Tricia, started Vida Estudiantil over there. However they were lacking a male presence and from now on I will be spending 1 1/2 days a week working on that campus with the males. I started last week by sitting down and phoning through a list of contacts of people who were interested in hearing more about Vida Estudiantil.

Phoning Students at Interamericana

Also going on last week, Leadership Impact Group (https://www.leaderimpactgroup.com) were in town to reach out to the business leaders of Panama. On Monday a couple of us Stinters were able to teach them some basic Spanish. Later in the week, Vicktor, Tyler and Karissa (3 of the younger people from the group) came out to the universities to deliver talks on Business leadership. At Vicktor's talk at the national university 15 people indicated the had prayed to receive Christ...please pray as we try to follow up this week.

And finally Jesus....as in my new roomate. This Sunday Jesus Maria Marin, the younger brother of Oliver, one of the staff members with Vida Estudiantil, moved in with Jon and I. I'm looking forward to having our new roomate.

Until next time....ciao

I can't think of a title...

2007-11-09T12:28:00.000-08:00

Hello all

Panamanian lesson for the day:
When typing, a panamanian will write a 'laugh' like so, 'jajajaja' as opposed to 'hahahaha' since in spanish, the 'J' is pronounced as 'H'

Well as I was thinking about what I would post on this update I realized one thing...generally I only post good news for you guys. So just so you know, not everything is always rosy down here in Panama (although generally we are so thankful to God for the life He has given us down here). One of the main prayer requests is for relationships, both within the team and also between us and the Panamanians.

As a team, living, working, breathing and eating together there are always bound to be tensions, differences in thought, opinion and the like that come up. Please pray that as we work together that we would continually deal with these.
With Panamanians we contunually have to be aware of some cultural differences...especially when it comes to the opposite sex.

That being said, there is good news.

This week we had 'days of evangelism' - a specific outreach in which we pushed the Panamanian students to get out sharing the gospel along side of us. Honestly today coming home I was so excited thinking about how many students went out this week for the first time to share the gospel....and the excitment on their faces coming back from the experience, some of them seeing people pray to receive Christ. Really this is what my purpose down here in Panama is: to train and equip these students so they can share their faith, teach others to do likewise and carry on a movement on their own.

So continue to pray for us...both for the work that God is doing down here but also for the work He is doing in us.

Bajo Grande

2007-11-06T17:18:00.000-08:00

Wao (That's Panamanian for wow)

Wao is all I can say when I think back to the past 4 days up in Bajo Grande. A group of 26 of us, led by Todd and Marielena Tillinghast (check out www.lfim.org...missions trip anyone?!?!?) headed off into the rural community of Bajo Grande in the Cocle province of Panama (its a short 3 hour paved drive, 1/2 hour 4x4 drive and 15 minute hike from Panama City).
We went there to serve the Lord by serving the people. Our time there was filled with helping families in the community with practical things during the day (harvesting food, cleaning, digging ditches etc...) while also getting to know the people. We would then invite them out for the night to a house where we would share testimonies, dramas and the Jesus film (which was ran on a generator as this community does not have power).

Our accomidation for the weekend. The girls had the luxury of sleeping on the dirt inside, as us boys slept under the tin roof.

It was an incredible experience. Although the people live such different lives, it was still easy to connect with the people as we conversed and shared with them. The family I worked with consisted of a man and his wife, their daughter and from time to time their 4 year old grandaughter would come to visit (her house was a couple minutes away). On Sunday as we sat down for a lunch of Sancocho (Traditional Panamanian chicken soup) my teamate and I were able to start sharing our faith with the faimly. After giving my testimony and sharing the gospel my teamate did the same. The family showed interest and began asking questions. When we told them it was possible to begin their own personal relationship with God and have their sins forgiven they said yes, and prayed to receive Christ. That night it was great to see them come out to the meeting and meet the pastor who hopes to plant a church in the area.

The landscape there is absolutely beautiful. The sides of the hills are used for growing crops...Yuca, Beans, Coffee, Oranges, Lemons

Presenting the drama 'Everything'...

The Canadians (minus Sarah) satisfied, joyful, dirty and exhausted after the weekend

PLEASE PRAY FOR BAJO GRANDE. Pastor Coree is a missionary in the area, he has planted one church in the next community over and wants to now plant one in Bajo Grande. There are about 20 communities in this area without a church presence. As I was working on Sunday a couple of Mormon missionaries hiked by. The harvest is ready and the people are thirsty for a change and meaning in life.

"..but whoever drinks of the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed the water I give him will become in him a well of water springing up into eternal life"
- Jesus

The method of missions

2007-10-28T18:00:00.000-07:00

FUNNY STORY

As I was walking through the mall today on the way to the bus terminal I heard two girls yelling 'Jesus!! Jesus!!'....turning around I saw two teenage girls chasing after me yelling 'Jesus!!'

The girls go to Crossroads and had seen me play Jesus in the drama. Not being able to remember my name they figured the best way to get my attention was to call me Jesus and hope I responded....

Concerning the drama, it is now up on my facebook (if you don't have facebook sorry....) so feel free to watch it. Honestly it has really made a difference in my life hearing testimonies from people how watching the drama effected them, changed them, helped them heal or revealed more of Jesus to them. As people have been telling me more and more, I have felt humbled and honored to be used in such a powerful way....

Next thing.

Part of my daily devotions is going through Oswald Chambers 'My utmost for his highest' here is October 26th's devotion which really made an impression on me.

Matthew 28:19 - Go therefore and make disciples of all nations....

Jesus Christ did not say, "Go and save souls" (the salvation of souls is the supernatural work of God), but He said "Go...make disciples of all the nations..." Yet you cannot make disciples unless you are a disciple yourself. When the disciples returned from their first mission, they were filled with joy because even the demons were subject to them. But Jesus said, in effect "Don't rejoice in successful service - the great secret of joy is that you have the right relationship with Me" (see Luke 10:17-20). The missionary's great essential is remaining true to the call of God, and realizing that his one and only purpose is to disciple men and women to Jesus. Remember that there is a passion for souls that does not come from God, but from our desire to make converts to our point of view.
The cahllenge to the missionary does not come from the fact that people are difficult to bring to salvation, that backsliders are difficult to reclaim, or that there is a barrier of calous indifference. No, the challenge comes from the perspective of the missionary's own personal relationship with Jesus Christ- "Do you believe that I am able to do this?" (Matthew 9:28). Our Lord unwaveringly asks us that question, and it confronts us in every indicidual situation we encounter. The one great challenge to us is - do I know myu risen Lord? DO I know the power of His indwelling Spirit? Am I wise enough in God's sight, but foolish enough according to the wisdom of the world, to trust in what Jesus Christ has said? Or am I abandoning the great supernatural position of limitless confidence in Christ Jesus, which is really God's only call for a missionary? If I follow any other method, I depart altogether from th emethods prescribed by our Lord - "All authority has been given to Me...Go therefore..." (Matthew 28:18-19)

When I read this I was struck by the words. Some hit hard, some encouraged greatly. Probably the greatest thing God has been teaching me to date (something He started before I left) was that the most important thing to Him is my relationship with Him - He wants to work in me as I am His disciple before (and as) He works through me. And the way He wants to work through me is that I disciple others, bring them along side of me as we both follow Jesus. Because without Him nothing is possible.....with Him all things are possible.

Sorry don't have an updated pic of me right now. But if you're wondering, I am currently sporting a nice thick beard I grew for the drama...

Comments

2007-10-22T14:34:00.000-07:00

Buenas Dias
Well first of all a little administrative detail. As of now anyone can comment on the blog posts...so feel free to comment.

Well really that was the reason I started this post, but I guess I'll fill you in a bit with my life. This past weekend I went to a youth retreat with 'Crossfire' (The youth ministry at Crossroads Bible Church where I am a small group leader of Gr. 9 boys). Leading up to event, Mark (the youth pastor) kept on saying 'Guys, I just know this is going to be the best retreat ever.' All I can say is that he was right - it was an absolutely amazing time. Besides all the fun activities, there were amazing times of praise and worship and great small group discussions. Part of my role, aside from leading my small group was being a part of a drama where I got to play Jesus (hopefully I can get a link so you can watch the video). Saturday night was amazing as we had a chance to deal with wounds in our past. All I can say is I never believed I would be with a bunch of 15 year old guys balling their eyes out as they let Jesus heal things from their past and then praying for each other. We finished the night off with a couple hours of praise and worship and then some nightball....

Coming back from the youth reatreat, I was reminded how much I love working with youth (Man I miss the Parkcrest Young People's Youth Group), and began wondering why am I doing university ministry. Today reminded me as we had our staff meeting in the morning and talked about where we were and what the vision for the campus was...man that got me excited. In the afternoon I had a meeting with someone who accepted Christ two weeks ago (Natalie) as we talked it gave me such joy as she told me she now knew '100%' that she was going to heaven, and now that she had a real faith in her life she wanted to get involved in a bible study and learn more.

So thats all for now. Right now I am enjoying some Ngobe coffee, which tastes fantastic after a week without it....

God bless you

Mmmmm Coffee

2007-10-18T20:17:00.000-07:00

Buenas Dias.

Well I have some great news. First of all, Panama has some of the world's best coffee (in fact aparently a coffee from Panama won the title of 'World's best coffee' this year) However from time to time I do miss good ol' Starbucks and Tim Hortons...enter Sarah Hunter, who recently came back from Canada bearing gifts of Starbucks and Tim Hortons for yours truly. The news keeps on getting better. Jon, my roomate and team leader, was up in Nicaragua at the Central American conference for Cruzada Estudiantil. He returned tonight bearing gifts of highland Nicaraguan coffee (which gives any other coffee a run for its money)

So here I am blessed with great coffees....and just when I thought it couldn't get any better, my world comes crashing down. I am currently fasting from coffee, which means it is all just sitting there tempting me.....

I can't wait until Sunday.....

Exciting times

2007-10-15T22:11:00.000-07:00

Hello my faithful blog readers. Well I really wanted to post a new entry because I'm excited....although I'm not really sure about what. I guess sometimes it's just indescribable being a part of God's work...kinda makes you speachless when you realize how absolutely unworthy you are and yet He chooses to use you anyways.

So what am I excited about? I think I figured it out....
Luke 10:20 'However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven."

I am also excited about seeing 50+ students come out to a weekly meeting. Students excited to share their faith. Relationships being built. Students discovering that the Christian life is an abundant life. Students hearing and receiving the gospel. Praying for the campus. Students stepping up and leading bible studies. That while on a missions trip I'll soon be going on a missions trip within this missions trip.

But most of all...my name is written in heaven....that's pretty sweet.

4 names written down....2 will last

2007-10-09T19:09:00.000-07:00

So first things first I guess....its now official, the fish have names...

Fish Juan and Fish Too.

Thanks Mark for the original submission and all those who agreed.

So those two names have been written down....yesterday afternoon I saw two more names written in the Lamb's book of life.

I was meeting up with Diego, a student from my Thursday Bible Study, to go out and share our faith on campus. As we were waiting for Cesar (another from the Bible study) to show up two of Diego's classmates sat beside us. When Cesar didn't show up I asked Diego if he was ready to go out sharing. Looking at me, Diego pointed at the two girls beside him and said 'Why not them?'. My usual response would have been 'We generally like guys to share with guys, girls with girls' (Through experience it works best this way...) But at that moment the Holy Spirit convicted me and we began talking with them. As we talked, I asked them if they believed it was possible to have a personal relationship with God. Andrea (one of the girls) replied 'Yes, but I don't know how.' At this point we began sharing with them God's plan of Salvation, and how through Jesus one can begin to have that relationship with God. After sharing the Gospel we asked them if they wanted to accept Jesus as their Lord and Saviour and begin to have that personal relationship with God. Each girl in turn though about it and then said yes and prayed to received Christ.

I think this conversation reflects where alot of the students are at. They know its possible to know God, they know lots about Him...yet they are missing that all important step of begining a personal relationship with Him, inviting Him into their lives as Lord and Saviour.

So pray for Andrea Espinosa and Natalie Cruz as next week we have a follow up appointment.

Por Ahora....Por Siempre...

2007-10-03T20:44:00.000-07:00

One of the strong forces on the campus are the political groups...this is especially true in the Law Faculty where I am working. Currently it is elections week, and the different students groups (which for the most part have some type of political affiliation) are campaigning to get voted in to be the official student organization for the faculty.

Today while sitting at our table (set up to get to know the students and share with them about who Vida Estudiantil is) we were moved aside as the major group, Movmiento Joventud Popular (MJP) came through yelling

M-J-P...POR AHORA...POR SIEMPRE!!

Translated: M-J-P...FOR NOW....FOR EVER!!

These students are passionate about changing their country, and are sold out that MJP can do this.

Fast forward 8 hours and I am at Crossfire, the Wednesday night youth group for Crossroads Bible Church, where I have begun serving as a small group leader. During our time of worship we sang 'Desde mi interior' (From the inside out - for you english speakers). One of the lines goes as such

Tu luz por siempre brillara.
Tu gloria incomparable sin final

Translated:
Your light will shine when all else fades
Never Ending
Your glory goes beyond all fame

What a contrast that really has me thinking. These students need this light. Their political group, MJP and all others will fade...God's light and glory with without end.

This has reinforced for me why I've entered every 1st year class in the law faculty to present them with Vida Estudiantil and why we sit out there admist these political groups gathering students who want to see the university changed through the good news of Jesus Christ. These students have passion that they are going to put into something, these students want change to happen in their school, country and world. We can do that...and so much more through Christ, the changes can go beyond the temporal and into eternity....

Let me introduce you to....

2007-09-28T11:14:00.000-07:00

Buenas Dias todos...well its been a while since my last update, and I'm glad to say that its because I've been so busy. We really are doing campus ministry full time. Its exciting as we have been meeting lots of new students, starting discipleship groups (bible studies with action) and planning large outreaches. Also I've been studying spanish and its coming along!! One of the exciting things was getting permission from the dean of the law faculty to go into classes and explain to the students who we are, and have them fill out a 'Spiritual Interest Questionaire'. Next week we plan to go to all first year classes to do this.

My 'all access pass' I got from the dean of the law faculty. Also gives us a table in the common area, wall space for ads and a room to hold events in....

Of course as much as I would love to say we're into a routine here in Panama, that just doesn't happen. For example, today I was walking on campus going to meet a friend, when a group of students who are involved with Vida Estudantyl ran up to me as they were looking for all the Canadians...a protest was about to start, the university was getting shutdown and soon the major roads were to be closed to, so much for my Spanish lesson..... After rounding up the Canadians, we had a quick prayer meeting during which we heard the explosions (tyres? tear gas?) Aparently this isn't a totally rare experience, and is relatively safe as long as you stay clear of where the protest is.

Now admist all these protests, outreaches and events, I have some truly exciting news....we have two new roomates...our goldfish!!! Last week I went out and bought some new goldfish for our apartment. Now here is the kicker...I'm going to let you, my precious blog readers name them. So if you have a name for the goldfish send me an e-mail steve.scott1983@hotmail.com or leave a comment to this blog.

The fish came with two snails whom I have named Pepe and Albert....

Tourist today, missionary tomorrow?

2007-09-19T15:16:00.000-07:00

Well an update on the visa situation. Tuesday morning we headed out to the Immigration office to collect our extended tourist visas...for which they provided a nice little card. So we are now eligible to stay here for another month, during which time we need to get all our documents together in order to apply for our missionary visas.

Missionary....sometimes I find it kinda funny when I tell people that I'm a missionary....as far as I'm concerned nothing has changed, I'm still the same old chump, Steve Scott. But maybe that's the point isn't it, there isn't something supernatural or some trick to being a missionary, being a missionary is simply being yourself, answering to God's call on your life to be an ambassador for Christ wherever you are.

2 Corinthians 5:17-21 - we are all missionaries, ambassadors for Christ. The supernatural occruence has already happened when you were reconciled to God. Changing the post code doesn't make the missionary, you are Christ's ambassador where you are.

2 Corinthians 5:17-21
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

Mi Apartemento

2007-09-11T08:29:00.000-07:00

Well here is a look into my apartment for those of you who have been curious. The view is stunning...a parking garage. So as to not make you jealous, I won't post it.

Kitchen

Living Room

Office

Bedroom

And just so you know, from time to time I get to relax and enjoy some of the beauties of living in a tropical country....

Hola, mi nombre es Esteban....

2007-09-08T11:38:00.000-07:00

Exciting times were had on the Universidad de Panama national campus yesterday. As our team is now on campus I was able to go out sharing (the term we use for when we head out on campus to talk to random (or divinely appointed) students, with the ultimate goal of sharing the gospel with them). My teamate Jessica and I headed out and approached a student, Joel, and began talking.....IN SPANISH. For the next 40 minutes Joel and I talked about his studies, canadians he met at a Salsa bar, the Gospel, Jesus, Heaven and Hell. Although Joel heard the gospel he wasn't ready to accept...

Now although sharing the gospel in and of itself is exciting enough, a thrilling part for me was the fact that I was able to communicate all of this in Spanish. Now don't get too excited, my spanish isn't anything remotely close to fluent, but it was really encouraging for me to see how much it has progressed.

In other news, I am fully moved in to my apartment, pictures will be posted shortly.....

As far as our visa situation please continue to pray. On my part, it looks like I have all the necessary documents, it is now a matter of getting them properly notorized, translated etc... However a couple of my teamates are still missing their Criminal Record Check. Thank you for your prayers and please continue to pray.

Retreat...oh yeah and PRAY

2007-09-04T17:37:00.000-07:00

Well things here in Panama have been continuing on at their normal frantic pace the past few days. Friday saw us finally get the keys for the girls apartment, which meant Jon and I could move into ours...however we had to wait a couple days to sleep there as we spent the weekend out in the mountains on a retreat with 15 students who are already involved with the movement down here in Panama. It was a great couple of days to get to know the students better as well as some intensive training on how to share the gospel and how to prepare your personal testimony. It was a great time to refocus on the reason we are down here, spend some quality time together and really get a boost as we head out on to campus full time

Listening on how to preapre your personal testimony.

A BIG BIG BIG prayer request that we have right now is getting hold of our visas so we can stay here for the year. Before coming here, we enquired as to what documents etc... we would need to get a year long visa. The Panamanian embassy in Canada unfortunately didn't provide us with a complete list. At the moment we will need to get a criminal record check done (which can only be given in person) for our Visa, so we need to figure out a way around/through this. WE know God wants us down here and that He will work something out...but He also wants us to pray. So pray for wisdom in finding the best solution, favour in the eyes of the Panamanian authorities and that we can stay here.

Growing Pains

2007-08-28T20:52:00.000-07:00

The best way to describe the past couple weeks is that its been full of growing pains. As this is the first team that's been sent to Panama, most of our pre-trip advice consisted of 'We'll figure it out when you get there...' and well, thats exactly what we've been doing. Our general day consists of waking up and running around looking for apartments....electricity for the apartments....visas... etc... and generally going with the flow and figuring things out as they come.

Concerning visas, please pray for our team that we will be able to get all the documentation needed to extend our visas for a year. There are quite a few requirments and documents (including some from Canada that need to go through the Embassy in Ottawa) that we need (again one of those growing pains).

As we experience frustrations, tiredeness, joy (looks like we'll have a place to live tomorrow) and, well, growing pains this passage keeps on popping up....

Phillipans 4:4-9
Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.
Be anxious in nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God, and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Sometimes its tough, in the midst of things going on (or not going on), here, at home and everywhere, to simply rejoice in the Lord, always...whenever, wherever, for whatever reason, however...just rejoice....always....

Psalm 23

2007-08-27T11:12:00.000-07:00

The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want
He makes me to lie down in green pastures
He leads me beside the still water.
He restores my soul;
He leads me in the paths of righteousness
For His name's sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death.
I will fear no evil;
For You are with me;
Your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me in the presence of miy enemies;
You anoint my head with oil;
My cup runs over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
All the days of my life;

And I will dwell in the house of the LORD
Forever.

My team

2007-08-24T18:58:00.001-07:00

Here is the Canadian component of my team down in Panama. We come from coast to coast and everywhere in between (not counting territories, provinces that speak french, and Manitoba)

We are, from left to right:
Tricia Jagt - Mcmaster University...studying some type of fine art I think....
Lindsey Davies - U of Calgary..graduated with biology
Jessica Fauvelle - U of Saskatchewan...another fine arts person
Jon Agudelo - York University, International Business
Sarah Hunter - St. Mary's University....Dance, Religion and Physchology
Steve Scott - Universtiy of British Columbia...Wood Products Processing, Minor in commerce

Thats our team. We're all pretty different so pray for us....

The hunt continues

2007-08-24T12:39:00.000-07:00

Well just a very very quick update on whats going on down here. The week has been filled with getting settled in. WE have found an apartment for the girls, and for now Jon and I will be staying there, but we still need to find ourselves a place. We al move in tomorrow so thats kinda exciting (more so for the girls)

Yesterday we were on campus for the first time and attended the weekly meeting. It was pretty cool to start to meet some of the new students, as well as some ones I knew from last year. Everyone is really excited for what God has for the year ahead. WE had a really good time of prayer for the campus and Panama. Overall it was nice just being back on campus, walking up I had that first day of school feeling....nervous anticipation, excitment etc...

The plan for the next couple of days is to move the girls in to the new apartment while continuing to look for a place for Jon and I...hopefully next week we can get all settled in and begin to be full time on campus.

Overall the team is doing well, pretty tired as the days are long and busy and the heat really hits us. But spirits are good and its an exciting time....

Hasta luego

WE have arrived

2007-08-22T09:35:00.001-07:00

Bienvenidos a Panama! We we’ve arrived here in Panama and the best way to describe it is that its been a whirlwind. After a 17 hour trip down from Toronto (flight delays) we arrived to a welcoming bunch of excited and tired Panamanians. Finally getting to our hotel at 4 am, the next day was spent sleeping in, and then relocating to a different hotel where we have been staying the week.

Sunday we went to a couple churches, Crossroads (English speaking) in the morning and then Cruzadia Estudantyl (Spanish, where most of the CCC people go) in the evening. On Monday began the apartment hunting, which has consumed (along with a few meetings) the majority of our time as we look for a place to live for the year. To both ours and the Panamanians amazment, there seems to be a severe shortage of apartments. However we know God has a place for us and are resting in the fact that He has something somewhere in this city.

In the midst of all the crazy activity we have also been reminded of the reason we are here. This week was the 41st anniversary of CCC in Panama, and the Central American regional director was in town to 'cast vision'. It was great to hear and really lined up exactly with what we had in mind. So once this apartment hunt is done.....off to the campus.

Run the race in Panama

2007-08-22T09:34:00.000-07:00

Hebrews 12:1-3

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.

In the weeks leading up to me moving to Panama, God brought this passage to my mind and attention over and over again. I guess He wanted to get His message across. I have a race set before me this year and God gave me last minute instructions before I headed out.

I need to focus on the race at hand, the first part of the verse says to lay aside the weight that will slow me down. These aren’t sins, but rather things that will slow down my race here in Panama. To date that weight has been home, I miss home and the people there. While this is a good thing (to love the people back home), it can easily become a weight, hindering the work down here in Panama.

The second thing is to lay aside the sin. My sin nature lives in my and a famous saying is ‘Wherever you go, you take ‘you’ with you’ (or something like that) As I move down here I must realize that while some of my sin habits, or the things that tempted me back home might be gone, the root sin still exists and that is what needs to be dealt with through confession and obedience.

Finally look to Jesus, the author and finisher of my faith. Its so simple, so effective yet so many times so difficult. Its encouraging that there is a promise at the end of the verse, if I continually look to Jesus I won’t grow weary or fainthearted.

Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face
And the things of this earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace.

4 am....

2007-08-18T01:47:00.000-07:00

Well good morning, or night, or whatever it is....I´m sitting here right now in our hotel lobby, hoping they get us some rooms for the rest of the night. After a several hour delay in New York, we finally arrived into Panama at 2:45am...after clearing customs we waited for our bags, while mine came, two of my teamates didn´t. so finally after filling out some forms we passed through security and entered Panama to a big group of Panamanians with signs, singing and lots of hugs and jumping....so we are finally here!!!

After our travails of travels today, we looks forward to a nice sleep in tomorrow. Hopefully I will have some time to more in depth fill you in on with what is up (currently I am pretty much incoherent and have to retype everything) and share some thoughts. But as for now, we are in the country and happy!!!

Orientation and Support raising

2007-08-15T17:49:00.000-07:00

As I write this e-mail the Panama team is 'bubbling'. Let me explain a bit....

We have been at orientation at a retreat centre near Guelph Ontario. During this time we have been disconnected from the wolrd as we prepare to head out. This morning we received a message from head office thate two of our members, Tricia and Jon (I will introduce the team in another post) were not gong to be allowed to get on the plane as they were not yet at 80% of their support raised. Although this was a bit of a blow we prayed about it and began mobilizing. While some prayed others began phoning contacts. Jon was $2,000 short of 80% and Tricia was $8,000 short. To cut a long story short, in the period of 7 hours news came in the Jon was at sufficient support to go and God brought in $9,000 of support for Tricia....so we are all heading off on a plane together on Friday!!!

It was pretty awesome to see God move in what can only be described as a miraculous way, both in the way he moved people's hearts to give, calmed our hearts and provided the funds.

Although we are now all boarding a plane, some of the team (Jon, Tricia and Sarah) is still short (only at 80%) of their full support. So please please pray as in the next few days we try to all finish off our support raising in order that we can focus fully on the ministry while down there. If you feel led to give please e-mail me (steve.scott1983@hotmail.com)

That's all for now....back to 'isolation' errr orientation

See you later...

2007-08-12T18:17:00.001-07:00

Well its now 12 hours until my flight takes off to Toronto for a week of training. The past two days have been full of 'See you later'...with very few goodbyes. Its comforting knowing that with so many of the people we know we will see each other again, just might be on a new earth...but hopefully it will be in 11months or so.

9 days....

2007-08-04T21:14:00.000-07:00

9 days untill I leave, all of a sudden its hitting me, I'm moving to Panama. After spending the past 2 months pre-occupied with travelling to a wedding and then summer camps, all of a sudden the next thing on my 'to do' list is move to Panama (well I guess get a travel visa, set up bank account, tie up loose ends, fill out endless forms, say goodbye, pack etc... come just before that) Honestly as much as I've been talking about moving to Panama and begining to make as many preperations as possible, my mind has mostly been staying on the task at hand (namely summer camps). Now all of a sudden the task at hand is my final preperations...

I had an interesting experience today, I just finished working at the teens camp at Morning Star Bible Camp, it was an awesome week. Great times, great campers, great workers and great chapel times. I was really able to connect with some of the campers and it was awesome. 6 hours after camp ended (4 of which I was napping) I was all alone. I tried calling a few people and no one answered. After spending the past two weeks constantly surrounded by people and activity it was a shock to the system....and honestly I was a bit lonely. Then I remembered....Jesus was there, and things all of a sudden weren't so lonely, it was kinda conforting. And it was a good time, because I realized that pretty soon I will be off away from friends and family and He will be my comfort then....

Anyways...better finish off that visa application.

2007-05-21T19:33:00.000-07:00

Let's get ready to rumble!!!

2007-05-15T20:29:00.000-07:00

Well time is flying along and before I know it I'll be in Panama. Although the departure date is still far away (and as of now, still not confirmed, but we're looking at early Sept.) there is plenty to do.

This week has been busy and I've been completing my online training. Due to a final exam, I missed the national training session for people heading out on STINT, however they have an online version of the course. It takes lots of time, but there is some good stuff including presenting biblical basis for support raising and lots of other tips.

So as time ticks on, I've started 'Ministry Partner Development', meaning giving the opportunity for people to join me in reaching Panama for Christ. Please pray for this....

Also currently there is a team of Canadians down in Panama on a project, similar to what I did last year.

Stay tuned for updates.

Welcome

2007-03-13T13:02:00.000-07:00

Welcomg to my blogspot. I will be using this site to keep you updated on my STINT to Panama. Please check back here for updates, I will be posting more info soon....