The inspection of the second container is behind us, and the unloading of the first one is done and distributed. A LOT has happened in the last few days. I'm putting a few photos in here to let you see some of the "fun" of getting these things done.
The first two are of the inspection. Take everything out of one 40 foot container and put it in another...except is doesn't fit. Stan packs solid, and the people here don't do a very good job of following Stan's way of doing it. Once Stan was there, he climbed in and was packing it tight again. So, think of it, that is 4 times of unloading and reloading one 40 foot container. Not an easy job at all.
At the house,
it's more fun and games... here we have to unload, and SORT it and then figure out where it is going. The Christmas Bags were stacked in the right piles, then sorted for the different places of distribution. Most of the missions who got the bags also got rice meals, corn meal, and peanut butter to distribute, too. Stan and I were kept busy keeping track of where everything was going. But we got it done with the help of a LOT of people.
And the guys got to eat, too. They LOVE hot dogs, mac and cheese, chips, brownies and pop. And they deserve it. They did a lot of work.
And then there is the work of distributing it, but God was with us and all things were brought in, unloaded and distributed...what a blessing. They are on their way to the people now. The local missionaries and pastors came right away and picked up their share of things. everyone was so pleased. Some of these items even went as far as Gonaives. So, this first 40 foot container went a LOT of places to a lot of people. And don't forget, the scriptures and salvation coloring books went along with all of that. Not only are Christmas bags going out, but food (desperately needed), scriptures (for feeding the soul) and a lot of prayers.
And we have a team working, too, so it's amazing what God has accomplished this week. This medical team has been working hard and seeing hundreds of people. Once word got out, they saw many physical needs from Port that had come here without treatment. Now they are being cared for. And not only the physical, but the emotional needs are so great after such a tragedy. They originally came to work with the local people, but God has put many more in their path. And they are meeting the needs. Today is a day of rest. And tomorrow is church. Then Monday they will have one more clinic. A lot of people have been helped and we are so thankful.
Our next container is due to be delivered on Wednesday. Pray for that. I praise God that almost every item from the one we just unloaded has been given to people already. We have almost nothing here at all, but praise God MFI was able to help us with that and we do have food to give out. This next one should be just about as quick as the one yesterday. Then we have one that is to arrive at the port tomorrow. Supplies are finally just starting to arrive here in the north.
Our mission is to help the people. That does not mean we have to personally hand out each item. It means we can help others facilitate the process by giving to them and they can reach out to even more than our limited means. We have the means to help people in many different ways, but all in the way that the Lord directs. Isn't it awesome how the Lord puts His people working together to make a bigger impact for Him? He enables us to distribute, but also to enable others to do the same. I can't stress enough how awesome our God is!!!
If I get some photos of the team working, I'll try to include that in the next blog. Since I have not been with them, it's hard to get pictures myself. We've been a bit occupied. But I think several have taken some photos, so I should be able to get some. I'll keep trying.
You have a God centered, Jesus directed, Holy Spirit fantastic day.
Another trying but awesome day in Haiti. It stated out on a hard note, with everyone calling and wanting something...trying to get things organized for the airport and a lot going wrong. Then, we decided that Don would help our friend, Ray, get this teams cargo to Limbe after the plane, so I took my truck as well, just "in case" they called from the docks to inspect our second container. I had one outbound passenger with me as I left for the airport...about a fourth of the way there, got the call... COME NOW TO INSPECT THE CONTAINER!!! Oh boy, had to stop Don (praise God he was behind me and I could). He took the passenger, headed to the airport, and I headed home. Had to get water and some other things, and pick up our kids to handle the inspection. Had 12 kids in my little truck. Headed in...Stan was purchasing meds for the team, so he couldn't come right away, but made it about a forth of the way into the container.
Had a great inspector. And our agent was great too. It was a long hard day, but the guys did great. They let us bring several things home with us. Some of the bigger things, which was a huge help. Then we set it up to bring our FIRST container to the house tomorrow...and the second one next Wednesday. This would give us time to distribute the items on this first one. And it would give me time tonight and in the AM to get some of the paperwork done to get ready for this first one coming tomorrow.
Well, got another surprise...they brought the container tonight... in the dark...and this guy had NO lights on the truck. Only took about 15 tries to get it in the right place, but at least he didn't hit our house this time, which is a blessing. Got it parked and locked up.
We were just sitting down to eat when someone said, "Where's Abbie?" Okay, panic set in... BIG TIME. For those of you who know the situation, Abbie is a kidnapping risk. We couldn't find her anywhere, and I lost it, TOTALLY!! I don't think I EVER, EVER want to go through that again. Finally, we called over to EBAC. She had gone with grandpa to get the team. Everyone thought she was on the truck...but she wasn't. She was over there, happily watching a movie with the kids. I think I cried as much AFTER we found her as BEFORE we found her. I am SO thankful for the team, though. At the first sign that she wasn't there, they all grabbed flashlights and started sweeping the yard and surrounding area. Such a blessing for us.
After things calmed down, and we finished eating, Stan and I sat down and figured out where and how to distribute almost all of what is on this container...what a job, but what a blessing that all of this is going out to the needy, quickly. There are so many hurting, and this will be such a help.
I don't think I mentioned that yesterday, MFI brought us in a whole lot of relief food to distribute. Vero and I spent last night sorting and getting ready to package it out to a lot of people. God is really blessing and we are so thankful to Him. And to the people who have been faithful in helping us get these needed supplies for the hurting humanity.
It's late...almost midnight, and I really need to close out and get some rest. Had enough excitement for one day... well, for several, actually. Now I have to pray the Lord will give me peace and rest.
I pray you will have a fantastic day tomorrow and keep your eyes on Jesus. He is the author and finisher of our faith!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It's been a day...we had two planes, with our team on the first one, and their cargo on the second one...we sat at the airport all day because the second one had to go to another island for fuel after waiting for half an hour at the first stop. But God can use anything, right? He used that time for us to have a chance to talk to the head of the UN at the airport...and then one of the liaisons for the head office of the UN for helping us get containers in. The team did great at the airport..no complaining even in the heat and humidity. We also met another team, who didn't get picked up by their mission, and we brought them home with us for the night. God works in miraculous ways. This was a small medical team (4 people). Ours was a rather larger MEDICAL team (15 people). They have fit well together and shared quite a bit.
We have talked to several people who have been willing to help us in any way they can to get these containers moving. We had just sat down to supper with the team when there was a knock at the door. It was the HEAD of customs in the north of Haiti. He came to talk to us about the containers. We will have to pay on these first two because they were shipped before the earthquake, but the cost is not that high...in fact it's not bad when considering what we have paid before. But now I will go to the UN and get a paper to get our containers with relief supplies free. We will have to pay dock charges, I think and then for a semi to bring them out here, but that isn't hardly anything compared to what we have been paying. God is at work and He is seeing to our needs. I mean, the HEAD guy came to US? Wow, that blew me away. We don't even know how he knew us or how he knew what we were doing.
Okay, through all of this, we are paying the duty tomorrow, and then we told them to hold off delivering until Friday. I have airport tomorrow and Thursday. Don may have to do inspection on the second one tomorrow and then airport on Thursday also. But the glitch here is that they want to bring BOTH containers here Friday. We are going to try and have them bring the second one next Wednesday. When God hears the prayers, HE moves people to do His will. But then again, it's in HIS time, not ours that things are done.
This team will be working right near us, so there isn't the logistics of getting it to and from the work site. Don can take them and get them home in good time.
We've been talking to so many people here and finding out the fantastic ways God has worked in so many ways through this really tough situation. Yes, there was another tremor (5.something on the scale) yesterday in Port. But many of the people said they didn't notice it much...not after all the devastation that has occurred with the huge ones. Talking to the UN today we were told there have been 150,000 people recorded coming to the north so far. That doesn't count the ones who haven't checked in with the UN, and have simply left Port to head up here. Stan sent someone here to check for rice...which is almost non existent here. He found a store that had not been bought out. We have 8 ~ 100# bags now. Stan will be sharing them with the orphanages and some of the real needy places. Isn't God good??
Oh there is still the problems going on, don't misunderstand me on that. A team that left today was sharing about setting numerous broken limbs on one person, and having to amputate quite a few others. But the attitude of the PEOPLE is what is amazing. I would venture a guess that over 90% of them have a great "Attitude of Gratitude". And so MANY are trusting the Lord now. The churches are filling up, and people are praising God like never before.
God took this horrid tragedy, and is starting to rebuild a NEW country. One that is going to be focused on Him. People are turning from voodoo to the Lord. This is what we have been praying for years to happen.
Tomorrow's plane will also contain some needed relief supplies for us, for Ray and Bonnie and for Pastor Saintil. They are bringing in a team and it only fills half the plane. So we will benefit from that, in relief food. God really is SO good!!
I did notice today that the pilots are wearing out. Please keep them in prayer. Some are flying 6 days a week, and some are doing it 7 days a week. It's been two solid weeks of this. These are LONG, HARD days for the pilots, so they really need some uplifting. MFI just keeps "Standing in the Gap" for everyone in need here. Now it's our turn to Stand in the Gap for them, too. Please keep praying for MFI.
Okay, I've rambled enough for one night. In all of this, and in all YOU are facing, keep Jesus at the front, and bless Him for all He HAS done, IS doing, and WILL do. It's in His name we ask it.
What an awesome day. You know our Lord is bigger than even a 7.1 earthquake!!!! We have to start looking BEYOND the destruction and devastation. We need to look to where God is taking Haiti NOW.
Our English church service today was fantastic. Pastor Prichard Adams spoke, and his message was so timely. He said God has now opened a door and the Christians here need to step through it and reach the lost (both physical and spiritual) with His word and His love. We know it's important, but it's been hard, when you see all the problems and situations this disaster has caused. But our God is an awesome God, and He can do the unthinkable. I mean, He turned water into wine, He headed a blind man, He raised the dead...what is an earthquake to Him??? It is an opportunity to bring eternal life to the many who don't know Him.
We have heard so many of the stories on internet of the deaths, the looting, the pain and suffering. What about hearing about how miracles came about? Wow, we have heard some really neat things the Lord has done. One gal had to use the rest room so bad, she RAN out of the school to find a place to go....and the building collapsed behind her. She has turned her life over the Lord because of that. The churches are filling up and people are searching for the peace that only the Lord can give. Isn't it great to know God is victorious in all of this turmoil and strife?
Some of our friends have gone to Port on trips of mercy. They return with so many stories of God's provision. We simply ask you to continue to pray for those who have come in and gone to the worst places to help out. They need strength and wisdom. And they need a huge prayer backing from even those who don't know them. God is still working wonders in Port. AND he is working wonders here in Cap, too. With the thousands migrating up here, the churches are filling up and people are hearing God's word. Pray for hearts to be softened and ears to be opened to the love and peace they can find in Jesus Christ.
We are still working on the containers and trying to get them out. We have had two people offer to help, through "someone high up" they know in customs. All we are asking is that the Lord will touch those hearts and help us to help those in need.
We have heard some "rumors", like you hear in all horrible situations. But the one we need to stop is the one where people are saying God is trying to destroy Haiti for it's evilness. God didn't cause this earthquake. Yes, He may have allowed it for some reason we will never know. Even Christians are wondering why God would allow them to suffer like this. Well, no where in the Bible does it say a Christian is exempt from the terrors of the world... it DOES say that we need to reach out and hold onto God's hand and He will walk with us THROUGH any pain and struggle. The Christian life isn't "easy" but it sure is blessed.
As stories come our way, we will try to share them with you. I may not be on as much as I have been because with a satellite system, our band width is limited to a certain amount. And we have really used up a lot of it through this last week and a half. We are about to the point where we will be slowed down to below dial up speed. After February 1st, we'll be up and going full strength again. I will TRY to post, but have patience with us. Next Monday we should be up to full power again and I will try to post frequently again.
Remember to keep praying for those who have lost family, for those who have found family, but in a sad condition, and for those who are helping to relieve the stress and strain on the ones who are suffering. And yes, pray for us. We are trying to do our best, and trying to be what God wants us to be at this time. Today I heard so many missionaries say, "This is probably why the Lord has us here...for a time such as this." So, pray that God will empower the Christians to step forward and be the light in a very dark world right now.
We covet your prayers and thank you for your concern and help through all of this. Pray that supplies will start to flow into the north now, and that we can start to get back on a "normal" track. (I'm not real sure what "normal" is here, but back to our regular life is what I mean.) Thank you for your prayers during my "melt down"....I felt them and know God used you to help me get back on track. I will try to post soon with answers to so many emails that have come in with questions. I'm sorry I can't reply to each and every one of them, but there are hundreds. We SO appreciate the love and concern we have felt coming our way. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!!!!!!
Our praise and love go out to the Lord for all He is doing here since the earthquake. We are praying for a turn around in this country, so that people will begin to see the Lord in all things and will walk with Him.
Lord, use this horrid situation to draw people to You. Touch lives and hearts. And Lord, touch bodies and help heal a hurting nation. Put your protective arms around Haiti and send your guardian angels to help and protect the children and those who have turned their lives over to you. Help all Christians here to be a bright and shining light for You in this turmoil. Bring peace to hearts that only YOU can give. let them know You hold them in the palm of Your hand. Thank you Lord for Your grace and love for all people. Thank You for Your Son, Jesus Christ, who is our salvation. Simply, THANK YOU LORD, for who You are and what You are. It's in Jesus we pray....Amen.
I guess it's not as easy to keep this going as I had hoped. So much going on and trying to keep things organized is a bit difficult. BUT I am here now, so wanted to send some pictures of the inspection of the container. We need a LOT of prayer right now for this whole thing. Our broker gave us the price for the TWO containers (one which we haven't even seen yet). But some of the fees are way out of line, so am trying to deal with those. The UN has offered to help missions release things, so will probably check into that today, if I have time. Our house has become like a whirlwind, with a revolving door for people to come and check things, ask for things, and try to change things. And a lot of these we have no answer for. But I guess they think we have some sort of connection with people we don't even know. Anyway, here are some of the pictures, so you can see where we are with the first container this year. Keep praying!!!
Okay the first picture is opening the door. Stan does such a fantastic job of packing these things that they are STUFFED right to the door. Every square inch is used. So, you open the door carefully.
He included the boxes from the things he "stuffed" with, so we could repack them. Smart man, huh? And we also brought along tons of trash can liners to help with the overflow.
If you look close, you can see things packed between the boxes that needed to be bagged.
What a blessing these buckets are. They are the main part of our "bucket ministry". They serve many purposes for the people...holding the food we send, then for hauling water, and even for storing things once they are not in use otherwise.
I'm not sure if you can see the boxes here, but this is the main thing we needed this container for right now...the rice meals to share with those in desperate need, coming from Port au Prince. And the thing you can't see, the hundreds of jars of peanut butter. These are important for protein. It's something simple, yet nutritious. 
Now we need to start praying that we can get it out here and start getting it to those who need it. They will be going to many, many places where people are housing the refugees and also to orphanages. But even these places are taking in more, and at times more than they can really handle, but the need is so great, they won't refuse to help.
The team from our home church left on Tuesday and our son and grandson left yesterday. What a let down for us. They were a huge help with everything. I had a melt down last night when nothing seemed to be working right and all things seemed to be going wrong. It wasn't one particular thing, just everything adding up and getting to me. I'm much better today and know that the Lord is in charge, and no matter what happens, HE will be triumphant. I'm keeping one hand on HIM while the other one does the work.
Keep praying...the people are flooding in to Cap, and there aren't many places for them to go. Pray for peace and quiet. Pray for wisdom for everyone involved in the relief efforts going out. And pray for the Lord to touch and move people toward Him through this whole maelstrom.
I sent out an email last night, and I'd like to copy it here for those who didn't get it. It was sent to me by a friend and it's so true.
Thank you
LORD, I just want to say THANK YOU,
Because this morning I woke up and knew where my children were.
Because this morning my home was still standing.
Because this morning I am not crying because my husband, my child, my brother or sister needs to be dug out from underneath a pile of concrete.
Because this morning I was able to drink a glass of water.
Because this morning I was able to turn on the light.
Because this morning I was able to take a shower.
Because this morning I was not planning a funeral.
But most of all I thank you this morning because I still have life and a voice to cry out for the people of Haiti.
LORD, I cry out to you, the One that makes the impossible, possible, the One that turns darkness into light. I cry out that You give those mothers strength, that You give them peace that surpasses all understanding, that You may open the streets so that help can come, that You may provide doctors, nurses, food, water, and all that they need in a blink of an eye. For all those that have lost family members, give them peace, give them hope, and give them courage to continue to go on! Protect the children and shield them with Your power. I pray all this in the name of Jesus!! AMEN
Missed a day, sorry for the delay. But it was for a VERY good reason. We went down to the docks to inspect our first container. Talk about weird...there were almost no other containers around, and it's usually stacked three or four high and solid everywhere. But then we found out that the UN told them to clear the area since THEY want to use that particular area. Now we need to pray about the price. They said we would know today and can have the container tomorrow...we'll see. But with the UN pushing, maybe we will get it. Just pray about the price...we need it to be reduced, A LOT.
I'll try to post some pictures tonight of the container checking...it was rather a mess, but it's done anyway.
We have an MFI flight again today...our son and grandson are leaving...BUMMER. We will be getting mail, but no cargo. All efforts are going to Port right now. Many missions are upset since they need supplies here too. I've been trying to buffer things, since MFI is working 16 or more hours a day now. I know the stress level is very high there, as well as here. Pray not only for Haiti and it's people, pray for those supplying the needs here. It's really a job no one wants to be in when stress is so high.
Personally, my mind has gone numb. I can't seem to grasp things, as people keep coming to me with ideas and ways to do this and that, and I have no control over it, or even in some cases, am not involved in it. But they seem to think this is a clearing house for things being done. Pray for me to be able to prioritize and get things that I CAN do, organized and going. The Embassy has backed off, since no one needs immediate help here, which is one burden lifted.
One HUGE praise we have... one of the missionaries has been trying to adopt their kids for many years and kept running into road blocks. Well because of this situation, they have been given their visas for the kids and they are now officially THEIRS...and they are headed stateside today. What a blessing for them and all the other orphans whose adoptions are now being finalized. Go to MFI's web site and see the clip on those orphans MFI flew out to be united with their adoptive families...it's awesome.
Pray for several things...
Pray that MFI will find a way to get supplies to CAP for the missions here,
Pray for those handling all the incoming people from Port to the north, on this end of the island. We are talking already THOUSANDS, and it's just started.
Pray for MFI and their situation there and the stress level there and here.
Pray that the churches will use this terrible ordeal to show the unsaved God's love and provision.
Pray for wisdom and guidance for us as we face all the needs coming our way.
Pray for the containers...for rapid release, and lower prices
Pray for the Christian churches here, that they will have the support and help they need to deal with all of those coming to them for help.
If you have emailed us, and needed an answer and have not heard from us, I have to apologize. Although emails have decreased (only about 75 a day now), I am still having problems finding time to be on here and answering them. Please forgive me, I am not ignoring anyone...just having a hard time coping with the overflow of correspondence.
I'll try to blog again tonight, if possible. Keep everything and everyone in prayer... we all need it.
Tonight will have to be really short...but still wanted to post. I just took a few minutes and went to the MFI web site. WOW...you really need to check it out. Go to www.missionaryflights.org and then go to Up To The Minute. I went through all their entries since the earthquake. God is SOOOOOO awesome. What He is doing through so many is simply more than I can grasp.
We have had more people come needing help with family and friends from Port. It is so overwhelming for us. To know where to start and how to go about this. But things will fall into place and God will be in it.
For those wishing to donate directly to us, our mailing address is:
Don and Karen Davis
Unit 1019 ~ WOMI
3170 Airmans Drive
Fort Pierce, FL 34946
Or if you want to go through our mission, it is:
Don and Karen Davis # 10
World Outreach Ministries
PO Box "B"
Marietta, GA 30061
We are seeing more and more things going on up here in the north now. US helicopters are evident, not just UN. Busloads of people, truckloads of people, and even tap-taps coming from the south.
We got word today that our second container will be in port here, tomorrow. And the director of customs said they will start processing the ones there tomorrow. PRAY BIG TIME that we will be able to get it soon. God is in control of this, too, and He can move mountains, so two simple containers aren't a lot.
Okay, have to close since power is limited now. We are so thankful for all of you for your prayers and your support, both physical and emotional. God Bless BIG TIME!!
I wanted to get a quick note out to everyone to PRAY big time right now. One of our kids has just taken all of our paperwork and gone to the mayor of Cap to try to get the container that is already here released. No one is working at the docks right now, with all that is going on. But we need some intercession here.
Since yesterday afternoon, we have had several pastors call and tell us they have people now living with them from Port. They desperately need help. We can buy things in country yet...at least the basics. But we don't have the finances to do it at this point.
Don asked me to put out a plea on here to see if anyone would be willing to help us with this situation. One pastor alone has 12 people moved in with him in the last 12 hours, and more are coming. This pastor has a very small house and no food at all.
I am going to try to set up a system here of how and who to give things to. We do have to have some discernment on this, for sure. But we want to help all of those we can, whom the Lord directs us to. So we need your prayers for that as well.
We knew this whole thing would become overwhelming once the "migration" started, but it is happening really fast. It's like we are spinning our wheels trying to bring things together. So...here are our immediate prayer needs:
1 ~ that the container we have here now will be released.
2 ~ that the container following it will be released quickly and at no cost...as it is for the people.
3 ~ that the Lord will direct us on who and what to give, once we have the resources in hand.
4 ~ that the Lord will provide the resources we need to help the people.
5~ that the Lord will give us strength and wisdom in all things.
6 ~ that the Lord will cover us with His peace and protection
7 ~ that the Lord will keep His Hands on MFI as they fly...today alone they have 5 (YES FIVE) planes in the air, doing relief work and taking stranded people out of Haiti.
8 ~ And HIGH on the list of priorities... that God will use this whole situation for His glory!!!
Thank you for your prayers and help...without YOU we couldn't do what God has called us to do.
Today was something else. We had a fellowship dinner put on by our team after church for the missionaries. It went great. But everyone was sharing the stories of those they knew in Port and what was going on. Some of the miracles are awe inspiring. A whole family buried under their home when it collapsed....and all are out and fine. THAT IS GOD!! And those stories were repeated over and over of how God stepped in and took control. This disaster was NOT sent by the Lord, but He is using it to bring people to Him. We hear all the gory details over and over, but not many of the miracles have made it into the news. There are a LOT of miracles taking place and we need to praise Him for what He is doing. Yes, there is death and destruction and we need to keep praying for those who are in those really bad situations, or for those whose families are not with them anymore. At English Bible Fellowship, one of the missionaries shared something that was inspiring. He received a message from a Haitian pastor who is stateside, and some of his family passed away. The pastor said, "They are away." Not gone... but away....what a concept. He knows he will see them again and doesn't consider them GONE. To be able, in these circumstances, to have such a deep conviction is phenomenal. Pray for others to be able to see the truth in that.
English church was awesome. So many sharing the PRAISES of things going on now. It's great that as a church we can rejoice in God's miracles, and yet, pray together for the needs to be met and for God's guidance in all of this turmoil. An added blessing, our son, grandson and a friend did a number in church. Our grandson played the flute and it was wonderful. Then the pastor from our home church shared God's word. What an uplifting time of fellowship. We need these times to off set the rest of what is happening.
We had wondered where the pastor from the EBAC orphanage was. But praise God, he turned up in Canada, safe and sound. We knew he had headed to Port to fly out...but had no confirmation that he had done it.
We have had so many coming to us, letting us know their relatives are moving up here to live with them. This is going to be a really hard time, dealing with all the needs to be met. It IS a heavy burden for us, but it's so much more for the Haitians. This country really needs the Lord's Hand to bring it around. Pray with us that God will bring in His Spirit to start working in hearts and lives.
I have to make this post short since power is limited now. Please keep praying... we have been seeing busloads of people coming up and the UN has been transporting people here from Port, too. This is a bit overwhelming when we think of all that lays ahead of us. We need prayers for discernment, wisdom and grace. Please be with us and hold up our arms as we strive to do what the Lord wants us to do.
In His Service, and in His Love,
Karen for all of us...........
So much going on all over, but today I decided to take a look at some of the POSITIVE things. Our team did their pastors conference. According to Pastor Codo, it was a wonderful success. He said the pastors were so thrilled to have someone take the time to come and share their knowledge with them. I think our team was just as happy to be a part of a wonderful group of caring Christians. Yes, the turmoil in the country was evident. Some were unable to come. They didn't make it from Port. Transportation in the north was very hard to come by, so some didn't make it here, because they couldn't find a tap-tap. Others came on bikes and even on foot to get there. They had over 70, and that is great.
I'll share some photos today of the conference and what went on. I'll try to explain things as I go. Pastor David was one of the speakers. As with all of the team, they shared from their hearts. And were received with gratitude. 
Dale shared too, and many of the pastors not only knew him from the last conference they had, but from when he lived here in Haiti. Jim took his turn at teaching and shared from his heart and knowledge, too.
When Haitians pray, it's an awesome thing. Their love and reverence for the Lord is so evident in their prayers.
Our son, grandson and Mari shared a musical number or two. We're proud of our grandson getting up and playing the flute. I think they all loved hearing the Americans share in music as well as words.
There were morning and afternoon sessions. It wasn't just pastors who came. It was church workers and teachers, too. Mari had sessions with the women in attendance. And even in between sessions, sharing continued, as seen here when Mike was with some of the attendees. 
All of those who attended were so pleased. It was a great conference. One of the pastors who came, was a bit late. He came from Port au Prince and shared with everyone his experiences. It was an enlightening time for not only the Haitians, but for the team as well.
Today the team was able to go out for a while. They visited Pastor Wagner and saw his church, then went to an orphanage, and even got a quick look at town. The roads make that trip VERY, VERY tiring, so upon return, it was nap time. But not for long.
Then tonight some of our girls made the team a Haitian meal and did a fantastic job. To our surprise, Betty's brother (she is one of our kids and the one who got married recently) came from Port to be with his sister. He shared some of his experiences with the team. MFI came in today to pick up a team, but I wasn't able to go, so sent Pastor Saintil to process the team going out. They went to Port with a load of relief supplies then came here to pick up a team that was stranded. With no commercial planes flying from Port, teams are stranded all over the place. Again, MFI is standing in the gap for everyone.
The turmoil and heartache continues, but through it all, God is still there and willing to take that heavy yoke upon HIS shoulders, if people would only turn to Him. Keep praying...He can have a victory here if intercessors keep praying. Till tomorrow... we are looking through the clouds for the sunshine...SONSHINE!!!
I'm glad I'm taking the time to update things. I have been overwhelmed by the people who have been reading this...humm...maybe I'd better watch what I am saying. People who don't know me may not understand some of my things. But I was told a blog is where you can just let your feelings talk to others. Boy, have you all been getting an ear full, huh? But I do know that so many want to hear about things here, even when we are discouraged, so they can pray. And I thank each and every one of you who are praying, not only for us, but for Haiti. God can use this awful catastrophe to bring people around to Him. I keep going back to scripture and remember God can use ANYTHING for His glory, if we simply LET Him. So my prayer is: God, take this whole situation and turn it around. You can heal hearts and hurts. You can bring peace to hearts where they are in turmoil. You can comfort where there seems no help. Lord, you are the God of the universe and you can take our lives and make them into something great for you. Be with all of our brothers and sisters who are suffering and give them hope. Take those who don't know you, and move their hearts toward you. Let your light shine in their lives. Be with Haiti. Surround Haiti with your love and care and let people see how much you love them. In the Holy and Precious Name of Your Son, Jesus, Amen.
And yes, God IS in control. The horror of the earthquake itself is over, but now the aftermath is setting in. People in Port are desperate and hurting. And these feelings are turning some to violence and lawbreaking. But put yourself in their place. If you or your family were tossed about, your home destroyed, your livelihood gone, everything you owned laying in rubble, your dreams turned to dust and now you have gone days without food or water, and you may be injured...where would YOU be? I don't know...I would pray I could act in a godly way, but when children are involved, I might turn to these things, too. So, prayers need to be going up constantly for this suffering humanity. A lot of help is coming in, but we are dealing with over a MILLION people, and trying to get through to them, when roads are blocked with debris, yes, even bodies, it's REALLY HARD to get help to the people. Then the gangs of thugs, and those in desperate situations stop anything moving to get help or whatever they have. It is chaos. So, not only the people of Haiti, but those trying to help them need a lot of prayers.
We have heard that the hospital here in Cap has a lot of wounded here now. I have NO idea how they got them here, but this hospital is filling up. So, the exodus from Port is in force now.
MFI has been bringing in supplies, under very difficult circumstances, but they have come in, and are taking many of the people desperate to get out back to the states. AGAIN, MFI is "Standing In The Gap" for not only missionaries, but for hurting humanity. Keep MFI in your prayers. And if the Lord leads, help them ship the needed supplies to Haiti. Their site is on the right of this page. You can get more news on what is going on by checking out their site, too.
MFI flew toward Haiti yesterday but could land, so had to overnight on one of the islands. This morning they flew again, but ended up landing in Cap. By the time we got there with the huge truck they needed for those supplies, they were cleared to land in Port, so they went on. Two trips on these roads...whew...a nightmare. But we'd do it again to help them help others.
So many have offered to come and help. Talking to other missionaries, they are getting calls from teams wanting to come and help. Let me share what one missionary wrote. It is very insightful.
From Rodney and Cathy Fitzsimmons....
"We received this note from an international aid organization. 'It would be unwise for anyone but the most skilled first response disaster people with security to enter the impact area.' "
We know people want to come and help, but at times like these, with things so uncertain, it is best to leave things in the hands of the professionals. We are seeing that even here in the north. Those who want to help, but do not have the right training, can cause even more problems for the rescue workers. And now when things are tense and people are so on edge, it's best to simply wait. But EVERYONE can pray. Seeking the Lord and petitioning Him for intercession is what is desperately needed right now.
Not only are we busy with this desperate situation, but we have a team here. They are really troupers. They came to do several things, but the problems have stopped some of them. They did hold the pastors conference. What a blessing to so many pastors. Pastor Codo told me today that those who attended were so inspired and helped in many ways. It all comes back to the fact that they can't teach their people what they have never been taught. And these conferences are giving them the insight and knowledge to do just that. I hope tomorrow I will be able to post some photos of the team's time here so far. I don't have photos of the disaster, but don't need them. You can get them all over the Internet. We needed some light in this darkness, and the team has done that. Life DOES go on, even when some wish it didn't . So we need to prepare the leaders to minister to the hurting souls. Praise God for willing pastors and teachers who are willing to come and share God's wisdom.
Okay, long enough for tonight. Have to get to work on some of the other things now. Work never ceases, and time doesn't stop. Keep praying, and yes, keep praising God for all of the miracles He has performed already in Haiti. And remember, when thinking of the hurting, discouraged souls here, "There but for the Grace of God, go I (and you)."
What a day this has been. We went to the airport for our flight. Praise God the airport here is open. There are no in-country flights, so the tarmac was pretty open for us today. A few people in and a planeload out. That was great. The hard part was listening to all the Haitian workers there talking about their families in Port. There was not ONE who didn't have family in Port. Some were alive, some dead and some missing. No crying, just VERY dejected people. This is hurting EVERYONE in the country.
We are trying right now to help some families to send someone to Port to find their relatives and bring them up here. We know it's costly, but if we were in that situation, and needed to find our loved ones, we would look for help to get there, too. Pray for that for us.
But when we got home our whole demeanor changed. We received word that ALL of our "kids" are alive. Some have injuries, but nothing serious. It was like a whole load a cement had been lifted from by shoulders. My blog last night showed how disoriented and upset I have been. Well, I felt like dancing today. And then reality hit again. Not everyone on our list has been found, just our "kids". There is still family of some of our kids that are unaccounted for. And it was so sad to learn that Remy's niece was found, but not alive. For those of you who don't know Remy, he is one of our kids and also the president of the new IDADEE orphanage.
Then our next...event... came in an email. Stan may have enough funds to get us two more containers of food. THIS IS FANTASTIC. BUT... and here is the prayer request...we have 2 containers sitting at the docks and they aren't cleared yet. Well, it's one positive and we think the second one if not here already should be shortly. We need MEGA prayers that God will touch the hearts of the people at customs and release these containers. We need them already. The first bus load of refugees came up today. And this is just the start. So, can you put that on a prayer list for us? We need to be able to utilize what is here already to help those suffering. God knew this and maybe that is why it was held up in the first place, but it's time to release them and get things going.
We have had quite a few requests concerning teams coming to help. At this point, that isn't necessary. All of the logistics of getting these things in order and in gear is ahead of us. We want to do this in the way the Lord would have us do it. HE has to be our main focus. without that direction we would be floundering around. We know many churches who will be helping with the refugees and trying to find places for them to stay. But this also involves food and clothing. Right now, clothing is NOT needed that desperately. But food and shelter is at the top.
I am trying not to let this drag me down again, thinking of all the lives lost, the unaccounted for, the severely injured. And the TOTAL destruction of lives and buildings. We have to cling to the fact that God is till in control and He is the author of all things. I will NEVER believe that God caused this disaster, but He may have allowed it for reasons we will never know.
So, for tonight, I'll close and ask you all to continue to pray and lift up this whole sad situation here. God put us here for a reason, and this may be it. But as Moses needed Arron to uphold his arms, we need you to uphold us in prayer and whatever way He directs you to do.
In His service and By His Grace.....
I am a bit overwhelmed right now... in a lot of ways. We have had OVER 200 emails today alone...we so appreciate all the prayers and concern. I hope everyone understands that I won't be able to answer them all...actually very few at this point. But it is so awesome the amount of prayers and offers that have come in. Thank you all so much!!!!!
Okay, I guess I should try to answer some of the questions that have come in. Sorry if I don't answer the one you asked, but will try to cover most of them. And I apologize ahead of time if I am a bit disoriented.
The aftershocks continue. We have not heard of any more threats of tidal waves, so that is one blessing....and we have heard from so many missionaries who are doing okay. Not many are doing "fine"...because we all have someone in the Port area we are concerned about, and some minor damage has occurred in some areas. At this point in time, we are concerned about finding out if people we know have survived, and if so, where are they and how are they. This first shock will wear off and we will find ways to search for them. We already have gotten a couple of places to give names of those we are missing, so that is a start.
But the hard thing to really grasp right now is that there are THOUSANDS who have survived, and have NO PLACE to go. Just as happened with Gonaives, many will be coming north to find refuge with family or friends here. There is simply NOTHING left for them in Port. They can clear land, but how will these people rebuild, or live for that matter. So much of the city has been destroyed. So, in the very near future we will be concentrating on how we can help those coming north to families here. The economy was horrid to begin with and now this has put a standstill to anything that could have been a boost to people here. Soon there will be no fuel in the north, no food coming from Port to stock shelves, and pretty much nothing to help those living here.
Stan, the fellow who sends our containers, has been thinking of trying to get another container ready to go with simply FOOD for helping people here. Yes, the need in Port is great...but with all those countries sending help in so many areas, the outlaying areas need to be thought of too. This is where the population will be heading to live now. So, we are praying that a container can be a reality in the VERY near future. The needs here will be just as great as the needs are in Port right now, for survival. And at this point, we cannot get help INTO Port au Prince. That help has to come through the organizations already in place there. Taking in things is really not an option. I know we will be feeling the effects of this "migration" as soon as the "dust settles", so to speak. We are trying to readjust our thinking and start planning for the weeks and months ahead. God will really need to direct and be with us through all of this. We want to be HIS hands and feet, doing what HE wants us to do in this awful situation.
Another prayer need...we have had SO much rain that the ground cannot take anymore. None of the water is now being absorbed by the earth...it's over-saturated already. And it continues to rain, and rain, and rain. The roads are so bad that we try to avoid going places. We have to go to the airport tomorrow and we pray we will not have any problems going or coming back.
We have gotten some really sad and tear jerking stories from many missionaries. The death, maiming of bodies, and total destruction of things is overwhelming in so many places. The impact of this will be felt for many years to come. And those surviving will be struggling to survive a little longer in the months and years to come. The job is SO HUGE that it is hard to realize what is all needed and where it will be needed. As discouraged as we are right now, the enormity of what lies ahead is heart stopping. But God has placed us here, and it may be for this exact time.
Pray that we will be able to stand and do what He wants us to do. We really have NO idea what that is at this time, but we are willing to be what He wants us to be, wherever that is.
We are hearing the cries of those who have no idea where loved ones are. We feel their pain and know what they are going through. But we also know we serve a MIGHTY and AWESOME GOD who knows and hears our pleas. Pray with us as we reach out for His hand and strength. Pray with us that we will follow where He leads and do what He wants.
I am sorry this is so disjointed. We are just starting to overcome the shock and beginning to realize the work ahead. My mind and heart are going in so many different directions right now. And with power an uncertainty, we do what we can when we can. I'm praying we will continue to have power and that we will be able to keep in contact. I will try to update as we hear things here. We did hear of several people who somehow got word that their family survived and were coming...so the migration has started....
KEEP PRAYING...God will hear!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This will be short, power about to go off....
Yes, we did have an earthquake. The center of it was just west of Port au Prince. We felt it here, quite strong. Rocking chairs were going like mad... cars rocking like they were on our worst roads...(and they weren't even running!!)...and a bit of fear in hearts. Now Don and I have been in quakes here before, so we knew what was going on. But the team had just arrived and most have never been in a quake, so it was a bit of "excitement" here. We are fine...nothing we know of in our area has been damaged...but we have not been out, and since all phones are now down, we have no way to find out how things are in the area here.
We are asking for some very special prayers. Six of our "kids" are in school in Port au Prince. They are near the area near where the hospital was destroyed, I believe. We have no way to contact them or to find out if they are okay...the Embassy wrote us and asked us if we knew of anyone hurt or needing assistance here. I wrote them exactly what I have written here, but then asked if there will be a center where we can check on people there. I told them about our "kids" and that we are very concerned. Pray we hear, somehow as to what is happening and if they are okay. Our hearts are VERY heavy at this time.
Our team is to do a pastors conference this week. At this point, it is still a go unless we hear something other. The aftershocks are still coming, even now, almost 6 hours after the quake. Not real strong, but definitely THERE. I have no idea if these aftershocks are causing more problems in Port au Prince.
I will try to keep you all updated as we hear any news at all. But for now PLEASE KEEP PRAYING. This situation is going to devastate an already hurting country. The Lord is the only one who can make a difference now.
By His Grace, we are thankful for His protection...and His care. Keep praying for those involved in the worst of it. I'll try to keep posting going as we learn more.
Greetings in the New Year...
I hope your celebrations were Christ centered. New Year's Eve, we didn't do anything special. In fact Don was in bed by 11:00. I stayed up until 1:30, only because Vero had gone to church for their service (from 8 to 12) and I wanted to make sure she made it home okay. They had a great service, and baptized 34 people. And they had others come forward to accept the Lord. She was so excited.
New Year's day Don and I were invited out to lunch with our good friends, Paul and Belle Romeus. We went to the Picolet...a newer hotel/ restaurant. It was a bit more expensive, but very, very nice. We were joined by Pat and Clark Moore and Wilbert Merzilus and his children. We had such a nice time of fellowship and enjoyed the wonderful weather and great companionship. Then we went to Pat and Clark's home and spent some time just relaxing. Notice we put the guys at the end of the table and the women in the middle. That is Paul closest to the camera and Belle is between Clark and Pat. Wilbert and family at the other end. (When we got there, Wilbert and family were already eating, so we just joined them)..jpg)
Then it was back to work... had to take down all the Christmas decorations and get the house in order. With a team coming on Tuesday, we wanted to have some of the work done so we can enjoy them!!
We have had plenty of rain lately. I hope it will be finished soon, so our teams will have good weather for their projects and work.
I don't know if I mentioned that we have two new dogs...got them a while back. Their names are Zoe and Leah. Zoe is the mother and Leah the daughter. Both black part Rottweilers. Zoe had pups not long ago. She had 8 but only have 2 now. Not sure if the others died, or someone decided they wanted them...one of our problems here. Then Ma Dog (the stray that has been with us for a couple of years...Abbie calls her Sister)...had pups. She has three. So, we are in the pups again... we need to have the dogs taken care of, we sure don't need more pups around here. But while they are little they are so cute. Problem is, they grow up.
Don has made more deliveries and trying to get people the food they need. This country is in such sad shape. But with God's help, we are helping quite a few with food and water. And then there are always those who need help with medical needs and schooling. The needs never cease.
We were able to see the wedding pictures of our granddaughter's wedding. Such a beautiful bride!! It looked like a wonderful wedding, and we are so sorry we missed it. Keep them in prayer as he goes back to finish his boot camp and then heads out to wherever they are sending him.
Still no word on the container... so please keep praying. We have another one on the way already. The boat is supposed to leave Miami sometime next week, I believe. We just keep praying that things will continue to go well, and that the people in customs will have their hearts and eyes open to what the Lord wants. But we do need a lot of prayer backing us on these containers. Thanks for helping out with this prayer need.
Well, it's back to work, and getting late, so soon to bed. You all have a wonderful, God blessed week. Remember... 1 Thess. 5: 16-18.... "Rejoice evermore, Pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."
At the house, it's more fun and games... here we have to unload, and SORT it and then figure out where it is going. The Christmas Bags were stacked in the right piles, then sorted for the different places of distribution. Most of the missions who got the bags also got rice meals, corn meal, and peanut butter to distribute, too. Stan and I were kept busy keeping track of where everything was going. But we got it done with the help of a LOT of people.
And the guys got to eat, too. They LOVE hot dogs, mac and cheese, chips, brownies and pop. And they deserve it. They did a lot of work.
And then there is the work of distributing it, but God was with us and all things were brought in, unloaded and distributed...what a blessing. They are on their way to the people now. The local missionaries and pastors came right away and picked up their share of things. everyone was so pleased. Some of these items even went as far as Gonaives. So, this first 40 foot container went a LOT of places to a lot of people. And don't forget, the scriptures and salvation coloring books went along with all of that. Not only are Christmas bags going out, but food (desperately needed), scriptures (for feeding the soul) and a lot of prayers. 
And we have a team working, too, so it's amazing what God has accomplished this week. This medical team has been working hard and seeing hundreds of people. Once word got out, they saw many physical needs from Port that had come here without treatment. Now they are being cared for. And not only the physical, but the emotional needs are so great after such a tragedy. They originally came to work with the local people, but God has put many more in their path. And they are meeting the needs. Today is a day of rest. And tomorrow is church. Then Monday they will have one more clinic. A lot of people have been helped and we are so thankful.
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