The dark work of missionaries

What if, in your line of work, a battery lantern is near the top of the required equipment list? It’s evening, and for whatever unexplained reason, the power is off, again. “There are choices to be made……..sit in the dark and reason why or find another way.” Robin always has a project or two in the works. Tonight, rather than admitting defeat, she is on the kitchen floor with a lantern, …

June 2016 Youth Campaign

Summer mission trips…………the enthusiasm that only youth can bring! A group of 10 youth and their leaders, from Virginia, have made their way to Quetzaltenango for a 9 day adventure in the Lord. Their mission is to show the love of the Lord to all they encounter. Today in Concepcion Chiquirichapa the Alcalde (Mayor) has given the green light for the team to minister in the square. Loud speakers call attention to the street ministry about …

All things to all men……….

When asked, what’s it is like to be a missionary, 1Corinthians 9:22 comes to mind. As a missionary, being all things to all men, can also mean taking on unexpected roles. On this day I was invited to say a few words at a gathering of city and Government officials. The Quetzaltenango Chamber of Commerce (Mesa Economico) was hosting a city wide meeting with special guests from the Aviation directorate from the La Capital, …

A stitch in time saves….

Robin loading up for her sewing class at Living Water teaching Bible Institute, Xela Campus, Guatemala. Now that the fundamentals of the machine have been mastered, its time to guide each student through several practical projects. Students meet twice a week to exercise their new found skills in practical ways. This week aprons are the target project.     Adding pockets and decorative lace to a project, makes it their own …

Signs of growth

Since January 2016, there have been signs of growth and maturing in Guatemala’s aviation infrastructure. Even at our home base (MGQZ) in Quetzaltenango, things are changing. Soon a genuine security fence will provide the means to keep people and livestock from crossing the runway. Meanwhile, the new airport Administrator is about the task of patching open sections of wall that allow people and animals dangerously close to operating aircraft. Today Mario (hangar guard) and I, Chuck, are …

Skills for life

Robin’s sewing classes have been underway for several weeks now. Two groups of Living Water Teaching Bible Institute (LWT/BI) students are being trained up with basic to advanced sewing skills. The young ladies (Jovencitas) will complete several projects along the course of their training. Robin desires to equip these students with additional life-skills as they complete their Bible Institute courses. Donated sewing machines, fabrics, and finish items make this project …

What I see at work

During the dry season in the western highlands of Guatemala, you can see for 50 nautical miles in any direction. There is a beauty about the landscape that is apparent to the casual observer. But, to the missionary pilot, the view of the terrain is characterized as rugged and unforgiving. Over the past 9 years (and counting), it’s both a privilege and blessing, to have this view where I work …

The enthusiasm of children

What started out as “one of those days” on the mission field, unexpectedly, morphs into loud and colorful morning. All of this ushered in by the enthusiastic beat of a base drum. Drawn out of my office in the Mercy Wings hangar, I open the 30 ft doors and stand on a rock to look over the wall onto the dusty road. School children on this day are on parade. …

……;A time to break down, and a time to build up.

To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven: A time to be born, And a time to die; A time to plant, And a time to pluck what is planted; A time to kill, And a time to heal; A time to break down, And a time to build up; A time to weep, And a time to laugh; A time to mourn, And a …

Medical Outeach- La Victoria

It’s the month of March and the seasons are changing in the western highlands. Rain and clouds that were the normal just weeks ago, have given way to dry and clear days. The seasons in Guatemala can change unexpectedly, forecast rain may not fall, or sunny skies instead are hidden by layers of clouds. One thing remains the same, people all over the world need Jesus. Someone must care enough …