Seasons

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:

            a time to be born and a time to die,

            a time to plant and a time to uproot, 

            a time to kill and a time to heal,

            a time to tear down and a time to build,

            a time to weep and a time to laugh,

            a time to mourn and a time to dance, 

            a time to scatter stones and a time to gather               them,

            a time to embrace and a time to refrain from             embracing,

            a time to search and a time to give up,

            a time to keep and a time to throw away,

            a time to tear and a time to mend,

            a time to be silent and a time to speak,

            a time to love and a time to hate,

            a time for war and a time for peace” Ecclesiastes 3:1-8.

Most read these verses in their lifetime. Usually it’s in connection with a funeral. However, life also weaves it’s way though happy seasons as well. Even in the letting go there is hope for the new. For example, a popular speaker quits something every Thursday. Sometimes it’s a burden he gives up, sometimes it’s letting go to make room for the incredible. What would you give up? A lack of commitment? An activity that doesn’t fit into the path God has you traveling? What season are you experiencing?

Life has many changes, some minor, some major. Hope for Haiti recognizes the seasons in life.

A season is closing, but a new one begins. This is the last blog post at www.emevi.blogspot.com. However, the adventure continues at our new blog site: www.hopeforhaitiws.wordpress.com. We find the flexibility at Wordpress will allow greater opportunities for us to connect with you and encourage you to be involved with the people of Haiti, even from your home.

We work with established Christian organizations in Haiti because we believe that God can do a wonder for Haitians through Haitians. The ministry we currently support is called EMEVI. However, here in the states, the group that helps EMEVI is called Hope for Haiti. Imagine a book with EMEVI on one page, and Hope for Haiti on the conjoining page. Same book, different pages. Therefore, we’ve established the new blog as www.hopeforhaitiws.wordpress.com.

Another question we often receive is “why ws?” It’s simple: “ws” stands for website. If you venture to www.hopeforhaitiws.wordpress.com, you’ll also have the address of the website where all our projects, sponsor children, and more information is housed: www.hopeforhaiti.ws. We encourage you to frequently visit each site and learn more about the ministries.

Please feel free to email us (saintmarchaiti@gmail.com) with any questions, suggestions, prayer concerns, or just to say “hello!”

In this season of reflecting, joy, and revelation, we pray for you and your family the happiest of holiday seasons. We also pray a particular peace… for your season.

Reflect

As water reflects the face, so one’s life reflects the heart” Proverbs 27:19.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Often, we’re busy wrapping gifts, baking for parties, and dreaming of what to do while we don’t have to be at work. Haitians celebrate Christmas too. There’s midnight suppers, concerts, and gift giving, and they go all out starting at midnight on December 24. After Christmas, for Haiti, they have another huge party. There’s more celebrating to do after the most wonderful time of year. January 1 is also another huge party. It’s not only the first of the year, but it’s also their Independence Day. The slaves broke free from the French rule January 1, 1804. Haiti has parties with tons of food all week, and they celebrate with flowers and bands too. The voodoo culture is very much part of the tradition.


As you celebrate, Hope for Haiti encourages you to reflect. In what celebrations do you participate that reflect who you are? What do you care about, and what will be priority in the new year? Two things reveal what you care about: your schedule, and your pocketbook. Take a look over the past year, and reflect on what you care about.

by Mollie B.

P.S. For more information about Hope for Haiti, or how you can give before the end of the year, please visit http://www.hopeforhaiti.ws/#/the-story-contact-info/donate.

Teach

 

“Remember the day you stood before the LORD your God at Horeb, when he said to me, ‘Assemble the people before me to hear my words so that they may learn to revere me as long as they live in the land and may teach them to their children’” (Deuteronomy 4:10).

As you watch the video, notice the sounds. Separated by a thin sheet, the sounds come from the classroom next door. These children don’t complain. At least they aren’t in the outside classroom without a chalkboard or walls. It’s not the ideal situation to educate, but it’s important for the children to learn even with distractions and without desks.

Some Haitian kids don’t have the funds to pay for school. Public education is not free in Haiti. It doesn’t use the gospel in its foundation. The poor quality often has parents looking elsewhere, or nowhere, and the child never learns to read or write or do math.

Hope for Haiti provides children with the opportunity to learn. Sponsoring a child gives the kiddo a uniform, a meal, and education: the chance to support themselves for a lifetime. The sponsorship also gives them the chance to hear God’s words so that they can learn to revere the Lord.

God recognizes the need for people to learn at a young age because it stays with them for the rest of their lives. He even encourages us to learn and grow too, so we can teach the younger generation.

Do you find yourself learning? Do you take the time to apply the lessons? Will the younger generation learn from your example? Consider sponsoring a child. Perhaps a younger person around you will also sponsor children when they see a picture of your sponsor child on your refrigerator. Perhaps your prayers will bolster the kids in this video to stay in school, even with the distractions. Perhaps your gift of education will inspire them to become teachers, live in the land, and teach their children about the goodness of our Father.

By Mollie

Oct 2013 News

It's happening!

     October 30th thru November 1st Leadership Conference will be in full swing. This year it will be held in the new building at Bois Neuf allowing the 400+ attendees to stretch out a bit. Want to see the new building and where it's at? Click here. Please remember to pray for the attendees who come from all over Haiti as well as the teachers.

     Travels to the states. Marcel traveled to Michigan, Ohio, Tennessee and Alabama visiting supporters and

friends along the way this past month. So many contribute in so many ways it's hard to report it all, so, just a

couple notes of interest for now.

     Churches in Colorado, Michigan and Alabama have made and are making it possible for the building at Bois Neuf to come together. Checking out the slideshow mentioned above with the realization that this just would not be possible were it not for the body of Christ all coming together, each with their giftings.

     A clinic in the mountains? Yes it has begun. For many years now it has been a desire of Marcel's heart to

be able to minister spiritually, emotionally and physically to the needs of those around him. From our standpoint the original clinics started not many years ago seemed to meet some very basic needs. When no health care is available even those basic needs are huge. Last month a building in the mountains became the newest addition for clinics. Much work both from stateside and in country all came together as the first (in this location) clinic was held as well as teaching for midwives. This coming week the second clinic will be held with more improvements to the building as it also becomes a place of refuge. If you would like to see some of the progress to date, click here. , here you will also find a link on the photo or title to a short video.

     Beyond the mountain clinic work continues to bring to completion a new church/school building. No big deal except that you reach this location by foot. This coming January plans are for a roof to be set in place. A church in Kansas and Tennessee have partnered with the folks there to encourage and walk with them,

marveling at all that God is doing. More on this may be seen by clicking here.

     Next year is filling up fast with groups from Kansas, Tennessee, Colorado and Alabama already in process looking at dates. Not to mention Camp Meeting in April and EMEVI's mission trip scheduled in August going to Belladere, Haiti. Just a couple photo’s, one from this year’s outreach in Gonaives. www.hopeforhaiti.ws 

Fog

“By day the LORD went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, so that they could travel by day or by night. Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place in front of the people.” Exodus 13:21-22

Fog slows us down. It’s hard to see around the corner, or if you are on a ledge, when there is fog. Just like in this picture, sometimes you can’t make out who is the person in front of you. This photograph was taken on the way to a remote village called Bataille, whose people have to climb the mountain in order to get supplies and meet those from the city of St. Marc. This day, they came in the fog to meet a team from America. The fog led the people to each other.

God sent fog to lead the Israelites. It seems odd to send something that makes it harder to see. And even though God had fire guiding the Israelites by night, the blackness still made it hard to see everything around them. When they were ready to move forward, it’s like God had a sign that said, “No Running Allowed.” Each step had to be slow and deliberate.

It sounds contradictory, but praise the Lord for the things in life that confuse. When things get foggy, and it’s hard to see the right path to take, it’s actually the Lord being close. He’s leading your steps, even if by looking at the shadow of a person ahead.

Take a moment today to thank the Lord for his guidance. And praise the Lord for foggy days.

Lajounen, Senyè a t’ap mache devan yon an yon gwo nyaj kit e gen fòm yon poto pou moutre yo chemen pou yo pran. Lannwit, li t’ap marche devan yon an yon dife kit e tankou yon flanm ki t’ap klere yo. Konsa, yo te ka vwayaje lajounen kou lannwit. Lajounen, nyaj la te toujou ap marche devan pèp la. Lannwit, se te dife a. Egzòd 13:21-22

By Mollie Bond

Living Water

“Jesus answered, ‘Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life’” (John 4:13-14).

Before the earthquake, Haiti was the poorest country in the Western hemisphere. Everyone had needs. The country was bypassed on the news, another third-world far away from the daily grinds of Americans.

After the January 12, 2010 earthquake, the country changed dramatically. The average life expectancy changed in one day from so much death. Tent cities arrived. Other towns around Port-au-Prince doubled in size overnight from those who had nothing to come home to. People were more verbal than ever about what they needed.

Most of Haiti still looks the same as January 12, 2010. In Port-au-Prince, some of the rubble is left in the roads. No one is getting paid to move it, so drivers learn to take different routes to avoid the buildings in the middle of the road. Tent cities still exist, although now, without deeds and offices to zone, squatting and claiming makes the tent cities volatile. Most didn’t return to Port-au-Prince. There wasn’t much to return to, so those cities who took in extra residents struggle to continue to provide basic utilities for it’s long-time residents and the new population. People still can see the lingering affects of people being verbal about what they need. Take for example, this house seen on a major highway outside St. Marc. The spray paint reads, “Nou bezwen dlo,” which in Haitian Creole means, “We need water.” The earthquake left a visible impact on Haitians.

Jesus has a knack for leaving a visible, long-lasting effect on people. However, his eternal legacy restores, not destroys. Meeting the Samaritan woman and asking for a drink of water, he gives the woman a refreshing do-over. Her actions after speaking with Jesus concludes what our response should be as well. “Then, leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people, ‘Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Christ?’” (John 4:28-29, italics mine.)

The woman at the well heard Jesus’ call for eternal life. Then she left her jar, and invited others to come. Do you see an invisible sign on someone’s house telling you of their need? Does a friend need an invitation from you to “come?” Will you leave your water jug to help another find the living water?

By Mollie

Nanpwen

This will start a short series on Nicknames.  Marcel enjoyed sharing while spending some time in the states.

Wichelande

“‘And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me’” (Matthew 18:5).

Wichelande lives in Colmini. It’s a church and school located in the desert. When you ask her to draw what makes her happy, she’ll draw her house, chickens, and cactus flowers. Wichelande doesn’t smile for the camera, but as soon as you turn around, she’s running and playing with her friends in the hot sun. It’s a different world than in America. If you ask a child to draw what makes them happy, most likely you’ll see pictures of family, clothes, and some video games.

Wichelande is one of many children in Colmini, and in Haiti, and in the world. Her immediate world is simple, trying to learn in a loud one-room school that houses three classrooms at one time. Since she has three brothers and five sisters, large feasts for dinner are rare.

Two disciples argued about who would be the greatest and asked Jesus for the final answer. In response, Jesus pulled a child close to him, and asked that we humble ourselves like a child. We should welcome children, he says.

God didn’t distinguish Wichelande from any other child in the world, or in your neighborhood. God knows Wichelande, and likes her. At this time, Wichelande is not sponsored. We trust God to find a person to welcome Wichelande. Will you join us in praying for Wichelande’s future sponsor?

Waiting

“Gideon replied, ‘If now I have found favor in your eyes, give me a sign that it is really you talking to me. Please do not go away until I come back and bring my offering and set it before you.’ And the LORD said, ‘I will wait until you return’” (Judges 6:17-18).

Haitians live by Haitian Time. When you say that church starts at 9 a.m., Haitians will show up any time within the 9 o’clock hour. They can be there at 9:50 a.m., and say, “I am here at 9. It is not 10 o’clock yet.” Few options for electricity exist in Haiti, so the lack of clocks and alarm clocks also accentuates their timing.

An American learns patience, rest, and how to wait while in Haiti. As our example, God waits too.

Gideon just learned God chose him to lead his people against the Midianites who have mistreated Israel. He’s given his excuses, and God remains firm that Gideon is a mighty warrior. Gideon’s reaction is in line with his culture. He hopes to prepare a sacrifice in acceptance of the charge given to him.

And God waits for his return.

Even though God is outside of time, he waits for us to return to him. He allows Haitian time to exist. What in your life do you think God needs to put a deadline on? What feels like it has to fit within your schedule? Is it worth living out God’s example of Haitian time and waiting for it to be ready? Commit to give God an offering. He’ll wait for you.

By Mollie

Lessons of Life, face to face

Matthew 18:2-5

Paraphrased -
    Grandma and Grandpa were gathering clothing items and filling their vehicle trunk with plans to deliver them for shipment to the people of Haiti.  9 year old Granddaughter see's what happening and the questions start.  What are you doing?  Collecting these new (showing her)  and like new clothing items to be shipped to people who have very little or even in some cases no clothing.  Why don't they just buy some?  Because they do not have the money to. Why?  How do we explain this one?  God has blessed us with many things and wants us to share.   Does everyone do this?  No, just some.  Grandma and Grandpa rearrange things while the granddaughter has disappeared off to do things that young children do, or at least that's what was thought.  Grandma and Grandpa will be headed out in the morning continuing on this journey south to meet up with family.  Then to drop off what's been gathered.  While these last minute details have been playing out, other details in a young child's life have also been falling into place.  Her journey has taken her to her room and clothes closet.  No one has asked her to, or even had any idea of what was coming to pass.  She's going through her clothing picking out 3 of her favorites to send along with grandma and grandpa.  Now she's arrived back and our lives are forever changed as she hands off her favorites, to help others.  Grandma and Grandpa (after composing themselves) check with her mom and dad and yes it's ok with them to send on these precious gifts.
     Scripture is brought to life as we ponder this lesson - "He called a little child and had him stand among them.  And he said:  "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.  therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.  And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me." "

www.hopeforhaiti.ws

Strength

“The LORD turned to him and said, ‘Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian’s hand. Am I not sending you?’” Judges 6:14

Haitians take what is available, and use it, even when it seems not useable. A truck had an accident, and broken watermelon littered the highway. What does an American do? Call for a tow truck, call the boss, and start to calculate the lost product. What does a Haitian do? Pick up the watermelon and start eating.

A house starts to fall. There’s nothing but sticks around the barren land. A Haitian gathers the longest sticks they can find, and puts them around the house to hold up the roof. Just one stick wouldn’t do, but putting many sticks around the house seems to do the trick.

Gideon didn't have much when the angel of the LORD appeared to him. He’s hiding in a hole, just trying to get some substance for the day by thrashing wheat. When Gideon reports his lacking skills to the angel, the response is to “go in the strength you have.”

The body of Christ can be powerful if we use what we are given today. Even if it doesn’t seem like much, God will use it combined with others. Maybe you feel like a stick, a forgotten piece in the land of plenty. God says to “go in the strength you have,” and contribute.

--Lè sa a, Senyè a bay Jedeyon lòd sa a, li di l:

-- Ale non. Avèk fòs koura you genyen an, w’a deliver pèp Izrayèl la anba men moun peyi Madyan yo. Se mwen menm menm ki voye ou!

Jij 6:14

By Mollie 

Mighty Warriors Have Fear Too

“The angel of the LORD came and sat down under the oak in Ophrah that belonged to Joash the Abiezrite, where his son Gideon was threshing wheat in a winepress to keep it from the Midianites. When the angel of the LORD appeared to Gideon, he said, ‘The LORD is with you, mighty warrior.’” (Judges 6:11-12)

I sat at the table and saw a flash a fear cross her eyes. Over lunch I asked if a friend wanted to come to Haiti with me, and her response was,  “My initial reaction was I can’t afford it, even though I would want to go with you. Finances are just too tight.”

I thought of Gideon. When he first appears in the Bible, he’s working, but he’s doing it in secret. The Israelites were taken over by the Midianites for seven years, and they ransacked anything the Israelites might grow, produce, or create. So Gideon, full of fear, threshes the wheat in a giant hole where he can’t be seen. An angel stops by and calls him a mighty warrior. The guy hiding in a hole, a mighty warrior.

Sometimes our fear of those that can take our livelihoods keep us from being the mighty warriors God intended. The Haitians say, “Si se Bondye ki voye. Li peya fre ou.” It means, “If it is God who sends you, he’ll pay your expenses.” Going to Haiti will change lives, both yours and those you’ll meet.

Having confidence in God means accepting the task at hand. Gideon doesn’t loose his fear (you can read all about him in Judges 6-7). He does let God pay for his way, though, and in the end is known as a mighty warrior. Will my friend come? I’m not sure, but I hope she resolves to be a mighty warrior. Let that be true of all of us.

by Mollie B.

Rocks

 “They all ate the same spiritual food and drank the same spiritual drink; for they drank from the spiritual rock that accompanied them, and that rock was Christ.” 1 Corinthians 10:3-4

Currently, the church in Bataille is built from rocks held together with mud. Each hard rain forces the people to rebuild the church because the mud washes away. The community in the mountains are close to finishing their first cement building, which happens to be the church and school built by EMEVI.

Rocks signify many things for Haitians. As means of income, smash rocks with a hammer to create gravel. Or mix crushed gravel with cement to build bricks. Rocks inhibit farmland, change the flow of water, and litter footpaths. Rocks show up in Haitian proverbs too: Woch nan dlo pa konnen doule woch nan soley. (“The rock in the water does not know the pain of the rock in the sun.”)

Rocks signify many things in Biblical history as well. Moses struck a rock to get water for the people (see Exodus 17:6). Jesus called Peter “the Rock” because Jesus chose him as the rock to build the church. (see Matthew 16:18). Rocks build foundations, and God is our foundation (Psalm 19:14).

Join us. Whether you are physically capable to build a church in Haiti, or spiritually capable to pray for the church in Haiti, be a rock. 

     Submitted by Mollie Bond

Don't worry be Happy

Pa enkyete Fè Kè w Kontan
Sam Pase Pa Ka ampeche-m Kontan
Don't Worry Be Happy
Your happiness has nothing to do with your circumstances

Be Planted

Marcel shares while traveling through Rocky Mountain National Park.

Fè Youn ak Pawol Bondye
Pou-n Ka pote Fwi

Be planted in the word of God "to bear fruit"

Join us at www.hopeforhaiti.ws

Depend on God

"Lage sa nan men Bondye"
"nulle n'est plus fort que celui qui depend de Dieu"

Depend on God.  No one is stronger than the one that counts on God.

Anxious to be with the Lord

Mwen Pa Ka tan-n Pou-m wè seyè-a

How Marvelous... Creole version

A treat in Creole from Marcel.

"How marvelous is your work oh Lord, nature declares the greatness or glory of God.

Nothing is impossible

God's Glory in His Creation

Boat

“’Lord, if it’s you,’ Peter replied, ‘tell me to come to you on the water.’ ‘Come,’ he said.” Matthew 14:28-29a

See the boat in the background? Sometimes the background subtly reminds us of our priorities or passions. It’s like when a tragic accident happens. We’re reminded of the importance of life, or basic physical abilities, or something that was floating in the background, unseen in daily life.

The focus of this picture is a baptism service. While at the baptism, no one noticed the boat. After seeing the pictures, it became a reminder. The background, now the focus, taught each person in the picture a lesson.

The boat is empty.

Someone got out of the boat.

Just as in baptism, getting out of the boat requires courage and opportunity.

What is your boat? What do you need to get out of? Perhaps it’s complacency, or maybe it’s fear. John Ortberg notes in his book, If You Want to Walk on Water, You’ve Got to Get Out of the Boat that “Peter didn’t as for a guarantee, just an opportunity.” Hope for Haiti provides opportunities that best match your skills, priorities, and passions. We’re reminded of the things we take for granted, always running in the background. Who doesn’t have the guarantee of another opportunity for life? Who doesn’t have the basic physical ability to function? What is unseen in your daily life that can remind you to be courageous? It’s time to take a step. It’s time to get out of the boat.

Submitted by Mollie Bond

Respecting Culture

“But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard of this, they tore their clothes and rushed out into the crowd, shouting: ‘Friends, why are you doing this? We too are only human, like you. We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made the heavens and the earth and the sea and everything in them. In the past, he let all nations go their own way. Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy.’ Even with these words, they had difficulty keeping the crowd from sacrificing to them” (Acts 14:14-18).

If you look in the center of the picture, a woven bag hangs from a tree. In that bag is food. Why hang it from a tree?

Barnabas and Paul ran into confusion during a trip. They had healed a lame man. The people, who based their reactions on their culture, decided that these two were gods. But Barnabas and Paul responded by using the culture to explain who God is. The people understood humanity, harsh gods, and nature’s seasons. So rather than let the communication gap divide them more, they explained how a loving God, much stronger than any god or human, provided for them. Was it instant change in the people or their culture? No. Yet Barnabas and Paul respected the culture they visited, and tried to communicate in terms the people would understand.

It’s possible we don’t understand other cultures. Why do Haitians hang food from trees? In Colorado, backpackers will hang their food from trees, but that’s because the bears might find a tasty treat, and bears don’t leave leftovers. However, bears are not found in Haiti. Haitians hang their food so that the rats do not get to the drying corn.

When there’s a chance for pride in your own culture, be aware. Sometimes the way we do things isn’t the best for the people visited. Perhaps the best way is to find out the why behind the reaction, and then introduce God, right where they are at.

Submitted by Mollie Bond

Generations

“For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations” Psalm 100:5.

Kids in Haiti love the camera. In earlier generations, Haitian adults did not like their photo being taken. They would hide, or scowl, or be sure to let you know how it wasn’t appropriate. Slowly, that attitude is changing.

The kids are magnets to a camera. And now with digital cameras, it’s a game to have their photo taken, and to see the results instantaneously. They desire to be the center of attention.

God sees the children of Haiti. He knows them on a much deeper level, and longs to be the center of their attention. He has hope for the children of Haiti: the same faithful hope for each generation.

Hope for Haiti partners with families who have hope for their children, but not the financial means for them to attend school, or have a regular meal, or drink clean water. By sponsoring a child, you increase the likelihood that they’ll grow into an adult, and maybe one that likes their photo to be taken.

For more information on sponsoring a child through Hope for Haiti, visit the Sponsor a Child page. Would you consider this easy step? Maybe sponsor a child close to your own children’s age, or your grandchildren’s age. Leave an impression on a child that is longer than a snapshot. Leave an eternal impression.

By Mollie Bond, Photo by Dr. Susan

Celebrate

War Cry

“Early in the morning David left the flock in the care of a shepherd, loaded up and set out, as Jesse had directed. He reached the camp as the army was going out to its battle positions, shouting the war cry” (1 Samuel 17:20).

David left early. He loaded up, set out, and did has he was told. When he got to camp, the army was ready for battle.

The annual camp conference is happening. Most Haitians had to leave early, some traveling by foot for hours to attend. They’ve loaded up, set out, and are prepared to do what God tells them. They’ll join the army ready to do spiritual battle for their country.

As part of that army, will you help them? Ask the Lord to ready their hearts, strengthen their minds, and protect their families. Let’s join them this year, even from far away, shouting the war cry.

By Mollie Bond

Wash

“‘No,’ said Peter, ‘you shall never wash my feet.’ Jesus answered, ‘Unless I wash you, you have no part with me’” (John 13:14).

The rain made the trail almost impossible. Ankles twisted, clothes muddied, Bibles forever wrinkled from the rain seeping into the backpacks. After the team arrived, dried off, and rested, the earth still made traveling to the outdoor restroom difficult. The bathroom was down the side of a steep slope, still muddy from the hours of rain.

So the Haitians built steps. Without a lumber store, or even scraps of wood, they chose to find large stones, carried them back, and made the steps so the foreigners used the restroom. They traveled with the team, and still found the energy to find the largest stones in the area.

It seems backwards. The mission team came from thousands of miles away to serve, and instead the locals served the team. Looking back on the uncomfortable feeling, it’s easier to understand Peter’s resistance of Jesus washing his feet. Peter didn’t want that uncomfortable feeling. Jesus washed his feet, because Jesus served. Peter needed to accept that. Just like the foreigners needed to accept the locals building the steps. Sometimes accepting Jesus’ service is uncomfortable.

If you don’t allow others to serve you, then both parties loose out on blessings. Accept help, accept service, and accept grace, even if it’s uncomfortable.

By Mollie Bond, based on a devotion by Kathy Hart

Reality

Hope for Haiti Newsletter April 2013

Lets just call this reality.  Something to think about  anyway.  Have you ever done something and later the light came on to reveal something that was right before you the whole time?  Welcome to my world, next time maybe the light will come on first.

A few years ago a request was brought before us to see  if there might be an interest out there for sponsors to walk with children from Bataille.  Simple enough and we prayed.  Yes, we moved forward and photo’s were taken, names were gathered to match the photo’s and it all began.  School in this area was started back up about that same time and it was obvious that this need was great.  90% of the adults do not read or write in this area and if things stay the same there’s little hope of that changing.  So we embarked on this journey and started to process the information that had been collected.  Somewhere along the way the names and photo’s did not all line up.  Let me explain, the information about the children had been collected and shared by the people at Bataille.  Then it was sent on to another person for “processing” and something seemed out of place.  Further investigation proved that we needed to look further into this so we did.  Updated information was gathered and still something did not add up.  A copy of what was collected was sent with a team to Bataille so that both photo and name were together to make a positive id.  Finally it looked like all was well.  If only that were true!  Next trip an attempt to acquire birth dates and simple bio info came up as a priority.  A teacher at the school took the info and hand wrote all the names and birth dates, for those that had it recorded.  Back home once again and as this information was being recorded it became apparent that many of the names had misspellings.  So just what is going on!?  Remember the light coming on?  In a land that time had pretty much forgotten and the people were even called “The Forgotten One’s” things are just different.  Many of the people go by nicknames such as “Let it go” and “When he was good”, few have recorded vital statistics, Most cannot read or write and I had expectations of clear and accurate information to share with those that would sponsor children!  Go figure.  So here we are today with more children sponsored at Bataille than we imagined, a school that started with 30 children in October 2010 and is now over 250 and growing.  This has been a humbling season and a great season to see all that the Lord is doing in a land that once was Forgotten.  Maybe you would like to sponsor a child there, just come with foreknowledge that the “information” may be sketchy but the photo’s and children are very real as well as the need.  Check them out here Bataille Children.  Or check out the children at the other schools, Bois Neuf, Colmini or Charrette.

Lots more going on right now with preparations for Annual Conference at Bois Neuf.  The building is in full swing this week with roofing going up.  Walls will come at a later date as well as a concrete floor.  This, though, will be the first year the conference will be held under a permanent roof with the addition of a tarp for the small section that will wait completion for a future date.  Over 1000 people gather each year for this time of worship, teaching, baptisms and more.  Photo’s of the current work are available right here, Bois Neuf Building.  Please pray for Marcel and the EMEVI Team as they work towards this goal.

Lots more at the website www.hopeforhaiti.ws - saintmarchaiti@gmail.com - Art R.

Rebuilding

“I also told them about the gracious hand of my God on me and what the king had said to me. They replied, ‘Let us start rebuilding.’ So they began this good work” (Nehemiah 2:18).

Until April 7, a group from Colorado is at Bois Neuf. For anyone who wants to go to Haiti, it begins with someone telling about the goodness of God. God speaks through the person telling you about their trip. Then, the Holy Spirit moves and stirs within the people who hear. They link arms and start rebuilding, doing the good work.

Are you listening? What good work might be getting your heart excited? What would you like to rebuild? A good place to start is sponsoring a child through Hope for Haiti. Visit The Children tab to start rebuilding a child’s future.

Or maybe you are hearing about the Colorado team. Another response to hearing is to pray. Will you join us and pray for the team, their health, and the people they will come in contact with today? We look forward to hearing about the gracious hand of God on them. Let’s rebuild together.

By Mollie Bond

Water

"On the last and greatest day of the festival, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, 'Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink.  Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them'" (John 7:37-38)

Today is World Water Day (March 22).

Cholera, a disease that is caused by bacteria-filled water, is also cured by water. Haitians deal with trying to find clean water on a daily basis.

Jesus spoke to people in a way they could relate. After the festival, people returned to their homes. They needed clean water. The travel caused thirst, and Jesus wanted his parting words to be relevant. The dusty roads caused the Israelites to reach for their canteens, and the flowing water cured their dis-ease. One swallow brought the comments from Jesus to mind, those words ran over their hearts.

Haitians also understand the need for clean water. Let’s pray today they find the physical clean water, just as the Jews returning from the feast would be looking for clean water; but let’s also pray today they find Jesus as the pure water that provides life.

By Mollie Bond

All Their Heart

All Their Heart

“So we rebuilt the wall till all of it reached half its height, for the people worked with all their heart” (Nehemiah 4:6).

The wall for the school in Bataille is half way done.

The Haitians prepared for a group to come and help, so they started hauling sand from the river to use for the concrete blocks. The first day the American group and the Haitians worked so hard, they used all the sand. So the following morning, at 2 a.m., the Bataille people starting going further down river to collect more sand by hand in buckets. The Bataille people “worked with all their heart” because they know the value of education. Coming alongside Hope for Haiti provides more opportunities to build a school, and ultimately rebuild a country.

By Mollie Bond

What Story?

Every team has it's story and this one is no different.  The team had it's members but no one knew ahead of time that a few additional members would join in along the way.  You would have to ask someone here just what this is all about for the rest of the story or you might just think it's a goofy photo.  However there is a story or testimony to be shared.  This remote location in Haiti tugs on your heart, really though it's the people that tug.  About 90% or the adult's do not read or write, that's just the way it is.  The next generation will break free and the children are hungry for knowledge.  How hungry?  Would you walk over an hour to come to school daily, crossing a river multiple times holding your school clothing  above the water then upon the last crossing hiding in the weeds to change and be looking sharp for school?  Many of the 250 children that are coming to school here in Bataille, Haiti do just that.  So while we visited this past month the children had a couple days off of school but were not excused from helping to build the new school.  The walls went up with the help of the community as we did our best to lend a hand in this process.  Want to help or see more? check out a short video clip here. What testimony do you have to share and are you sharing it?  Oh yes, you will have to ask about ... the rest of the story.

Culture Clash

“When the crowd saw what Paul had done, they shouted in the Lycaonian language, “The gods have come down to us in human form!’” Acts 14:11

It’s important to understand the culture and the potential perspectives when exploring a new place. I learned children in some parts of Haiti will not look you in the eye if you are older and talking to them. Their culture teaches them this action. It’s not because I was Caucasian like I thought. My misunderstanding of the culture prohibited me from communicating God’s love for his Haitian people appropriately.

Paul healed a lame man in Lystra. However, the crowd fell on their understanding and their experiences, and deemed Paul and Barnabas as gods. It’s what they were taught. They didn’t know Paul and Barnabas, as humans tapped into God’s power were not using their own power to heal.

What situations do you walk into without doing a little bit of research on the perspectives of whom you are going to see? What is one new thing you can learn today that will help bridge the gap in communication?

The girl in the picture is Izlande SainVil who lives in Bataille. She does not have a sponsor. If your heart is pounding faster because you want to make sure she goes to school and has food, please pray about becoming asponsor.

By Mollie Bond

Many Faces of one Woman

     She drives a hard bargain.  The trail that leads up into the Matheux Mountains just southeast of St Marc Haiti has many treasures along the way.  This precious woman sells food items just outside her gate right along the trail.  Over the years we have visited her many times enjoying the bartering and her all expressive face.  She's not a bit camera shy and enjoys working her trade and the interaction with people.
     What do others see when they look at us and our expressions?  Might it lead them to Truth?  The fruit of the Spirit is... (Galatians 5:22 & 23) do others see that?  Something to ponder.

Banana Leaf

“Jesus replied, ‘And you experts in the law, woe to you, because you load people down with burdens they can hardly carry, and you yourselves will not lift one finger to help them’” (Luke 11:46).

Have you carried a bucket on your head? Haitians carry buckets and pots on their head. Sometimes, they take a banana leaf and wrap it into a circle and put it between their bucket and their head. The load is stabilized. The girl in the blue shirt in the center of the picture has a banana leaf under her bucket.

Maybe you have not carried a bucket on your head before. Maybe it is too much to carry. However, as believers we can supply help to those who are carrying the buckets. Think of it like giving them a banana leaf. Rather than doing something that is awkward, like carrying a bucket by yourself, maybe God is asking for you to give a “banana leaf.”

What is your banana leaf? What kicks your passion into gear? Most likely, that’s your banana leaf. What would help lighten the load, rather than increase burdens?

By Mollie Bond 

Teams and more

Many have responded to a nudging to go to Haiti.  There is certainly no monopoly here but just a sampling of what's taken place and a small part of the ministry in Haiti called EMEVI.

Click on the image for the rest of the show.

www.hopeforhaiti.ws

2013-02 Newsletter

Hope for Haiti Newsletter February 2013

    Here we are already into February.  What will the days ahead hold?  First a glimpse back then we will see what’s on the horizon.

    Month’s of donations gather in a garage piled high creating a path of their own.  At some point it all needs to go, so for this collection January 4th was departure date.  Delivery from Chattanooga to Charlotte where this photo was taken and then transfer to a larger truck which has made the journey to Florida and now is at Port in St Marc, Haiti.  Yes the truck too. We are blessed by some dear friends that saved us space in this vehicle for this crate and file cabinet.  Just meet up with them and all the rest is covered.  Thank you Lord.  Here it is Feb 1st and already the seeds are starting to sprout in the garage as new donations have started to arrive.  Have something you might like to contribute?  Maybe another saddle like this or a similar one to bless the ministry in the mountains.  School supplies, Shoe Bags, Pillow Case Dresses, Heavy Duty Pots and Pans, Tools and more, could be part of the next shipment, it’s up to you.  For more information click here and send us a note or wander around the website for ideas.

    The calendar is filling up.  Later this month from the 19 to the 26th a team will join Marcel with a trip to the Matheux Mountains, Fond Baptist and then down to Bataille.  The school building being built, block by block.  Made on site, these concrete blocks being set on a firm foundation.  250 children waiting for a roof and to be able to move from the outside in, coming soon.  Care to help?  

    The end of March another team is headed to help with the continued building at Bois Neuf.  From our standpoint things may look like they are moving slowly but God’s timing and ours so many times do not match up.  The Conference building will bring new meaning to the annual EMEVI Conferences (sometimes called Camp Meeting).  It all started with an area of dirt just outside the the Church at Bois Neuf.  Coconut Leaves provided the first few years covering to shield from the sun but still little protection from the rains.  Then tarps and even now some of those are still being used.  Not a big deal that is until you have over 1000 people gather each year with meals being prepared for most twice a day.  It’s a big project that is well underway, if you would like to contribute let us know.  Conference this year runs April 25th to the 28th.

    June will bring a team to connect with some sponsored children and possibly track one or more over the years.  There is also the possibility of having clinics, but that is to be seen yet.  No shortage of opportunity here just praying for workers.

    Well that’s a bit of what’s happening at the moment, more may be seen at the blog, facebook or google + and of course the website has lot’s more to check out.  Ever consider sponsoring a child?  There are a lot to choose from, visit them at Hope for Haiti.

Please join us in prayer for Marcel and these teams and we strive to honor the Lord with these opportunities before us.

Blessings, Art for Hope for Haiti saintmarchaiti@gmail.com or 423-892-7227

Here's a few of the photo's to go with the letter.

One At A Time

“So Noah did everything exactly as God had commanded him.”  Genesis 6:23

Noah did what he was directed to do by God.  He didn’t debate, or excuse, or ramble.  He just did.  How?  One at a time.  One board at a time, one nail at a time, and one step at a time. 

This roof, built in 2010 was built one at a time.  One bucket at a time.  One person, handing off to another.  One at a time.  What has God put in your heart to do?  Are you debating the issue?  Are you overwhelmed at the enormous task?  Be comforted in knowing that God will hand it to you, one at a time.

By Mollie Bond

A thought from 2012

2012 Thoughts

                                                               

If For No Other Reason!

Not knowing his name I will call him John and share this story as my failed memory keeps it. A day before the earthquake on January 12, 2010 in Léogâne, Haiti, (the epicenter), John felt compelled to move to the mountains and to do it now. He owned little, so that same day he headed out. His journey finished at Fond Baptist where there is no running water or power. News travels slowly to Fond Baptist but in time the destruction of the earthquake on the 12^th reached John. His former home, Léogâne, was hit like never seen before. John pondered this. Why was he spared? It’s a troubling thought but answers escape him. It’s a deep seed planted.

Fond Baptist is something like a county in the mountains with farming and gardening dotting the landscape.  Few travel here from outside but a vibrant community exists within. Lack of education and poverty are ever present and survival is pretty much day to day. Small "communities" crisscross the mountainsides clear to the river basin below, one of which is called Bataille.

Bataille lags behind modern culture about 150 years. It’s rural, rugged and remote, even lacking access by any type of vehicle but change is coming to Bataille because it, or more accurately, its people, tug on the hearts of many. Education is slowly coming to Bataille.

So, for two years John sought a purpose or reason for being spared and for whatever reason eventually made his way down the mountain to Bataille. He wondered why he made the trek.

The day he arrived was October 12th, 2012, a day that also brought a small team to Bataille. They helped build a new school and stood alongside a Pastor who managed to bring a generator, projector and laptop computer. Also some time ago this Pastor acquired a Creole version of a 3 part Billy Graham presentation called “My Hope”.

John arrived when the team showed the third video and, towards the end, rain chased most back to their homes that provided at least some shelter from the moisture. John hung around though. He briefly shared his story and knew that the questions he had been wondering were answered that night.

Eternity changed that day as another soul, John, took a step of faith to walk with our Lord and Savior. There is much rejoicing in heaven and here on earth as we have seen a miracle!

If Hope for Haiti has been drawn to Bataille in this season to save one man’s soul, it is worth it.  This would not be possible were it not the Lord's nudging and your response to make a difference.

Thanks for making a difference!

This is just one story of many from 2012.  Much more is available online as it happens throughout the year.  Blessings,

Remember

“Look at the nations and watch—

and be utterly amazed.

For I am going to do something in your days

that you would not believe,

even if you were told” (Habakkuk 1:5).

As we remember the earthquake anniversary, we pray for the people who never saw family members again.  We pray for community to come around those who fled the city in the months afterwards.  However, we also pray for God to again wake up the people to his power and care.  This scene in downtown St. Marc is from when the believers gathered to pray for their country days after the quake.  May God keep that spirit of unity as we remember.

By Mollie Bond

Just a box?

Just a box?  So much more than that.

Read this slowly with a pause here and there.

A stirring happens and the process begins.  Prayer begins and God's children cry out.  In our weakness we fumble with words and speak to the Creator of all, and... He hears, accepting us right where we are.  Do we come before Him expecting an answer?  Oh, maybe, but I'm not sure this time... and He knows this.  He's happy that we come and through this simple gesture a door opens.  What step in the process of prayer will I be today?  The one crying out, the one listening and watching for an answer, the one responding to a nudging and possibly answering a prayer, the one in the desert feeling no one is listening?  And then, it happens in His perfect timing, and direction is made clear, the manna appears... and our faith is strengthened and we continue to pray.

This box could represent an answer.  Many have come together to make this possible.  Filled with donations and headed south.  Free shipping is offered and accepted, just get it to Charlotte and the rest is done.  It's already at port in Florida.

Thanks to the many that continue to play a part in making this a reality.  More photo's available at http://www.hopeforhaiti.ws/photo.php?pageID=37 or just visit the web page at www.hopeforhaiti.ws and check out the photo's.

Joyful Strength

“Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength’” (Nehemiah 8:10).

We celebrate at the New Year.  We are joyful because of the good things the Lord did over the past year:  preparing, building, strengthening.  We met new friends, started new seasons, and have seen the Lord add to our number those that choose to follow him fully.  Let’s continue to celebrate God’s holiness by enjoying food, but also sending “some to those who have nothing prepared.”  God’s strength will provide in return if we are joyful.

By Mollie Bond