“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You have anointed my head with oil; My cup overflows.” Psalm 23:5

January 4, 2012, I came to the Dominican Republic with a wonderful team of students led by Dr. Jung, of Samford University and Dr. Balentine. We set up clinics in three locations. One of those locations was in a church which is near the community of Las Carmelitas. From that community, a young woman, Indira, and her husband, Julio, visited the clinic. Indira came with huge ulcers on both legs and a small one on her hip. The one on her hip had been there only a couple weeks and has healed nicely, not so with the ones on her legs. She has had these ulcers for 11 years. She has had limited medical attention due to the lack of funds to pay. The ulcers go from her shin to the top of her feet and are void of any skin. Dr. Balentine treated her and asked that Claudia and I follow up the following week, which we did.

It was the follow up that has led from one great adventure with God to another. We began to treat her as the Holy Spirit led-seeking medical counsel from Dr. Ballentine, from St. Jude doctors, a wound care specialist from the Free Clinic in Knoxville, and Dr. Tom Kim of the Free Clinic and information from Mayo Clinic on line. God was leading all the way. A good treatment plan was started and she made rapid progress. Indira’s wounds are complicated by her Sickle Cell Anemia. She has been hospitalized twice in the last 12 weeks to be treated for that condition, for which there is no cure. She has received three blood transfusions. I know I am repeating some of this, but I want to bring this up-to-date as I share all that has grown out of a One Week Medical Mission Trip.

In my last post I covered her last hospitalization. Let me jump now to where we are in her treatment. About ten days ago, we were given an Rx for what we thought was for “orthopedic boots.” We went out to find the “boots.” At the last place, we were told to come back on Friday at 5 pm and that Indira would need to be with us. Well, on Fridays, we always go to the clinic for the doctor to change the bandage and check Indira’s progress. Folks, the joke is on us!!  Claudia mentioned the Rx to the doctor and that we were to go that afternoon to get the ‘boots’. He was quiet amused! The Rx was for “Bota Unna”. Bota is “boot”, but not the kind of boot one may think. Bota Unna is a new treatment he wanted to start and we would need to go to Santiago to get it! That afternoon when we arrived at the pharmacy we showed the pharmacist our Rx and saw the little packages we were to pick up. We had to laugh and so did the pharmacist. These are wads of very thin gauze saturated with a white cream and put in a small sack and tied. We were to get 8 of them. Earlier we thought the “8” on the Rx was her shoe size (lol)!!

The new treatment was started on this past Monday, March 26th. We went yesterday to change the bandage, which with this treatment; they are changed Monday and Friday at the clinic by the doctor and on Wednesday now by Claudia. The next step will be skin grafts.

Indira is still unable to walk … so she has been crawling on concrete floors. Edgard noted that we needed to find some knee pads. Okay, no problem. No, no, not so fast. We went on that excursion to no avail. Nothing medical here is easy or simple. Got to pray and laugh and keep moving. We purchased rubber pads, (much like what you put on the bottom of furniture) and tried our best to create some makeshift knee pads and tie them around her legs. After multiple attempts it still wasn’t working. As I continued to ask God to let us find some knee pads, the Holy Spirit said: Ace Bandages! We bought two elastic wraps (very similar to an Ace Bandage) and put those “rubber pads” in place and wrapped ‘em up! Her knees are padded and we are thanking Jesus. I did not come up with that on my own; it was just another example of God speaking and answering prayer. It works beautifully-prayer and the Ace Bandage! This is life in the Dominican Republic -and I love it!

DO NOT…hear me now; DO NOT minimize a short-term mission trip. From that one week trip in January, God has started a beautiful work in the community of Las Carmelitas! I have mentioned the Adult Bible Study held every Wednesday; that continues to grow both in numbers and enthusiasm. The Children’s ministry is just awesome! 30 or more kids every Saturday. Last week Edgard started teaching an Adult Bible Study while Claudia does the Children’s Ministry. The excitement of the adults and children is so beautiful!

We are not finished and neither is God! This coming week, Claudia will start an after-school program with 6 children. She has met with the mothers and these are children who are in school, but need extra help in learning to read and write. This is what is done at the other mission point three days a week with a large number of children. Anna, the Pastor’s wife and their daughter teach at that school. Materials have already been purchased and they are ready to begin on Thursday of next week.

That brings me to Wednesday, March 28. It has to be one of the most beautiful highlights of not just this trip, but of my life, excluding the moments I have watched people say yes to Jesus! We go for Bible Study each Wednesday at Indira’s. I rode the cycle with Julio as usual. Well, it was not “as usual.” He made at least three stops on the way-learned later-he was “killing time.” Things weren’t quiet ready. When we arrived, I notice a covering over the entrance to the outside built-on shelter to the house-where the new roof went on recently-made possible by generous donors to One Vision. I thought -How neat! Julio drove us all the way to the entrance and about that time, the cover-which was a sheet-flew open and I see all these people and hear the loud applause and my name: Joy-eece! I am still on the cycle and by now crying.

The kids stormed me with their hugs, kisses and laughing. The adults did the same. Claudia was snapping pictures and grinning from ear to ear. The place had been decorated from top to bottom and on all sides with balloons and streamers. It was the most beautiful sight I have ever seen. I am in tears as I type this. A chair – my “throne” was in front of a decorated table which held drinks, a beautiful cake, and some really good pastries similar to small fried pies. Claudia prayed, read scripture and said some very lovely things then opened it for others to speak. Some kids and adults alike spoke. It amazed me what they mentioned-especially the children. My dear friends, people are watching!!  What do they see? What a challenge to make sure they see Jesus! See His Light, His Joy! His hope! His Laughter! His Smile! His Touch!

I received some tangible gifts as well; beaded necklaces, a headband – all made by the individuals. I had already received a beautiful rug-(which is folded and packed for home) made by several of the folks there in royal blue and bright yellow. Indira gave me a beautiful blouse-very youthful and Dominican. She wanted me to put it on; I did and it fit perfectly-a God thing!! It is beautiful. I was then presented with a beautiful plaque which will have a very prominent place in my home. They know I will be back. I am scheduled to return the first week of August with another One Vision Medical team. Wonder who will be waiting for our follow-up from that trip. You can believe…God has a plan!

In July of this year, a Sports Evangelism team is coming from One Vision. They, like us, love sports, and especially basketball and baseball. The pastor at the other mission point plays basketball with the guys every Friday. Get your family involved in Missions. Be willing to say to God: Whenever, Wherever, Whatever. That is all I said-many years ago. How could I have known that in a few short years, I would have completed a two-year program to become a Certified Medical Assistant (at age 75), became a widow after 55 years being married to a godly man who loved me as Christ loves the church and cherished me more than anything or anyone in his life. Three months after having been carried by angel wings to the waiting arms of Jesus and His Celebration of Life service, God launched me on my first Medical Mission trip in January of 2011 and then two more that year only to return this January for three months.

Has it been an easy journey? Yes and No. Yes, just knowing you are in God’s will is a peace. No-the evil one, I believe works overtime on missionaries. You learn to recognize right away what is an attack and with prayer, praise and song you route him!! You must guard your tongue, your thoughts, your attitude, and your actions. You MUST stay in the Word and on your face on your knees before God! You must engage people at home like you to commit to faithfully pray. I have learned so much about living by faith and not by sight. I have learned so much about “Standing on the Promises of God” and about continuing to lean hard on Jesus. You laugh, you cry, you pray, you remain faithful and God does the rest. You love, you touch, and you engage all as Jesus did. You keep that foremost in your mind, how did Jesus respond? I have had to do business with God a few times (interpret –a few times- any way you wanna) in regard to attitude, fear and anxiety. Any of these the adversary tried to use to destroy the absolute peace I came here with and experienced every single day. My joy is full, my cup runneth over.

How about you? God calls us to: GIVE of our resources or of our poverty; He calls us to PRAY; He calls us to GO. You are called to one, two or all three of these. Say, “Yes, Lord, Yes!” Blessings abound!

Thank you for your faithfulness to pray. That makes you a very huge part of all God is doing in the Dominican Republic.

Joyce

Still on adventure with God -soon to be back in Knoxville -I will miss my cycle rides.

Greetings in the sweet name of Jesus! A lot has happened since I wrote last. In case you haven’t noticed, everyday on the field is different. God is Sovereign and we try to stay tuned to His plans for us daily.

We have had great times with the children at the mission post of Las Guaranas. We have been having a Bible Story following the children’s school work at the literacy center. I have prepared these Bible stories and have been so excited about them. It never ceases to amaze me as to what we can do when God gives us a task. He has equipped us to do whatever He calls us to do. Remember that and no excuses.

A couple of weeks ago we were called to the ER at the local Government hospital. Little Ruthie, the 11 year old special needs daughter of Indira and Julio was there due to some seizures and irregular heart rhythms. After we prayed with Ruthie and her family I kept noticing that the lady next to her kept looking at us. I asked her if she wanted us to pray with her and she said yes. I prayed and Edgard interpreted As soon as we finished the prayer I asked her if she is a Christian. The answer was “No.” I gave her the plan of salvation through Edgard and she made a decision right then and there – a new sister born into the Kingdom! Thank you, Jesus! We were both in tears as we hugged. She was real happy when I told her we were now sisters and I would see her in heaven. One of Indira and Julio’s neighbors gave her a Gideon New Testament. She can’t read, but said her young daughter would read it to her. We beheld the glory of God as the darkness left her eyes and the light of Jesus shone through. There seemed to be a need for others to be prayed for, so we asked and we prayed with them. I just praise God for every opportunity.

It is rare day that I do not give out tracts. They have been scattered all over this city with the cycle drivers, taxi drivers, people on the vans, ER and clinic waiting rooms, cafeterias, grocery stores, pharmacies-wherever we happen to be. Julio asked for some the other day, so now he is handing them out. Glory!!

The Bible Study we host in Julio and Indira’s community continues to grow-having started with five, it has grown to thirteen. The exciting aspect there is that we are reaching some men and they are excited to receive a Bible of their own. Claudia did a study on Religion vs. Salvation. She had some good illustrations, pictures, etc. and in closing, she asked those who were ready to experience salvation-the real thing-to be a Christian and not “just religious”, all of them made a commitment. She has now started a Discipleship study. We had a study guide printed so that each of them will have their own copy. These dear people seem eager to study the Word and there is always plenty of discussion. We can see a church being planted there in the future.

The Children’s Ministry at Julio and Indira’s home is also growing. It is amazing to me the interest of so many of the adults in the Children’s Bible Stories. I think it is neat to see the adults coloring the pictures right along with the children. One day, Claudia brought balloons and she made animals, and whatever else the kids wanted. They loved it! That day, counting the adults, we had over 40 people! Glory to our Great God!

I continue to change the bandages on Indira’s legs. After having much lab work and seeing three doctors she was admitted to a clinic. She has undergone a second blood transfusion, apparently due to her sickle cell anemia. She also developed an infection in the ulcers on her legs. She had several surgical procedures in a week’s time and the surgeon has prescribed lots of medications to help with the healing. We really like her surgeon and he is a Christian and seems to be genuinely concerned and shows compassion. He has mentioned the need for skin grafts. Please continue to pray for her healing. Also, keep in mind that all of this medical care is made possible through One Vision International ministries and if any of you so desire, donations for her medical care are needed. Just designate your donation for the medical expenses of Indira & family. Thank you in advance for your love, care, prayers and donations.

God opens doors for witnessing for each of us-whether in the Dominican Republic or Knoxville. While Julio, his younger daughter, a young man named Tonny, who is Julio’s neighbor, and I sat in the waiting room during Indira’s surgery, Julio asked me to lead in some Bible reading. Keep in mind-Julio speaks little English, and I speak less Spanish. Claudia, our interpreter, could not be there. I have a Bible in both English and Spanish, and Julio had his Spanish Bible. I began to turn to different scriptures for him to read. Julio had the Tonny read some verses as well. I made sure we read all the scriptures on salvation and living a godly life, the Fruit of the Spirit and such. After all the reading I asked Tonny (in Spanish) if he were a Christian. His answer: “Uh-um just so-so.” I said: No -”so-so.” It is either “Si Senor (Yes, Lord) or No, Senor–No so-so.” I turned him over to Julio and he spoke most earnestly with him and then we prayed. I told Julio to ask if he had a Bible-he did not, so I told him we would bring him one. Later that week we gave Tonny a Bible. I wrote his name and mine in the Bible and wrote “Read Daily”. He was pleased and smiled really big. I told him that I want him to become a devoted follower of Jesus Christ and live for Him and that I want to see him in heaven. He kept smiling and hugged me a lot. He will come to know Jesus!! Thank you, Father. Pray for Tonny.

Thank you for your continued prayers. I will write once more before returning home on March 31.

Joyce
-The cycle ridin’ missionary to the Dominican Republic and loving it.

The highlight of any week is when someone comes into the Kingdom! That happened during our Children’s Bible Study at a park in Las Quirananas.

Claudia had led a great time of songs and games with the children and then we had the Bible Story I had written of the birth of Jesus as told by the little donkey that Mary rode from Nazareth to Bethlehem. I told the story and Edgard interpreted. The kids were all seated on the ground and teenagers began to gather around as well, so I addressed it and the invitation to them at their age level as well. Afterward, I was prompted by the Holy Spirit to ask a couple of them if they were Christians. I had memorized that question in Spanish. They both said no- a boy (14 years old) and a girl (17 years old). I called Claudia over and had her ask the questions. They said they had heard the story we told and they did want to receive Jesus. Glory! She prayed with them and I had her ask them if they knew for sure that Jesus now lives in their hearts and they both smiled and said yes. I could see a change in their countenance!  We told them about the church and they know where it is. The Pastor’s wife took their names and phone numbers. They do not own a Bible, so I told them to come to church on Sunday and they would get a Bible. I have had a growing and gnawing burden in my heart for the teenagers here!! Pray that God will lead someone to come and minister to the middle and high school age group here.

We enjoyed another great Bible Study with the neighbors of Indira and Julio’s and rejoice for the new ladies that attended. We visualize the planting of a church in this community and it’s all in God’s timing. It is as if new life has dawned upon them-and truly He has!!

We had a birthday party for the daughter of Indira and Julio who was turning 14. We bought her a purse, a cake and a coke. We had a blast! We served 25 adults and kids with just a small cake! She was one happy 14 year old. She is a very responsible young lady and wants to be a nurse (let’s pray for about that too). She works hard at home, in school, listens to the Bible Stories and loves us! Pray for her and her teenage friends in that community.

“Oh-Lord, truly the fields are white unto harvest…but the workers are few.” God is asking: ”Who will come and work my fields today? Who will come and show them the way? Here them crying in the night: “Who will come and show us the Light.” Hear the Father say; “who will work my fields today?” Will you answer:  “Here am I, Lord. Send me.?”

The work here is hard. Claudia works very hard building relationships and starting new ministries. We never know what a day will bring forth in regard to the ministry. Of course, none of us do anyway, and His strength and grace is sufficient for each new day.

On the weekend we hosted a Medical Clinic under the roof of Indira and Julio’s. A young man in the community, who has some medical background, helped us see patients and did a good job. We saw at least 60 patients from young to old. We saw everything as usual, from skin infections, boils, colds, congestion, worms, urinary tract infections, ear and headaches, etc. After clinic, we went prayer walking. Some who have been coming to Bible Study joined us in that. It was a very special time to walk and pray for the people and for the walls to come down. God has a plan for that community to be won to Him. It all started with that visit to the clinic in January when the Samford team was here. Glory to our Great I AM!

We then had the Children’s Ministry and again the kids came! Precious! Some came early and the others came running! Claudia, as usual, worked her wonder with the children. She had a drama using Fredricko and Julio. The children loved it. She led them in songs and lots of hand motions. They sit and listen, join in with much attention and laughter. It is a sight to behold! Our long day that had started early had come to a happy ending. We felt as if God had truly visited us and we did not miss it!

Continue to pray for Claudia. She continues to suffer with allergies-some days not feeling at all well, but she keeps going. My time here has flown by. I have only four more weeks and my eyes are teary as I write this. I know this is God’s plan for me to return home at this time, March 31^st, but according to His plan and leadership, I plan to return. Claudia reminds me that this is my Dominican home and truly I feel “at home.”

God bless each of you as you continue on your adventure with God in the place where He has planted you.

Joyce

Continuing to love the cycle rides and witness to the cycle drivers as I continue on my wonderful adventure with God in the Dominican Republic.

Greetings in the sweet name of Jesus from the Dominican Republic where we continue on adventure with God.

Getting to speak to the people of Sevier Heights Baptist Church through the wonderful technology of Skype was a real highlight for us. Thanks to each of you who took part in this special evening.

When we visited Indira we were so pleased to see that the wound on her hip no longer needs a bandage! Only of God did this happen. Five weeks ago it looked awful all covered with pus.  Folks, God is still in the business of healing. This is pioneer medicine here in this community with no doctor. I am a Medical Assistant, and I get teary when I think how God is using me as His instrument. This is a humbling experience! Praise Him!!

Later in the week we returned to Julio and Indira’s to deliver medical supplies and for the neighborhood Bible Study. Six of the neighbors returned for the second week in a row. The first week, Claudia covered Salvation from John 3:16 and this week her lesson was on Idolatry-using Jeremiah 17 and other passages. The people are so attentive and they participate. Next week when we go, we will take 2-3 Bibles because some do not have their own.

We returned to Indira’s for a third time this week to change bandages on her legs and to deliver more saline solution for cleansing.  She had told us yesterday that it was not as painful now to remove the bandages as the day before. Last week when she was in tears so was I. That is when I put out a call to prayer to entreat God to relieve her of this awful pain when she would remove the bandages.  At the same time we had taken another jar of honey which is ”Pure Honey”-so she thought it was a change in the honey. I told her about the call to prayer to relieve the pain. If God wants to use the change in honey to bring that about, that is His business. I just know she needed more honey-that is what I saw at our “big store” and that is what we bought.

As I have mentioned in the past, all of these supplies are made possible through the One Vision Ministry and they do get expensive. In case any of you missed it-we were using antibiotic treated wound care bandages and the wounds were looking good-as per the surgeon. Skin has developed-though very thin and tender. The surgeon said it was time to switch to honey to give the skin an opportunity to develop, thus the use of honey.

On Friday we did chores around the house before going for our Bible Study. We left at 11 am, (Bible Study is at 3) although it is only an hour and half drive, we never know if we will have to wait for the vans and/or cars. Understandably, they have to wait for a full load before they can go. Let me describe what I mean by a “full load.” This is putting at least 8 in a small 5 passenger car or 13 in an 8 passenger van. We are literally wedged in, but no one seems to mind. It is transportation to get from point A to point B.

On the van, I really was not sure if I were in the lap of the young man on my left or if he were in mine…didn’t really matter! The Holy Spirit spoke to me and reminded me I had some homemade gospel tracks in my backpack and I was to give him one. I had written Jeremiah 31:3 on one side and John 3:16 on the other (in Spanish of course.) He smiled and thanked me and read it and kept it. There was this darling young lady on my right. I was glad she was tiny, but that lasted only a short time. She got off and a tall, not too large, but not too small man took her place. Anyway, back to those homemade tracts! The Holy Spirit said to give one to her, so I did. She smiled showing her deep beautiful dimples. She read it and smiled again and put it in her purse. That was my last one or the man wedged into my right side would have had one too! You know when the Holy Spirit prompts you, culture does not enter into the question of whether I should do this or not – you do it!  Sow the Seed.

While I am at it, I will share with you my most recent song inspired a few weeks ago:  Sow the Seed

People riding, People walking

People laughing, People talking

All in need of Jesus

See their faces, See their eyes

Listen to their desperate cries

Do they know? Do they know?

Do they know He loves them so?

Go and tell I hear Him say

Go and share My love today

Give them hope and Give them love

Share God’s blessings from above

Jesus offers all they need

Tell the story; Sow the seed.

Jesus offers all they need

Tell the story; Sow the seed. Sow the Seed.

I wrote out the music too and play it on my dulcimer.

Once we arrived at Pastor Saniago’s house, Anna, his wife, always has lunch ready for us. She is an excellent cook. After lunch we went on to the church and waited-no one came. Here we were, just the three of us  and we decided we were called to prayer and that is what we did. “Where two or three are gathered in my name, there I am in the midst of you.” We were praying for One Vision, for the three locations where we have Bible Studies, the ladies and families, the pastors, and whatever God put on our hearts. It was a great time of intercession- just pouring our hearts out to our Heavenly Father.

When we arrived home we stopped to say Hi to our downstairs neighbor and learned how God is working in her heart -an answer to prayer- loud and clear. She is not a Christian, but Claudia has been building a friendship with her and now I have. I gave her a Homemade Valentine with John 3:16 on one side and Jeremiah 31:3 on the other and four Hershey kisses. She wants to study the Bible with us!!! We are to meet with her tomorrow night for a Bible Study! She is excited and we are more.  Pray for this dear one to be saved. That was the end of a wonderful, sparkly day.

We ended the week with a beautiful day with the children in Julio and Indira’s community. There were between 30-35 children. Claudia was great!! She is so animated with them, creative and enthusiastic. They respond so well, are behaved and attentive. The ages ranged from 2 years to 10 years and a good balance between boys and girls. This has been Claudia’s vision to start a Children’s ministries. She met Julio and Indira the week the Samford University team was here. Isn’t it amazing how far-reaching the ministry of one team can be!! Folks, let this be a word of inspiration and encouragement to you. Never doubt what God can do with a team committed to Him and spreading His love and sowing His Word in one week. Does this not speak volumes for short-term mission trips!!

We closed out the session with each of the children with pictures to color and then Julio served some sandwiches and drinks and I gave out candy. We will meet with them every Saturday afternoon. God is so faithful and He delights to bless His children.

Get in on the blessing, my friends, come on down, pray and give.

Until next time,

Joyce

The Dominican Republic Missionary who loves riding cycles through the streets of La Vega – - on Adventure with God.

Greetings in the sweet name of Jesus from the Dominican Republic where I continue to give Him praise!!

Our weekend was a time of refreshing, challenge and renewal as we attended the Nancy Leigh DeMoss conference in Santo Domingo. There were 3,000 ladies registered for this conference. I could tell how attentive they were and received her messages with much enthusiasm and decision making. There were about 200 hundred, at least, who professed Christ for the first time! For the rest of us, I doubt there was anyone present who did not make a decision of some kind. Her message on the Bride of Christ was one of the most vivid and challenging I have heard. Oh Church, Bride of Christ, we are called to holiness, purity, repentance, a time to cleanse the wedding garment that has become soiled, a time to prepare for the return of the Bridegroom. Remember, He told us He is coming for us. What do we -His Bride- need to be doing to be ready? Oh we could say -evangelize- sure, that is important, but dear Church -the unsaved are not going to listen to any Bride who is wearing a soiled wedding gown. The Father is calling the Church to repentance while there is still time.

Last week was a mountain top experience with the increase in attendance at Bible Study, and of course, the conference was also, but there remains work to be done in the valley. Satan is alive and well and would like to steal our joy and bring times of discouragement. Don’t give him that satisfaction.

We had three at Bible Study yesterday. It was just as much Bible Study and a sweet time of prayer and praise as if all 15 had been there. My Lord Jesus Christ has bruised the head of Satan and he cannot steal our joy unless we allow him. This is God’s ministry. We have Bible Study at the other location here in La Vega on Thursday night. Pray for these studies with these ladies.

We checked on Indiera on Tuesday. We are taking the route of using the honey now on the bandages instead of the antibiotic as per the surgeon. Her legs are continuing to look improved, however, the pain is almost unbearable when we change the dressing and apply the honey. I pray the whole time and I am moved to tears myself. This beautiful young woman is so brave. We take her to the clinic for blood work on Thursday and to see the doctor. I will be anxious to see what they say about her blood work.

Prayer Warriors, stay on your faces before God for this family and for the community where she lives. God has burdened my heart for this new work in the Dominican. This community where they live is teaming with people who need Jesus! Our hearts need to be broken with the things that break the heart of God. I am reminded of the rich young ruler who was told to sell what he had and give to the poor. I recognize no rich young rulers are reading this; however, some of us may have some things we could sell and use the proceeds for airfare to join a team here or donate it to One Vision for the work here. “People need the Lord!” We have access to the Bread of Life, do we dare keep it (Him) to ourselves?

I hope with this sharing today that you catch the vision of this new work here in the Dominican. Pray for Claudia as she leads this ministry and for her husband, Edgard, as he encourages her in the work and in many situations, works along side her as he did with our team in January. They are totally dependent on your interceding for them before the throne.

Until next time, this is the DR missionary who loves riding the cycles as she continues on her adventure with God.

Joyce

While Indiera’s wounds continue to improve for which God is to be praised, she was admitted to the hospital this week due to her platelets being very low. This is due to her sickle cell anemia.

Her blood work was terrible. In a nutshell, this means that the sticky, gummy sickle cells are destroying the red cells faster than the bone marrow can produce new ones. Even in the states, there is no cure for sickle cell. The sickle cells clog the arteries making it difficult for healthy blood to get to the limbs. Yet, God is doing a mighty work of healing on her legs. Oh- as soon as I saw her report I knew she must get a transfusion and was grateful that is what the doctor ordered.

After they had made x-rays of her legs to see the condition of her bones the surgeon said what is really needed to stop the seeping would be to go in and clean the bones. Once the surgeon took a look at the legs he changed the course of treatment for the next month. He said we had done an excellent job -I knew- of course that God is mighty at work. The surgeon told us to clean it with salt water solution -which I had taken a bottle with me- and then -get this- she has formed new skin there! Glory Hallelujah!!! We take her back next Thursday for more blood work. Please pray!

Now, let me tell you about our Bible Study last night! We had 25 women attend! Hallelujah!!! There must have been a dozen children – who listened as if the study were for them and I guess it was. What a blessing!

A lady prayed with us, Claudia leading, to receive Christ into her heart! This was her first visit to the church. She stated, “I am Catholic” and she was very receptive to the study of Mary. However, I make it very clear that we admire Mary, but we do not worship her. Worship is for God alone. I also make it clear that we do not pray to Mary. We have one mediator between us and God and that is our Lord Jesus Christ who died for our sins. Thank you, Jesus!

Blessings and love to all,

Joyce

Rejoicing as she continues… Adventuring with God

Greetings everyone! Things are going great here in the Dominican Republic on adventure with God – Our Great I AM! I am feeling wonderful physically, emotionally and growing spiritually. I am growing in my total dependence on God-learning more about living by faith, not by sight. That should be the life for all of us all the time, but in the States, we are so spoiled…everything at our fingertips.

I have had a wonderful week. Indiera continues to improve for which God is to be praised. We are using wound care bandages and they are working so well. She is no longer in agony when the bandages are removed. Continue your prayers for this beautiful young woman. God is doing a mighty work medically with her healing. We hope to start a Bible in their home this week or next. Please pray for her husband who needs work. I shared some scriptures with him and he showed me his well read Bible.

Last week at church, I had an awesome experience -truly a God moment and as Henry Blackaby says: a visitation from God. I had prayed and asked God to interpret for me on Sunday, however, I was going to worship Him even if I did not understand a word. We arrived at church and the singing had started and I sang along when they had the words on the screen – in Spanish. I can read it – I just can’t speak it!

When they introduced the speaker they announced he was from Fort Worth, Texas and he gave the message in English (He had an interpreter)! I was all smiles and thinking: how awesome is our God!!
As the speaker began he told us that the Holy Spirit had told him he was not to preach the same message he had preached at the early service, but he was to preach on Mary, the Mother of Jesus. Now, I was to start my Bible Studies with the women the next day and guess what? My first lesson was on Mary, the Mother of Jesus and what we can learn from her. I was moved and in awe of his message, part of which sounded as if he were reading from my lesson. How cool is that? His message spoke to my heart on Mary, the mother of Jesus. Her answer to God was: “Let it be done to me according to what you have said.” That has been my prayer many times and became a time of renewal for God to use me according to His plan. “Lead me, Lord, I will follow.”

After he finished his message, he said “Now we are going to pray for some people” and he just pointed out the ones he was going to pray for – one at a time. He had prayed for 5-6 people when he looked straight at me and said “The lady in green, we are going to pray for her.” I stood up and as he prayed…I wept. He prayed as if he knew me and the presence of God was so keen in my heart. What a confirmation of being in the place God has chosen for me at this time. Thank you, Jesus.

You are familiar with Prayer Walking, but how about Prayer Riding? As we were taking our trip to the Bible Study (the trip is an hour and a half) God burdened my heart to use that time to pray for all the people I could see and those I could not see- all those in the shops, in the homes, in the rice fields. I began to pray and as I did I became so burdened for their souls, I began to weep. I praise God for breaking my heart. Then He reminded me of all those back home in our churches across America who are lost, and I wept more. Oh, God, break our hearts for the lost wherever we encounter them. Break our hearts to pray without ceasing until we behold the harvest. I did the same on the return trip and since then I find I am praying for the people as we walk, ride the cycles or if I am sitting on the balcony overlooking the street below. I beheld large herds of cattle and thought I need to pray for the cattle too-to get fat, give lots of milk, good meat and produce more cattle. God is creator of all!

-Joyce

Adventuring with God

Last week we went to church where we held clinic with the Samford University team. We met with the pastor and his lovely wife to discuss the children’s center, the ladies Bible Study, and the Pastor’s conference which Brother Hollie Miller will be leading later this year. The pastor expressed so strongly his gratitude for the medical team that was here a few weeks ago. He had been praying that God would send someone to do medical work and to work with them at the church. God choose to use the Samford team to answer that prayer. Oh-what a lesson in humility. This pastor had been feeling alone in his work there. He was so moved that we came from the states to help them.

After meeting with the pastor, he took us to visit a patient that had visited the Samford clinic with a very bad wound of very long standing on both her legs and one hip. Her name is Indiera and she lives with her husband and children. We wanted to check on her and the progress of healing.

Getting to Indiera’s home would have been impossible except that Pastor has a four wheel drive. She lives in such a remote location-there are other houses up there as well, but it appears that she is at the end of the road-mud, rocks, and ruts. It had rained all day, so that did not help either. It also poured down while we were inside visiting.

I had not seen the wound last week, so I am not sure whether there had been any improvement or not. I just know it was like nothing I have ever seen before. I had her take part of the bandage off so I could see the condition of the wound. I did not take all of the bandages off because it was causing her so much pain. The wounds are much like a burn wound – completely void of skin.

We had taken more bandages for her and will return as soon as possible with more bandages, antibiotics and food. While I was working with her, Pastor went out to the jeep and brought back a very large bag of rice. After I finished and had prayed with them, Pastor told them the story of Jesus healing the cripple at the pool. He asked them if they know Jesus-it seemed very doubtful.

We went back to see Indiera on Friday to deliver the groceries, change bandages, share scripture, and pray. On this day we learned that they do have a Bible and her husband showed me places he has marked and was smiling as he did. Maybe they are believers. We will continue to share and Claudia has suggested we start a Bible Study in their home with the two of them. She also said we will do prayer walking in their little community. Oh-Yes!! Prayer breaks down the strongest barriers.

For me, it was a true experience in faith and grace to change those bandages. His grace got me through. She suffers more than extreme pain as the bandages are being removed. I kept thinking of Jesus and His touch, His tenderness and I prayed for that and for wisdom. God had told me to use antibiotic cream on the fresh bandages, so all I had was from my personal kit. Dear ones, I was truly sweating bullets as I did this. Claudia kept checking on me to make sure I was okay and I was. I can’t explain the calmness-in spite of sweating…and how smoothly it went. My heart was torn for this precious woman and to see her in sheer agony as I removed the old bandages.

We came home and I emailed Dr. Balentine and John Miller. Dr. Balentine had started treatment the week the team was here and he emphasized the importance of keeping the wounds clean and changed. The Holy Spirit led me to email my friend at St. Jude Children’s Hospital in Memphis. I heard back within a very short time from Dr. Jon and he agreed with what we were doing, that the antibiotic cream was appropriate and that short of skin grafts it takes these kinds of wounds a very long time to heal. He noted that with our limited facilities, skin grafts are not an option. God is working in this situation and He is not the least bit limited! God is good and so faithful. He is working out His purpose in her life, mine and Claudia’s in this endeavor. Lest we forget! God is in control of all our circumstances!!

Dear Prayer Warriors, this is one that will not be healed unless God intervenes-oh, yes, He heals with or without medicine and He also chooses to heal ultimately by taking them to their eternal home-for the Christian- that home is heaven. Without Him, we are nothing and can do nothing. As Edgard said-when this lady’s legs are healed the community will all know and that will open the door for the gospel to be received. Prayer breaks down the evil influence of satanic practices and unbelief. Hold the ropes, dear ones, lest we crash!

Keep in mind, she has had this condition for 11 years! How long had the woman that Jesus healed had her blood condition? Again-He is the Great I AM and that means He is whatever I need. Hallelujah!!

-Joyce

Adventuring with God

Let me tell you a little about the people I have had the opportunity to meet. They pray-believing and they are obedient to the Lord even if He tells them to go and give what they have to someone else in need-even if it is all they have.

Last week we shopped for groceries for a family without work who have a 24 year old son who requires a lot of meds for Crohns Disease. Please pray for them – they are precious people. They are like family to Claudia and Edgard and go to the same church. They were very hospitable and you could see the glow of the Lord Jesus on their faces. Claudia had a short devotional, Edgard prayed and then Claudia asked if I would pray in regards to their work and Joshy’s health. They lost a lot of work due to their stand on what they would do and what they would not as Christians. I hear lots of stories here in the Dominican Republic about Christians truly living by faith-knowing what it really means to live by faith and not by sight. Oh-we need to learn that lesson in American churches.

Another elderly gentleman, one of my patients, who loves Jesus had callous and dark knees. We asked about his knees and his daughter said it is where he kneels to pray-stays on his knees. Brought tears to my eyes and shame to my prayer life. Oh-sure… I pray and pray diligently as you do, but do I have calluses anywhere? Are there calluses on my heart? I should hope not. Only God knows.

Last Sunday was a precious day of worship with Claudia and Edgard at their church. The music-very much like ours-lively choruses with instruments-and lots of amplification. Edgard quietly translated some of the songs to me and the entire message. That was so kind of him. The pastor preached from James about counting it all joy-a very good message. Again, I felt right at home. The people were very friendly and welcoming. After church we walked a short distance to the home of Edgard’s mother and sister. They are lovely people. Edgard’s dad died two years ago with a fast growing colon cancer. I could identify with his mom on losing her spouse.

I feel great and I am resting well at night. Thank you for your prayers. I love you guys! You play a huge part of what happens here!

-Joyce

Adventuring with God

Our God Reigns! That is the verse the Lord gave me as my precious John lay in the ICU-his spirit already flown into the arms of Jesus. I just opened my Bible randomly and that passage from Isaiah was there and by the markings, I had been there before. What a promise at such a time as that. What a promise for such a time as this here in the DR.

Today, January 13, 2012 marks a special day in our lives-we celebrated every Friday the 13th. That is because we had our first date on November, Friday the 13th – 58 years ago! I just wanted to share that little bit of personal info – some of you knew that already.

Greetings from La Vega of the Republic of Dominica. Let me tell you something of where I am living. I live with Claudia and her husband, Edgard. We live in an upstairs apartment which is very nice. I have a very nice room and own private bath. We have lots of windows, and there seems to always be a breeze, so without air conditioning, it is very pleasant. We sleep with the windows open and that makes it comfortable.

Yesterday and today, Claudia and I have walked here in the city to go to some stores and to the bank. There are five beautiful parks here in La Veda. They are all decorated with lights, so they are really pretty here at night. We are taking these days since the team left for R and R. Both Claudia and Edgard have come down with colds, congestion, what the people here call flu or “gripe.” Por favor pray for them. Edgard is better, but Claudia doesn’t feel at all well today.

I have been busy each day going over common or everyday words and phrases from Spanish to English and vice versa. I am writing out most commonly used medical phrases such as: Donde le duele? Where does it hurt? I will take this with me when we have another clinic.

I noticed I did not give a total number of patients seen by the last team. There were 620+ patients. Folks, we are all called to sow the seed. We know some falls on good ground and will bring forth fruit. According to Jesus parable, only 1/4 of the seed sown brought forth fruit-that would be 155 who will bring forth fruit! Hallelujah!! We must sow the seed at home and abroad. No sowing-no reaping.

Until next time, The Lord bless you and keep you and cause His face to shine upon you and give you peace.

-Joyce

Adventuring with God