The other day I was talking to Luis, we are both struggling with being apart, but we know that God has a great plan and that some day he will bring us together again, but for now he wants us both right where we are. I have been studying the book of Acts recently and that day I had been thinking of him and his friends, as they all work together and share what little they have with each other. One doesn't have money for food or a job to support his family but he can't paint beautifully, so he agreed to paint the part of the church that is already built, for free, just because he loves God, and has faith that God would take care of him. Someone else went and bought him a few groceries to help his family get by. As I read Acts, I came across several verses that speak to this same topic.

Acts 2:44-47 "And all those who had believed were together and had al things in common; ad they began selling thieir property and possessions and were sharing them with all, as anyone might have need. Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who where being saved. "

This particular verse really reminded me of this group. Every time I talk to Luis he is telling me of new people they come across that join them and eat with them, and ends up commiting to join the ministry and many who have strayed from God are being recovered and joing the cell group that takes place at the church currently. The fellowship together shar past struggles and are finding healing and joy together. They even recently went to visit another church in Ambato, a town in the mountains, that Pastor Emanuel has connections with and shared these same verses with them. Several came forward and donated what they could to the church! God is moving in such amazing ways to construct His temple and minister to His people. He is strengthing their faith daily! It is so good to see God moving in the same ways written about in the Bible.

Another passage that I shared with Luis was, Acts 4:32-35 "And the congregation of those who believed were of one heart and soul; and not one of them claimed that anything belonging to him was his own, but all things were common property to them. And with great power the apostles were giving testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and abundant grace was upon them all. For there was not a needy person among them, for all who were owners of land or houses would sell them and bring the proceeds of the sales and lay them at the apostles feet, and they would be distrubuted to each as any had need."

These two passages lead several of those involved to give to the work of God. Last night several of them returned to Ambato and another soul was lead to Christ. Praise God! God is moving in such a mighty way, I am honored to be a witness to His work.

Please continue to pray!

• Pray for those men involved in the construction and in outreach, that they would remain focused on God and not let Satan get a foothold in their minds or hearts.
• Pray for Pastor Emanuel and his health, he has been hospitalized at least twice in the last month for parasites.
• Pray for needs to be met both for those who are helping with the project and for the needs of the project itself.
• Pray for strength in opposition.