Church Thoughts (12/24)

Our departure date is getting close. Today, the day before Christmas, was the last Sunday we will be attending church in Santiago. (Next Sunday, God-willing, we will be in Vina Del Mar celebrating the New Year.) So, we said our farewells to all our church friends. We always felt so welcomed at this church. I admire some of these people greatly, partly for their affection and mostly for their ability to deal with the tough issues present in Santiago. Sometimes, I felt that our relationships were motivated by funny things, like curiosity or language envy. But, the church people opened their arms and made us feel like there was a place for us where we fit perfectly. And we certainly have made some close friends. (Some of these friends will be with us next weekend.)

Besides saying good-bye, we received bad news about Esteban's mother. Both of Estaban's parents are blind and taking care of Esteban and his older sister is difficult for them I am sure. But, their mother has been diagnosed with terminal cancer and is dying. She is no longer able to be very involved in their care. Esteban, age 5, knows that she is dying and has been more active and aggressive towards others. Church people are trying to show affection and curb his rough behaviors, but it takes a lot of patience. It's a tough situation.

Another Church friend story has to do with a young man named Claudio. He is the oldest of five brothers, a good student, and a developing artist. He draws graffiti with a purpose and recommends visiting this site and this site to view graffiti. He made one to hang in the Youth classroom at church. I guess I am just giving him some publicity. I just think it's amazing that God can use anybody's talent for His purposes.

After almost a year, I would hate to just let these relationships fade away. E-mail will have to maintain these relationships. At any rate, I know there will always be friends here for us in Chile.