Holding on with Both Hands

Matthew 11:12  From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful men lay hold of it.

I would like everyone to think I'm a pioneer.  It sounds great to say that we are forging a new path and breaking new ground here in Mazatlan but God has made it it abundantly clear in the last week and a half since our arrival that He has been advancing His Kingdom here in Mazatlan for years and years and He has brought us here to be a part of the work already taking place.  I am praising Him for how connected we already are to a couple local churches and to the children's homes here in Mazatlan.

We went to Iglesia Vida Nueva (New Life Church) this morning and Pastor Carlos called me up (without warning, of course) to share about Back2Back and what we are there to do.  What a blessing it was to be able to share our heart for the orphan child and how we desire to see the church live out it's mission to be a blessing to the world by taking care of the orphan population. Carlos went on to share about Joshua and claiming the promise land and fulfilling the role that God has given us.  He must've referenced Back2Back a half dozen times as he encouraged the congregation to be the hands and feet of Jesus to those in need.

A college grad, Pancho, from this church that I had met on my previous 2 visits to Mazatlan was there to greet us today.  We hugged each other and it felt like he had been waiting for us to get there for a really long time.  (I know the feeling) We talked for a while after the service about he wants to significantly participate with Back2Back and our work in the children's homes.  I could easily see him coming on staff with us. 

Mandy and I ran into Pastor Brian the other day.  He is from the States and is the pastor of a  well established Assembly of God church here in Mazatlan.  His youngest kiddos attend the same school as Sofia and Nico. I had met Brian on a previous trip to Mazatlan.  We talked briefly about all that God was doing in and through their church body in the Mazatlan area.  We also talked about how we might partner together to serve and care for the local orphan kids.

So, even though Back2Back and the Lail Family are new to Mazatlan, God is NOT.  He has long been advancing His Kingdom here and we are trying to grab a hold of it with all we have.  May God move swiftly to rescue those kids who have suffered greatly and may He be glorified in all we do!!!