My internet is too slow to send pictures or create something fancy. I have to travel to San Jose or La Parola to get a higher speed internet.
Many have asked, so I will let you all know that the flooding in the Philippines missed us. It was at an island south of us in Mindanao. Many are dead and displaced so please continue to pray for them.
For Steven and I this is our first Christmas in the Philippines. It feels more like summer. In fact, it is summer here. The Christmas spirit is excellent!
A lot of families are too poor to buy presents. The giving of gifts and Santa Clause seems to be less important.
Steven will only get one small gift this year. We have told him it is because we live in a different culture and explained the difference of his Filipino neighbors and family. Steven understands. Many times this past two weeks he has told me it is okay he only gets one gift. I believe he is genuinely happy to adjust.
The Christmas spirit here is more about Christ, it seems. Here is an example of what I mean. This is a quote from the Department of Education in San Jose. It reads in part, “To developing functionally literate and God loving Filipinos”. All schools, including public school, celebrate with great activity Christmas.
My Christmas present from our Lord is being the guest speaker at 5 Churches the month of December. They are the San Rafael Christian Community Church, Hill of Zion Community Church, Buena Vista Christian Community Center, Tabernacle of Praise Community Church, and Gateway Church. For the November Thanksgiving Celebrations I spoke at Buena Vista Christian Community Center, Jesus is Lord Church, and Tabernacle of Praise Community Church.
I guess what amazes me most about speaking at these churches is preaching is not my gift. I believe the Lord blesses my passion and He is present with the Holy Spirit at these services. I have had the great honor of witnessing the Holy Spirit moving the hearts of these congregations.
I pray each of you have a Very Merry Christmas!
Thank you for your love and prayers for us,
Steve, Juliana & Steven
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