I’ve been amazed at the last few weeks and how God has continued to work in spite of the obstacles that we may see. As we’ve gotten more settled here in Taubaté, I’ve had more opportunities to share the Gospel with people. On one occasion a few weeks ago, I made a visit to Gabriel’s house. He’s a teacher at a school near our city and was desiring to practice his English. A co-worker knew of the church and that there were Americans he could talk with. He requested a visit and we happily obliged. Bro. Ed graciously allowed me to talk with him and I was able to witness to him. He had many questions, and after a long conversation, he accepted Christ as his Saviour! I would have never guessed that I would be able to lead someone to Christ in English, but He allowed me to, and I’m very grateful and encouraged. Gabriel expressed interest in coming to church but had family visiting and was unable to attend that Sunday. However, a week later, he came to the Wednesday Bible study. Since then I’ve been able to go to his house on 2 different occasions and begin to disciple him. Please pray that he would continue to grow, follow the Lord in baptism, and be faithful to God’s Word.
I’ve been on several visits with Bro. Ed and others during this quarantine and people are looking for answers. What a wonderful time to be able to be a “shining light in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation!” Over the past few weeks over 10 new people have walked through the doors of IBNV! God WILL build His church.
One encouraging note from our city is that the quarantine was lifted on June 1. While the capital continues to struggle with many new cases of COVID-19, to this point thankfully, our city has seen little impact health-wise. We are planning to have our first open door service Wednesday, June 3. We will have many precautions in place for the foreseeable future, but, we are ecstatic to be able to meet again.
Jamie and I held an hour-long service as a part of our language school the last Friday in May. We sang several songs, I preached, and Jamie gave a lesson on Noah’s Ark – all in Portuguese. She did a wonderful job and I’m so encouraged by our progress with the language over the last few weeks. At times it feels like a never-ending uphill climb, but I’m thankful for God’s grace, our teachers, and the many opportunities the Lord has put in our path over the last few weeks to learn, practice, and minister to people.
I’ve had many churches ask recently about a video update. I sent one out last month and I will be sure to add it again this month on a link on our website. Please know we are all well and very excited to be seemingly near the end of the quarantine. Thank you for your continued care, prayer, and support of our ministry and family. We are excited for the days ahead and know that God has big plans for His Work! Let’s keep our eyes focused on Him and look for His return!
Love in Christ,
Keith, Jamie, Elaina, and Clayton
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