READY.......OR NOT????

Are we prepared to pay the cost of sanctification? 
Are we really prepared for God to perform in us everything for which He separated us?


Those were some of the questions posed in my devo today.  


I often ask God to separate me for Himself.  My hearts desire is to be set apart for His glory and His glory alone. I want my life to reflect Him in me (I am a work in progress!).  I constantly give Him authority over me and ask Him to have His way in my life.  Not my will but your will be done Lord.  
But after I read those questions, I thought "do I even know what I am asking when I pray all those things?"
Well, the answer is yes! I know exactly what I am asking.  I am asking God to have full reign in my life and I sincerely mean it.  However, am I prepared to go through the process and pay the cost of sanctification (being set apart), well, sometimes that is another story!


I have learned through my own experiences that saying yes is (usually) the easier part.  It's what happens after you say yes.  It's after you say yes and the sanctification process begins that we realize "uh oh....what is going on here?"
See I am ready for the end result (at least I tend to think I am!).  I am ready to be oh so holy and set apart.  What I am not ready for is the process to get there.  You know what I'm talking about.  It's when God begins to reveal things to you about yourself that you would rather not know, when the poking gets harder,  the convictions stronger, and the sacrifices and the cost become real.   But it's also when your time with God becomes sweeter, you feel stronger, and you receive fresh revelations of God's grace and of who He is.  
So I ask myself, am I prepared for the cost of sanctification? Am I prepared for God to perform in me everything for which He has separated me for?
More often than not, I don't quite feel prepared.  However I have decided that I will go through the process anyway.  God has always been faithful and He will give me the grace and the strength that I need to go through the process and come out victorious.  God wants to separate us for a purpose.  It's because He loves us and has plans for us, some that we know nothing about. There is something that He wants to do in us and through us, but first He wants to sanctify us.
When we say yes to God to whatever He is asking us to do, it is a process.   Some processes are short and some are way longer than we would like them to be.  But in order for us to get to the place where God wants us, we must allow the process to take place.




Lord, 
Help me submit to the process. Help me to trust in You with all of my heart and not lean on my own limited understanding.  May I walk through this process with grace and end up in the place You have prepared for me.  Set me apart daily for You.






Pa Lante y Pal Cielo!
Cece

Update!

Hi everyone!
Hope you are all doing well!
I know it's been a while since I have last updated so here is a quick "run down" of all the "happenings" from the last few months!!


November:
In November, the National Assemblies of God Church in Guatemala held a retreat for all the Pastors' Wives in the country.  The womens' ministry from my church was asked to coordinate all the logistical aspects for the event.  Over 800 women attended and it was a huge success!  The women of Iglesia Vida worked diligently to ensure that the ladies were well taken care of.  We had over 100 women volunteers from our church help out in the 3 day event.  I can brag on these ladies ALL DAY!  They were amazing!!!  What a privilege it was for me to work along side these women who served so humbly and with such joy from before sun up to well after sun down!

December:
Early in the year, I felt led to organize a multi-generational womens event.  Womens ministry (WM) in Guatemala is primarily for married women.  I felt strongly that all women needed to be included in WM.  I was given the opportunity to organize the event along with the WM leadership team.  It was an incredible night!  We had over 200 women from 13-80 worshiping God together, sharing a meal, and fellow-shipping. Debbie Amsler, an AG Missionary spoke on the importance of the older generation teaching the younger and declaring the works of the Lord to the next generation.  We celebrated every generation represented and praised God!

Mi Especial Tesoro Girls Home

December marked the end of English classes at the girls’ home.  I was able to celebrate Christmas with them (a few days before Christmas) and spend some time with each of the girls.  They each received purses filled with both necessities and some things for them to enjoy!  I will miss going to the home and seeing their precious faces weekly!

Thank you Chicago Tabernacle Transformed Youth Ministry for sponsoring the girls Christmas




What’s Happening NOW??!!!!

In January, Evangel Assemblies of God from Buffalo, New York brought a team to work with us.  Although most of the team came to do construction on the Bible School, we had the chance with a few ladies on the team to minister to some young ladies.  We spent 3 days visiting a shelter for abused women.  We did some crafts with them but most importantly we demonstrated the love of Jesus to them.  We did devotions every day and prayed with them.  At the end of the 3 days, 2 of the girls made a decision to accept Christ into their hearts.

This month, we have another team coming from Ontario, New York.  We will be ministering in public schools and working with a church plant. 

March 2^nd, I will be speaking at an event for young adult women.  I am looking forward to  sharing God’s heart for them!

Speaking of March, I will be leaving the “land of eternal spring” and heading back to “the windy city” on March 5^th.  My term here is ending, and I sense the Lord leading me back to Chicago for an indefinite amount of time.  I will continue to take online classes and work on obtaining my ministry credentials.  I am looking forward to all that God has for me in Chicago (not sure what that is yet, but I know it will be GOOD!!!)

I want to thank all of you for your continued prayers and support.  Please remember me in your prayers as I end my time here and prepare to return to the States.  I look forward to seeing many of you upon my return!

Pa’ Lante y Pal Cielo!
Cece

Busy Hands are Happy Hands!

I used to have a boss that whenever she came out of her office and saw us chatting she would say "busy hands are happy hands".  That was her way of telling us to get back to work!
Well, I gotta tell you, the women from Iglesia Vida have some very happy hands because our hands have been BUSY!

Every 2 years, the National AG Church here hosts a retreat for pastors wives from all over the country.  This year the executive board for the national womens ministry, asked our church if we would be able organize the event and take care of all the logistics.  The womens ministry at our church took on the challenge of organizing the event in November for over 800 pastors wives!  Since June, we have been organizing, recruiting, and planning like mad women!!!

Our goal is to make this the best and nicest retreat these women have attended.  We want them to feel special and loved.  The women come from all over the country....we will have women from deep within the interior of the country who cannot read, to educated women from the Capital.  The retreat is held at "The Tabernacle" which is a huge lot with a very big auditorium, a kitchen and dining area, and a few multi-purpose rooms. Most women that are not from the area, spend the 2 nights in one of the multi-purpose rooms.  From what I have heard, they are crammed in there  (some with their children) with thin blankets that are provied to them.  Our original desire this year was to have people from our church host some of the women (at least the women with children) and give them a warm place to sleep and rest.  Due to some logistical challenges, we will not be able to provide that for them.  So, we asked the women of the church if they could donate a warm, soft blanket we could give the ladies.  God provided even more!!!

A local factory heard about what we were doing and donated thousands (I don't even know how much!) of yards of fabric so that we can make blankets.  Soft, warm, fleece blankets!  Not only that, but God also provided a factory that would make the blankets for us.  We just had to cut the fabric into the sizes we needed and then take it to them! Here are some photos of the ladies working hard on cutting the fabric!!!

That's only about half of what was donated!

Working dilligently!

The sanctuary was turned into a factory!

second load being delivered!

Unloading the truck!

Aside from making the blankets, we also spent another day making the tableclothes and making the gift bags (not filling the girft bags...actually making the bags!)

My beautiful friend Karina cutting the cloth for the table runners

Cutting the paper to make the gift bags

making them just the right size

gifted seamstress

It has been such a blast and such a blessing working with these women!  Please pray for us as the time of the retreat is quickly approaching and there are still many details that need to be worked out.  I look forward to sharing with you all the wonderful things that God is going to do a this retreat. We want to demonstrate God's love to these women and show them that they are special to God and greatly appreciated!
By the way.....I'm not in the pictures, but I worked hard too....and not just taking the pictures!! :)

Pa' Lante y Pal' Cielo!!
Cece


Support:

Friends, I am still short of my monthly budget....Please pray about how you can partner with me financially either through a one time donation or by becoming a monthly donor. Thank you!

If you would like to make a donation in my name, you can send a check with Acct. # 2949329 written in the memo and send the check to

Assemblies of God World Missions
1445 North Boonville Ave
Springfield, MO 65802-1894
If you would like to become a monthly contributor please email me for furthur information
For automatic credit card withdrawal you can print off and fill out the form with my account number (2949329) on the website below… then send it to the AGWM address posted above.
http://ag.org/contributorservices_PDF/CRCDAUTH.pdf

Contact Me!!!
Here is my contact information
Email: cro1780@gmail
FaceBook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=726036343
Skype Name: Cicely Rosario
Mailing Address:
9A Calle A 8-59 Casa 14 Condominio Las Mercedes
Zona 8 de Mixco, CD San Cristobal
Guatemala, C.A

Protection, Provision, and Praise!

God is faithful. No matter what, God is faithful. When it's raining, He's faithful. When it's sunny, He is faithful. When we are going through trials, He is faithful. When we are rejoicing, He's faithful. When we are lacking, He is faithful. When we have in abundance, He is faithful. When we are sick, He's faithful. When we are healthy, He is faithful. Always, not sometimes. In every circumstance, in every situation, in every season. He is ALWAYS faithful.


Last week, I was on the highway, driving home from the girl’s home where I teach English. As I was driving, I noticed there was a red pick up truck behind me and it was really close to me. I tried to get into the next lane, but then I realized there was a white van driving next to me. I tried to speed up so that I could get ahead of the white van and merge into his lane, however, as my speed increased so did his. The red pick up also increased his speed keeping him right behind me. I was sort of "blocked in" by these two vehicles. During this time, I had been singing in my car (rather loudly) "Our God". I quickly realized that there was a chance that these 2 vehicles blocking me could present a problem. Something in my spirit told me this was not good! I started praying and singing to God. I did not just pray for protection; I praised God for His protection. I began to declare who He was, and sing "and if our God is for us, then who cold ever stop us....and if our God is with us, then who could stand against." I know that there is no room for the devil and his schemes when the children of God begin to praise God and declare His power and might....so that is what I did. Within 3-4 minutes, both cars sped away, and to be honest, I don't even know where they went! I praised God for His protection. I don't know the intention of the people in those vehicles, but I do know that God protected me from any scheme that the enemy may have tried to implement. He is faithful to watch and protect His children.

This week, once again, I experienced His faithfulness. Every 2 years, the Assemblies of God hosts regional retreats for its missionaries. This year it is in Costa Rica the week of Thanksgiving. Ideally, part of my monthly support is taken out and put into a fund to cover the expenses of the retreat. However, since my support has been low these last few months, anything that was in that fund was used to supplement my monthly disbursement (my salary). Needless to say, I was kind of disappointed that I wouldn't be able to go, thus staying here alone (all the other missionary families will be in C.R) for Thanksgiving. But again, God, in His faithfulness, has provided and made a way for me to go thanks to a family that has offered to cover my expenses!!! I cried when I found out because I was moved both by the generosity of this family and by the goodness of God. God is faithful!

Last night I had the opportunity to go see Marcos Witt (he is a Spanish worship leader/pastor....I grew up singing his songs) in concert. I had seen the billboard for months and planned on going, until I found out the tickets were $25. I know that may not seem like much, but for me these days, it is! I was disappointed but it wasn't a big deal. But again, God is so good!! A woman from my church had an extra ticket and I got to go for free!!!! I was so blessed.

I have had quite a bit of stress lately due to my support being low and also because I do not have a clue about what I am going to do at the end of my term in March. But, this week God showed me that I don't have to worry. He takes care of the big things (like a retreat for missionaries that I believe will help give me some direction for March) and also the desires of our hearts (like a concert). I am constantly in awe of my God! His faithfulness and His gentle care for me overwhelm me. I cannot help but give Him all of my praise! When our dependency is on God, He is faithful! He will NEVER let us down!

This is one of my favorite Psalms and this week I'm proclaiming it from the rooftops!!!!

Psalm 34:1-8 (emphasis mine)

I will extol the LORD at all times;
His praise will always be on my lips.
I will glory in the LORD;
Let the afflicted hear and rejoice.
Glorify the LORD with me;
Let us exalt his name together.
I sought the LORD, and He answered me;
He delivered me from all my fears.
Those who look to him are radiant;
Their faces are never covered with shame.
This poor man called, and the LORD heard him;
He saved him out of all his troubles.
The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him,
And he delivers them.
Taste and see that the LORD is good;
Blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.

Pa' Lante y Pal Cielo!
Cece


Support:

Friends, I am still short of my monthly budget....Please pray about how you can partner with me financially either through a one time donation or by becoming a monthly donor. Thank you!

If you would like to make a donation in my name, you can send a check with Acct. # 2949329 written in the memo and send the check to

Assemblies of God World Missions
1445 North Boonville Ave
Springfield, MO 65802-1894
If you would like to become a monthly contributor please email me for furthur information
For automatic credit card withdrawal you can print off and fill out the form with my account number (2949329) on the website below… then send it to the AGWM address posted above.
http://ag.org/contributorservices_PDF/CRCDAUTH.pdf

Contact Me!!!
Here is my contact information
Email: cro1780@gmail
FaceBook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=726036343
Skype Name: Cicely Rosario
Mailing Address:
9A Calle A 8-59 Casa 14 Condominio Las Mercedes
Zona 8 de Mixco, CD San Cristobal
Guatemala, C.A

Sweet Starbucks.......and other reminders of home.....

Earlier this summer, Starbucks opened its first store in Guatemala. I wasn't super excited and I'll tell you why.....Guatemala has some of the best coffee EVER! There are several coffee shops that have excellent coffee and they are Guatemalan owned companies. Also the Starbucks was in a part of the City that I was not familiar with. Lately, however, I have been missing home ALOT (I think it has something to do with the seasons changing...In the US of course, not here.....we only have 2 seasons.....wet and dry!). And since I can't just hop on a plane and go home for the weekend, I like to do something that reminds me of home. Sometimes it's eating something that reminds me of home (not the US but my actual family's home), sometimes it's browsing through Amazon for hours (I don't have a Borders here, and I have heard that neither do my friends in the States anymore, but when I had a lazy Saturday afternoon, I spent hours browsing books at Borders), and sometimes, it's just looking through pictures.

Since my latest bout of homesickness (not sure that's a word...but it is on my blog!), I have had the urge to go to Starbucks since SB's was part of my routine at home. The problem was, I didn't know how to get there! Well, this week I found out that another one opened in a mall that I actually know how to get to!!! I was so excited! Again, not so much because of the coffee, but because it was like a part of my "world" coming here to me!!

So, today, my roommate Amy and I ventured out to Oakland Mall. I parked in the underground parking and when we came up the escalators that took you into the mall, there at the top of the escalators, I saw this:



I cannot tell you how giddy I was (just ask my roommate Amy...I'm pretty sure I embarassed her). I heard the "halleluya chorus" in my head! I know it's silly (and perhaps even a little pathetic), but it just made me happy.  

My life is very different than it was a year and a half ago. I am thankful that God has been gracious to me and I have adapted rather well here.  He has giving me and continues to give me amazing oppurtunities. I am sincerly happy here and I really enjoy living and working here. However, every now and then, you can't help but miss home. And when "home" comes to you......well, it's a real delight!!!!!  I won't be frequenting Starbucks often, but it's nice to know where to find one when I find myself longing for something that reminds me of life back home!



My roommate Amy and I...She was super great about indulging my craving!








Special Treat...Starbucks AND Cinnabon



Cooking with my Goya products (the sazon and empanada disks were brought from the States), and drinking my Malta's always make me think of my moms kitchen!!!

Well friends, until next time,

Pa' Lante y Pal' Cielo!

Cece



'Enter that Rest"

Yesterday, during my time of prayer, I spent alot of time praying for myself.  Not for my needs and wants neccesarily, but for my spiritual life.  Asking God to fill me, to use me, to do with me as He would see fit.  I just wanted more of God.  The thing is, as I was praying for God to have His way with me, I started to get a little anxious...my mind wandered. Has that ever happened, you are praying and you are in "the zone" and then one little thing leads your mind to something else?  Sadly it happens to me more often than I'd like to admit! Well, as I was asking God to "have His way with me", I started to wonder....."God what is your will for my life?"  You see, I have some decisions I need to make in the next few months and I really want to hear from God about those decisions.  So I started to get anxious and ask God about it (yet again!).  It's good to bring all your anxieties to God because He cares about us...that's what the Bible says right?  Well yes, that is what the Bible says.  The problem is that I really wanted to spend time with God without the worries of tomorrow that always seem to creep into my quiet time.  I was trying to be very intentional and it was not working!

So, I decided I was going to silence my heart and my mind and just let God speak.  I sat in silence for a while and just waited for God to speak to me.  After a while, I sensed the Lord dropping Hebrews 4:11 in my mind.  I didn't know what that text consisted of but that is the scripture I felt the Lord impress on my heart.  So, I looked it up...

"Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest so that no one will fall by following their example of disobedience" 

I read that and at first I thought..."wow, that's great! yes, I will accept that invitation to rest in You".
And then I read it again, read the text before it, and meditated on what God was trying to tell me.

I started with the first part of the verse.....
"Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest..."

God wants us to enter into His rest.  That rest that He has reserved for His children. He wants us to come to Him and recieve the rest He has offered.  We need to be intentional about coming into His presence just to rest.  The problem is, I don't always do that. 
I enter with praise and thanksgiving, yes, but also with my list.  Sometimes, we need to put that list down and just rest in the arms of our Heavenly Father and in the assurance of His Word.

That was comforting to me and rather easy to accept from my Father.

Then I meditated on the second part....
"so that no one will fall by following their example of disobedience"
Ummmm, not so easy to swallow!
It hit me like a ton of bricks.....
When I don't rest in God, when I don't recieve that peace and rest He longs to give us, what I am saying to God is:
"I don't believe You are who You say You are"
"I don't trust You with my problems  and circumstances"
"I don't trust You with my future"
YIKES!!!!!!!!!!
The bible tells us to "trust in the Lord with all of our heart" (Prov 3:5), when we don't do that, we are being disobedient....hence, we are sinning. OUCH!

And that is not the kicker either....
The bible tells us that we are to be examples.  Why? Because others are watching us and our examples should lead people to Christ.  If others don't see us trusting God and resting in Him through our trials and circumstances, if they don't see us going to Him for rest, neither will they.  And that my friend, is tragic.
May my actions never lead someone away from Christ.

There is a saying that says:
"I don't know what the future holds, but I know Who holds my future"

I'm choosing to enter into His rest with the assurance of knowing that my Heavenly Father is in control of all things.  I don't need to fret about tomorrow because He has already been there!

Pa' Lante y Pal' Cielo!
Cece

Another Goodbye.....

They say that one of the hardest things about being a missionary is all the goodbye's....

The goodbye's to your family
The goodbye's to your friends back home
The goodbye's to your friends that leave the field
The goodbye's to the people you serve when you are the one leaving the field...
The goodbye's to the wonderful people you meet on teams...you minister together in a super intense way with them, and witness God rocking their world...and then at the end of the week...another goodbye....

Yesterday, there was yet another goodbye.....

There are 2 little girls, Vilma and Erika, who were living at the girls home where I teach English. They are 7 and 4. Yesterday was their last day at the home. They are being transferred to another home that is more age appropriate for them.

They came to the home a few months ago as an emergency situation. The court called the directors of the home and asked if they could take them in. The girls were living with relatives because they were in an abusive home, but the relatives were not taking good care of the girls either. When I first met them, a day after they arrived at the home, they were super shy. The skin on their feet was burnt from the sun, their hair was matted, and they didn't speak Spanish. They only spoke Quiche, which is one of the native Mayan languages in Guatemala, and they sat in a corner. Fast forward a few months later; they are chatty Cathy’s speaking in Spanish, affectionate, super cheerful, and praises to God are being sung from their lips. I cannot tell you how much I love these girls. From the moment I met them, I wanted to adopt them and bring them home with me. Seriously, I did. Unfortunately, that is not an option for me at this time, for many reasons!!!



The court system found a home that is more age appropriate for them, as Mi Especial Tesoro is a home for adolescent girls. I know that in one sense, it is better for them because the new home has resources specifically for children their age. However, I can't help to think....."What will become of their life?” I don't know if the new home is a christian home. I can only trust that the seeds that were planted in these few months are rooted deep in their hearts and will continue to grow. I am believing that He who began the good work in their lives is faithful to complete it.



I think saying bye to Vilma and Erika was the hardest goodbye yet. I've only been a missionary for a year and I have had enough goodbyes! But at 4 and 7, I think they have had to say more than their shares of goodbyes as well.

Until next time friends,
Pa' Lante y Pal' Cielo!
Cece

Be a part of what God is doing in Guatemala!

Beloved Brothers and Sisters,


Greetings from Guatemala! I pray this email finds you well.

God has been doing some amazing things here in Guatemala! For those that haven't seen my blog update, here is a brief summary of all that has been going on.

This summer I had the opportunity to work with 4 teams from around the USA and one team from Jamaica!. We ministered in various parts of the country through school and street evangelism, medical clinics, and construction projects. What a privilege to serve God's kingdom! The Word of God was heard by thousands of youth and children. Hundreds upon hundreds of people came to know Jesus as their personal Savior. The message of hope and love was spread throughout the country. Even as I am writing this, I am praising God for all He did this summer!

Kingdom work doesn't end when teams leave though! Currently, I am involved with 3 different ministries. I work with the local church and their women's ministry. This past weekend we had an event and saw many women set free by the Truth of His Word (for more about that, see my blog!). We have several outreaches planned for the next month and are working on some other events as well. I know that God is raising up women in Guatemala to be His hands and feet extended. This week I started the second "term" of English classes in the girls home. God has been doing an incredible work of restoration and healing in the lives of these young women, and God has allowed me the privilege to be a part of their lives. This summer the Lord placed in my heart a desire to begin a small bible study group with 3 college age girls in my home. I am excited to see what God is going to do in all our lives as we journey together through the Word of God.

I am so thankful for the opportunity to serve God in this beautiful country. I have witnessed his faithfulness and goodness time and time again. I am so thankful to all the people that have supported me both financially and through prayer and encouragement throughout this last year.

A few weeks ago, I read this quote: In a spiritual sense, missionaries are sent by God. In a practical sense, they are sent by laypersons with a vision for missions. We have God, missionaries and laypersons. Remove any one of these three factors and effective missions work will no longer exist. — Jerry Burgess

This statement could not be any more true!! Missionaries cannot do the work of the Lord without you!!

Unfortunately, due to various circumstances, my financial support has dropped significantly in the last few months. I am asking that you would consider how you could be a part of what God is doing in Guatemala. I know not everyone can come here and minister (although I'd LOVE to have you come!!!!), but you are able to play a significant role in what the Lord is doing here. Here is how;

Pray: Sow seeds of prayer into Guatemala...Please pray for: me and the ministries God has placed before me and the people of Guatemala-that they would have open hearts

Give: It is only because of my supporters that I am able to be here and commit my time fully to the service of God. Would you prayfully consider being a monthly supporter or giving a one time gift? I have attached the necessary forms that you can print out and mail.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this. Again, I am eternally thankful for all the support I have received thus far. God has blessed me incredibly thus far and I am confident that He will continue to provide.

The words of the apostle Paul ring true from my heart....

"I thank God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now..."
Phil. 1: 3-5

Pa Lante y Pal' Cielo! (onward and upward!)
Cicely

Support:
you would like to make a donation in my name, you can send a check with Acct. # 2949329 written in the memo and send the check to

Assemblies of God World Missions
1445 North Boonville Ave
Springfield, MO 65802-1894


If you would like to become a monthly contributor please email me for furthur information
For automatic credit card withdrawal you can print off and fill out the form with my account number (2949329) on the website below… then send it to the AGWM address posted above.
http://ag.org/contributorservices_PDF/CRCDAUTH.pdf

Food, Friends, and FREEDOM!!!

This past weekend, the Womens Ministry at Iglesia Vida hosted an event for the women of the church as well as their (women) friends and family.  The theme of the night was "You Have Made Me Free" and indeed the Lord set women free.  We had a lovely traditional dinner together and enjoyed some wonderful fellowship. It was great getting to know some of the women and hearing their stories.  Afterward, we worshiped together and even before the sermon and the alter call, started proclaiming freedom in Christ.  At the end several women responded to the alter call.  All of them desiring to be set free in some area in their lives.  It was so incredible to pray Gods truth and His promises over these women and see Gods peace settling over them.  It was an incredible time of blessing. 

Pastor Sarai bringing the message of hope and freedom

Yummy tradional Guatemalan food

Leadership Team....all wearing traditional Guatemalan blouses

I just added this pic because I LOVE this little boy!!!

"So if the Son sets you free, you will be free inded" John 8:36

Pa Lante y Pal' Cielo!

Cece

Shortcuts, Roadblocks, and Detours

A few days ago I had to drive into Guatemala City.  I needed to get to the immigration office to renew my visa.  I live in San Cristobal, which I consider to be a "suburb" of Guatemala City.  It's not a very big town. In fact, there is only one main boulevard.  There are 3 ways out of San Cristobal, but only 2 that take you directly into the City. 

Usually I take the Blvd. and go east (sort of...no road here is straight...but the general direction was east).  As I was leaving San Cristobal and coming into the City, I noticed that the traffic was way backed up. Not wanting to wait (I wanted to get to the immigration office before lunch time), I turned around, and took the other way because I thought "surely, that will be quicker".  As I was approaching the City, I realized, one of the main roads had been blocked (protesters) and they were having people detour.  Essentially, they were sending people back, to go the way I was originally going through!  Except, in Guatemala, it's not as simple as  going up one block and turning around on the other and going back. Nope, I had to literally go around the mountain!  Seriously, at this point, I had absolutly no clue where I was headed.  I was following the flow of traffic but even then, I was not certain where I was going to end up.  Thank God I had filled up my tank of gas the day before because I was driving for a long time!  As I was driving I kept thinking "surely this is not quicker than if I would have just waited!" At the end of the detour (mind you, there are no signs, no cones, no one directing you...they just tell you to take this road....and it's a long, windy one!), I ended up on a road that I was very familair with (thank God!)  Traffic was flowing ok.  What I realized was, if I had waited for a few minutes in that original traffic jam, I would have made it to this road where the cars were actually moving at a relatively decent pace, and would have been where I needed to be already.  Instead, becuase I was impatient, I took my "shortcut", and although I got to where I needed to be, it took me way longer than it should have.......

Well, isn't that like our life sometimes?  Sometimes we are on track to go somewhere in our life, and we wait on God.  And although we don't realize it, He has us on the road that will take us to our destination.  We grow impatient and get tired of waiting.  We decide we are going to speed things up a little. After all, I know where I'm supposed to be, what I'm supposed to be doing, etc....so why do I need to wait on God.  He seems to be taking forever.  And so we go on our way, and we do things our way instead of waiting on God.  I know I've done that before....please make a sister feel a litlte better and tell me I'm not the only one! :) Much like my "road trip" we encounter "road blcoks" that God did not intend  for us to encounter.  The "shortcut" is not always shorter.  We get lost for a little while because we have gone off track and taken the "detour".  But you know what I am thankful for?  I'm thankful that God, in His abundant grace, leads us back to the road we were suppossed to be on, and once we are back on that road, we realize, "yea, this may take longer than I think it should take, but this way is so much smoother"

I am often tempted to take the shortcut or rush things along.  Especially when I feel like God is not answering me in a timely fashion.  But God, in His gentleness reminds me that "his ways are higher than my ways and his thoughts higher than my thoughts".  Just because I think something should go a certain way, or happen at a certain time, doesn't mean that's the best way.  Trusting God and having complete and total faith in God is not easy, but it is something that is utterly neccesary in this walk. 

So next time you are tempted to take the shortcut, just think of me, driving around (again...literally) the mountain with my windows up (because I didn't know where I was and if I was safe or not), a little freaked out, and wasting precious time! And remember that "He works all things together for the good of those who love Him" (even traffic jams can be for our good!!)

Pa' Lante y Pal Cielo!!!

Cece

"He has made everything beautiful in His time"

12 Things

I have been here 12 months......soooooooo....here are 12 things I've learned since I have been here:
1. God is faithful!  (I knew that before.....but I know it now at a whole new level!!!)

2.  If you ever get caught by a rip tide.....swim parallel to the shore, not toward the shore!

3. My puerto rican spanish words, don't always mean the same thing in Guatemalan spanish.

4. It doesn't matter how many good works you do, if you're not spending time with God, it means nothing.

5. Guatemalans clap on the off beat.  It drives me a little insane.  I'm still not used to it!

6. When you ask for directions from Guatemalans....a common answer "la carretera te lleva"....that means "the road will take you there"  Often times, it doesn't!

7.  On any given day, it could take you 2 hours to get somewhere that is 15 minutes away, because of mudslides, protests, or just crazy traffic!!  Chicago traffic has NOTHING on Guatemala traffic!

8. Guatemala has many beautiful places that no one knows about.

9. I have learned how to bargain like it's nobody's business.

10. Missionaries are super normal (at least most of them...and maybe not super normal...but pretty normal!)

11. My cute Honda CRV is NOT a 4 wheel drive vehicle

12.  Many are the plans in a mans heart, but it is the Lords purpose that prevails.  That truth has been such a reality in my life this past year......and I am so grateful for that His plans are better than mine!

Truthfully,  God has taught me so many beautiful things.  I have learned so much about ministry, missions, myself, and Him! This has been an incredible year!  Perhaps some day we can sit and have a cup of coffee and I can tell you all the wonderful things God has shown me!

Love you all!!!

Cece

It's Been A Year!

So I have been here an entire year! I can't even believe it.  Here is a video update to let you all know what has been going on the last few months.  It's been a great year!!!!!  Much Love!  xoxoxoxoxo

Support:

Currently, I am about 30% short of my monthly budget....Please pray about how you can partner with me financially either through a one time donation or by becoming a monthly donor. Thank you!

If you would like to make a donation in my name, you can send a check with Acct. # 2949329 written in the memo and send the check to
Assemblies of God World Missions
1445 North Boonville Ave
Springfield, MO 65802-1894

If you would like to become a monthly contributor please email me for furthur information
For automatic credit card withdrawal you can print off and fill out the form with my account number (2949329) on the website below… then send it to the AGWM address posted above.
http://ag.org/contributorservices_PDF/CRCDAUTH.pdf

Contact Me!!!

Here is my contact information
Email: cro1780@gmail
FaceBook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=726036343
Skype Name: Cicely Rosario

Home Address:

9A Calle A 8-59 Casa 14 Condominio Las Mercedes
Zona 8 de Mixco, CD San Cristobal
Guatemala, C.A

Thank You for an Awesome Year!!

Hey Everyone! Here is a slideshow that highlights some of my time here in Guatemala!  Thank you for making this year possible!  God Bless!

Cece

9 Months!!!!

Today marks 9 months that I have been living in Guatemala.  I cannot believe how fast time flies!  It seems like just yesterday I was saying goodbye to my friends and family.  I remember being in the car when I first arrived, while my roommate drove me places thinking..."I'm never going to learn how to get around...every street curves and goes around in a circle!!!" But alas, I realized I wasn't as directionally challenged as I though I was (although I have gotten "turned around" a few times!).


This past week, I met with the Area Directors for Central America.  They asked me about my experience here and how things were going.  As I was talking to them, I realized truly how blessed and favored I am.  I'd even call it a little spoiled!!!!  Let me share with you some of the things I am so thankful for during my season here....


I have to start with being super duper thankful for the Musacchio family.  I have had the rare privallage of being a Missionary Associate (MA) and working under a family that truly is like family to me.  My time of working with them has been such a God thing.  I really believe that God used them so greatly in moving me not only to Guatemala but into this season of my life.  They took me under their wing and I am treated no differently than if I were family.  There have been so many ways they have blessed my life and looked out for me! This blog would be extremly long if I went into all the ways they have helped me!!

The Musacchio family

Since the Musacchio's are leaving Guatemala (but not missions!), I have the privallage of working with another family now.  The Ramos'.  They are AG Missionaries who have been on the field for 10 years now.  I met them shortly after I arrived.  They have welcomed me into their home (every Sunday night to watch Celebrity Apprentice!!!) and into their lives.  I can see how God ordained the relationship I have with them long before it was decided I would work with them.  God has given me favor with them and they too have blessed my life.  I am super thankful for them!

Victoria and I with the Ramos'

My roommate Victoria- I tell you, I am so glad she was here when I got here!!  She showed me the ropes (and still is), introduced me to people, and did everything she could to ensure a smooth transition.  I am so thankful that she is not only my roommate but also my friend.


Safety-As many of you know, Guatemala is a pretty crime infested country.  I have to thank God every day for His protection and His covering (thank you all for the prayers).  There have been times where I have clearly seen how God protected me in a situation, but I know that there are so many other times, when I don't see whats going on, but God is protecting me.


Favor-Not only has God granted me favor with the Musacchio's and the Ramos', but also with my car dealer/mechanic.My car was purchased from a dealer owned my a former member of Vida Church (the church plant John helped start).  When I purchased it, he said that if I ever had any problems to bring it in.  In the past 2 months I have had to take the car in twice for different reasons (one big, one small).  Both times, they only charged me parts and not labor.  That was a huge blessing to me as we all know that most of the time, labor is the bigger cost.  The family that owns the dealer drove me to run my errands while the car was in the shop and continues to make themselves available if I need something, whether its car related or not.  I truly believe that that is God's favor in my life.


God'sTiming-This has been a season of transition for many of the people around me, including myself.  But in every change, I can see God's hand and His divine timing.  Sometimes we don't understand why God does or allows certain things when He does, but I have learned and truly seen His sovereignty these past nine monts.  Truly, He makes everything beautiful in His time!  I am so thankful that He knows the right time for things and doesn't leave it all up to us!!! 



Bible Study-Back in September (I think) we started a bible study group with some of the women from our field.  We started with 5 and ended up with 4 as one of our sisters left back to the States to itinerate.  This was one of my favorite times of the week.  Tuesday mornings we would meet at someones house, have breakfast, talk about our week, and delve into a Beth Moore bible study.  It has been such a blessing for me to be part of this group of women.  Every woman in this group is in a totally different stage of their life.  I learned so much not only from the Word of God but also from these women.  They blessed me more than they will know!


Skype-Seriously, I don't know how missionaries got along without this amazing invention for so many years!  It may sound silly, but its been a blessing to have.  I have been able to keep in touch with family and friends.  Believe me, being able to call home has comforted my heart many times!!!


I am thankful for so much more daily!  I am especially thankful for all of you that support me financially and through prayer.  I am thankful for the FB messages and emails.  You all truly have no idea what they mean to me.


There are quite a few changes coming up and I will be informing you all of those changes (all good), but in the meantime, please continue to pray for me.  Love you all very much!!!


Pa lante y pal cielo!
Cece

Support:

Currently, I am about 30% short of my monthly budget....Please pray about how you can partner with me financially either through a one time donation or by becoming a monthly donor. Thank you!


If you would like to make a donation in my name, you can send a check with Acct. # 2949329 written in the memo and send the check to


Assemblies of God World Missions
1445 North Boonville Ave
Springfield, MO 65802-1894

If you would like to become a monthly contributor please email me for furthur information

For automatic credit card withdrawal you can print off and fill out the form with my account number (2949329) on the website below… then send it to the AGWM address posted above.

http://ag.org/contributorservices_PDF/CRCDAUTH.pdf


Contact Me!!!
Here is my contact information
Email: cro1780@gmail
FaceBook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=726036343
Skype Name: Cicely Rosario
Home Address:
9A Calle A 8-59 Casa 14 Condominio Las Mercedes
Zona 8 de Mixco, CD San Cristobal
Guatemala, C.A

Are We Abiding or Simply Coming?

I have started reading the devotional "Abide in Christ" by Andrew Murphy.  I'm only 2 days in but it is really challenging me.  Andrew asks are we satisfied with simply coming to God, allowing Him to forgive our sins  grant us salvation, and answer our petitions, or are we abiding in Him. There is nothing wrong with that really, but God wants more from us and for us.
To abide means "remain; continue; stay"

I think many times we wake up in the morning, have our prayer times and devotions, and then go about our day.  Thats great, we should have that time with God every day, but we are suppossed to abide in God.  We are to stay with Him, continue our day with Him, and remain near to Him.  I know thats not always easy when there are a million things on our "to do" list.  But I think, "wow, how different would my life be if every moment of the day I was abiding in Him?....if I made a continuous conscience effort to to remain in Him?"
I am not there yet, but that is where I strive to be.  In a place where I am walking in His prescence every moment,where I am always mindful of the fact that He is right next to me.

God doesn't want us to just come to Him, He wants us to abide in Him.  John 15:4 says that when we abide in Him, we bear fruit.  God wants us to experience His pleasures and delight in His goodness. Andrew Murray said "Who would, after seeking the King's palace, be content to stand at the door, when he is invited in to dwell in the King's presence, and share with Him in all the glory of His royal life?"  The King of Kings has invited us to dwell in His presence and share in His glory!!!!  Thats pretty amazing!  Lets RSVP to that invitation with a big fat YES!  I don't want to stand at the door of the palace, I want to live in the palace with my Father the King.  Let us not simply come to Jesus, let us abide in Him and experience the fullness of who He is.

Shoes, Evangelism, Shoes, Translating, Shoes, and a little R&R

February was a BUSY month! Nevertheless it was very exciting!!





kids at the school singing along

 Along with the usual teaching English at My Special Treasure (the girls home we work at) and working with Outlanders (the MK youth group), we had the privallage of working with a team. John and Liz Ramos are AG (Assemblies of God) missionaries here that are building a Bible School for the National Church in a village right outside the city of Quetaltenango. They had a team come from New York and S. Carolina for a week.
Half of their team was construction and the other half was evangelism. Victoria (my roommate) and I worked with the evangelism team as translators. We had such an amazing time. We left on a Thursday afternoon and traveled up to Quetzaltenango, which is the second largest city in Guatemala. We spent the week ministering at schhols as well as doing open air evangelism in the village where the school is being built. It was incredible to see children, teens, and even teachers give their life to the Lord. God is moving and making himself known all throughout this beautiful country. The presence of the Lord was certainly felt while the teams were ministering.  I was so blessed to see hope in the faces of children and teens who, before hearing about Jesus, were in what seemed to them as hopeless situations. I got to pray with some of the girls at the schools and encourage them in our Lord. Not only did I encourage them, but I was refreshed as well.  

praying for students at a high school

translating at a church service



Before the team arrived, they raised over $6000 to buy shoes for the children in the village and the kids in some of the poorer schools. Prior to the teams arrival John Ramos went to a local shoe store and told them he wanted to purchase 400+ shoes. The store said they would go out to the village and the schools and measure each child so they would have the proper size shoe! That was a huge blessing to all of us because it helped keep things controlled and organized when we handed them out. We scheduled 2 days to hand out the shoes. The children, as well as their parents, were so blessed by this act of kindness from the team. Many of the kids came with shoes that had holes and rips in them and to be able to recieve a brand new pair of quality shoes was a huge blessing. In 2 days we gave out more than 400 shoes!

Team with the shoes

We were with the team for a full week before they had to head back to Guatemala City.  Since Victoria and I had a retreat to attend on Friday in yet another part of the country, we decided to hang back instead of making the 4 hour drive back.  On Thursday, we stayed with some friends in Quetzaltenango who are also missionaries and got to hear about the amazing things God is doing in their ministry.

After a full week, on Friday we headed out to Panahachel, a little town right on Lake Atitlan.  Once a year, there is a retreat held for all the missionaries in Guatemala.  It is interdenominational and a time of refreshing.  Needless to say, Victoria and I were looking forward to it!  We had a wonderful time of rest and relaxation, while meeting new friends, and were refreshed by the Spirit of God!

This month, I began Berian Bible School online so please pray for me!!  I am enjoying it and am looking forward to digging deeper into God's word!

Once again, thank you all for your prayers and support!  They are GREATLY appreciated.

Pa Lante y Pal Cielo!
Cece

Support:
Currently, I am about 30% short of my monthly budget....Please pray about how you can partner with me financially either through a one time donation or by becoming a monthly donor.  Thank you!

If you would like to make a donation in my name, you can send a check with Acct. # 2949329 written in the memo and send the check to
Assemblies of God World Missions
1445 North Boonville Ave
Springfield, MO 65802-1894


If you would like to become a monthly contributor please email me for furthur information


For automatic credit card withdrawal you can print off and fill out the form with my account number (2949329) on the website below… then send it to the AGWM address posted above.
http://ag.org/contributorservices_PDF/CRCDAUTH.pdf

Contact Me!!!
Here is my contact information
Email: cro1780@gmail
FaceBook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=726036343
Skype Name: Cicely Rosario
Home Address:
9A Calle A 8-59 Casa 14 Condominio Las Mercedes
Zona 8 de Mixco, CD San Cristobal
Guatemala, C.A