I pull my rain jacket hood tight as I walk through the mud to Las Asemblas de Dios, a small church in the mountains of Chuma. But even the gloomy weather cannot put a damper on tonight. Tonight is a night of celebration. Samaritan’s Purse Bolivia is partnering with Las Asemblas de Dios in order to establish a Christian radio station in the town. RADIO PESCADOR 97.1 FM will be controlled by Pastor Jose Luis who works with Samaritan’s Purse.
I walk into the small, but cozy church building. The evening begins with worship and praise,
“The radio will be a powerful tool. We need to thank God for it.”
The words almost throw themselves at my face and cause me to question, “Am I a grateful individual? How often do I actually thank God for things in my life: tools, people, events,etc?” Before my thoughts become bogged down by my selfishness, my mind returns to the service. Various pastors speak in front of a congregation describing their hopes to reach over 31,000 listeners. They pray for wisdom.
“We have a device to give these people more than words – we have the chance to give them words of LIFE.”
As the service ends, Pastor Jose Luis invites us to see the radio. We climb up the hills of grass and mud to reach the home where the radio is stationed. My deep breathing is a clear indicator that the 15 minute hike is no walk in the park, but the trek does not hinder this congregation. As I try to catch my breath, anxious church members scurry into a room to see the transmitter.
 |
| Long trek uphill. |
From afar, I can see teenagers giggle and beg family members to take photos. Children’s eyes light up as they look at the red lights on the alien looking machine. We filter up the stairs into the area where Jose Luis’ voice should echo. But before my ears hear his words, rain drops showers on my head. I immediately look around and expect to see people racing towards their homes. Buckets of water pour from clouds, but the congregation does not flee. Instead, feet run to any forms of shelter - overhangs, random door spaces- all around the radio. These people are still eager to listen.
 |
| Everyone is excited about this radio. |
 |
 |
| Listening to the radio live. |
Groups congregate around phones and the radio room to hear the slight echoes of the Pastor Jose Luis on 97.1 FM. “We want to reach every corner of our village, so that our people will know Jesus.” The faces of the congregation glow with excitement. I look at the radio and again see lights blinking on a piece of metal. But this time, I see it not as a machine working properly. I see it as a tool coming to life.
May we all learn to use the tools around us to impact our own cities. And may we remember to thank Him who has given us such tools.
-kc
 |
“There will be fruit. Much fruit. And it all will be for God’s glory.”
– Enrique
|
 |
| I managed to snag a photo with some of the ladies! |
No comments:
Post a Comment