Our trip from Rancho Santa Margarita, California to Boca del Rio, Sinaloa: 23 hours, 1000 miles, 1 loaded van, and lots of prayer for God’s safety… and God blessed us!  During the two day trip we did not have a single problem or difficulty!  Our minivan drove without any mechanical failure (our first trip in our vehicle),our luggage was protected from falling or theft, we had no difficulties with permits or customs at the border, Paco never once felt sleepy driving, and were not bothered by corrupt police or drug cartel violence on Mexican highways.  What a list of God’s blessing over our trip! 

At one point, a suspicious un-uniformed police stopped us to ask questions about our work and income, but in the middle of the questioning he was distracted with a phone call and waved us on without further delay.  The Lord’s divine protection, perhaps?  Either way, the Lord’s hand was obviously over us!

During the drive, a radio program mentioned a verse that perfectly described our trip: Deuteronomy 31:8 “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”  Thank you for your prayers, because God responded and went before us!

 Our discipleship time in Rancho Santa Margarita, California, though only 6 months long, has forever impacted us. We met so many people who truly seek to glorify God and follow the direction of the Holy Spirit with their whole lives. 

 Our time included classes at the school of ministry, assistance of both Spanish and English Bible studies, observation of daily church activities, homework assignments from Scripture, and evangelism and discipleship practices.

Through the wisdom and examples of the Calvary Chapel RSM staff, the loving Spanish congregation of Amor y Verdad, fellow school of ministry students, Bible study companions and home family, we learned to dedicate time to prayer, use every situation and opportunity to evangelize, and seek the Spirit in every decision.  We thank God for everyone that God used to make this discipleship experience possible for us!

 Paco and I experienced the true beauty of California on a weekend camping trip to Onion Valley of the Sierra Nevada.  Though we are not experienced campers, our loving host family equipped and cared for us with their extensive camping knowledge.  The weekend was perfect- the weather, the peace, the views…  It was stunning!  We hiked through the mountains to see a waterfall and a couple lakes- more than 10,000 feet elevation.   The best part of the trip was our fellowship with our host family- making smores, hiking, even fishing together!  It was a truly memorable experience- we thank God for His amazing creation of nature and abundant love for us, shown through this special family.