Out with the old, in with the new; Panama style

While traveling during the past week we kept seeing the oddest things decorating peoples yards and businesses along the streets.  We began asking around and found out that Panama has a unique custom of making scarecrows and burning them at midnight on New Year's Eve. They dress up and fill the scarecrows with newspapers and pieces of wood. I have to say we say some pretty creative pieces of work! As mid night approaches, everyone gathers outside their home and each family burns their scarecrow. The tradition says that this destroys all the bad things that took place in the past 12 months. The scarecrow also scares away any bad luck that might be approaching for the new year. Interesting tradition.

Of course it is yet another reminder of the way Satan has a hold on the people of Panama.  We know that our steps have been ordered and our future is ultimately in the hands the Lord. 

The Message 

^10-11This is God's Word on the subject: "As soon as Babylon's seventy years are up and not a day before, I'll show up and take care of you as I promised and bring you back home. I know what I'm doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for.

Merry Christmas from Panama

May your heart be lifted in praise this Christmas
for the wonderful gift of Jesus
and the joy He brings to our lives.
Have a wonderful Christmas
and a Blessed New Year.

A note from Jacob and Ally

Hey friends and family! We have had an amazing time in Panama these past two weeks and it will definitely be bittersweet to return home. As recent graduates from high school, we both really wanted to experience life as a missionaries and spend some dynamic time with the Louderbacks before we go off to college. Although this trip was filled with lots of fun things, God opened up some cool doors for us to do ministry in diverse ways. First we were able to work with the people of the Gamboa Indian Village. We partnered with a mission team from Ohio and helped them in their game plan to minister to that people group. This trip was accompanied by a pretty sketchy boat ride to the village, some rain, lots of soccer and butterflies. Weird combo, huh? Anyways, working with the Gamboa Indians was cool in that we got to play games with the kids, fellowship with the adults, pass out dental hygiene supplies, soap and medication, make salvation bracelets, sing songs, etc. It was a very cool experience because that people group is so independent, hardworking, and interesting. Their way of life is just so different that it opened up our eyes to a new culture. The second thing we were able to do was visit an orphanage here in Panama. We actually did this for two days and it definitely broke both of our hearts. We worked with about 19 2-4 year olds and to say the least, they were adorable. All they really wanted was someone to show them affection whether that was by a hug or by pushing them around in a little broken car. The kids stole our hearts and made a lasting impact on our lives. Whether they are special needs or not, they are precious children of God that simply need the love of a parent. Trust us, at 17 we would've adopted every single one of them if we could. Another thing we got to experience was a Panamanian kids camp. Yes, kids camp. We were both counselors for about three days for 3rd-5th graders at a place here in Panama. It was very cool for us to be able to invest in the lives of these kids that never really get to go to fun stuff like the camp. Pastor Andrew from Crossroads did an excellent job of coordinating the camp and the weekend paid off for sure. The kids learned more of what it means to be a light for Jesus Christ and how to shine that light to the world. It was encouraging to see the kids learn so much and get excited about sharing Jesus with their friends and families. These are just some of the things we did on this trip and we could both go on forever about all that God did. He is so faithful and it's such an honor to be able to serve Him in other countries. It'll be sad to leave Panama and the Louderbacks but maybe God will lead us back! Thanks for your prayers and please continue to pray for the UP team and all that they are doing for Gods kingdom.
In Christ,
Jacob Spencer and Ally Smith

Peeks Into Panama: Beautiful Views

One of the really cool things about living overseas is getting to visit a variety of different cultural locations and enjoy the beauty. We live within a short drive to some of the most beautiful beaches ever!  So, when we have a day off or a weekend without things on the calendar, we love to make a day trip to relax and enjoy the beauty.  This is a peek of one of the amazing views we are blessed to enjoy.

The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands. Psalm 19:1

Peeks into Panama: Public Buses

Thought you would enjoy seeing the lively public buses that travel around Panama.  Most Panamanians use these buses every day to get where they need to go.  You can ride around the city for just 25 cents.  Typically, we do not use the buses because although they are colorful, they tend to be a little rowdy and dangerous as well.

We do enjoy checking out all of the colorful painting each day though. :)

Peeks into Panama: The Heat!

As mentioned (possible several hundred times) Panama is HOT!  The average temperature is between 80 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit.  Currently, we are in the "summer" season in Panama which seems to stay closer to the 100 side of the average.  This past week, Tim put the temperature gage in the car just out of curiosity.  Here is what he found after a couple of hours! 

YIKES!

Peeks into Panama:Medical Fair

Peeks into Panama: Medical Fair

Recently, we were able to participate in a medical fair in an area we have been working called Santa Fe.  The day was a success on so many levels! Over 250 people were able to receive medical attention and medicine free of charge. Those same families had the chance to hear about how much God loves them and wants to have a relationship with them.  This picture is a group of children gathered to hear about the love of Jesus.  Precious faces and hearts!