Christina's Corner: Taking Every Moment Captive

I realized the other day what an experience I have living here in El Salvador. I it hit me that everyday here is special to the Lord's plan for my life. I also realized that I need to take every moment captive and not waste my time here.  Life is too precious to just go through the motions. What teenager has a chance to live in a third world country, learn another language and be a part of a work of God? I realized what an opportunity the Lord has given me, to teach me things about myself I never knew, to stretch me and strengthen me and pour His love into me. The Lord continually reminds me that my life is not my own and to embrace His plan for my life. The other day I recieved a letter from a complete stranger. I was deeply touched  that someone who does not know me personally would write a letter to encourage me and tell me to keep trusting the Lord because he knows the plans of my life better than I do. The letter touched my heart and really made me realize the Lord has every thing in control and that I need to trust Him whole-heartedly. It also made me realize that not only am I loved by God but loved by people. It made me realize that I have people back home loving me and praying for me everyday. The Lord revealed to me that even though I am far away from friends and family, I am still loved and that even though I may feel distant from the Lord, that He still loves me. The Lord is so good and so faithful and so loving. 

                                                        -Christina Pursley-

La Victoria!

After 6 months, two attorneys, many dollars and multiple trips to Extranjeria (immigration), we received our temporary residency visas! We had exactly one week left before our tourist visa expired and we would potentially have had to leave the country, return, and start the process all over again. Thank you to all who faithfully prayed for this day.

One of the local pastors jokingly offered to act as our "coyote" and get us across the river if it didn't work. At least I think he was joking. Attached is a photo of the simple little stamp that gives us permission to stay for another 3 months. Who would have thought it would take so much to get a stamp? Now we have to go through an interview process and further review of all our documents to be issued a one year residency visa. I understand that this is usually a formality but would still appreciate your continued prayers.