December, 2009

December 2009

Dear friends, family, and partners in ministry,

Happy New Year and Seasons Greetings. The end of a year is a great time to reflect on how we are living our lives and on what God is doing to transform us. I, probably like you, tend to remember what I should forget and forget what I should remember.
Almost every week I have the opportunity to talk to groups at Rancho Casitas. I try to always remind groups that we as the American church have a greater need to give than those in Mexico have to receive. While the needs in Mexico are real and sometimes seem urgent, I must agree with Jesus that it is more blessed to give than to receive. Many of the groups faced “well meaning” opposition to their ministry trips to Mexico this year, but found that they were especially blessed for their demonstration of faith.
October brought a brush fire that threatened both the Johnson and VanNes homes here at Rancho Casitas. The fire came within about 100 feet of both structures. Mexican firefighters, military and friends all joined in to fight the fires and save the homes. Thank you for your prayers during the fires.
The gift of lofthomes continues to meet the needs of families that lack adequate housing. God has used the little lofthomes to change lives on both sides of the border. It is our prayer that stepping out in faith to serve in Mexico will open doors for many to serve in other countries around the world. For example, in our family, Shelby (18) was able to serve in Ethiopia and Shirlee (19) is preparing to go to Kenya with a team from Biola. Both girls are enjoying their time at Biola and doing well in their classes.
Jen Dahlin has joined our team in Mexico and in addition to hosting groups, is helping teach the missionary kids here at Rancho Casitas. Jen is a credentialed schoolteacher and it is a blessing to have her here. Cade (15) and Colton (14) are both in high school and Jen is helping tutor them while Sue is starting Shaina (5) in Kindergarten. Sue is also helping out in the school at Pastor Bogar’s church in El Zorillo on Fridays. She is teaching English to three different classes while Shaina attends the Kindergarten class for three hours. Shaina really loves going to school.
We know 2009 has been a challenging year for us and for many of you as well, but we know that God is faithful to bring new growth and fruit even in times of pruning and trial. We truly covet your prayers and are so encouraged by those who come to visit us. Thank you for your support and may God richly bless you in 2010.

The McCoys

John 15:1,2 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit.”

427 S Center St., Redlands, CA 92373
Email: mccoycoffee@gmail.com