March 2010

The Johnson Family Journal

I will proclaim the name of the Lord. Oh, Praise the greatness of our God! He is the rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he.
Deuteronomy 32:3&4
Our family kicked off the New Year with yet another Calvary Chapel Mission’s Conference in January. Once again, we were filled with encouragement, edification, and strength from various speakers including Pastors, missionaries, and former missionaries.
We are happy to announce a new addition to our team here at Rancho Casitas. Jen Dahlin came on board full time in January to serve as school teacher for our children. We are so grateful for her servant’s heart and her desire to serve in this capacity. Steve continues to teach Bible and Math first thing in the morning. I pick up with History and reading, and then send the boys off to our “Little Red School House” to be taught by Jen. Joy, Sue, and I take turns serving as aides in the classroom with Jen during the week. She’s an incredible addition to our team and we praise God for her service.
A major storm system hit us hard in Baja on January 19th creating flooding and new landscape along the way. By the early morning hours of January 21st our family felt it was wise to evacuate our home. The creek behind our home (normally dry) had over flown its banks and huge boulders were being pushed down stream by the raging current. We spent the remainder of that night in one of our vehicles. It took some work for us to repair and replace our driveway in order to leave our property via car. During the heart of the storm, Micah commented “Hey Mom, first the fires now the floods. Do you think Jesus is trying to tell us He’s coming back soon?” Hmmm. He is so good and so faithful. No one was harmed during this time and not one structure was lost either. Praise His Holy name!
February 5th – 7th we hosted our first ever “Rancho Casitas Repair Weekend.” In total, 7 different churches were represented. We were in awe of how much was accomplished although another storm system moved in. No one complained of having to work in the mud and the mire. We were able to begin some renovation and remodeling in the kitchen of the “Comedor (Dining hall).” The fellowship was the highlight of the weekend for our family.
Rounding out this month; we hosted groups for 17 consecutive days. A total of 16 homes were built and given to those in need here in Baja from March 5th – March 28th. Twelve of the homes were built in 8 days. Again, God is so good and so faithful. He alone deserves the praise. We think of those who survived the flooding in this area who now have a roof over their heads and a floor under their feet. Praise God for faithful followers of Christ who answered the call and showed up to build and give a simple love gift in His name.
We continue to give thanks and praise for faithful partners in prayer and giving. We prayerfully lift each of you up as you continue to minister to us in these ways. We continue to receive encouragement by the investment you’ve made in our lives, in this ministry, and God’s kingdom.

As always, ever grateful to be in His Hands of Mercy,
Steve, Sara Lee, Micah, and Josiah