Atlanta, GA
Last weekend Katie and I had the privilege of attending the 20th Year celebration of Frontline Missions in Atlanta, GA. During Katie's senior year of high school her parents moved to DC due to a job transfer, and she elected to stay behind to finish her high school career in Atlanta. Heidi and Alan Winter opened their home and hearts to her and became a second set of parents to her. They poured into Katie during that year and made her a part of their family. I can say that I now feel a part of their family, as well - along with countless others they have "adopted" over the years.
Sadly, Alan Winter passed away earlier this year from complications resulting from a stroke on a flight to Colombia, but his wife Heidi, their three children, and the rest of the team have continued to demonstrate the love of the Father to the nations.
On Friday night, we attended the event which was hosted by a local church. They gave a presentation of the work they have been doing and continue to do in Central and South America. It was inspiring and encouraging to hear the stories of how they are sharing God's love and hope with people in Venezuela, Columbia, Guyana, Honduras, and Brazil.
On Saturday we were able to meet several team members who serve in Central & South America, and it wasn't long before we heard English, Spanish, and some Portuguese being spoken and translated in the kitchen of the Winter house. Words fall short of adequately describing the joy I sensed in that house but I remember thinking, "This is another small glimpse of the Kingdom of God." After hours of sharing together, we gathered in the living room and worshiped in all of our languages. Songs were interspersed with laughter and stories and I felt completely at home.
I had to be back in Myrtle Beach on Sunday morning for church services, so we had to leave that evening but stayed as long as we could. As we said our goodbyes, they all gathered around and prayed for us. It was an indescribable experience as our new brother from Venezuela, Roberto, prayed for us in Spanish. No one translated but I don't think anyone had trouble understanding. There was so much more that God spoke to us both that I can share later, but I can say that Katie and I left that house refreshed and more affirmed in and sure of God's call on our lives.
Sadly, Alan Winter passed away earlier this year from complications resulting from a stroke on a flight to Colombia, but his wife Heidi, their three children, and the rest of the team have continued to demonstrate the love of the Father to the nations.
On Friday night, we attended the event which was hosted by a local church. They gave a presentation of the work they have been doing and continue to do in Central and South America. It was inspiring and encouraging to hear the stories of how they are sharing God's love and hope with people in Venezuela, Columbia, Guyana, Honduras, and Brazil.
On Saturday we were able to meet several team members who serve in Central & South America, and it wasn't long before we heard English, Spanish, and some Portuguese being spoken and translated in the kitchen of the Winter house. Words fall short of adequately describing the joy I sensed in that house but I remember thinking, "This is another small glimpse of the Kingdom of God." After hours of sharing together, we gathered in the living room and worshiped in all of our languages. Songs were interspersed with laughter and stories and I felt completely at home.
I had to be back in Myrtle Beach on Sunday morning for church services, so we had to leave that evening but stayed as long as we could. As we said our goodbyes, they all gathered around and prayed for us. It was an indescribable experience as our new brother from Venezuela, Roberto, prayed for us in Spanish. No one translated but I don't think anyone had trouble understanding. There was so much more that God spoke to us both that I can share later, but I can say that Katie and I left that house refreshed and more affirmed in and sure of God's call on our lives.
It was such a joy to finally meet you in person!
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