Then the angel said to them, `Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying `Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men`. Luke 2:10-14
I have often wondered what it was like for those shepherds, working the sheep shift in the cool night, and then to suddenly have an evening angelic chorus singing like they were the only people on the earth. Front row seats without having to pay admission, great for guys on a tight budget. They probably wouldn’t have even thought about the concession stand, the greasy popcorn and watered down soda, being totally captivated by the greatest spectacle on earth. Let me tell you a little but well known secret. Even if you and I were the only persons on this earth, Jesus would still have come for us. To save you and me from the eternal death penalty that sin brings is sometimes a little hard for me to grasp. I guess that’s why it is called GRACE, we didn’t deserve His coming to earth but I am thankful He did. Enjoy this special time of the year and do not be afraid to wish someone a blessed Christmas because that is what it’s all about! That special time of the year where the good news still is the “Reason for The Season!”
We reflect back now on the year 2008 with some of the precious moments that we have been blessed to witness and share.
The Samaritan Foundation and H.O.P.E. Sewing Centre
1)More than 70 families have received a home this year. Moving from rented shacks to a newly constructed block home of their own brings a new level of hope and a fresh start!
2)Two medical clinics have opened; over 2000 people now have access to medical attention.
3)A new school has opened to educate over 100 children who had no opportunity to learn before.
4)Another church is almost completed which will provide a large facility to bring the good news of Jesus Christ to the lost and unsaved.
5)The sewing centre has increased its variety of craft items and is now employing 17 women. We are now able to ship and sell items in Canada and the United States.
6)More than 30 mission teams came from 4 different countries to work, bless and share with the poor.
7)Drinking water was provided to two new village projects and to eventually over 1500 people.
8)Bringing the gospel of Jesus Christ through “hands on work and sharing of the good news”.
We want to first thank our Heavenly Father for blessing, sparing and allowing us to serve him all through the past year safely. Secondly, to all of you for your many gifts of support whether it was in prayer, financial or just a phone call or note, it is fuel that allows us to continue to serve. May we all enjoy the blessing of Christ’s birth now and through all times.
Blessed Christmas and New Year, John and Jane Huizinga
Friday December 19, 2008 was the last day for the students at school in Los Algodones, now called Villa Esperanza (Hope). Another meal was sponsored by Paul and Tamara from the United States and the children enjoyed it as much as the one at Thanksgiving. These children will remember this special year because of generous contributors who made the school a reality and by our Lord´s grace.
Two teachers busily wrapping a gift for each student to take home.
The wrapped gifts are ready to be handed out after lunch.
Rice, potato salad, chicken along with grapes, apples, raisins and candies for dessert.
The children wait until everyone has received their meal, a prayer of blessing is asked on the food and then it's time to ....
ENJOY THE CHRISTMAS FEAST!
Our 4 batteries were tested and found "Finished", so we finally had to do it. Yes, I had to break down and buy new batteries for our house. The four batteries we had only gave us 3- 4 hours of energy out of them on a full charge and that was only if we would turn off everything, especially the fridge, and use as few lights as possible. 
Now with 8 batteries, we get almost 24 hours and that is with leaving the fridge on. The only thing that hurt about these batteries was paying for them and then lugging them up into the attic. Those things are brutes but they work great. How do I know? Glad you asked, our electricity went out on Saturday afternoon at 2pm and today, Sunday, the batteries ran out of juice at 2pm. So being the math and time scholar that I am, that makes 24 hours and we still don’t have any electricity and I’m writing this on Sunday at 5:51 pm on my computer battery power. By the time we did get electricity again it was Monday at 11:30 am. Just under 48 hours; technology is so cool!
Of the millions of things your eyes see daily some things just seem to stand out.
never had this before but it looks good
a very special meal. Thank you Lord for all your blessings!
