The Zika Virus Outbreak

In Seattle

Dear Friends and Family:

“Don’t get pregnant!”  This was the advice of a Paraguayan doctor to the women of his nation in response to the Zika virus outbreak, which is linked to birth defects.  It is indeed important to hear out the medical professionals’ recommendations in regards to Zika since cases have surfaced in the Amambay province, where I (Tim) will be later this month to translate for two seminary professors from Texas.  Please pray for an effective response to the Zika outbreak as well as for those who suffer from the illness.  Also, pray for the seminary course to equip and encourage Christian leaders in the Amambay province.         

Just as we began to pack, Agustina told Margarita and me, “I’ve decided that I’m not going back to Paraguay with you.” Her declaration was not a real decision but rather communicated the enjoyment she’s experienced in the U.S.  For the longest period ever, she has not simultaneously cared for a dozen grandchildren, cleaned houses, killed and de-feathered chickens, and cooked large meals.  In less than two weeks, we will arrive in Paraguay.  As soon as we get back, we’ll prepare for classes at the New Horizon School, which start on Monday, February 15^th.  Pray for us to hear God’s guidance during our transition back to ministry in Paraguay.

Before we return to Paraguay, we’ll spend next week in New York, Boston and Houston.  We’ve greatly enjoyed our time in the Pacific Northwest; though, it has passed by very quickly.  While we’ve been in the Portland-area for most of the past month, each weekend we either hosted a visiting loved-one, or we visited loved-ones.  We enjoyed our time in Pacific City, Eugene and Seattle.  We thank everyone who gathered together to hear all that God had done through our work in Paraguay over the past 3½ years.    

At the Oregon Coast

We are thankful to the Lord who provided a rock-solid support network during our time in the U.S. through the hospitality of others.  As we travel and transition, we’ll continue to try to hear and heed his direction, because, as Jesus says, everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.

Yours truly,

Tim, Margarita, Ana and Antoine