Birthday Blessings in Mexico for Steve

First of all I want to thank the Lord for 62 years of life on earth. I also want to thank everyone who sent greetings, sang and blessed me in some way on my birthday. I have learned birthdays are a big deal in Mexico and I was so honored by so many. I am humbled by all the attention. But I am grateful for the family and many friends Jesus has put in my path. I love you all. A special thank you to my wife, life-long friend and partner in ministry – Tonyia, I love you.

Some of my birthday blessings included being honored at a small gathering Friday night and again during services Sunday at Getsamani Church in Galeana. Also, part of my birthday weekend was the great day with friends Saturday serving the Lord in Refugio (see Remote Refugio Visit for Worship, Clothing, Food and Encouragement online). Plus, there were many Facebook notes and phone calls.

Allow me to reflect a bit on my life now. Jesus said, I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10b) I have found that for me the abundant life has come from showing Jesus’ love for people through service. Not just my words, but actions.

Tonyia and I are in a new season of life and we have found renewed meaning through service to the Lord in Mexico. Here are some photographs from the celebrations around my birthday. Thank you Jesus!.

The kids at Getsamani Church made little flags that said "Feliz Cumpleanos" (Happy Birthday). They also sang Happy Birthday in English! I found out later they had practiced all week.

The kids at Getsamani Church made little flags that said “Feliz Cumpleanos” (Happy Birthday). They also sang Happy Birthday in English! I found out later they had practiced all week.

Getsamani Church also bough me a cake. They have very limited resources and I was humbled by their sacrifice.

Getsamani Church also bought me a cake. They have very limited resources and I was humbled by their sacrifice.

I shared my cake with everyone at the Getsamani Church on Sunday.

I shared my cake with everyone at the Getsamani Church on Sunday.

 

Pastor Reynaldo and entire congregation prayed for Tonyia and I on my birthday.

At the end of the service, Pastor Reynaldo and entire congregation prayed for Tonyia and I.

Juan and Sandra sang to me at a gathering Friday night.

Juan and Sandra, good friends, hosted the party at their home and sang to me at the gathering Friday night.

Steak and chicken were on the grill for my Friday night party.

Steak and chicken were on the grill for my Friday night party. We also had homemade pico de gallo, grilled potatoes, and a garden salad. What a feast it was!

Pastor Jose and his entire family came to the party.

Pastor Jose, Pastor Reynaldo and their entire families came to the party.

Folks at the party.

Folks at the party.

Pastor Reynaldo was also at the party.

It is tradition, as they are singing the birthday song,  for everyone to greet the birthday person. Here, Pastor Reynaldo, gives his blessing.

I resisted Martin who wanted to spank me for every year of life.

Steve resisted Martin who wanted to spank him for every year of life. Two crazy guys!