Recently we had the opportunity to talk a bit with Carmen, as she hasn’t been feeling well lately so we took her for a check-up with the doctor.  She was telling us that Jorge has been drinking more since he hasn’t had much work.  She said that when he isn’t working he has more time on his hands and the temptation is too great and he began drinking.  80% of his corn crops failed because the rainy season started too late after he planted it.  He has planted some beans, however, to try to recuperate some of the money he lost on the corn crop.  This, of course, has added to feelings of depression.  He has enjoyed, however, visiting with his boys that are living with Roselia as they have been “trading kids” every weekend for visitation.  Please pray for God to break this addiction in Jorge’s life and open his heart to God’s love and truth.  We take every opportunity to share God’s truth with him but it usually seems to fall on deaf ears and a hard heart.

During Carmen’s medical consult we discovered that she has gastritis, esophageal reflux, and h. pylori.  H. pylori can be very dangerous and especially for people of Carmen’s age.  If you are interested in learning more, you can read up on the bacteria here: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/h-pylori/symptoms-causes/syc-20356171

The doctor prescribed medicine for her and also ordered a blood sugar test.  Since diabetes is rampant in Guatemala, the doctor would like her to get this test every year in order to keep an eye on it in case she becomes diabetic.  She also told us that she started going to church on Sundays with her cousin.  It’s an evangelical church and she really likes it.  When asked if she knows Jesus as her Lord and Savior she responded, “Oh yes, I did that many years ago.  I might not go to church all the time but I believe in God, one God, and Jesus is my Savior.”

Please continue to pray for Carmen’s healing, Jorge’s salvation, and Brandon’s studies as he closes out the year.