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Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
The Lord has been amazing in His thoughts and His ways. They are definitely not our thoughts nor our ways… but nonetheless, He has done all things well!
My recent trip to Mexico in January was a blessing. The work continues to move ahead. It’s a blessing to see how hard Angel has been working to expand our reach in the community. After undergoing a year-long process to obtain a license, he now can minister in jails, rehab centers, and other locations that this gringo wouldn’t be able access! I was privileged to join Angel at a local rehab center, where we sang and I preached with 30 men.
One of the main priorities during my visit was addressing the property situation- renegotiating the contract and securing the deed for the church property. Your prayers were truly appreciated as we had to fight with the local government to release the property for privatization, ensuring it could be placed in the church’s name for future protection. On top of that, the previous owner expected payments to continue despite not providing the proper documents. Praise the Lord, these issues have finally been resolved! With the paperwork now in hand, we can submit it to the national government for privatization, and we were able to renegotiate the payment plan. We ask for your continued prayers that the privatization process moves forward smoothly and for the Lord’s provision to pay the remaining balance.
Regarding Sarah’s medical situation these past few months, it has been a lot of ups and downs. I understand now why the Lord brought us back to Washington for a season; it has allowed her to undergo essential exams and testing covered by our insurance. In February, we faced a setback when Sarah experienced an episode initially diagnosed as a stroke. We decided to delay our return to Mexico temporarily to ensure she wasn’t at risk for serious complications. Over the past weeks, Sarah has undergone two of three specialized MRIs, along with extensive lab work. After an evaluation with the neurologist, it appears the brain tissue damage resembles a traumatic brain injury—which is odd, as she has not had one. Praise God, her tests suggest no increased risk of future strokes, and she is already on the road to recovery.
As our time in the U.S. is nearing an end, we are thrilled to announce our return to Mexico in early May! We’re excited to see what the Lord has planned for us, and just a bit nervous. Please pray with us as we prepare for this transition, especially in making necessary adjustments to accommodate Sarah’s needs. Mexico is a very hard place to live for handicapped individuals, so we’re praying for wisdom and provision to make it livable and functional for her, both in and out of the house as much as possible. As many know, life in the ministry doesn’t come easy, nor without challenges; but that doesn’t mean it isn’t what the Lord wants. God brings you through the challenges with a purpose and gives you grace to continue to serve. We firmly believe our time in Mexico isn’t over—it just requires a different approach from how it began.
In other exciting news, we will be back in Washington for a short few weeks in June for the high school graduation of our daughter Kendra! Being one of the first major achievements in life for a teenager, we are all thrilled to celebrate this accomplishment with her. Please be in prayer for her as she seeks what the Lord would have her do with her future. As of right now she will serve on the field with us for another year, while doing online bible classes. Our greatest desire for her is to do the Lord’s will for her life. “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.” 3 John 1:4
It is an incredible honor to be used by God for work that impacts eternity. If He wills it, we are excited to continue serving Him, embracing whatever adjustments are needed. This is a cause worth fighting for, and we are deeply grateful for the unwavering support you’ve shown us throughout the past ten years. The steadfastness of your prayers and love means the world to us, and we pray that you remain strong in your own ministry efforts.
Brothers and Sisters, keep up the good fight!
The Russell Family- Adam, Sarah, Kendra, Braden
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