Dear Reader, Alot has occurred in the past few months that has opened our eyes to a whole new world of the ministry. After graduation in May, the beginning stages of what I felt was God's will for my life became a reality. The deputational trail had begun, and we set out, determined to hit the road as hard as we could. God has allowed many doors to open and many pastors have graciously allowed my family and I to come and present what we know God has for our lives. Elyssa, my dear and precious wife, has been strong and a great help, encouraging me and seeing to my needs. Although not able to travel in the begining with me with the expecting of our new baby, she has been there in every way, sacrificing much.
Within the last three months, God has allowed us to be in 20 different churches, see 52 people saved, and over 50 people surrendering their lives to God under the preaching opportunites that He provided for me. It is truly amazing how God works in so many ways, ways that at times, seem impossible. Nothing greater than to follow God's will with your life and reap the results and blessing of that decision.In admist my dream of serving God as a missionary, yet another miracle took place as our little daughter, Gabriella Ivelisse Zapata, was born, July 22, 2011. What feelings of love and joy come flowing in as I look into her eyes and can not help but think at what can be done through her life for God in the future.
As of the June - July, we have been to Baytown, La Porte, Amarillo, Mesquite, Pilot Point, Edinburg, Roma, Tenaha, Nacogdoches, Mission, Flower Mound, and Freeport. We began the month of September in Durant, Oklahoma, Westside Baptist Church, under Pastor Phillip Winn. What a great privilege it was to be able to be a part of his service on Wednesday Night, September 7th. Our travels then took us to Huntsville, TX, Grace Baptist Church, under Pastor David Beaty. Was a fantastic opportunity to be in their services for the Sunday of 9/11, a day that America will never forget, as we were able to be a part of a service of memory and prayer for America and all that it holds. Wednesday, September 14th, brought us to Corpus Christi, TX, New Hope Independent Baptist Church, under Pastor Chuck Brushe where God allowed us another wonderful opportunity to present our work and for me to preach. The Lord did a great work, as many raised their hands making decisions and then soon after, filled the altar in prayer. We would like to extend a special thank you to East River Baptist Church, in New Caney, under Pastor Hoots, who have allowed us to stay on property while in the area and have truly been a blessing to my family.
We will be in the Houston area for the next week and then on to Oklahoma and Kansas. Please keep us in your prayers as we continue to travel as a family and strive to raise the support needed to begin our work, Reaching the Next Generation, in not only the Philippines but in many other countries to follow. Love in Christ,
Jared, Elyssa, and Gabriella Zapata
Proud of yall and praying!
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