Jared Zapata Family: Treasures of the Heart

Dear Reader,

The Bible states in Matthew 6: 21 “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” A familiar verse, yet still rings out such an important truth of a heart given away. In the human mind are the desires to hold tightly to all that we own and possess here on earth. The very thought of sacrificing those things that are dear in possession or riches comes as a difficult task as it is so easy to selfishly hold on. Even when sacrifices are made, the true rewards are not always seen immediately. Thoughts, as to whether this is truly where God would have my heart, infiltrate the mind in those times of hardship and temptation; however, in reading this verse we see the truth and the faith behind the decision to give God our heart. In reality to take a part our heart piece by piece and constantly give it to possessions, riches, property, or selfish desires will lead only to destruction. When the Lord returns all these things that are thought of as important here on earth will lie in ashes and be destroyed. Our heart is given over to what is to become ashes and all the rewards the Lord holds for us will not be given as a result. As Christians let us do all we can to allow God to have our heart and therefore use our lives, talents, possessions, and riches to accomplish and see His will fulfilled.

An entire month in the state of New Mexico is what the Lord provided for us as we traveled out August 4^th to arrive in Chaparral, NM with Pastor Joel Sloan who graciously gave us a place to stay. We are looking forward to the many churches, people, and pastors we are going to have the privilege in meeting. August the 5^th we were able to attend and present in both Hacienda Baptist Church and Westside Baptist Church. That Sunday we traveled from Las Cruces, NM to El Paso, TX for services and the Lord provided such great blessings along the way. We never cease to be amazed at all the opportunities the Lord allows in our lives even when unexpected. Wednesday Night, August 8^th, we dropped in on Cornerstone Baptist Church pastored by Doug Cowan and enjoyed a great service. He too allowed us a few minutes to tell of our burden and mission work. Sunday, August 12^th, we prepared for another day of visiting with two different churches. We began in the Spanish department of New Heights Baptist Church pastored by Alfred Gomez. He allowed me to preach to the teenagers and present to the congregation and how exciting that was. Sunday night we met with Pastor Jared Newlove and his church, Good News Baptist Church with a second opportunity to present, sing, and preach! We had a fantastic service and made a great friendship with Pastor Jared and his family. Wednesday Night we returned to New Heights Baptist Church to be with the English congregation and Pastor David Reyes. What was to be a simple drop in and unscheduled visit turned into even a greater blessing as we were asked to present and sing, while also having the opportunity to preach to both the teens and the evening service! God does great things while serving Him!

We have enjoyed New Mexico and its beauty as we are constantly observing different parts of the desert while on the road. We are looking forward to the next six churches and pray that the Lord will continue to work in a powerful way.