Costa Rica 2013

Matthew 28:18-21 (New International Version)

Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” 

We have another opportunity to go on our third trip to Costa Rica in March of 2013.  We are starting early so that we can raise enough funds to go.  We understand that maybe not everyone can give money but we know you can help us by praying.  God has put this on our heart once again.  We believe that when one door opens another one closes.  Example, we thought we'd be with a baby by now.  But God knew better.  So, we look forward to this trip.  We hope for it.  That is faith.  Hebrews 11:1 says, "Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see."

In case you are wondering why we go on these trips, here is why.  We live day by day in obedience to the Lord's calling as He asks us to go out in to the world and preach the gospel. Look at the above bible verse.  We get to be a huge part of going and serving others so that they can be with a building to gather in and worship in.  There is a hunger for the Word of God there and we get to be a part of that dream for them.  We all have been blessed with different gifts.  Some giving, some serving, some preaching, some listening, some caring, etc.  We have been blessed to go and serve.  Here's how.

The blessings come in many different ways.  We get to meet new family in Jesus Christ.  We get to work side by side for the cause of bringing new people to the Lord Jesus.  We laugh, sometimes we cry, and we lift each other up because we are family.  Neighbors watch us build and wonder about more.  They invite each other over for food and fellowship.  How often do we do that with our neighbors?  And since there is a hunger for the Word, there is no hesitation in sharing it with others.  There is a love and friendship unexplainable, yet inspiring.

The climate is very hot and humid and we work all day in the sun.  Yet, there are always smiles and laughter.  Hugs and warm greetings.  Great home cooked food.  And we are learning Spanish.    We give gifts to each other.  Just as in the bible.  We are examples for each other.  This is how we are to love one another.  Be humble in spirit and always consider the other more important than yourself.

My eyes are always open when shown how they live yet are so happy and content.  It is always an amazing testimony and blessing for me.

So, we have been given this blessing once again.  So we hope and have faith that God will see us down this journey.  We have faith in all of you.  We understand not everybody can give money, but maybe pray for us.  Or maybe come to our fund raising events.  Proceeds will go to the trip.  Soon, we will have garage sales at our church, hot dog sales, etc.  Anything you can do would be appreciated.

If you would like to give us a donation personally, here is how.

Write your check to Parkside Community Church and in the Memo write only Costa Rica 2013.  Not our names; this is for tax deduction purposes.  And if you need a receipt we can mail one to you.  Here is our address.

Eldon and Tanya Schoonover
PO Box 3421
Camp Verde, AZ 86322

Thank you in advance and may God Bless you.  In Jesus' name,

Amen