Dear HLPC family,
I write this as I sit in my hotel room in Medellin, Colombia on Μonday, October 3nd, with two and a half hours until I’m picked up to be taken to the airport for my departing flight. God gave me a great week here in Colombia. I’m very, very grateful for the opportunity to come here and serve with Seminario Reformado Latinoamericano (SRL). I taught a course in Christology to about 15 students that was also video recorded for use by students in the SRL virtual program. Ronald, my translator, sat in another room and provided simultaneous translation for the students and for the video recording.
On Saturday one of the students, Samuel Elias, took me on a tour of the city. I was very grateful. In previous trips, I’ve had very little time to see much of Colombia as I was focused on teaching during the week. The day was free for me, and it was great to see this city. People from this region, known as “Paisa,” are very proud of it. They have multiple traditions and regional dishes. Colombia, like other Latin American countries, is one of great contrasts. Parts of the city feel like being back in the United States while other parts provide a glimpse into what true poverty looks like.
These trips always give me so much encouragement, and I believe they help make me a better pastor. I’m encouraged by the hunger for the Scriptures and for solid teaching. I experience true grace in that I am treated far better than I deserve. Lastly, worshipping on the Lord’s Day with believers here and then having the privilege of preaching is a blessing I can hardly describe. Thank you, HLPC, for giving me this time away to serve with SRL.
All that said, after a great week I’m very anxious to be home to Connie, my family, and my church family. That’s why I’m packed and ready to be picked up two and half hours ahead of time!
Your Pastor,
Paul
P.S. I arrived safely home in the wee hours of the morning on Tuesday! It’s great to be back. Thank you again for your prayers!