I’m sitting here trying to find the words to describe our feelings and express to you what is going on in Haiti. Haiti is a hard place. Haiti burns you, Haiti rubs you raw. Haiti is like a pedestal that grinds. Haiti is a refining pot. Haiti is like sandpaper. All this is true and much more.

Life is very hard for the Haitians and getting harder every day because of the embargo and sanctions. Prices have doubled or more on many items. Goods are of short supply or completely unavailable. For example there’s a shortage of cooking oil. We use 77 gallons a month in our feeding programs to cook rice and beans for the children. The price goes up daily and rumor says that soon it will be nonexistent. 

There are many mixed emotions and feelings one experiences here. Rumors are many and if you listen to all of it you would be driven crazy. In the natural it can be scary and frightening but in the spiritual it is exciting. God is going to do something supernatural in Haiti and we are right in the midst of it. These are all signs of the end times. Are you ready? I believe every word in the Bible and stand on the word of God because all else is sinking sand. The Bible tells us he will never let you stand more than you can bear and he will always make a way of escape. There is an excitement and satisfaction that is rising up in us as we walk the Christian walk in life, instead of just talking the talk. Brothers and sisters it is scary to think how far away we are from being the men and women of God that we need to be in this hour. I thank God every day for conforming me into the likeness and image of his son Jesus even though it is painful at times. That is my heart’s desire and try to every day make me more like Jesus. Hallelujah! Praise God forever!

I have such a burden in my heart for the country and people of Haiti. We have a prenatal/infant clinic in the village of Titanyen about 1 mile from our home. I walk to work both to save fuel and for the exercise. As I go, I passed many people and look into many eyes. These are people who God calls precious. They have families, cares, and concerns, but on a much different scale than Americans experience. There is no electricity here, no running no water. Water for drinking, bathing, and washing clothes must be carried long ways by bucket. Haitians are cheerful and determined – many love God. Many more need to find Jesus and invite him to reign over their lives.

Yesterday, as I was walking, some children called to me “Madam hallelujah” (because Zach is known around here as brother hallelujah and a woman is called by her husbands name) We talked for a while. They were on their way to get water. The two girls, 8 and 9 years old, both had 5 gallon buckets they would fill and carry home on their heads. The boy, about five, had two gallon jugs. They told me they were hungry and had nothing to eat that morning. I told them that I had no food with me. Then one of the girls took my hand and put it on her head and asked me to pray for them. Which I did. I kissed them and they were on their way laughing and singing. I went on my way with tears of grief and anguish for the impoverished conditions here.

The boat is getting very rocky here, but we can’t abandon ship. God called us to a work here. He sent us on a mission. Just as God is faithful to us, we must be faithful to his will for our lives. We are compelled to stay and do all we can to advance the kingdom of God. I am heartsick about the stronghold the devil holds over this nation. Outside forces are strangling Haiti; people are losing hope. As you pray for us and Haiti pray God‘s will be done – whatever it takes to save souls and set the captives free.

Please read Philippians 1:2–11, this is my prayer for you. I praise God for all of our family and friends. Thank you for your love, support, prayers, letters, and calls. Keep drawing Close to God – Jesus is coming soon. Give someone encouragement today. The love of Jesus does make a difference in lives the world. You are in our hearts. 

Gretchen