“Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”. Matthew 17:20-21

Dear Friends,

I heard this wonderful story.  I was probably reminded about it because of what I have experienced this past month. A missionary couple worked tirelessly for over five years and also had 6 kids under the age of ten. One day they received a call from one of their sponsoring churches in the United States. The pastor said “we have been praying about how we can give you a special blessing. So, we are sending one of our parishioners over to you in order for you and your husband can take a week's vacation on us. Plus, this woman was a teacher and is currently a nurse so you will know your kiddos are in good hands.”

That night, this couple talked seriously about this wonderful opportunity and they were somewhat reluctant knowing their kids. But, this nurse called and said she could handle it and was looking forward to going overseas. For the next couple of weeks, the parents drilled how the kiddos were to behave: chores, devotions, no fighting, and bath/bedtime. When the nurse arrived, the children were ready & their parents were more than ready. After kisses, hugs and reminders of behavior expectations, one of the little ones said, "Mama when you get home we will have a special surprise for you." "Thank you, mama responded just remember the things you need to do."

The first night at devotions the kiddos discussed the special surprise. The nurse suggested they pray about it and God would direct their hearts and minds. Two days went by and no direction from God.  Then, later that day, the eldest child went to the kitchen and looked out the window above the sink and screamed "I know, I know! Every day when mama washes dishes she says if only that mountain wasn't there I could see the ocean." That night the kids began praying for the mountain to be moved. Then they added a few more times a day to pray for their special request.

Four days passed and that mountain was still there! Friday three days before their parents were to come home there was a knock on the door. There stood a man in uniform who mentioned he called several times with no response. “I'm here to inform you that the Air-force plans to remove that mountain starting today to make a landing strip. Late Saturday afternoon that mountain was gone.
The next morning, when their parents arrived home the kiddos went running and screaming, "Do you want to see your surprise?" Mama was hoping for clean bedrooms, but the kids told her to close her eyes and they guided her to the kitchen. "Mama, we prayed for a special surprise for you and look what God did!"

Today, I do not know if you are facing any mountains, but I do know God can move them keep trusting! Thank you for your love and support.

Because of Him,
Betty Alvarez Ham
President