Cotopaxi
History is being made in Ecuador. Cotopaxi is a volcano located 37 miles from us which has a history of several large eruptions. Last month it began spewing steam and ash again for the first time in 70 years. The last two weeks have seen nearly constant emissions. Geologists have been constantly monitoring the mountain for decades and warning of a potentially major eruption. It's been 138 years since the last big one. Cotopaxi is considered among the world's most dangerous volcanoes because of the effect it will likely have on populous areas of Latacunga and outlying parts of Quito. There has been much talk of evacuation and safety measures in the past weeks. We live in a safe zone, but things could definitely get interesting if a big volcanic event occurs. The biggest impact for us could be ash and knowing how to respond to nearby communities affected by the disaster. Pray for those who live in danger areas, and pray for God's people to be prepared to react in time of need.
School Starts
Our lives might not be quite as explosive and hopefully not as dangerous as a volcano. Nevertheless, God gives his people the responsibility of making an impact on history. Yesterday, for example, was the first day of school at Alliance Academy. Kristi is starting another year of teaching Math for 5th and 6th grades. Lindsey is really excited about having her mom as a teacher. Luke is starting 10th grade and has already been very involved with student government and the beginning of the volleyball season. Pray for all of the staff and students at Alliance to have hearts that are sensitive to what the Lord wants to accomplish at the school this year.
Missions Opportunities
If you are looking for a way to be involved in changing history, the time might be right for planning a trip to Ecuador. Alliance Academy is looking for work teams to come and help with several different needs including:
- Painting
- Construction
- Renovation
- Sports camps
- Vacation Bible School
- English classes
- Helping at an Orphanage
- Discipleship
- Evangelism
Visit this webpage for more information
I (Scott) also know of opportunities for teaching Bible, theology and other helpful courses in Spanish. If you are only able to teach in English, we could work as a team; I would be glad to provide translation if the course fits a need in one of the seminaries or a local church.
Surgery
This summer was significantly out of the ordinary for me. I spent most of the summer recovering from ankle surgery at the beginning of July. True to the doctor's word, the surgery was not a big deal, but the recuperation was and continues to be a long, slow process. I spent a larger percentage of time than usual in front of a computer screen, but now I'm back on my feet and almost walking normally again. Pray for full healing in my ankle.
Writing
One of the ways I occupied my time while I was most limited involved a writing project that I have had on the back burner for a while. I spent a lot of time writing and re-writing, and I'm getting closer to completing a book. The finished product will be a book on Christ-centered biblical theology, based in part on things I have been learning from teaching seminary courses. I hope to have it ready for purchase sometime in early 2016. If you might be interested in reading what has most impacted me from God's Word, let me know and stay tuned for more information.
Property
Transfer of the Chillogallo property was completed last month. That's the last big step on property issues for now! Anyone want to cheer along with me? Administration work has been slowly decreasing, and I am excited about the chance to be involved in other things that I am more passionate about. Next Saturday I'm traveling for a planning meeting, and I have a class to teach on the 18th. Pray for the ability to prioritize ministry opportunities well.
