but what we have seen is the impact of Christian families. An imperfect but sincere Christian family, seeking to function according to God's Word, really makes an impact.
"Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place." 2 Corinthians 2:14
We have seen that in Mexico. We have seen the people come to them. People are drawn to these families, because they see something that is so different and beautiful. Not a program, a drama, or face painting... just a Christian family, many members with different functions all working together.
A missionary friend once told us about a short-term team which visited their home in Mexico. One of the visiting teens, while washing dishes, lamented, "I came to Mexico to do ministry, not wash dishes!" How sad that our perspective of ministry doesn't include simple acts of service in the home.
Meet the Dappens! A major part of their ministry, as you can see, includes washing dishes!
The father of this family, Art Dappen, is the author of the book about copying the Bible, which you can read or listen to on our website. Before his home-going in November of 2006, we were able to visit with his family at the homeschool conference in Saltillo, in August of the same year.
Thinking out loud, he said, "What comes after copying the Bible? I think caring for orphans."
At that time, they were just starting out in that ministry. Currently they care for ten. Matthew and Suzy are holding down the rancho in the southern state of Chiapas. Their ministry includes chores, cooking, and all the normal kinds of activities that make up a Christian home. After all...
"And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up." Deuteronomy 6:7
It doesn't sound "strategic" according to modern "missions strategies," but it certainly is Biblical. And it touches so many hearts outside of their own family! Many Mexicans can't figure it out, why these Americans would want a bunch of illegitimate or special needs children!
Linn Dappen (mom) and some of the younger Dappens are currently in various parts of the States with family. Since Art's homegoing, their lives have obviously been changed in many ways. We continue to pray for the Dappen family and trust that the seed of their parent's teaching will bear much fruit, even as it already is. Please pray with us!
Truly, Mexico, and the whole world, needs many more dishwashers!
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