It was a standout moment when I wondered how we came to be on a muddy street on the outskirts of Nuevo Progreso. Pastor Gerardo and Miriam were in the back seat of our Jeep, their shoes so muddy that we had to put an old rug down for them to get in. Elias (aka Fish) was climbing in the back seat with them, laughing and describing loudly in Spanish the condition of his work clothes and shoes. The sun was shining, it was a beautiful day and no one thought it was at all unusual for us to be there. But just a short time ago these people who are now our friends were strangers to us. I turned to Lloyd and asked, "What are two senior citizens from Illinois doing in a place like this?"
What we were doing that day was going to the office of the delegado to talk with him about the city's new storm drainage system and recent heavy rains. This remarkable drainage project is an unusual answer to prayer, but we wanted some additional information and had some suggestions. Elias was going along to help interpret. Not yet a Christian, he is called Fish because of his past drinking habits.
Every street was so full of mud and standing water that it was necessary to switch into 4 wheel drive, but we were still excited and happy about the new drainage system. While slipping and sliding like we were driving through snow, we asked ourselves how many people our age have the privilege of such grand and rewarding adventures.
Officials were happy to inform us that the North American Development Bank headquartered in Texas is financing environmental improvements to border towns. Not only are drains being installed, but the outgrown sewage plant is being enlarged and a pumping station will be built, solving the problem of being flooded so often. It was very good news, reason for rejoicing as we navigated the awful roads back to Colonia El Jardin.
Against all odds and in spite of problems that seem impossible, our mission continues to go forward. And we still wonder how it all came to be.
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