To all my dear friends and family,
I wanted to give you another update on how I am doing here in Ecuador. I have tried to keep in touch by writing blogs, sending a newsletter earlier this year, and posting on social media. I really appreciate all of your responses!
Highlights of the Year
This year has been excellent in so many ways. First, there was the huge success of our medical brigade here in Machala. Along with a team from the U.S., we served over 1,000 people in need of medical and dental attention. I have continued teaching English classes, serving in many other areas at church, and attended several retreats and training seminars with Arco. Early in the year, I also began what turned out to be a long and arduous process of building connections of communication and trust with the leaders of my local church, Iglesia Arco Machala.
On the personal side, I have kept up with my Spanish studies, as well as learning more about Ecuadorian culture and cuisine. I have started to pursue music again as one of my passions, regularly practicing my guitar and piano. I have also continued with my writing, although with everything else happening, progress on my next book has slowed down a bit.
One of the real highlights of the year was the recent visit of my son Jacob from Texas. We had a real chance to catch up and share our hearts and lives with one another, both here in Machala and while traveling to Cuenca and Guayaquil. We were both extremely blessed and grateful to have this time together! You can click here to see more of our photos.
Personal Reflections
Now for the more personal and heartfelt side. Through the years, I have learned that there are many seasons of life and that we must pass through high mountains, as well as deep valleys. I know that God uses all these experiences, the good and the bad, to shape or mold our character and our faith.
Before I launched on this mission and moved to Ecuador nearly three years ago, I experienced the highs and lows of life at different times. But since I came here, and especially to Machala, I have been living in a world where the mountaintops and valleys exist at the same time! This means that often in the same week, or even on the same day, I have had to deal with both extremes. It has been a rather strange experience, one that has forced me even more to learn how to lean on God moment by moment and respond to His voice and the leading of the Holy Spirit.
Let me explain a little more. Often, I have had to simultaneously deal with blessings, personal and marital struggles, or severe attacks from the enemy, all on the same day. Sometimes I have seen a real breakthrough at the same time as serious doubts about myself or the process of forming and nurturing relationships with others. I know I am moving forward but it often feels like “two steps forward and one back.”
Because of all the “training” I have passed through before, I am glad to report that I am holding fast and persevering! I have been tremendously blessed because God brought me to a group with leaders who are truly open-minded and yearning to do God’s will. As a result, I have had the opportunity to become a blessing to others.
More Open Doors
The result of this blessing meant that first of all, I was invited to teach a two-part series to the leadership group of my church. This quickly expanded to six classes, and then another series of practical sharing and deeper exploration of topics that were aimed at helping our church regain our sense of purpose and mission together.
The outcome or fruit of all this has been many spiritual breakthroughs and blessings. There is a renewed sense of intimacy with God and a much higher level of commitment to the principles that we share together. As a church, we are now poised to move forward in faith to see our church grow and positively impact our community! I am so grateful to God for all that He has done, yet ever mindful that I am walking a fine line, completely dependent upon Him each step of the way.
All of this translates to many new opportunities – being part of the worship team and the leadership group, teaching English and (soon) music classes, and helping to develop or coordinate many other ministries within the church. And, as I have mentioned previously, all of this is being built on a renewed emphasis in my life of personal evangelism and discipleship.
I truly hope you are doing well. As always, I would be very grateful if you would remember me and our church in your prayers.
My love always to you in Christ,
David Batcheller
Thoroughly appreciated reading your newsletter. I think of you constantly wondering how you’re doing, if you are OK and what actually are you doing. I truly admire your commitment to your goals & principles no matter what happens. You are very humble and always sell yourself short. You are the perfect person to teach classes, particularly in leadership, and you set a outstanding example of a dedicated Christian. Certainly wish you weren’t so far away but do understand. I love you very much and wish you all the best!