The Mexican government recently set standards for the construction of schools. The space requirements and layout will create a better environment, and it will also require a big change for existing schools.
The impact to the school at Casa Hogar Benito Juarez is that they must build a new one. And soon. The cost is $79,000 US dollars. The school will serve up to 120 students and include kindergarten through 6th grade. The government is requiring the building be built by a certified company in Mexico and will take 3 months from start to finish. Mark Russell is praying and trusting God to provide another miracle. And there have been many miracles in this place.
One miracle is Wency. Hank told us about Wency before we arrived last year, and although we knew of him, we could never imagine the blessing he is without experiencing this time with him. Wency is in his 40’s and when you meet him you are amazed at his wit, his joyfulness and his unique gift for naming everyone who steps onto this place. Most of the names tend to be a vegetable or fruit, but you will have to come and see what he names you!
Wency landed in the children’s home in 1973 when he was 14 months old. His grandmother brought him. Coming from an abusive environment, Benito Juarez Children’s Home was the only place she knew to turn. Wency has cerebral palsy and epilepsy. He took his first step at age 7.
Today he helps around the place and entertains guests with his wit and joy. Medicine never expected this for Wency. Everyone loves him, and I suppose, Wency loves everyone. At least he seems to love us!
I’m sure there are countless stories and most too personal to share here. Suffice it to say God is working miracles in the children that pass through this place. When life takes a turn you didn’t expect, God provides a way. Tonight we celebrate a young lady’s Quinceañera. And, well…that would be another miracle too. Today there are 32 children that call Benito Juarez “home”.
There is a verse painted on the wall in the chapel and stamped across the t-shirt that represents Christ’s presence here: “Suffer the little children to come unto me and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of God.” – Mark 10:14
Please pray for the miracle of support for the building of this school. In our context of North America, it the price of super nice car or one-two years of tuition at a super nice university. Pray also for the young girl who celebrates her Quinceañera tonight. Like Mark, we trust God completely. The work that started here will see its completion. Already I thank God for the miracle. Let it be.
Here is a link to this place: missionstomexicoministries.org
Life in the Deep End 