I would like to first express my gratitude to so many of you for your kind words. Your efforts to reach out to me via Facebook, email and phone calls have been greatly appreciated. It is heartwarming to know that I have friends who care enough to check on me and help lift my spirits. Thank you so much for your continued friendship and support.
I must confess that coping with health issues and chronic pain at times has taken a toll on both my mind and body. However, the Lord has shown great grace toward me, and I do not say that lightly. On January 30th, I traveled back to El Salvador, accompanied by my mother. Her presence was a tremendous blessing, and I cherished the ten days we spent together. When she left, I was disheartened as I should have been on the same plane headed back to America for additional medical help. Despite the intense physical pain I was experiencing, I felt a spiritual urge to stay in El Salvador.
Each week I have made a conscious effort to join fellow believers in Christ to go talk with people about the gospel. Although it has brought me great joy, immediately afterwards I have promptly returned home to seek rest in bed.
Throughout my life, God has graciously allowed me to publish numerous books, many of which came about through dark times which God saw fit for me to experience. After my mother's departure, I found myself confined to bed, writhing in agony. Nevertheless, I knew that God was with me, and I felt a stirring within my spirit to write another book, regarding a difficult topic: SUFFERING. With newfound determination, I sat up in my bed and began writing. To my amazement, God performed a miracle, providing me with words and chapters to write. For hours on end, day after day, I worked tirelessly on the book, and in just three weeks, it was finished. My heartfelt prayer is that this book will provide encouragement, support, and upliftment to those who are suffering and facing bewildering troubles. I hope that it will help individuals turn their hearts toward God and understand that the sufferings they experience are meant for their good and the glory of Christ.
Upon completing my book, I felt a sense of peace from God that it was time to return to Ohio again. However, I couldn't afford the exorbitant prices for a one-way airplane ticket, which amounted to over $600. Thankfully, our Father always has our need. Two days later, a dear friend I hadn't heard from in twenty years contacted me; she was a Godsend. That very evening, I had an airplane ticket! God’s provisions are limitless. I am constantly amazed by the unique ways and people God brings along to assist me. Over the past decade, I've witnessed countless miracles, and I must say THANK YOU to God, my friend and her husband, and all the countless people who over the years who have played a role in these acts of grace.
After arriving in Ohio, my parents took me to the emergency room at Ohio State University Hospital, where the medical staff could see the extent of my suffering. The staff conducted several tests, including three MRIs. They discovered that I had a bulging disc that was pressing against a nerve. The following morning, I underwent surgery and remained hospitalized for five days.
I am currently recovering at my parents' home, and I'm grateful for the additional time I have to read the Bible and spend time in more prayer. Some of my friends have already visited me, and it has been such a joy to catch up with them.
In my previous prayer letter, I didn't mention that besides hosting a Podcast for listeners, I have also started writing a blog that covers important topics that we all face. My articles touch on a wide range of issues, including hopelessness, feeling forgotten, anger towards God, slander, guilt, and many others. I strive to share my personal thoughts and experiences in a way that is practical and relevant. My aim is to strike a balance between lighthearted humor and more serious discussions that will resonate with readers. You can find my articles at www.MissionFrontier.info/blog, where they are available in both English and Spanish.
If you haven't connected with me on Facebook yet, I would be delighted if you did so. I can’t remember all the lost contacts I had before my previous account was suspended last September. However, I'm grateful to have this new account now, and I'm excited to stay connected with you all. Please feel free to reach out to me anytime, and with all sincerity, let me know how I can pray for you. It would be my honor to intercede on your behalf before our gracious and mighty God.
Thank you,
Lawrence Bowman