Dear Pastors, Churches, Friends & Family,
April 1st (Feb. – Mar. 2013)

Greetings in Jesus’ Name! It has been a busy couple of months for us with many blessings thanks to your prayers and support. It has also been a sad time in the passing on to glory of my friend and pastor, Dr. Rick Fox, on February 11th. I must say that we are here on the mission field today largely because of his help, prayers, encouragement, etc. My pastor’s life reminds me of what Romans 14:7 says, “For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself.” His life has and will continue to influence many for God’s glory. Oh how important it is for us Christians to impact and make a difference in the lives of others. Amen!

We have struggled some with allergies recently as it is that time of year here. The allergens and pollution compounded with altitude can make breathing difficult. One blessing to our elevation being well over 9,000 feet here is when the rapture happens, we will have a head start (ha ha). Seriously, many continue to be saved, baptized, join the church and be discipled weekly here and are ready for that glorious day which is coming soon. Hallelujah! In Mexico City, a person gives an “invitation” when they leave too much room in front of their car while driving and others always accept it by cutting them off in a lane change. Also, if you leave anything out of any value, it invites those passing by to take it. On the other hand, what a blessing many accept the invitation to church as it is standing room only inside. Many also accept the good news of the gospel here, repent and believe by faith, being born again. Glory to God!

It was a blessing to see Bro. Tom Geer again as he came down to our church. We then took him to another missionary in the neighboring state of Michoacan where the “La Familia” cartel is very influential and they are moving into Mexico City. Here in Mexico City, they mainly try to extort business owners and they have done so to a member in our church. They allow a business to continue to operate if they pay a percentage of their profit. Our church here also ordained a young preacher named Erik who has started a mission outside Mexico City on the west side. I had the privilege to visit Pastor Efrain a few weeks ago who was also ordained under our church here and has a church outside Mexico City on the east side.

Easter can be a frustrating time of year here. The Catholic church has a custom here where for the last four weeks they shoot off ¼ sticks of dynamite 24 hours a days to “wake the dead saints.” Many municipalities also shut off water a week before Easter and room does not allow me to explain this. Sadly here in the colonias and pueblas, many will crawl on their knees to church and others will allow themselves to be whipped and/or nailed to a cross in hopes of paying for their sins. Also, mexicans from all over Mexico walk and ride bikes to the Basilica in Mexico City as a form of penace. The City is already busting at the seams with over 35 million. The multitudes of extra visitors make it even harder to drive and walk but it does present even more opportunities for the gospel. Praise the Lord!

“Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you” (2 Thes. 3:1). We pray for you, too. We are your servants for Jesus’ sake (2 Cor. 4:5).

Bro. Mike Wallace & Family