Sometimes, numbers lie.

Our team of 9 members served in Argentina last month. In addition to helping with some construction work at the Instituto Biblico Rio de la Plata (IBRP), we also planned to host some Ladies Tea events. Early on, we learned the meaning of the word, “flexibility.”

I told the 4 men on the team to be prepared to help with some “finish work.” In my mind that meant things like laying tile, painting, and some trim work. Apparently, “finish work” can have an additional meaning. For example, I never would have thought to define it in terms of mixing and pouring 175 loads of concrete in order to “finish” the base level of the upper 4 floors of the new Student Living and Learning Center. A final “finish level” will be added in the weeks to come.

The 5 ladies on our team had other plans. They intended to host 6 Ladies Tea events; 4 in area churches, in 1 neighborhood Bible Study, and 1 for the female students at IBRP. Our best estimate was to plan to serve upwards of 350 individuals. It’s a good thing they prepared for more. By the end of the trip, our team had served some 495 individuals. Those attending received more than a plate of goodies, a beverage, and a small gift. Many were touched by the love, mercy, and grace expressed by our team. We cried with some, prayed with several, hugged many, and were well-received by all. Imagine our surprise when the pastor of a small church slipped a generous offering into Sheila’s hand and said, “This is to help you continue providing this ministry in the days to come.”

But, the number 36 may mean the most to me.

Each year, OPEN DOORS provides sponsorships for residential Bible School students in Argentina and Bangladesh. For the past few years, we have provided Study Bibles for all of the 4th year residential graduates of IBRP. For most, it is their first Study Bible. While we were in Buenos Aires, we were able to purchase the Bibles for this year’s graduates and I had the opportunity to write a small note of encouragement on the flyleaf and sign each Bible. These 36 graduates will reach hundreds of people over the course of their ministries in the years ahead. How gratifying that we had a small part in helping to provide for their ministry training.

Please notice I said “we had a small part.” Without your help, it wouldn’t be possible. It isn’t about Sheila and me. The 2 of us are blessed to represent you wherever we go.

Sometimes, numbers don’t tell the whole story.

9 team members worked with all their heart; 175 batches of concrete bring the Student Living and Learning Center closer to completion; 495 ladies can now share the love, grace, and mercy of Jesus that they encountered; and Study Bibles for 36 graduating students will provide tools for effective ministry in the years to come.

These numbers don’t lie; they point the way to the Truth.

Blessings to you!

Ric & Sheila Shields