Snakes & Stinky Feet

Boa constrictor skin on the porch railing.

Living in Paso Marcos has been a big change for us in many ways.  Snake encounters have become a normal part of life, and in the last two months we have seen a variety of snakes. While sweeping the bedroom one afternoon, I (Bridget) found a snake curled up on the floor by the bed. I got the machete out and began chopping it in half. The serpent continued to try to sink its fangs into the machete so I cut its head off. Later Paul identified it as a deadly fer-de-lance. The locals were impressed that I had killed such a dangerous snake, but I was thanking the Lord for His protection. One morning Paul went to hang his towel on the clothes line and there was an 8 foot long snake skin that was weaved in and out of the porch railing. Javier, the young man who cuts our grass, said it was from a boa constrictor. He advised us to keep the grass around the house cut short to discourage the snakes. Even this week walking on the road to the Center, I saw the tail of a black snake in some tall grass. It was a zopilota snake that uses its tail like a whip to defend itself. Now when I see a snake I just walk the other way, which seems the wisest thing to do.

Flowers are always blooming in Costa Rica.

Another way things have changed is the slower pace of life and I have more time to spend alone with God. In my Bible I have been reading and pondering John 13:1-17 where Jesus washed the disciples feet. In that time and culture it was a demeaning job to wash other people's stinky feet. Jesus was showing His followers that He was willing to serve them in the most humble way. Then He admonished them to serve each other in the same manner.

Paul working at Emanuel Community Development Center.

This scripture has given me a clearer insight into my role in Paso Marcos. Before I was asking the Lord, “What ministry should I start here?” Now I understand my role is first to help my husband and then other missionaries. For example, Paul invited Javier to eat lunch with us the day he cut our grass. I had cooked plenty of rice, beans, fried plantain and lemon bars to have company. Over lunch Javier asked Paul how he came to live in Paso Marcos. Paul told him God had worked for many years to direct him to Costa Rica. Even though it was a long and difficult journey Paul continued to persevere because he was motivated by his devotion to God. He compared it to Javier's love for his girlfriend, Linda. Javier has professed a belief in Jesus Christ, and Paul is looking for ways to encourage him to walk close to God.

Dr. Judith Dunteman at Puentes de Vida training.

In terms of serving my fellow missionaries, I have been given opportunities to help them in big ways (tutoring a homeschool high school student for a year) and small ways (folding a basket of laundry). I am using my administrative skills to support Judith Dunteman with the Puentes de Vida (Bridges of Life) project. Dan Friedly volunteers at the local schools and I may assist with his English and Bible classes. Whatever the case, I am content because I have confidence God will show me day by day what His will is for me.

Friends & fellow missionaries, Lori & Dan Friedly

You could be praying with us about: Buying a 4 wheel drive vehicle. A dental clinic being held at the Center February 25-27. Opening doors to teach Bible and English in the schools. That Javier would learn more about God and the Bible.

In His service, Paul & Bridget