DIRECTOR'S BLOG

Dr. Sam Martin

Thousands of Haitians took to the streets of Port-au-Prince on Friday in the latest display of public fury at the government over rampant corruption, economic malaise and other grievances.

Violent demonstrations, known as "Operation lock down Haiti," have been taking place on a daily basis since February 7, with demonstrators erecting roadblocks, burning tires, and throwing rocks at security forces nationwide.

Individuals in Haiti are advised to keep abreast of the situation, strictly avoid all protests and associated roadblocks due to the likelihood of violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments (e.g. travel restrictions). Be prepared to shelter in place in the event of prolonged civil unrest (e.g. stockpile supplies of preserved foods and fresh water).

As I write, I can still sense the tremendous concern and unease in our Haiti Director’s vo..

Dr. Sam Martin

A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold. Proverbs 22 v 1

As the year was closing, I realized it was time to register again for Insurance, so as I was having a coffee break, I called the company from the office and a pleasant young man answered. He shared they were having computer problems and asked if I could call back later and I said no problem, I will be happy to do so

Sometime later, I called again and we discussed needs, costs etc. and when everything was complete, he said “before I end this conversation, can I share something with you by way of thanks?” I said, “sure” and assumed he wanted to thank me for the business, which he did but there was more, much more!

As I listened the young man said, “you are The Arms of Jesus, right?” I responded, “Yes we are.” He then continued and I share what he said. “This morning I rece..

Dr. Sam Martin

“… they fell down and worshiped Him and when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him…” Matthew 2: v 11

In the bleak midwinter, frosty wind made moan,

Earth stood hard as iron, water like a stone;

Snow had fallen, snow on snow, snow on snow,

In the bleak midwinter, long ago.

Our God, Heaven cannot hold Him, nor earth sustain;

Heaven and earth shall flee away when He comes to reign.

In the bleak midwinter a stable place sufficed

The Lord God Almighty, Jesus Christ.

Dr. Sam Martin

‘But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him? Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.’ 1 John 3: 17 – 18

One day last week I was sitting enjoying a coffee and reading through a newspaper when I came to an article with the heading ‘We’re the lowest of the low.’ It described the situation of so many people in Haiti who are struggling to survive. The article stated that 60% of the people live on $2.00 US a day, or less, and half the country is malnourished.

The writer then shared the story of a 36 year old man who has been searching through waste in a dump since 1994 and he says ‘It is a hell on earth.’ However, he also said something that was and is deeply thought provoking and I quote: ‘Sometimes God is with me. I’ve found good stuff in the trash like ham, cheese, milk, rice, bread…”

My mind w..

Dr. Sam Martin

'Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it!’ John 14:14

The other day this verse came to mind as I opened up some pictures from Guatemala, including the one to the right of this text. It was the word ‘anything’ that made me think. Of course we know that the Lord Jesus loves us with an incredible unconditional love, that He meant what He said and that should encourage us. We can take anything to the Lord in prayer, we can ask Him for anything! Amazing Grace!

Well, I guess I should explain. Over the years as we have sought to reach out to needy children and families, seeking to provide for them spiritually, emotionally, physically, educationally, medically – well the list goes on, but it has been a privilege to do whatever we could in the na..

Dr. Sam Martin

‘And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them. Mark 10: 16

Driving to the office this morning, listening to a news channel, I heard a Mother say, “By the way the kid’s drop off day went well yesterday.” Of course I understood what she meant, and could picture anxious parents and scared children making their way to their first day in School. In fact, it brought back many memories.

It is a different world and I can imagine many parents really feeling nervous and concerned, especially with what is happening in so many schools, and in society as a whole. However, I found my mind taking me back just a few weeks to a meeting I attended on our Mission Campus in Guatemala.

The theme was ‘Something good is happening at AOJ.’ There was music, praise, worship and testimonies from students, sharing how much they appreciate the ministry, how they are so blessed to be sponsored and attend th..

Dr. Sam Martin

‘Continue steadfastly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving….’ Col. 4:2-4

A week or so ago, my wife and I were in Guatemala, ministering to the people, encouraging the staff, attending to Mission business and sharing in various outreach events. It was a busy week, a week of challenges and blessings. As I write, I am anxious to ask you to join with us in prayer, urgent prayer for a young student. Let me explain.

My wife was out with our Social workers, visiting families and assessing needs and seeking to bring hope, comfort and help. She entered one home and was surprised to see a young teenager, a girl who sang in the School Choir my wife led last year. The girl’s mother explained that her daughter Michelle now 15 years old had just finished chemotherapy for throat cancer, and that the report from the Doctor was not encouraging and that the cancer had spread. My wife prayed with her mother and ..