God provides an apartment!!

Remember the story of "Bob and 84 Women?", when last June I went with Judy to Central church's ladies' retreat? The male church leader who went to rest advised us that we should buy rather than rent an apartment especially since we want to minister here long-term. After our parents gave us their blessing, we began looking. We found a beautiful new apartment close to our pastor’s, fourth floor, with a wonderful view of the mountains which Judy loves; however, the price was too high.

Our pastor and the real estate agent encouraged us to visit the construction company who was selling it. We went and met Cristina. We then asked for her best price; she responded with 103K (3.82 million pesos), 10K too high for us. The apt started at 107K (3.95 million pesos). She stated that she could not go any lower.

We then presented our dream to live and minister here in Santiago long-term. We shared that our church, Central, was our family here in Santiago.

Christina responded that she had been married to the son of a mattress maker (Mercedes), a friend of ours who attended our church. Her 10-year old son attended our church when he stayed with his grandma.

We had a Bible study in Mercedes’ house plus we served as witnesses to her other son Miguel’s wedding. She had also made a bed for Prosper, the Haitian man that we were helping, and sold it to us at cost. After we shared all that, she excused herself.

She returned and asked us, “How much can you pay?” I was dumbfounded. I wasn't expecting this kind of question. I told myself (I believe that the Holy Spirit was guiding my thoughts), “Be honest with her. You can trust her.” So I responded, "Honestly, we can pay 3.5 million" (93K).

She then began talking to the agent as if this were a done deal. A couple minutes later, we cautiously asked, “Ok, so what is the price?” And she responded, “El precio de ustedes son 3.5 million.” (Your price is 3.5 million).

We could not believe it. After making a verbal agreement, we left with the agent. When we got outside, he told us, “I don’t believe this. They NEVER lower their price!” His statement confirmed to us God's hand in this purchase.

She even gave us the choice of either third or fourth floor. We chose the third as the view is still great plus it will be easier for us to climb the steps as we get older. Third floor apartments are also worth more.

The whole above process has convinced us that God is indeed guiding us and we give Him glory for this.

The last three weeks have been ones of moving, saying good-bye to our old neighbors (we won’t miss City Hall’s noise—it’s a lot quieter here!), and completing the process of buying the apartment. Being next to the pastor, an engineer has been immensely helpful as he has installed protective ironwork for doors and windows, closets and an inverter/battery backup system in case of blackouts.

We also took 10 days to visit my parents and Judy's mom. All are doing well, and we praise the LORD and continue to be amazed at their good health.

We praise the LORD for His goodness to us.