John 15:16 says, “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.” I pray that when you receive this letter, you are doing well, along with your family and loved ones. My family and I are doing well and would like to thank you so much for partnering with us as we continue making an impact in Puerto Rico.
During these summer months, I was able to perform many funerals. To be honest, I don’t like doing funerals, but they are rewarding. Recently, I received a phone call from a lady who said to me that she had already called several pastors, and none were able to attend. I immediately told her that I never turn down preaching and that I would consider it an honor. The name of the man who died was Jose. Jose was deaf; he used to attend our Deaf Ministry and was saved and baptized in our church. The funeral was well attended; the Gospel was preached, and souls were saved.
It was such a huge blessing to have Missionary Osmin Gutierrez from Honduras with us, along with his family. His wife and sons sang for us, and the preaching really encouraged and challenged us to do more for missions and for the cause of Christ. We also had Pastor Dani Motta preach for us. He was accompanied by his wife Claudia and his family. Pastor Motta grew up in our church and is now the Spanish pastor at Liberty Baptist Church in North Carolina.
On August 27, our church will be celebrating our 25th year of service here in Puerto Rico. I’m amazed at how fast it’s gone by. When we started here 25 years ago, I remember telling God that I would love it if HE would allow us to serve HIM here in Puerto Rico for 50 years. I pray HE grants us that request. Lord willing, during the month of August, I will be traveling to the Philippines to speak at a conference. Please pray for safe travels and that God would allow me to be a blessing.
PRAYER REQUESTS
• The health of our daughter Carolina Raquel—she is improving slowly.
• August 27 Anniversary Service
• Trip to the Philippines
• Church in Humacao
May God continue to bless you as you serve Him faithfully. Thank you very much for your love, prayers, and faithful support. God bless you.
In Christ,
Luis M. Martinez
I Timothy 1:12