Maradona, Messi or Messiah
Because of the 2014 World Cup happening at this time, it is not uncommon to see news stories detailing and debriefing the most recent occurrences and predictions in the soccer world. Several of those stories have named Argentina, or one of its players. Argentina has a very interesting relationship with its soccer heroes, namely Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi. In the midst of its turbulent history, especially in the late 70’s and early 80’s when financial crisis and government oppression ruled the day, Argentines looked to soccer, and Maradona, as a sign of hope and change. Of course, with a little help from the “hand of God” to win the ’86 World Cup, Maradona became that sign of deliverance and is now idolized by the Argentine people. In this current season of Argentina’s history, as more upheaval and financial crisis approaches, they now look to Messi for that same sign of hope and deliverance. One author commenting on the relationship of Argentina to its soccer heroes expressed, “the curse of the Argentine is that they have to invest emotionally and spiritually in a savior.” Sadly, this is a very true statement. However, the savior they need is not Maradona, Messi, or any other soccer star. The only Savior they need is Jesus Messiah!
Maradona and Messi, Argentine soccer legends.
Almost Done!
We praise the Lord for all that He has done over the last couple of months. We presented our ministry in nine different churches, including three mission conferences, spread out from Missouri to Washington. Praise the Lord, three of those churches voted to take us on for support! It was a blessing to connect with so many new people and encourage the churches to continue faithfully involved in carrying out the Great Commission. Right now, our official support level is 98% of our minimum goal, so we are praying for two more churches to partner with us before we go to the field on August 26th. We have just over 90% of our setup costs collected, and we know that God will provide the remaining support and setup funds just in time, because His timing is perfect.
Tri-City Baptist Temple, Gladstone, OR
Pastor & Mrs. Berry, Southland Baptist Church, Belton, MO
Getting Ready
What will these next two months look like? Packing, packing and more packing is the main answer. While we do have six churches we will be presenting in, most of our time will be spent gathering all our last minute needs to take with us to Argentina and getting everything ready for our container. Thank you to all the churches and individuals who have been so generous to help us out with our setup costs for starting our new life in Argentina! We cannot express how much your generosity and care mean to us!
Kids with Argentina missionary Mike Todd
While in Seattle we spent some time with Ben’s brother and sister-in-law, Nate and Katie.
Our trip to the Northwest included some great sites, like Mt. Rushmore.
Click to get our printable prayer letter: Prayer Letter May June 2014
Click to see our list of needs: List of Needs
Metzgers to Argentina 