February 9, 2025. Esquel, Argentina.
Today, we worshipped with our brothers and sisters at Asociación Misión Evangélica Asamblea de Dios (AMEAD). The further we travel from Buenos Aires, the smaller the churches become, and this was truly a town church. However, the love remains unchanged.
We had originally planned to visit a different church, but when we arrived, we found an empty building undergoing repairs. So, we decided to drive around town in search of a place to have coffee. Just a couple of turns away, we noticed people walking into another church. We parked right in front and heard music coming from the open doors. Without hesitation, we decided to walk in—and we are so glad we did!
There were no seats left, but someone quickly added another row of chairs at the back, and we joined in worship. Sharing the Peace of God was more than a simple handshake with a neighbor; we must have hugged and kissed nearly the entire congregation, from the front to the back of the church. Everyone moved around, embracing and greeting each other—this time with kisses on both cheeks, men and women alike. Though we were strangers, we were welcomed as if we had been members for years.
The message was powerful, taken from Psalm 23:4—what an eye-opener! “Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil.” It is just a shadow, not death itself. With God’s protection and guidance, we should not fear mere shadows. He watches over us always, and instead of running away in fear, we should run to Him for help.
We left the church filled with the Holy Spirit and grateful for the experience. We reflected on the simplicity of the service, the people, and the building. Our brothers and sisters embodied humility. The church building itself bore obvious signs of wear—broken windows, a tattered ceiling, and uneven floors—yet the love within those walls made it more beautiful than any temple Solomon could have built.
But the day was not over, and we were still in for another wonderful surprise. In the afternoon, we set out for a relaxing visit to Lake Zeta. On the way, we noticed a number of cars passing us along the gravel road. Clearly, something was happening wherever they were headed, so we decided to follow.
At the end of the road, where cars were parked haphazardly, we arrived at the banks of Alto Río Percy. As soon as we stepped out of the car, we could hear music and an announcer’s voice. We followed the crowd over a river bridge and stumbled upon an authentic Argentinian rodeo!
Local cowboys, or gauchos, rode small bulls and bucking colts—not as professionals, but in dedication to a special cause. At the end of each ride, they would trot around the ring with their hats in hand, collecting donations from the attendees. Meanwhile, the stage hosted an open mic, where local musicians played accordions and guitars while folklore dancers performed.
Families moved in and out of the gathering, fathers hoisting their little boys and girls—some barely five or six years old—onto massive horses, which the children handled with impressive skill. The food and drinks came from makeshift kiosks, and families gathered around to enjoy the festivities.
What a day of blessings—to unexpectedly find both a church and a rodeo in Esquel, Argentina, all in one day!
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