Keeping Up with the Ellisons in Peru

Mr. Justiano Leon spends his days at home and in bed. A 76 year old with no income, he relies on the goodwill of his neighbors and some occasional visits from his relatives. He has been a frequent patient at our clinic, but a few weeks ago he came and presented extremely ill. He was weak and dehydrated, lungs filled with fluid, and doing very poorly. We sent him to the hospital with his neighbor, with a little cash for his medicines, and waited. The next week he was back at home and too weak to walk. Since then our interns have been visiting him almost daily, changing his clothes and sheets, and checking his glucose. He is slowly recovering and even sitting up now, but who knows what his future holds. We hope his suffering was helped some by our attention, but really there is only so much we can do for him. Even though he is not a member in our church, he is a believer. So we do what Christ has taught us, help the helpless and visit those in need, knowing that God will reward us for obeying his commands.
I have noticed also his neighbor’s skeptical eyes as we come and make our visits. Perhaps they are wondering why we come and do this, without receiving anything in return. There is just down the street his house the government clinic, but they do not make home visits. My hope is that many will see our good works and enquire as to our motivation, giving us the opportunity to again tell the good news of Christ. In this heavily Catholic culture many have heard of Jesus, and many seek to do good works to gain merit with God, but we know that all our works are filthy rags to God, unless done in faith through the grace of Christ. Join us is praying for more opportunities to demonstrate the Love of God to the needy and proclaim the salvation of our Lord. He is our reward and guarantee of eternal life.

After almost two years here, we will be returning to Mississippi in mid November and be in the states for two months. We look forward to spending time with our family and friends and making a few visits to some supporting churches. Our children are especially excited to be traveling again and seeing their grandparents.
We also are happy to report we are the owners of a new (1994) car. Thanks to all who donated for this cause. God has been good to provide for our needs. Please pray for our continued financial needs, the needs of the clinic, and for our partnership with the Presbyterian churches of Peru.

Thank you,
Dale and Susan Ellison

“The Lord be exalted, who delights in the well-being of his servant. My tongue will speak of your righteousness and of your praises all day long.” Psalm 35