- Ask and You Shall Receive -
For those that have not read our previous posts, a 15 passenger van is having to be rented every year for the Missionary teams that come to work on the Island of Mauritius. This can get costly and very inconvenient when a van is not available for us. Instead of renting, we now want to buy a van of our own.
The teams that voluntarily come have the opportunity to be a true witness for JESUS CHRIST. Showing the people of Mauritius a different kind of understanding to whom the JESUS of the Bible really is. A personal relationship with the Creator of the Heavens and the Earth is something the people do not have because they do not have the privilege of seeing in others what that looks like. Ones personal walk with JESUS CHRIST can speak volumes to many that have only heard of JESUS CHRIST. This being the case here on the Island. The people do have churches they can attend that read the word of GOD- However the "Fruit" shown is not one of relationship with JESUS CHRIST by means of HIS Holy Spirit but rather of the pursuit to a prosperous life here on Earth with claims of Holy Spirit activity.
Here is a perfect example of what I mean as to show how I applied the former method of 'Having a Relationship with our LORD and Savior' and its outcome.
As of yet no vehicle had been purchased for our goal to be met. As the vehicles we were looking into either are too costly to repair and sell for a profit, or the price of the vehicle of interest is out of the range of what we are looking to spend. With our dead line closing in- The pressure is building. Pastor Ron will be here in four months and his man sent from the States (That's Me) has nothing to show. What is the LORD doing!...
Establishing HIS roots, that's what. Initially my term on the Island of Mauritius would have ended at six months. Due to Travel Visa regulations set by the Republic of Mauritius, I would have had to leave the Island putting me back on a plane and head to the USA on the first week of January, 2014. I need more time to have our (CCMB) interest met here on the Island. Not only for this particular project but for future endeavors all for the sake of extending The Kingdom of GOD (Matt 6:33). How can I buy more time on the Island at an expense I can afford?? Upon looking into Visa Regulations set by the local Government, I found only one option is available for the Republic of Mauritius to recognize me and permit me to stay on the Island with NO Travel Visa- ONLY ONE....Marriage to a Citizen of the Land.
At first thought the notion of marriage was out of the question, immediately I said NO WAY!- It is not that I am against the unity of Man and Woman joined together in Holy Matrimony. Which is clearly a representation of JESUS CHRIST and HIS church (Eph. 5:32). Though, the truth is- I would not degrade this opportunity to be a representative of the love of GOD for the world seen specifically in marriage, for the sole purpose of extending my Travel Visa. Let me explain- In order for me to "Paint the Picture" for you of how the Holy Spirit was and is working in this situation of my life I will need to give a brief summary of my past (for those that know me well enough, nothing I have to say is 'Brief'). I trusted the LORD and made life changing decisions by reading HIS word as the means to following HIS instruction for my life.
While in Bangor, Maine during the Winter season of 2012, I asked one specific question of the LORD to answer. If I was to stay in Maine and if so could I have a certain young maiden for a wife. It was on the 28th day of February 2013, around one year later that the LORD spoke to me as I happen to be reading through the book of Jeremiah. 'The word of the LORD also came to me, saying, "You shall not take a wife nor shall you have sons or daughters in this place''' (Jer. 16:1-2). As direct as this may be to an answered prayer, I know what else the word of GOD says...to test every Spirit (1 John 4:1). I purposed in my heart to wait further on GOD and to confirm HIS word to be a direct command. Five days later on the 5th of March did I receive an email from Pastor Ron with the offer to come to Mauritius. It would be the next five months that I prepared Physically and especially Spiritually for my leaving the State of Maine and adhere to the call of the LORD to go to the Island of Mauritius.
A car that was given to me while in Bangor, Maine is getting buried with the snow fall after only four hours
August 1, 2013-
The next day upon arriving on the Island did I meet who would later be my Wife.
Marie Martine Virginie Goornaden, started coming to the fellowship that I was assigned to help, about two weeks before I arrived- However something special and of great significance (if you over-spiritualize as I sometimes can) did occur on August 1, 2013- The day I landed. I was so focused on the project work set for me that I stayed clear of any relationship. Besides, I did not speak French, the language of the Island, and was already too busy to learn. As the days turned into weeks did I notice that Virginie was around a lot. Always coming to any and all Bible studies that were offered during the week. She also attended any and all family functions where a Bible study was involved. Virginie wanted to know all about GOD and HIS plan for her life- and I noticed that she was doing all things possible to get those answers...Very impressive.
August 27, 2013-
As I saw these past weeks the interest in the Word of GOD that Virginie was showing, I approached her to ask how her reading was coming along and to learn, out of what book of the Bible she was reading. Her answer was not only in a well spoken English (Who Knew! I never spoke to her!) but also with depth saying, "Much of the meaning of what is written is lost when translated to the French language, I know that there is more to learn than what I am reading in the French translation of the Bible".
Now That's An Answer!!...I took advantage to give Virginie an English study Bible for beginners, as she was new to the Faith. I mentioned that I was going through the Proverbs, reading through the chapter corresponding to each day of the month. Guiding her to do the same and to write down the Proverb that seems of most interest to her from day to day. We would do this together and I would check on her from time to time to see how it was going along. I would also keep my distance from her in order to seek the LORD in HIS word as to know if Virginie was the one set apart for me.
Sept. 10, 2013-
Our relationship was growing as Virginie continued her studies with her new English Bible. Virginie is a school teacher for children, ages 9-11. Though teaching all subjects- to read in English was the preferred language for her.
Virginie offered to teach me French on her spare time, twice a week. Which only furthered our knowing each other.
Passing through a Sugar Cane field during a Youth Group outing Nature walk to some Waterfalls
What a good bunch this was:
center: Alvin
L-to-R: Alexandre, Emily, Virginie, Adriel, Olivier, ME, Manuel
20 minutes of alone time with the LORD- A time to ask GOD to reflect how ones life has been
A teaching of the Word out of (John 15:1-5)
After a Youth Group outing where about eight of us attended a hiking tour to some Waterfalls, Dominique took Virginie and I aside for a talk. Clearly seeing that a relationship of more than a friend was building. He asked us if this in fact was the case. For me, scripture after scripture stated Virginie was to be my Wife. However for Virginie everything in her life from the time she accepted the LORD until this moment was too good to be true and that she needed more time to seek the LORD in this. We would stay clear from each other until further notice. It was now that I would increment Fasting along with my Praying to further seek the LORD to confirm whether the LORD has called us to work together for HIS Kingdom as Husband and Wife.
Sept. 29, 2013-
Nineteen days later, Dominique has yet another talk with Virginie and I in regards to whether the LORD has revealed anything to Virginie concerning her relationship to me. Virginie confirms- Everything she reads from the word of GOD and everything she sees around her has lead her to believe that she is to be my Helper. Once again I will comment, 'Now That Was A Good Answer'. When you first meet Virginie she does not say much, but when she speaks it is profound. Virginie and I agree with each other to keep our relationship quiet from the congregation and wait on GOD as to when we will marry. I continued to designate time to Pray and Fast seeking GOD and HIS will for our life together. It would be at this time, one month later, that Virginie would tell me of the first bit of scripture that spoke to her from the Proverbs, which pointed her to my direction- (Prov. 3:5-6)- 'Trust in the LORD with all of your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all of your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.
Significantly, this would be the same bit of scripture that spoke to me, concerning my Pastor of Calvary Chapel Myrtle Beach, SC. some years earlier.
By following what I believed to be the leading of the Lord for my life. I was influenced to make the decision for my first trip, in Sept. 2009- In going to the Island of Mauritius.
Dec. 29, 2013-
The last Sunday of the year. The fellowship in Mauritius that I was sent to help, has a function for all the congregation that want to participate. We would show our thanks to GOD by doing something for HIM. Some came with musical talent, others performed a type of skit from a story in the Bible.
From L-to-R: Cindy, Sandrine, Virginie, Manuel, Majo (Virginie's mother), and Olivier. (Sandrine and Majo came to know CHRIST by Virginie coming to know the LORD).
Sybil, a sister in CHRIST wanted to say how great GOD is and to thank HIM publicly-
The Childrens Ministry prepared a skit for us
Fabianna was next in line to show GOD how she remembered scripture
I would be leaving the Island in two days in order to renew my Travel Visa. I Thought it best to propose marriage to Virginie, publicly. I would go to the French Island of Reunion where a family would host taking care of me for the three days that I would be there.
The Island of the Reunion (Reunion for short)- this is an Orchid called "Phalaenopsis Marianne"...I think.
This is a local fruit called "Letchi"- You peel the outer skin for a sweet juicy center...Be careful the hard 1" thick seed is at the center.
This is a Truffle directly from France- If you are a Dark Chocolate lover like me, then your mouth may be watering just looking at it.
I was very excited to depart from Mauritius on my venture to Reunion, even more so when I was informed of Cyclone 'Bejisa' heading toward us and scheduled to hit the Island of the Reunion while my being there.
A museum to tell you all about the very active volcano of Reunion- "Piton de la Fournaise"
As Cyclone "Bejisa" was still yet far from us, the entertainment for my first day at Reunion was right up my alley- I love the Violin.
Preparing together to play a piece of music for us- Father and daughter
What an entertaining time we had together. The company that was hosting me and I had to leave in order to prepare for the coming Cyclone "Bejisa"
I was very comfortable as the Host gave up his room for three days for me
I was able to catch up with my Biblical journal through the Bible- While Cyclone Bejisa blew her wind at about 60-75 mph
Upon returning to Mauritius I would not extend my Visitors Visa for six months but rather claim, 'For Marriage to a Citizen of the Land'. This action will give me only 30 days to file all the paperwork needed, of which the most important will have to be original documents from The States! Every day will be valuable. If all documents from the list of 'Requirements for a Non-Citizen Male to Marry a Citizen' are not met in the time frame given- Then I would be removed by the Government from the Island. Talk about a leap of Faith.
Jan. 29, 2014-
After the fifth visit to the Civil Status Office in Port-Louis, which is a one hour ride by bus, one way. We were permitted by the Government to become Husband and Wife. Though Virginie and I are married by law. We would not live together until we are married under Holy Matrimony. I want Pastor Ron to marry us, Virginie wants Dominique to marry us. Good thing I was born the Male...We will wait for Pastor Ron to arrive in July-August.
The flower arrangements were done by the Aunt of Virginie, all from local flowers and shoots
I thought I was sent here to work on vehicles for the Church. Once again the Word of GOD proves true.. We can make our plans but the final outcome is in the hands of the LORD (Prov. 16:1) . I am amazed how fast time goes by. Even more am I amazed at how much can happen in a short amount of time. Not forgetting of course to inform you of the significance of August 1, 2013-
On the day of my arrival to the Island of Mauritius did Virginie receive the call from the proper office that the closing of the two bedroom one bath apartment she purchased over one year ago was finalized. Our nest was prepared even before we met. Well, the foundation anyway. There would still be quite a bit of work to do to make this 3rd floor apartment livable. Don't worry, Virginie and I have already started to save money to come and visit you in the Fall of 2016, GOD willing. Bless you by HIS grace.
Paul & Virginie, working as Husband and Wife on making our "Nest" livable
The teams that voluntarily come have the opportunity to be a true witness for JESUS CHRIST. Showing the people of Mauritius a different kind of understanding to whom the JESUS of the Bible really is. A personal relationship with the Creator of the Heavens and the Earth is something the people do not have because they do not have the privilege of seeing in others what that looks like. Ones personal walk with JESUS CHRIST can speak volumes to many that have only heard of JESUS CHRIST. This being the case here on the Island. The people do have churches they can attend that read the word of GOD- However the "Fruit" shown is not one of relationship with JESUS CHRIST by means of HIS Holy Spirit but rather of the pursuit to a prosperous life here on Earth with claims of Holy Spirit activity.
Here is a perfect example of what I mean as to show how I applied the former method of 'Having a Relationship with our LORD and Savior' and its outcome.
As of yet no vehicle had been purchased for our goal to be met. As the vehicles we were looking into either are too costly to repair and sell for a profit, or the price of the vehicle of interest is out of the range of what we are looking to spend. With our dead line closing in- The pressure is building. Pastor Ron will be here in four months and his man sent from the States (That's Me) has nothing to show. What is the LORD doing!...
Establishing HIS roots, that's what. Initially my term on the Island of Mauritius would have ended at six months. Due to Travel Visa regulations set by the Republic of Mauritius, I would have had to leave the Island putting me back on a plane and head to the USA on the first week of January, 2014. I need more time to have our (CCMB) interest met here on the Island. Not only for this particular project but for future endeavors all for the sake of extending The Kingdom of GOD (Matt 6:33). How can I buy more time on the Island at an expense I can afford?? Upon looking into Visa Regulations set by the local Government, I found only one option is available for the Republic of Mauritius to recognize me and permit me to stay on the Island with NO Travel Visa- ONLY ONE....Marriage to a Citizen of the Land.
At first thought the notion of marriage was out of the question, immediately I said NO WAY!- It is not that I am against the unity of Man and Woman joined together in Holy Matrimony. Which is clearly a representation of JESUS CHRIST and HIS church (Eph. 5:32). Though, the truth is- I would not degrade this opportunity to be a representative of the love of GOD for the world seen specifically in marriage, for the sole purpose of extending my Travel Visa. Let me explain- In order for me to "Paint the Picture" for you of how the Holy Spirit was and is working in this situation of my life I will need to give a brief summary of my past (for those that know me well enough, nothing I have to say is 'Brief'). I trusted the LORD and made life changing decisions by reading HIS word as the means to following HIS instruction for my life.
While in Bangor, Maine during the Winter season of 2012, I asked one specific question of the LORD to answer. If I was to stay in Maine and if so could I have a certain young maiden for a wife. It was on the 28th day of February 2013, around one year later that the LORD spoke to me as I happen to be reading through the book of Jeremiah. 'The word of the LORD also came to me, saying, "You shall not take a wife nor shall you have sons or daughters in this place''' (Jer. 16:1-2). As direct as this may be to an answered prayer, I know what else the word of GOD says...to test every Spirit (1 John 4:1). I purposed in my heart to wait further on GOD and to confirm HIS word to be a direct command. Five days later on the 5th of March did I receive an email from Pastor Ron with the offer to come to Mauritius. It would be the next five months that I prepared Physically and especially Spiritually for my leaving the State of Maine and adhere to the call of the LORD to go to the Island of Mauritius.
A car that was given to me while in Bangor, Maine is getting buried with the snow fall after only four hours
 |
| Seven Oaks Training Center, Bangor Maine |
August 1, 2013-
The next day upon arriving on the Island did I meet who would later be my Wife.
Marie Martine Virginie Goornaden, started coming to the fellowship that I was assigned to help, about two weeks before I arrived- However something special and of great significance (if you over-spiritualize as I sometimes can) did occur on August 1, 2013- The day I landed. I was so focused on the project work set for me that I stayed clear of any relationship. Besides, I did not speak French, the language of the Island, and was already too busy to learn. As the days turned into weeks did I notice that Virginie was around a lot. Always coming to any and all Bible studies that were offered during the week. She also attended any and all family functions where a Bible study was involved. Virginie wanted to know all about GOD and HIS plan for her life- and I noticed that she was doing all things possible to get those answers...Very impressive.
August 27, 2013-
As I saw these past weeks the interest in the Word of GOD that Virginie was showing, I approached her to ask how her reading was coming along and to learn, out of what book of the Bible she was reading. Her answer was not only in a well spoken English (Who Knew! I never spoke to her!) but also with depth saying, "Much of the meaning of what is written is lost when translated to the French language, I know that there is more to learn than what I am reading in the French translation of the Bible".
Now That's An Answer!!...I took advantage to give Virginie an English study Bible for beginners, as she was new to the Faith. I mentioned that I was going through the Proverbs, reading through the chapter corresponding to each day of the month. Guiding her to do the same and to write down the Proverb that seems of most interest to her from day to day. We would do this together and I would check on her from time to time to see how it was going along. I would also keep my distance from her in order to seek the LORD in HIS word as to know if Virginie was the one set apart for me.
Sept. 10, 2013-
Our relationship was growing as Virginie continued her studies with her new English Bible. Virginie is a school teacher for children, ages 9-11. Though teaching all subjects- to read in English was the preferred language for her.
 | |
| Virginie and My First French Lesson |
Virginie offered to teach me French on her spare time, twice a week. Which only furthered our knowing each other.
Passing through a Sugar Cane field during a Youth Group outing Nature walk to some Waterfalls
 |
| Continuing Our Path To The Waterfalls- A Beautiful day |
What a good bunch this was:
center: Alvin
L-to-R: Alexandre, Emily, Virginie, Adriel, Olivier, ME, Manuel
20 minutes of alone time with the LORD- A time to ask GOD to reflect how ones life has been
A teaching of the Word out of (John 15:1-5)
After a Youth Group outing where about eight of us attended a hiking tour to some Waterfalls, Dominique took Virginie and I aside for a talk. Clearly seeing that a relationship of more than a friend was building. He asked us if this in fact was the case. For me, scripture after scripture stated Virginie was to be my Wife. However for Virginie everything in her life from the time she accepted the LORD until this moment was too good to be true and that she needed more time to seek the LORD in this. We would stay clear from each other until further notice. It was now that I would increment Fasting along with my Praying to further seek the LORD to confirm whether the LORD has called us to work together for HIS Kingdom as Husband and Wife.
Sept. 29, 2013-
Nineteen days later, Dominique has yet another talk with Virginie and I in regards to whether the LORD has revealed anything to Virginie concerning her relationship to me. Virginie confirms- Everything she reads from the word of GOD and everything she sees around her has lead her to believe that she is to be my Helper. Once again I will comment, 'Now That Was A Good Answer'. When you first meet Virginie she does not say much, but when she speaks it is profound. Virginie and I agree with each other to keep our relationship quiet from the congregation and wait on GOD as to when we will marry. I continued to designate time to Pray and Fast seeking GOD and HIS will for our life together. It would be at this time, one month later, that Virginie would tell me of the first bit of scripture that spoke to her from the Proverbs, which pointed her to my direction- (Prov. 3:5-6)- 'Trust in the LORD with all of your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all of your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.
Significantly, this would be the same bit of scripture that spoke to me, concerning my Pastor of Calvary Chapel Myrtle Beach, SC. some years earlier.
By following what I believed to be the leading of the Lord for my life. I was influenced to make the decision for my first trip, in Sept. 2009- In going to the Island of Mauritius.
Dec. 29, 2013-
The last Sunday of the year. The fellowship in Mauritius that I was sent to help, has a function for all the congregation that want to participate. We would show our thanks to GOD by doing something for HIM. Some came with musical talent, others performed a type of skit from a story in the Bible.
From L-to-R: Cindy, Sandrine, Virginie, Manuel, Majo (Virginie's mother), and Olivier. (Sandrine and Majo came to know CHRIST by Virginie coming to know the LORD).
Sybil, a sister in CHRIST wanted to say how great GOD is and to thank HIM publicly-
The Childrens Ministry prepared a skit for us
Fabianna was next in line to show GOD how she remembered scripture
I would be leaving the Island in two days in order to renew my Travel Visa. I Thought it best to propose marriage to Virginie, publicly. I would go to the French Island of Reunion where a family would host taking care of me for the three days that I would be there.
The Island of the Reunion (Reunion for short)- this is an Orchid called "Phalaenopsis Marianne"...I think.
This is a local fruit called "Letchi"- You peel the outer skin for a sweet juicy center...Be careful the hard 1" thick seed is at the center.
This is a Truffle directly from France- If you are a Dark Chocolate lover like me, then your mouth may be watering just looking at it.
I was very excited to depart from Mauritius on my venture to Reunion, even more so when I was informed of Cyclone 'Bejisa' heading toward us and scheduled to hit the Island of the Reunion while my being there.
A museum to tell you all about the very active volcano of Reunion- "Piton de la Fournaise"
As Cyclone "Bejisa" was still yet far from us, the entertainment for my first day at Reunion was right up my alley- I love the Violin.
Preparing together to play a piece of music for us- Father and daughter
What an entertaining time we had together. The company that was hosting me and I had to leave in order to prepare for the coming Cyclone "Bejisa"
I was very comfortable as the Host gave up his room for three days for me
I was able to catch up with my Biblical journal through the Bible- While Cyclone Bejisa blew her wind at about 60-75 mph
Upon returning to Mauritius I would not extend my Visitors Visa for six months but rather claim, 'For Marriage to a Citizen of the Land'. This action will give me only 30 days to file all the paperwork needed, of which the most important will have to be original documents from The States! Every day will be valuable. If all documents from the list of 'Requirements for a Non-Citizen Male to Marry a Citizen' are not met in the time frame given- Then I would be removed by the Government from the Island. Talk about a leap of Faith.
Jan. 29, 2014-
After the fifth visit to the Civil Status Office in Port-Louis, which is a one hour ride by bus, one way. We were permitted by the Government to become Husband and Wife. Though Virginie and I are married by law. We would not live together until we are married under Holy Matrimony. I want Pastor Ron to marry us, Virginie wants Dominique to marry us. Good thing I was born the Male...We will wait for Pastor Ron to arrive in July-August.
Paul & Virginie sign the Marriage Certificate- The first step to a new life on the Island of Mauritius.
- We had a little party to celebrate what GOD has done with the both of us.
The flower arrangements were done by the Aunt of Virginie, all from local flowers and shoots
I thought I was sent here to work on vehicles for the Church. Once again the Word of GOD proves true.. We can make our plans but the final outcome is in the hands of the LORD (Prov. 16:1) . I am amazed how fast time goes by. Even more am I amazed at how much can happen in a short amount of time. Not forgetting of course to inform you of the significance of August 1, 2013-
On the day of my arrival to the Island of Mauritius did Virginie receive the call from the proper office that the closing of the two bedroom one bath apartment she purchased over one year ago was finalized. Our nest was prepared even before we met. Well, the foundation anyway. There would still be quite a bit of work to do to make this 3rd floor apartment livable. Don't worry, Virginie and I have already started to save money to come and visit you in the Fall of 2016, GOD willing. Bless you by HIS grace.
Paul & Virginie, working as Husband and Wife on making our "Nest" livable
