So there we are in small fishing village in Northern Mexico, freshly trained, working in a very small building into which we squeezed 4 tables to operate on and as I am working on my patient’s teeth I see a small pig walk in the door with it’s owner. As I stared into my patient’s mouth (not a pretty sight), drilling into her teeth with a hand drill to prep for the fillings I would soon put in, I could not help but chuckle a little at one of the most bizarre situations I think I have ever been in. In case you are wondering, the pig remained in the room throughout the entire exam of it’s owner and to top it off the owner had her hand dangling from the table petting the pig for most of the exam :).
Overall, the clinic was a big success. Over the three days in Village ML our team treated around 35 patients most of whom had multiple cavities and many had more serious issues which the dentist who trained us and oversaw us handled as he could if he had the proper equipment with him.
The Lord answered each prayer request I had listed previously. It was great to reconnect with the family of believers there and I was privileged to lead the them in a Bible study on Friday night. I had two significant gospel conversations. One was especially amazing as I had the chance to lay out the gospel and need for repentance very clearly. The man left stating that he had a lot to think about. If you pray for him you can call him Mr. R. All of our work went very well and the villagers were extremely pleased and thankful (some even brought us special food they prepared to thank us for our work). It seems that this will open up further doors and has increased the respect from the villagers for the missionary team that goes to village ML. Praise GOD!
Below are some pics:
Our dental team
Me with the only believing family in the village. They love the fellowship they receive when the missionaries come. The closest option for a church would be around 90 min away on some pretty dangerous roads. They continue to grow even amidst the lack of weekly (or daily) fellowship outside of one another – Amazing and convicting!!!
Enjoyed the post! Very thankful for the opportunities that you had to share the Gospel with people! Praying for you all and hoping you are doing well!
-Bethany
Hey Trevor. It’s Phil Dahl from Olathe/ Farmers! Wanted to let you know that my father, Wayne Dahl, is in Oaxaca for the next month helping build a ministry/translation center with Wycliffe bible translators. Not sure where exactly or if he would be any where near where you are.
Phil, great to hear from you. We are going to the Wycliffe translation center tomorrow. I will be sure to seek him out. Lord bless you brother!