"IN-SINK" - GOD'S PROVISION
One of our plans, here at the cabin in the mountains of East Tennessee, is to equip a little cabin, over the garage (seen in background) with a small kitchen and a bathroom. This addition will greatly enhance our ability to provide housing for "weary travelers". We, of course, have limited resources for this project.
With some "elbow grease" and loving care, the forlorn looking sink cleaned up and actually looked brand new. The remarkable thing is that this sink had been sitting in that dusty corner of that barn just waiting to be discovered. Love it when our Lord provides!!
We are so THANKFUL to our Lord for providing this "Retreat" to us. Our recent "In-Tents Fellowship" confirmed this remarkable gift to our ministry. We can provide a beautiful location for "intensive" training as well as a refuge in difficult times. Again, our Lord provides!
Cindy, Peter and Ariana are packing up today and will be heading back to Florida tomorrow. I'll be spending a few more days here for some quiet time of prayer and reflection. Also have a couple of critical projects to complete up here before I'll be heading back to Florida.
In the meantime, been keeping a close eye on the Caribbean. A couple of low pressure areas are "trying" to develop, but upper level wind shears keep tearing them apart. Good. Glad we don't have to be fighting a "hurricane" yet. We pray that this will be a peaceful season.
The silence from the U.S. Government on this is deafening. Please continue to pray for those who are facing such fierce persecution for their faith. Here's the Fox story - PURGED BY ISIS - IRAQ CHRISTIANS APPEAL TO THE WORLD
Well, it's time to get to work and see what "treasures" our Lord has for us today. As always, THANK YOU for standing so faithfully with us with your invaluable prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
7-23-14 Wednesday 7:49AM (US Eastern Time) - Mtns of East TN - Air Mobile Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
MUSLIM PROFESSOR PAYS THE ULTIMATE PRICE FOR DEFENDING IRAQI CHRISTIANS
There is something that we can do to help them, and that is to PRAY! Here's the story on the Muslim Professor - MUSLIM PROFESSOR PAYS THE ULTIMATE PRICE
There is so much going on in our world today, from the "War" between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, to the downing of the Malaysia Jet over the Ukraine and tensions with Russia reaching "Cold War" levels, and the list goes on and on.
Here's another good story on the plight of the Iraqi Christians. I urge you to take a few moments and see the story. If you have time, view the actual Interview on the "Steve Malzberg Show". Steve, who is Jewish, asks the question, "Why are Christians around the Globe not standing up for the Iraqi Christians?? ....good question - IRAQI CHRISTIAN SPOKESMAN: ISIS ENFORCING CHRISTIAN HOLOCAUST
Today, we'll be hanging around the cabin and just chilling out. Kind of like "recharging" our batteries for the "next mission" (whatever that may be) that lies ahead.
We're thankful to have these quiet, peaceful moments and yes, it does lend itself to spending some quality prayer time with our Lord.
As always, THANK YOU for your faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
7-22-14 Monday 8:44AM (US Eastern Time) - Mtns of East TN - Air Mobile Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
"HELL ON EARTH" FOR CHRISTIANS IN IRAQ
Came across this article this morning and it just stopped me dead in my tracks. The plight of Christians in Iraq is staggering and yet, there is little or nothing said about it, certainly not in the media here in America. Here's a quote from this very insightful article...
"For the first time in 1,600 years, Mass is not being said in Mosul: an ancient culture has been wiped out in a matter of weeks. It's a war crime that, strangely, no one seems to want to talk about.
Mosul is the second-largest city in Iraq and the place where many Christians believe Jonah was buried. Since the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (Isis) rode into town, their faith has been forced underground. Bells have been silenced, the hijab enforced with bullets. Tens of thousands fled after being offered an unattractive choice: convert, pay a religious tax, or be put to the sword. The levy was unaffordable. According to one local news agency, Isis troops entered the house of a poor Christian and, when they didn’t get what they wanted, the soldiers raped the mother and daughter in front of their husband and father. He committed suicide out of grief."
Here's the link to the story - IRAQI CHRISTIANS ARE RAPED, MURDERED AND DRIVEN FROM THEIR HOMES...AND THE WEST IS SILENT These are our Brothers and Sister in Christ. They certainly need our PRAYERS & HELP!
We, in America, are still relatively "comfortable" and do not have to deal with this level of persecution. Yet, if we remain silent, this "Genie" that is already out of the lamp, will spread across the planet. We must stand for those who are being so brutally persecuted.
May I urge you to take a moment and PRAY for those in Iraq, and in so many other places around the world, who are being persecuted and tortured for their faith. Folks, these are things are happening as I type, and often, we are either not told about them, or worse, we simply don't care.
This morning, I just could not remain silent on this horror that is being played out in Iraq. Having traveled into more than 44 Countries following natural disasters, we have seen evidence of this persecution in so many countries. Believe me, this persecution is growing and will soon reach our American shores. We must stand and PRAY!
You may ask, "Joe, what can I do for the Christians in Iraq?"
Now, I know that, we in America have our share of problems with the Southern Border and the Economy and the endless list, but again, I simply bring this tragic story to you to seek your PRAYER.
Remember, PRAYER IS POWERFUL! Our prayers together can help save lives and relieve suffering in Iraq and in so many other 'hot spots' around the globe.
"For, where two or three are gathered together in My Name, there am I in midst of them" Our Prayer just became very powerful in Jesus!
Thank you for standing together with us for others who are suffering!! God bless!
Air Mobile Joe
7-21-14 Monday 6:23AM (US Eastern Time) - Mtns of East TN - Air Mobile Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
LOST & FOUND
Where could it be? Began to back-track in my mind. Where did I have it last? Then, my mind began to spin like a whirlwind. I began to go over place after place and I just couldn't remember, it was like a blur. Then, I recalled Matthew 7:7 - ASK - SEEK - KNOCK. I quietly asked our Lord to show me where it was.
My mind became very clear. Started for the Campground and stopped by the Rendezvous (our 2005 Buick). Opened it up, checked the back and started to walk away when "something" inside of me said, go back and check again.
Went to the front, opened the door, scanned under the seat and all around and started to leave again when....something said, check again. I looked up on the dash and there it was, that old, tattered Bible that has been around the world with me so many times and on so many missions.
You know, it was less than 5 minutes after I prayed that, our Lord directed me right to it. So often, we (I am speaking for myself here) simply forget to pray.
We all have things....and friends that are lost. So often, a simple prayer can be a complete "game-changer" in seemingly impossible and or very difficult situations.
Next time you, say, forget where your keys are, may I urge you to remember Matthew 7:7 "Ask and you shall receive, Seek and you shall find, Knock and the door shall be opened."
Now, you may have a friend who is "Lost". Believe me, our Lord wants you to pray for that person. Don't hesitate, just do it! Remember, our Lord hears our prayers and....is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
Your prayers are important and if our Lord has put someone on your mind and heart, simply A.S.K. and leave the rest up to God. Be sensitive to His direction. He may have you phone the person, or stop by or simply to pray.
So, came down this morning, and was not quite sure what I would write (that is often the case) and He gave me a simple message on "Lost & Found". I hope this helps someone today. Our Lord is an ever-present help in time of need. We simply need to call (A.S.K.) upon Him. Remember also, whosoever (that includes you and me) shall call upon the Name of the Lord shall be saved.
Air Mobile Joe
* PS - You may recall that this same Bible was with me when our small team was attacked and beaten and we were in the middle of being kidnapped when, by a miracle, we escaped. My little, tattered Bible was stolen by the would-be kidnappers. By a miracle of God, the Bible was returned to me. That old Bible and I have "history". Would hate to lose it. Joe
7-20-14 Sunday 7:29AM (US Eastern Time) - Mtns of East TN - Air Mobile Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
OUR FIRST "IN-TENTS FELLOWSHIP" MEETING A COMPLETE SUCCESS
It started to rain the opening night and rained almost the entire 3 days and we never missed a step. BTW, it's still raining this morning. Was told the it's been rather dry and this rain will be good for the crops.
My Cindy did such an amazing job of planning this event and cooking for everyone. We always had just the right amount of food and even had enough for seconds. It was just a great 3 Days and we look forward to doing it again next year.
So, it's Sunday morning and we're getting ready for Church. We're looking forward to just going to church and not having to do anything but just go and sit and enjoy hearing the Word of God.
Peter will lead the Worship again. We're so thankful for this great experience for Peter, as he's growing in serving the Lord.
It's time to have get that 2nd cup of coffee and just sit on the porch and watch the rain fall before we head out to Church. As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
7-19-14 Saturday 7:59AM (US Eastern Time) - Mtns of East TN - Air Mobile Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
TYPHOON RAMMASUN STRIKES SOUTHERN CHINA WITH 155MPH WINDS - WORST STORM IN 41 YEARS - MASSIVE EVACUATIONS SAVE LIVES! - 'IN-TENTS FELLOWSHIP' RAINED ON BUT....NOT RAINED OUT
Here's more - TYPHOON RAMMASUN - THE MOST POWERFUL STORM TO STRIKE SOUTHERN CHINA IN DECADES
Please remember to PRAY for the families and friends of the victims of this terrible act. Also, please PRAY that those responsible for the heinous act are brought to justice.
Well, it began raining on Thursday evening and here, on Saturday morning, it's still raining here in the beautiful mountains of East Tennessee. Our event, "In-Tent Fellowhsip" has been certainly rain on, but not rained out!
The fellowship was just wonderful. Getting to know our neighbors and having several Pastors spending some time getting to know one another was just what we hoped would happen.
So, here we are in beginning Day 3 of "In-Tents Fellowship". It's still raining, but all is well. As always, THANK YOU for your faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
7-18-14 Friday 7:14AM (US Eastern Time) - Mtns of East TN - Air Mobile Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
MALAYSIAN 777 LIKELY TAKEN DOWN BY RUSSIAN S.A.M. (SURFACE TO AIR MISSLE) - ISRAEL LAUNCHES GROUND OFFENSIVE INTO GAZA & "IN-TENTS FELLOWSHIP" PROCEEDS - BREAKING NEWS - TYPHOON RAMMASUN GROWS TO MASSIVE STRENGTH OVERNIGHT!!
There is much mystery surrounding this terrible event and the truth is....we may never know what happened. Here's more on this unfolding tragedy - UKRAINE - RUSSIA ROW OVER WHO SHOT DOWN PLANE
This is an extremely "explosive" situation and could rapidly accelerate into a much wider conflict. Again, we should PRAY for the PEACE OF ISRAEL!
There are, as usual, many versions to the story and I came across this insightful piece written by Dr. Charles Krauthammer and thought I'd share it with you - MORAL CLARITY IN GAZA - PLEASE take a moment and read this piece, it will open your eyes.
I won't even talk about the tragedy that is happening on our U.S. Southern Border.
As I crawled and scraped the high points and filled in the ruts, my mind was just a-whirl at what is happening around the Globe. Folks, we're in pretty bad shape.
Our meetings will continue today through Sunday morning. We're so blessed to be able to do this and we're extremely thankful as to how the pieces came together.
This is extraordinary and means that many are facing EXTREME DANGER as this massive storm ravages South China and is headed to Viet Nam. Here's more on this horrendous storm - SUPER TYPHOON RAMMASUN RAGES - MILLIONS IN DANGER
We'll continue to monitor these immense events. Above all, we'll PRAY and ask our Lord just what we should be doing. Our "In-Tents Fellowship" will be continuing and in just a little while, we'll be sharing more on God's Amazing Grace.
As always, THANK YOU for meandering down this road with us. I know that I get a little emotional but these are troublesome days as we see prophesy unfolding and so many in such great danger. Again, we pray for God's Will To Be Done on earth as it is in heaven! THANK YOU for standing with us with your prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
7-17-14 Thursday 6:55AM (US Eastern Time) - Mtns of East TN - Air Mobile Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
"IN-TENTS FELLOWSHIP" BEGINS THIS EVENING...BRRRR! - TYPHOON RAMMASUN ROARING TO SOUTH CHINA
With a lot of "elbow grease" and determination, we now have a permanent meeting place for future events. Praise God!!
Many records dating back to the 1800's have already fallen across the U.S. due to this bizarre "Polar Vortex??". Just more evidence of "Global Warming".
Those folks are battening down the hatches and we're praying for all in the path and in the wake of this typhoon. Here's more info on Rammasun - TYPHOON RAMMASUN NEARING SOUTH CHINA / VIETNAM AFTER STRIKING THE PHILIPPINES
Well, it's time to head out and put the final touches on the "Campground". Remember, it's not to late to come and join us. The "In-Tents Fellowship" Retreat will begin this evening and go through Sunday Morning. If you'd like more information, call us at: 423-793-3569 or e-mail us at: airmobilejoe@gmail.com
As always, THANK YOU for your faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
7-16-14 Wednesday 7:19AM (US Eastern Time) - Mtns of East TN - Air Mobile Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
PHILIPPINES "DODGES" TYPHOON BULLET - NOW TYPHOON RAMMASUN HEADED TO CHINA - A COOL DAY IN THE SMOKEY'S
Filipinos are no strangers to Typhoons. I recall back in 2009, the Philippines had 4 Typhoons in 4 weeks. Massive flooding occurred at that time. The Filipino people are some of the toughest, most resilient people we have ever worked with. So glad they "Dodged" this bullet!
Again, we're monitoring this situation and PRAYING for those in the path of this Typhoon. Here's more on Typhoon Rammasun - TYPHOON RAMMASUN LEAVES THE PHILIPPINES - HEADED FOR SOUTH CHINA
Records are being shattered all across the country. Would rather be a bit cool in July than being stifling hot.....though it's still rather strange to be bundling up in July!
It is a beautiful day here in Tennessee on this "crisp" morning and we're putting the final touches on our Air Mobile Retreat "Camp-Ground". The pieces are coming together.
Tomorrow evening, we'll kick off "In-Tents Fellowship", and have 3 days of Praise, Prayer, Fellowship and just plain old fashioned fun. Hope you can make it!!*
So, it's time to head to the woods and work on that Camp-Ground. As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
*PS - If you need more information and directions to our retreat, "In-Tents Fellowship", simply give us a call at: 423-973-3569 or drop us an e-mail at: airmobilejoe@gmail.com .
Joe
7-15-14 Tuesday 7:16AM (US Eastern Time) - Mtns of East TN - Air Mobile Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE "SMOKEY'S" - UPDATE - THE PHILIPPINES JUST GOT HIT AGAIN WITH ANOTHER TYPHOON
Temperatures are supposed to drop to record lows in the next 24 hours. Kind of strange to be in mid-July with the temp in the 40's.
Last night, some rather powerful storms came roaring through our valley and knocked our Internet for a "loop". Been on the phone with a technician this morning trying to straighten it all out. Just glad to have a phone that works and a tech that knows his stuff. Thus, the late posting this morning.
Today, we'll be working in the "Camp Ground" getting ready for the "In-Tents" Fellowship event beginning this coming Thursday evening. It'll go through Sunday morning and we're very excited about it. The "transformation" continues in the woods.
The clouds are enveloping our valley and it's time to get to work. Recalling the messages on the Grace of God. My heart is warmed as I ponder His goodness and grace. Trust you are blessed today and.....THANK YOU for standing with us with your prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
UPDATE - THE PHILIPPINES JUST GOT HIT WITH ANOTHER TYPHOON
This Typhoon spared the region that was decimated by Typhoon Yolanda that struck last November and is headed toward Manila.
Reports are coming in of extensive damage...the death toll has not been published at this hour. We are tracking this very closely and prayerfully! Here's more - TYPHOON MAMMASUN SLAMS PHILIPPINES - MILLIONS THREATENED
PLEASE PRAY FOR THE PHILIPPINES!!!
Air Mobile Joe
7-14-14 Monday 8:12AM (US Eastern Time) - Mtns of East TN - Air Mobile Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
THE WAY TO "GRACE"
Grace is, in my humble opinion, one of the most powerful forces ever released on mankind.
Of course, many recognize the Power of Grace to free us from sin (no small deal) as Grace is also "God's unmerited favor".
The bottom line is: we need His Grace in our lives! The question is, "How do we get His Grace?" According to 3 extremely reliable sources (Solomon, James and Peter), the way get His Grace is to "humble" ourselves and He will pour out His Grace upon us liberally!
In James 4:6 (the Brother of Jesus), we are told, "But HE gives more Grace, therefore He says, God resists the proud, but gives GRACE TO THE HUMBLE".
And in I Peter 4:5b "God resists the proud, but gives GRACE TO THE HUMBLE.
Avoid pride (we're all afflicted with this) as pride shuts off the flow of GRACE in our lives. Again, admit to the Lord that you need Him and just humble yourself and He will lift you up.
There is so much more that I could say about GRACE, as there are unlimited facets to this Amazing Gift from God, but today, I'll simply touch on the Way to Grace through humility.
Once I began on GRACE (yesterday's blog), just couldn't turn it off and had to speak about it again in today's Blog. Hope this helps someone reading this rambling blog. Personally, His GRACE has saved me and keeps me going everyday. Simply want to share it with you.
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Another great "facet" of God's Grace is God's Gifts. Peter is very talented musically and he knows that this is a "Gift" from God.
As always, THANK YOU for wandering down this road with me and also for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
7-13-14 Sunday 7:04AM (US Eastern Time) - Mtns of East TN - Air Mobile Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
TRANSFORMATION IN THE WOODS - SOME THOUGHTS ON GRACE
As Cindy was speaking to a group of ladies on the subject of "FEAR" yesterday, Peter and I were in the woods "transforming" some natural beauty into a campground for our upcoming event, "In-Tents Fellowship".
The old stainless steel sink, just like the old fridge had been sitting in the wood for years. Cleaned up and looked almost like new. Love it when a plan comes together.
We'll continue to work on the "Campground" this week as our event, "In-Tents Fellowship", begins this Thursday evening.
In other words, perhaps you've been struggling with something and just keep going back to our Lord again and again only to stumble again? We've all been there at some time or the other.
Well, I have a great scripture for you (and for me). It's found in John 1:16 and here it is - "And of His fullness, we have all received and grace for grace" . Wow, so when we feel like there is just no more Grace, then, He gives us more grace and even gives us "GRACE FOR GRACE"!
I sensed this morning that someone reading this blog needed to hear this Amazing truth on Grace. Always remember that He gives "GRACE for GRACE"!
So, it's Sunday morning and we're getting ready to head to Church. We pray that you are blessed today and may you Grow in Grace!! And, THANK YOU for your faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
PS - Speaking of "In-Tents" Fellowship, if you'd like to come or learn more about this great time of sweet fellowship and praise and worship and study, either give us a call at: 423-973-3569 or e-mail us at: airmobilejoe@gmail.com and we'll tell you all about it. The "Party" begins on Thursday evening and goes through Sunday morning (July 17-20). Would love to see you!! Joe
7-12-14 Saturday 7:14AM (US Eastern Time) - Mtns of East TN - Air Mobile Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
IF YOU'RE COMING TO THE "IN-TENTS" FELLOWSHIP....BRING SOME WARM CLOTHING
At any rate, if you're coming to the "In-Tents" Fellowship, bring some warm clothing, it's going to be quite chilly here in the beautiful mountains of East Tennessee.....when it's supposed to be hot as a "firecracker"!!
Speaking of "In-Tents" Fellowship, if you'd like to come or learn more about this great time of sweet fellowship and praise and worship and study, either give us a call at: 423-973-3569 or e-mail us at: airmobilejoe@gmail.com and we'll tell you all about it. The "Party" begins on Thursday evening and goes through Sunday morning (July 17-20). Would love to see you!!
We're making good progress on "transforming" a mess into a "Camp Ground". Love working on projects like this. We're very excited about using this area for future meetings. We'll likely continue on the "In-Tents" theme, i.e., "In-Tents Survival" & "In-Tents Worship" etc. Love it!!
She has defined fear as ......... False - Evidence - Appearing - Real. In other words, most of the things that we FEAR, never come to pass (statistics have proven that). It's a great message.
While she's ministering, Peter, Ariana and I will be working on the "Camp Ground". We are really having fun getting ready for this. Again, hope you can make it. Time to "get back to work". As always, truly appreciate your precious love, prayer and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
7-11-14 Friday 7:08AM (US Eastern Time) - Mtns of East TN - Air Mobile Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
"IN-TENTS" FELLOWSHIP
We've invited our community and beyond, to come and spend a couple of days camping out and having an "Old Fashioned" Camp Meeting next Thursday, Friday and Saturday (July 17-20).
I know this is short notice, but if you're interested in coming, simply give us a call at 423-973-3569 and we'll help you get here (you can also e-mail us at: airmobilejoe@gmail.com) .
It's time to head out & get ready for "IN-TENTS" FELLOWSHIP! Remember, if you'd like to join us next week, simply get in touch and we'll give you all the details. Hope to see you!!
As always, THANK YOU for your precious love, prayer and support!!!
Air Mobile Joe
7-10-14 Thursday 7:13AM (US Eastern Time) - Mtns of East TN - Air Mobile Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
A CALL FOR HELP IN THE APPALACHIANS.....
The phone rang. It was Marta with the Jubilee Project, a vital ministry in Hancock County, TN. There was a major water problem (e-coli) and it was preventing a much needed facility from being opened. Could we help?
Marta showed me the pump room and the "parts" that they had been gathering for their water system.
I was very glad to explain to Marta that she had a beautiful set up (Cistern / pressure tank / pump / filters and a UV unit). All they needed was a good plumber to come and put the pieces together.
Marta went on to explain that 5% of the population of Hancock Country does not have running water! And....40% have inadequate sanitation. There are major "water" problems right here in the beautiful mountains of East Tennessee!
We see again, why our Lord has directed us to this area for the "Air Mobile Retreat" outreach. So glad we got that call and had the privilege to meet Marta and Jubilee Project.
We are so glad to have you along on this "journey" through life with us. Your prayer, love and support is so precious to us. THANK YOU, again!!
Air Mobile Joe
7-9-14 Wednesday 7:47AM (US Eastern Time) - Mtns of East TN - Air Mobile Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
IMAGINE WHAT WOULD HAPPEN IF JUST "ONE" ROCKET FELL ON AN AMERICAN CITY.....LAST NIGHT 150 FELL ON ISRAELI CITIES!!
And....."both" sides are urged to remain calm and not upset the region!!
Israel has launched a major counter-offensive and yesterday the IDF (Israeli Defense Force) hit numerous targets inside Palestine. Here's more on what is going on...ISRAEL POUNDS DOZENS OF OF GAZA TARGETS IN COUNTER-OFFENSIVE
Folks, from the Southern Border of the U.S. to Israel and throughout the world things are heating up. Meanwhile, Russia and China are gearing up their military's as never before.
Each day, when I get up and scan the news, I see more and more volatility and hatred in this old world. Being here in the mountains of East Tennessee my view of things becomes a bit clearer. Don't have as many places to go and my "To Do List" is shortened quite a bit. I'm able to "ponder" these world events and compare them to what the Bible says.
Today, I'll get on the old Massey Ferguson Tractor and grade the winding road leading to the cabin. We've had a lot of rain and the road is nearly un-passable. But....I have to wait for the rain to stop falling.
Remember, the Bible tells us to "Pray without Ceasing" (I Thessalonians 5:17). We can't pray too much! Out of prayer comes insight, wisdom and direction. As we spend some time in these beautiful mountains our Lord is working in our hearts and teaching us patience! Now, I want patience and I want it RIGHT NOW ....that's just a joke.
As I shared yesterday and it applies today...."Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven". I'm praying for His will to be done in this little "pile of dirt (earth)" called Joe Hurston.
Pray you have a blessed day and THANK YOU for you for your faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
7-8-14 Tuesday 7:05AM (US Eastern Time) - Mtns of East TN - Air Mobile Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
"BORDER"-LINE INSANITY
The "journey" is filled with often horrifying danger (some statistics state that 1 in 3 girls are raped along the way!!) and it "seems" that our country is powerless to stop it. Folks, this is a travesty.
This is truly a disaster and it is unfolding before our eyes and the politicians are "dancing" around it and spouting more craziness. What has happened to "release" this flood?? It is as if these, often innocent children, are being used as weapons. What is the goal? Who will "win" this battle??
You see, with these "children", who are being used as "human shields" are coming disease, dangerous terrorists from every nation, drugs and "only God knows what else"!
I KNOW that we can close our borders and enforce our laws but....there seems to be a deliberate, concentrated effort to rip our borders open and "allow" this flood of humanity in with literally no restraint. Again.....what is happening???
So, in the midst of this "STORM" ravaging our Southern Border what can we do? At this point, this morning as I sit in a little cabin in the mountains of East Tennessee, Cindy and I are left with the "weapon" of prayer. Oh Lord, please intervene and protect the innocent ones and stop this illegal flood and protect our country and bring us back to a land of law and order.
I just had to say something this morning about this terrible situation. As usual, the "news" that we receive on this "Storm" is often slanted and manipulated and yes, filled with lies.
I settled on "THY WILL BE DONE ON EARTH AS IT IS IN HEAVEN". With those Words deeply imprinted on my heart, we go forth into this beautiful day that our Lord has made.
So, as we go forth we'll seek just what our Lord wants us to do about this. It may be to simply pray. It may be more, but at any rate, we go seeking His direction for us today. We pray that you are blessed today and....as always, THANK YOU for your faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
7-7-14 Monday 7:49AM (US Eastern Time) - Mtns of East TN - Air Mobile Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
MORE ON GRACE & A VERY LARGE EARTHQUAKE JUST STRUCK MEXICO ALONG CARIBBEAN FAULT - WILL HAITI BE NEXT?
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Peter has a definite "Call" on his life to lead worship and bring Glory to God. We are so blessed to have him as our son!
James 4:6 says, "HE (Jesus) gives more grace. Wherefore, God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble".
BTW, this blog has been delayed this morning as it appears that "Chrome" is having some glitches. But while working through all of that, I saw that a rather large earthquake just hit in Puerto Madero, Mexico. It was first reported as a 7.1 and since adjusted to a 6.9.
We certainly pray that Haiti does not have another earthquake. In the meantime, we PRAY for those in Mexico who have just experienced a significant earthquake. We have no reports of damage, injuries or death at this hour.
We are still having problems with our internet here, so I'm going to try to post this blog and do some updates later when the internet gets better here at the cabin in the mountains of East Tennessee.
As always, THANK YOU for your faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
7-6-14 Sunday 6:53AM (US Eastern Time) - Mtns of East TN - Air Mobile Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
SPEAKING OF "GRACE"
So, this morning, as I share this message in the Father's House Church, I personally will be growing in grace. What a wonderful thing. My hope and prayer is that those that hear this message will also grow in this awesome gift of God.
So, this morning we're up and getting ready for church. Have already had that delicious second cup of coffee. These East Tennessee mountains just take our breath away. We pray you are extremely blessed today and may you grow in His Grace!!
Air Mobile Joe
7-5-14 Saturday 7:18AM (US Eastern Time) - Mtns of East TN - Air Mobile Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
'CHILLIN & REFLECTIN' ON A COOL TENNESSEE MORNING
A dear friend has written a book and has asked if I'd take a look and make any suggestions.
In the normal course of life, this would be difficult, as the ever-present "To Do List" demands my attention and things just "happen" making it difficult to just sit and read. BTW, it's a pretty good book.
I believe that our Lord "arranged" for our family to have this precious little get-away cabin and we're certainly grateful!!
Thanks to technology and recently installed internet service, we now have full "communications" at the cabin, and yes, I still have the "To Do List" up here. But....there's just something in the air that causes one to take an afternoon nap and just slow down a bit. I love it, whatever it is.
You see, taking a bit of time to snooze hasn't caused the "To Do List" to crash and burn. Actually, it seems to clear the head and remarkably, things still get done. I just have to deal with that tinge of guilt of "slowing down" and truly resting.
That is what I'm going to speak on tomorrow morning, Amazing Grace. Folks, the truth is we don't "deserve" God's love and yet, He freely gives it. That's a fact!
Peter will be leading worship and I'll take the main service at The Father's House Church. Our great friend and Tennessee Pastor, Dan, has asked me to bring the Good News. Always a joy to do that and to speak on God's Amazing Grace is a double blessing!
The sun has fully risen and the temperature is slowly rising and I hear Cindy and the kids stirring. Time to have that second cup of coffee with my sweetheart on the front porch of the cabin. There are times that life is exceptionally good.
As always, THANK YOU for your faithful love, prayer and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
7-4-14 Friday 6:56AM (US Eastern Time) - Mtns of TN - Air Mobile Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA....& GOD BLESS YOU!!!
America has many problems and is facing many challenges, but we are so THANKFUL for America and simply pray....GOD BLESS AMERICA!!
So, for the next few days, we're just going to take it easy and enjoy this beautiful slice of God's Country up here in Tennessee.
We pray you have a safe and blessed 4th of July. Let us all remember to PRAY FOR AMERICA!!
Air Mobile Joe
7-3-14 Thursday 5:56AM (US Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
PARALLELING ARTHUR
We're heading up to the cabin in Tennessee and can hardly wait to get there! We're going to have a pretty bumpy ride as we drive up I-95.
Both Peter and I have been invited to share the Word of God in the Father's House Church in Sneedville, TN.
So, the rambling "Blog" will be a bit short this morning, as it's time for us do the final load and "hit the road". As always, THANK YOU for your faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
7-2-14 Wednesday 7:51AM (US Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
ARTHUR IS ALIVE - TIME TO PREPARE
This "bad boy" formed right here off the coast of Cocoa and it will be moving north and making a northeast turn, toward North Carolina this weekend. Going to definitely mess up some 4th of July fun.
Peter will coming home today! He is just completing his second, back to back mission this summer. We've missed him and will be good to have him home. Spent the day running errands and taking care of business.
BTW, what a beautiful family and good-looking grand-kids. We played a roaring game of Bible-Opoly. We kept giving our properties to each other and making donations toward "building a Church". It is a very fun game!
So, if you live along the East Coast, keep an eye on the weather and make sure you have candles, batteries, water etc. Arthur has "come alive" quite rapidly and is exceeding earlier forecasts. It's always a good idea to be ready and prepare!!
Time to head out into this, somewhat...., beautiful day. We're having strong winds and outer rain bands from Arthur. You can see from this Sat Image, Arthur is becoming quite a storm!
As always, THANK YOU for your faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
7-1-14 Tuesday 6:34AM (US Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
A STORM LOOMING RIGHT NEXT DOOR
If it continues to develop, as forecast, it will likely become a Tropical Storm. Hopefully, and prayerfully, it may never reach Hurricane Status. That's just fine with me....don't like hurricanes!
Here's more on that storm - TROPICAL DISTURBANCE BECOMES TROPICAL DEPRESSION OFF THE COAST OF FLORIDA
Just another word on debt, I am also reminded of the Lord's Prayer....."forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors". Again, our Lord wants to set us free. Thank you, Jesus!
Well, it's time head out into this "blustery" day. Again, I'm so THANKFUL for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
6-30-14 Monday 6:39AM (US Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
DO YOU CARRY A LOAD OF DEBT? A MESSAGE OF HOPE FROM OUR FATHER
To answer that question: I certainly do. When one starts a business, here in the U.S., the owner or founder usually co-signs for loans to get the business established. I did that a number of years ago because I had all the confidence and hope that our business, Cartridge Source of America (CSA), would prosper and be successful.
For many years, our company had steady growth and at the same time, helped us to go around the world bringing clean water to a thirsty world. You see, Cindy and I are "tent-makers" and don't draw a salary out of Air Mobile Ministries. We are thankful for the years that CSA has provided an income for us.
Now, I'm left "holding the bag" of a lot of debt. So, what do I do? I'm believing our Lord to help me through this trial as He has helped me through so many trials in the past. With God, ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE!
I keep hearing a distinct message, deep in my heart...."Son, if you take care of My business, I will take care of yours". This morning, I opened up to a very familiar and comforting passage in Isaiah 58:16...
In answer to our prayer, our Lord helped CSA to secure a contract in Haiti to replace the aging and dying Air Traffic Control (ATC) equipment. This contract is also making the skies around Haiti much, much safer! This is also helping us to pay off some of the debt, but....we need a miracle to pay the balance.
BTW, what an amazing thing....to be able to travel to Haiti on a regular basis under this contract and...KEEP CLEAN WATER FLOWING TO THE THIRSTY! I love it when our Lord does things like that!!
I AM NOT ASKING YOU to help us to pay off this debt. I AM ASKING YOU TO PRAY & BELIEVE WITH US that our Lord will continue to make a way for us to simply pay off all of our debts.
Please forgive me for "baring my soul" with you this morning, but I simply need prayer for wisdom and direction and you are so faithful with your precious prayer, love and support!
Well, it's time to head out into this beautiful day that our Lord has made. What adventure and miracles lie before us? Only He knows. So glad to have you along for the ride. God bless and thanks again for meandering down this road of life with us!!
Air Mobile Joe
6-29-14 Sunday 7:46AM (US Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
THE BEST LAID PLANS....
It was a normal morning. It was very good to spend the evening with Peter, but alas, it was time to bid farewell to him again, as he was off on "another mission". This one would be rather short, only 5 days and with his church Youth Group. Once he was safely delivered, I headed to the airport.
Brian, our chief CFI (Certified Flight Instructor) and I had scheduled to meet mid afternoon for some flight / re-currency training that involves a number of Instrument Approaches. We both needed a certain number of these, so we planned to "Instruct" one another and get those mandatory approaches in at the same time.
Headed back over to the airport to meet Brian. We plugged in a power supply and sat on the ground with Avionics all fired up, a big fan blowing on us and discussed what we would do on this "training / re-currency" flight. I really like Brian's patient and systematic way of teaching. He is truly a gifted Instructor. Am so glad that our Lord "deployed" him our way!
Once we had the flight plan all laid out we pulled the Little Donkey out for our actual flight. BTW, Brian really knows these Garmin radios well and taught me more stuff than my limited brain can hold.
We switched every switch and recycled the master switch multiple times and they were "dead as a door-nail" (I guess that's pretty dead).
Certainly, our intention and "plan" was to fly today but it wasn't meant to be. The fact is, it was a cool 95 degrees (and climbing) and it was just as well to postpone the training flight for another day.
Wrote a friend in New Zealand last night and he asked how the training / re-currency flight went. When I told him about the "dead mic jack", he wisely pointed out that it was better here on the ground and not half way to Haiti or in some "sticky", very busy ATC function. I agreed. So...."the best laid plans" are still in "His Hands".
Today is Sunday. Getting ready for Church and our Chaplaincy ministry at the hospital. Have already been in touch with the Menendez Family, who FAITHFULLY assist us with the ministry to young folks and now adults at the Psychiatric Hospital in Orlando. They'll take the young folks and I'll take the adults today.
Time to head out the door into this beautiful day that our Lord has made. As always, THANK YOU for your faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
6-28-14 Saturday 7:28AM (US Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
MORE CLEAN WATER FOR HONDURAS - PETER HURSTON: RAPID RE-DEPLOYMENT
I know her as "Jennifer Honduras". Jennifer is a Brevard County School Teacher who has a heart to help orphans in Honduras (which was recently named the #1 Murder Capital of Central America).
For years, Jennifer has been the "courier" of supplies and reports from the Orphanage that is located just outside of Tegucigalpa, Honduras. This upcoming mission to Honduras will be Jennifer's 9th trip there. It's always good to hear from Jennifer.
I'd also like to give a special THANKS to Rockledge Presbyterian who not only funds this great Orphanage in Honduras, but has funded multiple Air Mobile Rescuers around the world. The "Body of Christ" is a beautiful thing!
After meeting with Jennifer, I dodged thunderstorms enroute to Orlando International Airport where our Peter Hurston was scheduled to arrive from Houston. I kept a close eye on the storms and his plane landed about 10 minutes before "all hell broke loose". Winds were howling at 50-60 mph, there was hail and literally "sheets" of rain. Thank God he landed safely.
This morning, will be bringing Peter to Camp and then I'll meet with Brian, our Chief Flight Instructor. We'll be shooting some Instrument Approaches to keep ourselves current.
Time to go take care of the chickens and do some chores before hitting the road. As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!
Air Mobile Joe
6-27-14 Friday 5:23AM (US Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
EARLY MORNING PONDERINGS
Sometimes, I get up quite early, come downstairs, brew a cup of coffee and just sit in front of the computer and stare at the screen and wonder what I'm going to write.
Usually, if nothing "pops" into my head, then I begin to scan the news. That can be quite depressing. Then, I usually grab my Bible and yes....sometimes, I just open it up and see if there's not a special message for me.
Listen, the WHOLE Book is good, so most anywhere I open to will likely be good. However, that "random opening" should not take the place of simple and systematic study of the Word.
But....by God's Amazing Grace, over the years, I've gotten some spectacular "messages" from God by these "random" openings.
Not quite sure what it all means, but it's kind of cool the way things "stacked up" - Bible/List/ Coffee/ Cat.
I'm sure there's some deeper meaning, but the thing I want to share is, where I opened (randomly), my Bible.
"The time is fulfilled and the Kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye and believe the Gospel". Wow, that pretty much says it all.
Since those Words were spoken by our Lord Jesus, a lot has happened in this old world and I believe that we are ever closer to the Second Coming of Jesus. I like the beautiful simplicity of the Message...."Repent and Believe the Gospel".
It is very comforting to know that Jesus will help us to repent and believe. All we have to do is to put our trust and faith in Him. He will never leave us or forsake us. The fact is, we can't do it on our own. We need His help and He's an ever present help in time of need! Now, that's Good News! BTW, "GOSPEL" MEANS GOOD NEWS!
So, with these encouraging Words, again, I need to remind myself of them, it's time to head out into this day that our Lord has made. Today is an exciting day. Later this afternoon, Peter, our intrepid "Missionary in the 'Hood'" will be returning home, only to head right back out onto another "Mission" with his Youth Group.
Before Peter gets back, will be meeting with a Missionary to Honduras who needs some extra ceramic filters for their Air Mobile Rescuer. That unit has been in operation in Honduras, for several years and has been providing a lot of clean water to thirsty children. I love what we do!
As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
6-26-14 Thursday 7:41AM (US Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
A 21 YEAR MARINE VETERAN RETURNED HOME TO THIS.....
First of all, this is a story that our family can absolutely relate to. Cindy and I got yelled at by Ty Pennington through a "bull-horn" and got the shock of our life several years ago.*
This story of the returning Marine, particularly touched my heart because there have been so many stories lately of the deplorable way our Veterans have been treated by the V.A. THANK GOD for people who care about others and give of themselves. I guess I needed a "feel good" story, thus my reason for sharing it with you.
There have been so many times in my life where things seemed hopeless with no way out and then....our Lord would come through again and again and again. I am reminded of His promise....... "Whosoever shall call upon the Name of the Lord, shall be saved".
There are times that I must "remind myself" of these things as I walk on this journey through this life. This thing I know, God is good and God is love and He will never leave us nor forsake us.
So, it's time for me to get on and head out into this day. My list is long and his grace is great. As always, THANK YOU for your precious and faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
PS - Let me warn you, if you watch this episode, get your Kleenex...you'll need it! Joe
6-25-14 Wednesday 5:57AM (US Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
PETER IN THE "HOOD"
Cindy and I met the Director of Walking Faith Ministries, David Ellis, almost 20 years ago in Haiti.
Cindy and I were blessed to have known David and were very impressed with his deep love of Jesus and strong desire to "rescue children" from danger.
Peter will be returning to Florida later this week and will go right from one mission (in Houston) to another mission (in Deland, FL) with his Youth Group from Church. He won't even be able to come home to wash his clothes (I told him to wash all his clothes in Houston). He'll get right off the plane and head right over to the other Summer Camp. GO PETER!
Meanwhile, we're working on gathering supplies and preparing for our "next mission". Hoping to get up to TN soon. Both Peter and I have been invited to preach in The Father's House church in Sneedville, TN. We can hardly wait to get back with friends and family in Christ there.
Well, it's time for me to go feed our chickens and check our garden. As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
6-24-14 Tuesday 7:22AM (US Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
HOMEWARD BOUND
For the time being, the "mission" to Haiti was complete. The inventory of Air Mobile Rescuers was replenished and I learned another valuable lesson and technique to help keep clean water flowing....where the water is extremely contaminated.
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Had an added bonus. Gave our beloved & intrepid, Barb (AKA "Rambo in the Blue Dress) a ride back to the States. She wanted to see her Grandchildren.
The flight back was smooth as silk and we touched down, right on time. It's good to be home.
So, today, the "To Do List" is already beginning to grow. As always, THANK YOU for your invaluable prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
6-23-14 Monday 4:53AM (Haiti Time) - Bon Repos, Haiti - Air Mobile Base Camp – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
BREATHING A "SIGH OF RELIEF"
When we arrived in Haiti on Wednesday, I knew that we needed a miracle. Every single Air Mobile Rescuer that we held in "reserve" as a replacement unit was down. The problem: A leaking bottom cap.
As I've shared over the last few days, we approached this problem with a lot of prayer, good counsel and some "MacGyver" ingenuity. It is with great joy, to share with you. that the problem is solved.
We were able to "bake" out the microscopic cracks and strengthen the bottom caps. Just read on down to get a full, blow by blow description of the "annealing process".
There were a "pile" of Rescuers that needed special attention. You may recall that we have 335 Rescuers spread throughout Haiti and this "reserve" inventory is what we use as replacements when one of our units in the field needs service.
BTW, notice how my socks are pulled up almost to my knees? My kids tell me that is not a very "cool" thing to do. It makes me look like an old man (I am certainly becoming an old man).
Well, those "hiked" up socks help protect me from the dreaded Chikungunya Mosquito, that is ravaging Haiti and the Caribbean. So, I'll sacrifice style for safety. Just thought I'd throw that in, in case my kids read the blog today (and see the "old man" socks on Dad).
It's bright and early and the coffee is exceptionally delicious this morning. The roosters are crowing and it's time to get ready for a beautiful day that our Lord has made. What adventure lies before us today? As always, THANK YOU for faithfully standing with us with your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
6-22-14 Sunday 7:39AM (Haiti Time) - Bon Repos, Haiti - Air Mobile Base Camp – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
BAKING SUCCESS & READING A GOOD BOOK
Spent the entire day by the little Hamilton Beach Convective Oven. Had to make microscopic temperature adjustments every hour. So....it was a perfect time to rest and read a good book. Every hour, my alarm would go off, I'd go "tweak" and then it was back to reading.
Back to my "baking". Around 4:15pm, I finished baking the bottom caps. With the little oven, and my laser temperature gauge, ever so slowly brought the temperature up to 250 degrees, let it bake 3 hours, and then, ever so slowly, 10 degrees per hour, brought the temperature back down to room temp. over a 22 hour period. Long process.
I then headed to my "Refresh Depot" and began installing the bottom caps on Air Mobile Rescuers, getting them ready for service of "saving lives" by providing extremely clean water. Praise God!
Today, I'll be doing the same thing and hopefully, we'll bring every single unit up to speed and have a good supply of replacement Rescuers ready for action!
Just got the call for breakfast...don't want to be late for that. As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support.
Air Mobile Joe
6-21-14 Saturday 6:37AM (Haiti Time) - Bon Repos, Haiti - Air Mobile Base Camp – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
BTW, he usually solved major challenges with a paper clip and his Swiss Army knife. We needed a special Oven.
Richard and Mirlande went into town searching for a Convection Oven (key component to the "baking" process). We prayed that they would find one!
Notice, on the top my helmet, is a "Go Pro" camera. For the first time, actually "filmed" the ride into town. Haven't figured out how to properly download and post on the Blog, but will, in time. The ride will take your breath away.
Had good meetings in town with MAF and OFNAC and then returned with the hope and PRAYER that the search for the Convective Oven would have been successful.
There it was. Richard and Mirlande had found one! A genuine Hamilton Beach Convective Oven and the price was about the same price as Walmart....a MIRACLE!
We just pray that this young lady will get back ASAP (yes, we mean that both ways). I never cease to marvel at how our Lord deploys His troops! God bless you, Kindle and Bon Voyage.
Today, I'll be "baby sitting" the bottom caps and making the "tweaking" temperature adjustments every hour on the hour. The process will be finished this afternoon and, IF we are successful, we'll be able to get 11 Air Mobile Rescuers up and in operation.
That will mean clean water for thousands of Haitians who, among so many challenges, are suffering from the terrible Chikungunya Virus. While in town yesterday, almost every person I spoke with had gotten the Virus. These dreadful mosquitoes are ravaging Haiti. Please pray for those who are suffering.
Time for me to get back to work. Been keeping myself "slathered up" with 98% deet, which is the best defense (of course along with prayer) against those terrible mosquitoes. As always, THANK YOU for your faithful and precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
6-20-14 Friday 6:34AM (Haiti Time) - Bon Repos, Haiti - Air Mobile Base Camp – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
IN THE TRENCHES....ON A NATIONAL HOLIDAY
Yesterday was a holiday in Haiti. Haiti has many Holidays. This one was named "Fet Dieu". Literally translated it means "God's Birthday"(??? Now, that's pretty weird). Most countries have 8 maybe 9 holidays. Haiti has 15+. Everything closes and people, for the most part, "party". It was a good day to work in the "Depot".
I slathered up with the "Maxi-Deet" to ward off any mosquitoes that might have ideas....We're hearing of more and more cases of Chikungunya. Mirlande, who is Barb's "Gal Friday", has had the terrible disease in her home. Her husband, Lucien is currently in the hospital with pain so great, he can't walk. Please pray for Mirlande and her family and for so many others that are both infected and vulnerable.
About 7 years ago, Air Mobile donated 2 Rescuers to this orphanage and school. It has been a pure pleasure to help keep clean water flowing to literally hundreds of kids in this community. I love doing what I do!!
We're having major problems with "electricity" in the "Village". Of course, this an on-going problem that nearly every Haitian in Haiti deals with. Haiti does have a National Electric Company (EDH) and it comes on for a couple of hours a day...maybe.
Recently, they (EDH) brought Barb a bill for tens of thousands of dollars stating that she had not paid her bill. She had, faithfully! Thus became the dispute. Nothing would happen until she paid this horrendous, insane bill (kind of like a "shake-down"). Barb would have no part of it. Barb has a very good attorney friend who is "negotiating" the matter. In the meantime, we live on Generators and Inverters.
We're so glad to have Richard (The Electric Guru) with us to help sort out all of the problems. Believe me, this is a very complicated system that has scores of batteries and circuits everywhere. Yesterday, being a holiday, prevented Richard from getting the components he needs to "patch" the system back up.
BTW, the "Village" has 7 separate Inverter Systems (each with 8 big batteries) and 2 diesel generators!
So, life goes on in the "Village". The sun has risen and I've "slathered" myself down with Deet. Time to head out into this day that our Lord has made!
You know, when I handed the Orphanage Director those replacement Rescuers yesterday, it reminded me again how much I appreciate you and your faithful prayer, love and support. Together, we are bringing clean water to a thirsty world. God bless you and THANK YOU again!
Air Mobile Joe
6-19-14 Thursday 6:37AM (Haiti Time) - Bon Repos, Haiti - Air Mobile Base Camp – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
CRITICAL EQUIPMENT
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If we could go to the east of the route and then go south and if the high pressure ridge would hold those storms back we could just "slip" down the east side and into Haiti.
We climbed to 17,000 and began "working" our way around those dangerous build-ups. So glad to have both the extra fuel and the new Shadin Fuel Totalizer.
Upon arrival, Barbara was there to greet us. We headed back to the "Village" and went right to work.
Richard had several inverters (converts battery power to AC Current) and get the "Village" electrilized again. Jessica, who is a P.E. teacher was teaching the kids some new exercises. I went to work on some Air Mobile Rescuers that need special attention. Of course, we covered ourselves in powerful mosquito repellent. It's good to be back in Haiti.
The dreaded Chikungunya mosquitoes have found their way into our village and several of Barb's key personnel are suffering from this terrible disease. The pain is just excruciating.
We were blessed to bring in a lot Tylenol "type" medication to help relieve the pain and bring down the fever. Again, this thing is ravaging the Caribbean. We're so glad to be able to offer some assistance with those who are suffering.
So, today, the sun has just risen and it's time to get to work. As always, THANK YOU for standing with us and joining us in the noble quest with your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
6-18-14 Wednesday 3:02AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
THANKFUL FOR HELPING HANDS AND HEARTS TO EASE SUFFERING
This disease that began in Africa has made it across the ocean and now fully engaged in the Caribbean and even working into the U.S. One Georgia woman describes the pain as "crippling". BTW, she contracted the disease while working on a mission in Haiti. Here's that story - GEORGIA WOMAN DESCRIBES CRIPPLING PAIN OF THE CHIKUNGUNYA VIRUS
The Chikungunya Virus is definitely coming to the U.S. and is already found in at least 15 states. Here's a good article telling more - CHIKUNGUNYA COMING TO THE U.S.? WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE VIRUS
We're so THANKFUL for willing hands and hearts to help us to gather supplies and prepare for our next mission. Am up early this morning in prayer seeking direction about what to do next. Nothing better than a good cup of coffee early in the morning. It's a great time to pray.
As always, THANK YOU for standing with us with your precious prayer, love and support. May write more later. God bless!!
Air Mobile Joe
6-17-14 Tuesday 7:44AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
BIDDING FAREWELL TO A DEAR FRIEND....FOR NOW
Before going to the funeral, I spent the morning just going through some paper work and preparing for the funeral. This has been a tough loss for many, myself included.
A ''FOWL" STORY" THAT ENDS WELL
Suddenly, the door bell rang. It was Patty, a neighbor. She asked, "Have you guys lost a chicken"? We certainly had and I was very concerned that a fox had gotten her. Patty explained that the "lost, confused" chicken showed up at their home a couple of days ago.
I quickly gathered some chicken feed and our good old "catching net". Have you ever tried to catch a chicken in an open field? It's a challenge. After about 20 minutes of making clucking sounds and sprinkling chicken food, we weren't getting anywhere. And then I recalled a certain acronym...."ASAP" (Always Say A Prayer).
My "TO DO" list is huge...over 40 items, but....after the funeral, I just went home and mowed our lawn. Spent some quiet, reflective time thinking about Ken and praying for his family.
Our other great neighbors, Clyde and Pat invited me over for dinner last night. Well, it didn't quite happen like that. You see, Pat took the photos of the "caught & release" chicken. Then, I loaded them down with bell peppers and egg plants and tomatoes and parsley out of our garden.
Then....I kind of invited myself over for dinner if Pat would fry some egg plants. Well, she did and even stuffed some bell peppers and we had beautiful sliced tomatoes. It was true and delicious "Comfort Food" for my broken heart.
Surely, "Our Lord knows how to deploy His troops (and chefs)". After a lovely evening with friends, headed home and looked at my "To Do List". So, here I am, bright and early up and "attacking" the list in preparation for our....Next Mission!
The only relief comes from PRAYER & medication that brings down the fever and lessens the pain. We continue to gather supplies and meds. Here's more - U.S. OFFICIALS KEEP CLOSE ON "MISERABLE" CHIKUNGUNYA MOSQUITO-BORNE - NOW IN 15 U.S. STATES
As always, THANK YOU for your precious and faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
6-16-14 Monday 7:28AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
A NEW DAY BUT....IT'S STRANGELY LIKE 1984
As a Believer in Jesus Christ, as my Lord and Savior, my hope is in Him and my faith is solid and secure. But.....the world events that are happening around us seem eerily like 1984.
So...what should we do? As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. We know that "The Truth shall set us free" and "Whosoever shall call upon the Name of the Lord shall be saved". These unfolding events are all the more reason to call upon Jesus. He is faithful and just to cleanse us from all unrighteousness and SAVE us!
And....the Bible tells us that these very things will come to pass in the "End Days". Yes, folks, I believe that we are seeing the "End Days" unfolding before our very eyes. Just go to Matthew 24, Luke 21 and Mark 13 and you will see these very things are spoken of so clearly by our Lord Jesus.
Today, will also be working toward our next mission. We're still gathering medical supplies for Haiti and beyond.....
The dreaded Chikungunya outbreak is spreading like "wild-fire" throughout the Caribbean and is now in 6 States in the U.S.. There is no cure, only medication to relieve the fever and the pain. PLEASE remember to pray for the hundreds of thousands that have already been infected. Here's the latest on Chikungunya - INCURABLE CHIKUNGUNYA VIRUS SPREADS IN U.S. - AT LEAST 6 STATES EFFECTED
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BTW, it was Bryan who introduced me to his father, Ken. This is indeed a sad day for many. We will miss Ken. Please remember to pray for his family and the many whose lives have been touched by Ken.
He is, of course, helped by his lovely wife, Ann Marie who is an incredible mother. Wow, what beautiful grand-kids (had to throw that in).
So now, after this "rambling blog", it's time for me to get out the door and get ready for our next "Mission"....wherever that might be.
As always, THANK YOU for trekking down this road with me and above all, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
6-15-14 Sunday 7:36AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
HAPPY FATHER'S DAY
This morning, our son Christian has invited me to attend Church where he is on staff. After service, they'll take me out to dinner. The Lord has blessed us with 8 children and 8 grand-children. Yes, I am a very blessed man!!
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Please remember to pray for the Marks Family and ask our Lord to comfort them through this very difficult and painful time.
The most wonderful and sweet peace swept over my soul and I slept so peacefully. Our Heavenly Father is always with us and will NEVER leave us nor forsake us! THANK YOU, FATHER!!
So, it's time for me to take care of our chickens and get ready for church. Again, HAPPY FATHER'S DAY to all the Dad's! As always, THANK YOU for your faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
6-14-14 Saturday 7:01AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
MAKING THE ROUNDS
Now....I can actually get a MPG reading. Never had that in an airplane. It's very cool. This instrument will be a huge blessing in helping to manage the 14 fuel tanks in Ti Burik (AKA - The Little Donkey). THIS IS GOOD!
Our dear friends, Pam and David graciously donated the O2 unit as well as some very valuable food and nice clothes for the "Village". Barbara (Rambo in the Blue Dress) will be very pleased to receive these precious gifts.
Do you remember Dr. Aaron? He joined Cindy and I on our 1st trip to the Philippines. He and I made the second trip to the Philippines together.
Well, he has joined a wonderful medical group in Florida and today has arranged an Open House for all of their patients.
The Medical Group will be encouraging donations to Air Mobile for clean water in the Philippines and in-turn will give a full First-Visit Examination FREE (Up to $350.00 value!) to all that donate to Air Mobile. PRAISE GOD! If you live in Central Florida, come on out! Would love to see you! Our location will be:
475 MAITLAND AVE.
ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, FL
HOURS TODAY 11:00AM TO 2:00PM
Where would we be without so many standing with us? Again, am just so THANKFUL for our friends. As always, THANK YOU for your invaluable prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
6-13-14 Friday 7:05AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
IS THE SUN AWAKENING?
BTW..... NO, I am not superstitious! I am thankful for Psalm 91 and put my trust in the Lord!
The sun has been relatively "quiet" for the last few months, but these last 3 "X" Class flares and CME (occurring on Monday & Tuesday) are a sobering reminder that things happen and we have absolutely no "control" over them. They are not caused by global warming or man's bad activities....they just happen. All the MORE reason to put our trust in the Lord.
Their ministry has operated with the blessing and protection of our Lord for over 50 years in Pakistan. These Christians have great courage and many are being touched by their faithful service and love in the midst of great danger.
We are discussing the great need for clean water. We are praying about how we can assist them.
Today, I'll be flying the Little Donkey over to Orlando to complete the installation of the Shadin Fuel Totalizer. We will be tying the instrument into our GPS system giving us extremely accurate information regarding our fuel system. Again, am so thankful for this beautiful aircraft with these excellent instruments.
So, it's time for me to head out and go fly that sweet bird. As always, we're so THANKFUL for you and your precious prayer, love and support!! Be blessed today!!
Air Mobile Joe
6-12-14 Thursday 7:34AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
MASSIVE SOLAR FLARE(S) STRIKE EARTH! HANG ON!!
We are entering into the PEAK of Solar Activity based upon the 11 Year Cycle. There is more to come. The Sun has been relatively quiet, but is now awakening. A "Direct Hit" from these monster Solar Storms would disrupt communications and our power grid. This has happened before. Here is a good newscast from ABC explaining more....be sure to watch the 2nd story with Diane Sawyer - SOLAR FLARES DISRUPT COMMUNICATIONS ON EARTH...COULD SEND "SHOCKWAVE" ON FRIDAY 13TH
The thing that I find a bit strange is just how little "News" these flares have gotten. I follow some pretty good news sources very closely and I only heard about these astounding events this morning.
I urge you to keep an eye on these developments. We have NO CONTROL over what the sun does. We can only "PREPARE" as best we can to respond to its actions. ABOVE ALL, WE NEED TO PRAY FOR OUR LORD TO PROTECT US!
Now, I must admit that I've been a bit pre-occupied with the tragic loss of my dear friend and brother in Christ, Ken Marks. Again, I urge you to pray for the Marks family as well as Tish family.
We are constantly improving the unit, thus we have constant updates to our Manual. It is not good to print a bunch of manuals and then they are not current with the latest "Updates".
We're still gathering medications to help with the outbreak of Chikungunya, the mosquito-borne disease that is ravaging the Caribbean and specifically the Dominican Republic and Haiti. Cases have DOUBLED in the last few weeks.
So, "Life goes on" and we continue to march ahead in the service of our Lord. Today, will be meeting with some precious missionaries who are working in Pakistan and laying their lives on the line every single day.
As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
6-11-14 Wednesday 8:38AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
SAYING GOODBYE TO A DEAR FRIEND AND BROTHER!
Monday afternoon, I called Ken Marks to congratulate him on a job well-done. You see, we have been working very hard on preparing his beautiful Piper Aztec for "Missionary Service". Recently, he took the pretty bird up for a test flight and had an engine failure. Ken did an incredible job of getting the Aztec down safely.
During our conversation, we discussed, in great detail, every aspect of the flight and what he did to save the bird and his life. I was very, very proud of the way Ken handled the emergency.
Several hours later, Ken and a friend took another little airplane up for a test flight. Something went terribly wrong and they crashed. Both pilots died at the scene. I am absolutely heart-broken.
This one thing I know, Ken is with Jesus. "Oh death, where is thy sting, oh grave, where is thy victory?" Please PRAY for Ken's precious family. Please PRAY for John Kish's family, the other pilot who was with Ken.
This is a very short blog today. I've had a difficult time writing it. Please bear with me. THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!
Air Mobile Joe
6-10-14 Tuesday 6:52AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
THE "BEAST" (MONSTER ASTEROID) IS WHIZZING BY EARTH TODAY...DON'T WORRY, IT WON'T HIT US
Today, it will pass by our fair planet at 31,000 MPH and will be a mere 777,000 miles away. No direct danger to us, but a sobering reality that there's "stuff" out there that could do some serious damage. Here's more on "The Beast" - GIANT ASTEROID JUST MISSING EARTH
I'm glad that NASA and other agencies are "keeping an eye out" for these things, but our "early warning" system sometimes triggers a bit late. NASA "discovered" the "Beast" just under 7 weeks ago. That's cutting it pretty close and would not give us a lot of time to prepare. So.....
It's not a bad idea to have some measure of preparation or "preppin" as it's commonly referred to today. Let me give a little example. Recently, a friend who owns several car washes in town called and asked if I'd be interested in the empty soap jugs. I thought for moment and said, "Sure". BTW, good containers are vital during emergencies....for water, fuel etc. So, from time to time, I hook up our little trailer and go pick them up.
Meanwhile, my "To Do List" grows and I plow through the day scratching item after item off as I go along. Seems like the "List" always has something on it and is forever growing. It's just a matter of deciding what thing to do and when. It's comforting to know that our Lord will dispatch angels to help us along the way (Psalm 91:11..."For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways")
Well, here we are at the end of my "Rambling Blog" today. Have gone from Monster Asteroids, to empty jugs, to Psalm 91 and how to get the most out of a cup of coffee. Time to head out and prepare for our "Next Mission" wherever that is. As always, THANK YOU for rambling down this path with me and above all, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
6-9-14 Monday 6:14AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
AHHHHH, GOOD TO BE HOME....FOR NOW
With the wonder of good roads, a GPS and a cell phone, managed to pull into the parking lot where Cindy, Ariana and the Menendez family were awaiting me to join them for an early afternoon dinner in Orlando.
We're still awaiting some critical medications to arrive for our next "International Mission" to Haiti.
Just checking on the "Spread of Chikunguny", the dread mosquito-borne disease. Cases have "DOUBLED" throughout the Caribbean in the last 3 weeks. This is truly a SCOURGE & it's spreading like "WILD FIRE"!
The only relief comes from PRAYER and medication to bring down the fever and relieve the excruciating joint-pain accompanied with Chikungunya. Here's a recent story from NBC - CHIKUNGUNYA CASES DOUBLE IN THE CARIBBEAN
So, it's time to hit that growing "To Do List" and head out the door into this beautiful day that our Lord has made. As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
PS - A special "shout out" to my new friend and prospective "Water Mule" in New Zealand. Joe
6-8-14 Sunday 8:42AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Quincy, FL - A Hotel on I-10 – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
EASTWARD BOUND....NO ROOM AT THE "INN" UNTIL....
After driving around 500 miles, I finally found a room to lay my weary head just outside of Tallahassee. Seems like all rooms were taken until Quincy, FL. Must be a big weekend with so many students getting out school and families' hitting the "Beaches".
Of course, my route took me by some of the most beautiful beaches (Pensacola, Destin, Panama City, etc.) in the world, so I'm not real surprised. I finally laid my exhausted head to rest around 4:00am.
When I was in the 5th Grade at Our Lady of Mercy Grammar School in Baton Rouge, I met Vaughn Stroble. We instantly became friends and that friendship has lasted a life-time. We were "thick as thieves" as the saying goes.
Vaughn's mother helped to raise me. I spent almost everyday with this family for years. Well, on the way home, I stopped into the Nursing Home in Miramar Beach, to see Mrs. Stroble who is now 92 years old. She is just lovely and "sharp as a tack".
Then, I headed over to Vaughn's home in Santa Rosa Beach and we spent the evening together. You know, when one gets the opportunity to spend a little time with "old" friends, it's behooves one to do so.
Whatever happened to the "No Vacancy" signs out-front?? It became like blur and I needed some sleep. Finally found a nice place just outside of Tallahassee.
Now, there's only 325 miles to go to home and I hope to meet Cindy and Ariana in Orlando just after they finish doing the Chaplain service at the hospital. So, this "rambling" blog is drawing to a close today and I'll drink my second cup of "Hotel" coffee before getting back in the little red Ford Escape for the final leg home.
As always, THANK YOU again for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
6-7-14 Saturday 7:37AM (U.S. Central Time) - Baton Rouge, LA - A Hotel on I-10 – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
MINING FOR TREASURES
I personally found a "Treasure Cove" thanks to my sister, Gail. Gail was the first-borne in our family and has been steady as a rock. She has been faithfully holding family treasures, in the form of old photos and momentos. They've always been available to share, but Gail, being the good sister, just patiently waited until I was ready for them.
Gail and I spent literally all day going through old-suitcases full of amazing shots capturing the "history" of our family. Our father, was a prolific photographer and carried his camera all across Europe and Japan during WWII.
Now, I knew that he had "captured" some of the action of the WWII all my life, but sometimes, even though treasures are there and available, they will not be "uncovered" until we are ready.
One of the amazing "finds" were 2 maps. They were German Road Maps. They were used by my father to document his journey from Omaha Beach, all the way across Germany to the Austrian border.
You see, my father was in the Army Corp of Engineers assigned to General Patton. His Battalion secured the roads and bridges allowing Patton to "Race" across Europe and specifically, Germany at blinding speed. His Battalion saw fierce and unimaginable action. In other words, he was on the "tip of the spear"!
Those 2 maps that documented that terrifying and heroic journey are more precious to me now than finding a pot of gold. Those maps with his hand-written notes explain so much to me.
After spending the day with Gail, I called my double-first cousin, Colonel Morton C. Hurston. We call him the "Colonel". Morty was a Green-Beret and served our country with great bravery and distinction. Morty is also our official family Historian.
The hundreds of photos, along with those maps and so many other things gave me great insight into why my father was the way my father was.
You see, he suffered from horrifying PTSD and just didn't know it or understand it. So many soldiers came home with terrible internal wounds and my father was one of those.
So, those "treasures" that were "uncovered" yesterday carry a lot of healing and understanding. I will treasure them always.
Well, it's getting time for me to head "East" on I-10 and begin working my way back to Florida. Certain critical medical supplies are beginning to arrive at our Air Mobile office designated for Haiti who is "under siege" from a deadly and painful disease carried by mosquitoes (Chikenyunga).
Upon returning to Florida, will be preparing for our next "International" Mission. As always, THANK YOU for wandering down this "rambling" road with me. So appreciate your love, prayer and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
6-6-14 Friday 7:38AM (U.S. Central Time) - Baton Rouge, LA - A Hotel on I-12 – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
70 YEARS AGO TODAY.....
More than 9000 were killed or wounded on this day, 70 years ago.... and tens of thousands carried deep, internal wounds. Let us remember and honor and pray those who fought so bravely to secure our freedom!
The number of Veterans still alive, "who were there", is dramatically dwindling as many are in their 90's. Here are some "Facts" about this day that you might be interested in - 10 FASCINATING FACTS ABOUT D-DAY
Peter will be there for around 3 weeks. PLEASE remember to pray for Peter, for His protection, and that our Lord will use Him mightily in His Service!
After dropping Peter, I worked my way back over to Baton Rouge. Several times, I deviated off of I-10 to just slowly stroll down "Memory Lane" on Highway 90, the old highway that paralells I-10. So many memories, and in many ways, like a "flash-back" to when I was growing up.
Today, I'll spend part of the day visiting with friends and family. Some are getting quite high up in years and one never knows when it may be "the last time I see them". It's good to seize the moment and take advantage of the fact that I'm "passing through".
This morning, I'll be having breakfast with our dear friend, Dan Andrews. Dan and Charlene were recently in Florida and we had the opportunity to visit with them. Now, I'll be with Dan, where we grew up. I've known Dan since High-School.
Will also be with my sister, Gail, who has a "treasure cove" of photos and letters from my father. I'll "cherish" them and also, remember again, where Sergeant Hurston was 70 years ago today.
I'll likely "hit the road" for Florida, later today. Another "mission" awaits me....most likely to Haiti where that dreadful scourge, Chikengunya, is spreading like "Wild-Fire". As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
6-5-14 Thursday 7:01AM (U.S. Central Time) - Cypress, TX - Cousin Laura's Home – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
STRAIGHT TO THE BALL PARK....
As Peter and I worked our way "Westward" along I-10, I called my Cousin Laura who lives in Cypress, TX (a suburb of Houston). She said, "Hey, we've got a couple of Astro's Tickets that are 4 rows behind the dugout....want to go"?
Laura and Mark opened up their home to us last night and we'll be heading over to the Children's Activity Center (CAC), where Peter will be working and ministering this summer to kids in the "Hood". Love the saying of CAC...."There's somethin good in the Hood....Jesus"!
After dropping Peter at CAC, I'll wander back to Baton Rouge and spend a day seeing old friends and family. Just thankful for this opportunity before getting back "into action".
Been following the Chikengunya situation in Haiti. This dreadful disease is wreaking havoc on the lives of the Haitian people. Just a quick recap. On January 12, 2010 the terrible earthquake killed 250,000+. Then Cholera came and killed nearly 9000 and infecting over 700,000 Haitians and now....Chikengunya, which is racing across the Caribbean and Haiti like "wild-fire".
This mosquito borne virus brings high fever, vomiting and extreme pain. We, at Air Mobile are gathering urgent medical supplies at this time. Upon my returning, we hope to have a load ready. PLEASE PRAY for those in the path of this terrible scourge.
So, it's that time. Need gather up and bid farewell to my dear Cousin Laura who gave Peter and I such a wonderful time last night and a comfortable bed to sleep in. As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!
Air Mobile Joe
6-4-14 Wednesday 7:06AM (U.S. Central Time) - Pensacola, FL - Red Roof Inn off I-10 – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
ON THE ROAD....500 MILES OF A 1000 MILE TRIP & "ALL BOWE...NO VA"
Been asked, "Are you going to fly Peter to Houston in the Little Donkey"? My answer, heck no. First of all, it's too expensive....Avgas is around $6.00 per gallon and the Little Donkey burns 25 gallons per hour. Do the math. That would be a very expensive way to get Peter to Houston. The Ford Escape gets 30mpg.
Plus....there's that precious "road time". Peter and I have made this trip before and have some incredible memories along the way. Wouldn't trade that for anything! It also helps that Peter is a good driver and we share the load.
So, we knocked out 500 miles yesterday and ended up at a Red Roof Inn in Pensacola late last night. Went to sleep watching the News.
But...have you noticed that there has not been a single word about the VA debacle? Hmmmmm, could there be some insane strategy at work here???
Well, whatever someone was thinking, this "Swap" has people furious, including me! Not sure it's accomplishing what some folks wanted it to accomplish, but now....we have another story to ponder. Wonder what will happen today?
We'll hit Houston this evening and Peter will soon be beginning another noble "Rescue" Mission. The ministry that he'll be working with has been incredibly effective in "recruiting young men and women" to Jesus and keeping them out of the gangs. This is a good thing. So pleased that Peter has heart to do this!
Time to pack up and head out. As always, THANK YOU for your amazing and precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
6-3-14 Tuesday 6:54AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
WHAT IS CHIKUNGUNYA??
This dreadful disease is spread by the "Aedes" mosquito, the same "bad boy" that brings us Malaria and Dengue.
Now, this disease is spreading like wild-fire in Haiti. The first case was reported on May 6th and as of May 30th, 15,000 cases have been reported (literally tens of thousands are unreported). BTW, these "reported" cases came from 52 of the 908 Health Centers. The actual numbers are literally "off the charts"! Here's a good article on Chikungunya from Haiti - MORE THAN 15,000 CONFIRMED CASES IN HAITI
The symptoms of Chikungunya are high-fever, diarrhea, vomiting and extreme pain in the joints. The young and the elderly are extremely vulnerable and death has resulted from this. The alarming thing is, the RAPIDITY with which this is spreading.
We're keeping a very close eye on these developments and may be launching our "next...abroad...mission" to Haiti. We'll let you know.
Peter will be ministering with the Children's Activity Center for the next few weeks. This outreach is located in the "inner city" of Houston and works very hard to "recruit" young people out of the gangs.Their slogan is: "Somthin Good in the Hood" - It's JESUS!
This will be Peter's second year and he's very excited about returning. We're very proud of Peter for his heart to serve and "rescue". Praise God!!
So, we're about to begin a long "Road Trip" and I'm looking forward to spending some quality time with Peter. On the way, we'll stop in Baton Rouge, my home-town, to see Family.
I'm sitting in the right seat, where, as a student CFI (Certified Flight Instructor), I'm giving Brian some "dual" instruction.
So, it's time to "Hit the Road" for Houston. Will be reporting all along the way. PLEASE pray for the folks in Haiti and the other Caribbean Islands that are dealing with the "scourge" called Chikungunya.
As always, THANK YOU for your precious and faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
6-2-14 Monday 7:33AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
YES, THE WORLD IS PRETTY CRAZY
Upon scanning the headlines, one can come to the conclusion that there are many problems in this old world. There are many sides to the same story. One thing is for sure, it's difficult to get the TRUTH by simply reading the headlines.
Our Lord Jesus told us so clearly, time and time again, that the world would find itself in the exact position that we currently find ourselves....A MESS!
Yes, there will be wars and rumors of wars and earthquakes and famine and unbelievable deception in this old world (and the list goes on). All of these things will, and are, happening, before Jesus comes back.
But, He goes on to tell us that "he who endures until the end, the same shall be saved". All of these things are spoken of in Matthew 24 and Luke 21 and Mark 13. Just read it for yourselves and you'll see what I mean.
BTW, I must tell you a very brief story about that "Old Bible". Had that same Bible with me when I was attacked, robbed, beaten and in the process of being kidnapped in Haiti several years ago. The Bible was stolen (along with a lot of other things) by the would-be kidnappers.
Well, long story short, we miraculously escaped the kidnappers and eventually got the "Old Bible" back. And that is another story. At any rate, I carry and cherish that Old Bible because it is a constant reminder of God's Amazing Grace and Power!
So, today, is a new day and one filled with promise and perhaps even a bit of adventure. There's a Little Donkey that needs a test flight. We stand-by, ready to GO wherever He directs us. My hope and prayer is that I'll be sensitive to His voice and direction!
Thank you for tuning into this "rambling" blog and joining together with us with your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
6-1-14 Sunday 7:49AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
GOD KNOWS....
Often, upon awakening, I'll think....what does our Lord have for me to do today? At the end of the previous day, there is usually an incomplete "To Do List" and things will carry over (every now and then, I scratch through every line, but there's often a "carry-over").
If there's nothing catastrophic going on, then I check our account balance to see how we're doing. Do we have enough to "launch" another mission "abroad"?
There are times that we really "want" to GO, but the funds just aren't there. That's when we have to just sit tight. Air Mobile ministers "at home & abroad". We just slip right into to our "home" mission and do what is set before us.
Today is Sunday. After church this morning, our Air Mobile Team will head to the Hospital in Orlando where we'll conduct a full Church Service for any patients that choose to come. The attendance is usually around 80% of all of the patients. We're very thankful for nearly a full house & an "Open Door" to minister, every Sunday.
So, by the second cup, my conclusion is...."where will we go today..what will we do?" God knows! My hope and prayer is that I'll walk closely with Him and do what He wants me to do today.
We did a full run-up with the Little Donkey and all checked out well. We hope to do some test flying and calibration on Monday. This little "jewel" will really add to our safety, capability and economy.
Now, the second cup is finished and it's time to post this "rambling blog". We're about to head out to church and then to the hospital. We're so appreciative for your prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-31-14 Saturday 7:25AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
HAPPY BIRTHDAY PETER!
Then, when he was only hours old, Peter went into Cardiac / Respiratory distress and was dying. Actually, he did. He flat-lined! Cindy and I prayed like crazy and our Lord was so good and gave Peter back to us.
Oh, those first 2 weeks were touch and go. But day by day and with the remarkable care and skill of the doctors and staff at Arnold Palmer Children's Hospital in Orlando (and lots and lots of prayer) , Peter gained strength and was finally released.
Peter recently joined Cindy and I on a critical mission to the Philippines. We were so blessed to have him with us. Peter has all the right ingredients to be a great missionary. Happy Birthday, Peter!
Sometime, next week, I'll be driving Peter to Houston where he will spend 2-3 weeks on staff at the Children's Activity Center (CAC).
This will be Peter's second year of ministering with CAC. We're very proud of Peter and above all, THANKFUL to our Lord for giving Him back to us!!
So, this evening, we'll be having a party for Peter. Later today, I'll be heading to the airport to meet Paul, our mechanic. We'll be "running up" the Little Donkey and putting the final touches on the installation of the Shadin Fuel Totalizer. Very excited about that.
In the meantime, we gather supplies and funding for our "next mission" to either the Philippines, Croatia, Mexico or Haiti or....wherever our Lord wants to send us. Yesterday evening, I met our "Dear Delta Rose" on the highway where she delivered more medical supplies for Haiti. We're so THANKFUL for so many who help us!
Recently (Thursday's Blog), I reported that we had received funding for 3 Air Mobile Rescuers. Well, I found out, after a bit of investigation, that the funding was designated for Reach Out To Haiti. So glad that Barb received those funds for the orphans there.
So, we're still raising funds for Air Mobile Rescuers for the Thirsty. Please continue to join us in prayer. Our heart is to bring clean water to those in need. We're THANKFUL to be able to minister "at home and abroad"!
Time to head to the airport. As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-30-14 Friday 8:11AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
A "TOTALIZER" IS GOOD!
Looking back over the last few years, it is amazing how many wonderful improvements have been made on the Little Donkey. In just a few days, we'll be able to monitor our fuel flow as never before. Thank you, Jesus!
You'll notice that the Blog is being posted a bit later than usual. The reason is, my good friend, Paul Berry of "PBM Alive" asked me to call in and speak to his faithful audience of prayer warriors and friends.
I've known Paul for years and he's a brother of brothers! Just "Google" in PBM Alive to find mulitple links to Paul's great "prayer meeting"! You'll also find Paul on Facebook. Just search for PBM Alive or Paul Berry and you'll find him. Paul has been mightily used by our Lord to bring the precious Good News of Jesus via the "Social Media". Bravo Paul and THANKS again for having me on the show today!
We continue to "gather" supplies and funds for our "next mission". Will be out and about today. Just found out that a friend has an Oxygen Generator and other medical supplies for Haiti. We're believing our Lord to bring in funding for the Philippines, The Balkans and Mexico. Here is the link to our latest efforts - BECAUSE YOU CARE
Our Dear Delta Rose just wrote me this morning and said that she has more supplies for Haiti. She's flying out of Orlando this morning and will drop them this evening on her way home. I think she flies to Detroit today. You know, "Delta Rose" is an example of how our Lord has sent such able folks our way. Rose has helped Air Mobile to fly around the world so many times!
So, now, I post this rambling blog, a bit later than usual. As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-29-14 Thursday 7:21AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
ENCOURAGEMENT ALONG THE "WAY"
Why, you might ask, was I cleaning out the pond? Well, in a few days, Peter will be celebrating his 17th birthday and he's having a party & our pond needed a bit of sprucing up. Some fresh water will help.
From time to time, I'd come into our home and hit the "To-Do List". You know, it's a very good thing to be able to conduct "business" from most anywhere. It's not like the "old days" when you would have to (necessarily) go to an office. We have our "office" with us with our phone and computer. It's truly a blessing.
While I was between the "To-Do List" and the pond, Cindy was in town after dropping Peter at school and waiting for him to get out(short days due to final testing). She headed to Sunrise Bakery and found a comfortable spot and wrote a letter to our "List" and sent it out. Again, so nice to be able to do "business" about anywhere.
BTW, her letter was titled, "Because You Care". Did you receive it? If not, and you'd like to be on the list, just jot me a quick e-mail at: airmobilejoe@gmail.com and we'll be sure to get you on the "list".
Here's the link to our latest letter - BECAUSE YOU CARE
Back to the "Pond" story. As I was doing the "grunt" pond work and pressure cleaning the back porch, my thoughts went back to the rambling Blog from yesterday. I recalled how I'd mentioned "Praying" over that "To-Do List".
At the end of the day, I came back in and found an e-mail from a dear friend who wants to fund 3 Air Mobile Rescuers!! Again, we're on the "Way" back out to bring clean water to thirsty folks, though we still have a ways to go!
What will our Lord do today? I just had a thought. Our Lord has a "To Do List" also. Would love to see it. Because He loves us, we're on His list!
Today, will be out and about between the airport and picking up supplies and hitting that "To-Do List" and.....being sure to PRAY over it all along the way. As always, THANK YOU for your faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-28-14 Wednesday 7:27AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
WORKING THE "TO-DO" LIST
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I shudder to think of what would happen if I lost the phone or the "connection" were lost. Guess I'd go back to "sticky notes" or some such thing to capture the things "To-Do".
As I'm writing this blog, it dawned on me, that rarely do I actually "Pray Over" that list. I just grab things out of my head and write them down as quickly as I possibly can before I forget them.
Seems like my brain has got some leaks and I'll remember something and in a flash, forget it. That's why I often, quickly, jot the thing down before it disappears from my mind.
But, back to PRAYER. Hmmmm, this is an interesting thought and one worth exploring. I could actually look at that list and PRAY, right then and there and ask the Lord if I should add anything or which one, should I do next.
Do you find yourself getting "crazy" busy and just barreling through the day, trying to get the things done and just marking things off your list or quickly adding things to that list? I certainly do!
What about that "List"? Now, wouldn't it be good if our Lord was "in charge" of that list? Suffice it to say, if He's in charge, things will go a lot better.
As we read the verses before that, one realizes that Jesus was speaking to His disciples who were quite concerned about what they would eat, or drink or wear. They were just worried (I'm often guilty of that). Jesus' Words are a comfort to my soul.
Wow, I guess I needed to explore this, this morning. Thought I'd share it with you. For you see, Cindy and I truly want to "head out to our next mission", but it seems our Lord is telling us to just rest easy and trust Him.
So, today, I'll just keep working that "To Do List" and will be more PRAYERFUL about what I add to the list or which item will come next. Often, "timing" is extremely important. It's not just doing the thing, but WHEN we do the thing.
The "Bottom Line" is: WE NEED THE LORD TO DIRECT OUR PATH! I know that, today, I'll be more prayerful and sensitive to His direction. As always, THANK YOU for your faithful prayer, love and suppport!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-27-14 Tuesday 7:36AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
A DAY AT THE BEACH
As we drove, we saw some flags and simple reminders that it was Memorial Day. Some thoughts and prayers for those who have "stood the wall" and given so much for our wonderful freedom.
This is not something to be taken for granted. Freedom is a very costly thing. Again, we THANK GOD for the freedom that we have. Of course, true freedom comes from knowing the truth and knowing Jesus. "You shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free"!
OOOPS - As you read the story below, the right column is clipped a bit short - if you'd like to go the original Mike Rowe post - click here - MIKE ROWE AND TRAVIS
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It's too bad, that we only take one "Memorial Day" a year. Again, God Bless America and thanks to all our Veterans and Active Military!
Today, we continue to move forward toward our "next mission". My Cindy has been busy posting on Facebook various videos and information about Air Mobile and what we do and what we want to do. We simply want to bring CLEAN WATER to a THIRSTY WORLD.
So, now that you've had that nice, long weekend, it's time to "get back to work". We'll be busy getting ready for our next "deployment", as our Lord does know how to deploy His troops!
We truly appreciate your prayer, love and support! Be blessed!
Air Mobile Joe
5-26-14 Monday 6:37AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
MEMORIAL DAY & SOME THOUGHTS ABOUT "FACEBOOK"
Cindy and I have traveled to many countries around the world and brought clean water and the Good News of Jesus to places that are having a "bad day".
As we return home, each time, we simply thank God for the gift of America. Today, we honor our Veterans who are "standing the wall" both at home and abroad.
We THANK GOD for those brave men and women in uniform who lay down their own personal freedom to defend our freedom. THANK YOU from the Hurston's & GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!
May you all be blessed on this Memorial Day! We intend to "chill out" with our home church on a beautiful beach in the shadow of Kennedy Space Center today.
Just writing this "rambling" blog every single day pretty much takes up my "computer communication time". I'm just thankful that Cindy does a really good job of posting things and getting folks to "share". She's able to tell so much about what we do via Facebook.
So.....if you reach out to me on Facebook and I don't respond, PLEASE, don't think it's anything personal. It's more out ignorance or just not knowing how all of the wonderful features work.
But...if you reach out to Cindy, she's a whiz at it and will likely get back to you, and furthermore tell you all kind of cool things about what we're up to. She'll often post little clips from our "Mission Adventures".
For example, late last night she posted a little clip of Peter singing "Here comes the sun" in the Philippines. It was hilarious. Go check it out and you'll see what I mean.
As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support and have a blessed MEMORIAL DAY!!
Air Mobile Joe
PS - If you're not on our "e-mail list" and want to be, simply jot me a note at: airmobilejoe@gmail.com
5-25-14 Sunday 7:04AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
AS WE APPROACH MEMORIAL DAY....LET US REMEMBER
It is very likely, that every American that is reading this blog has a Veteran in their family. My Cindy has a little brother, who as a 19 year old Marine, gave his life for our country in Beirut on October 23, 1983. I am reminded of my father who fought in WWII and was in many fierce and brutal battles and the list goes on and on.
In some ways, I am THANKFUL to the Lord for helping to bring to light the terrible way our Veterans are being treated by the Veterans Administration (VA). I join Dr. Ben Carson who made the following statement -
There....now that I've gotten that out of my system, just wanted to let you know that we are still preparing for our "next mission". Our hearts yearn to get back to the Philippines.
As we hear of the terrible suffering going on in Bosnia / Serbia / Croatia following the worst flooding in more than 120 years, we just know how they need clean water. We want to GO and as I stated yesterday...."AIR MOBILE HAS REPORTED FOR DUTY"!
Please continue to PRAY for us that we will receive the funding to GO and bring clean water where and when our Lord wants us to GO.
In the meantime, this morning, we're heading out to Church and then to the Hospital to minister with the young people and adults. You may recall that last week, we conducted our first Baptism at the hospital. We are so THANKFUL for this open door to proclaim the love of God. Of course, our "Mission" is at home and abroad.
As I always say, and mean from the depths of my heart, THANK YOU for your faithful love, prayer and support!! Remember to THANK A VETERAN!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-24-14 Saturday 6:54AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
AIR MOBILE.... REPORTING FOR DUTY
Often, following disasters, such as typhoons, floods, earthquakes, etc., we go through a period of time of really wanting to get there, but we end up "Standing-By" waiting for the funding.
It seemed like a good idea at the time and he just lunged into the sea. At first things seemed alright, but then, he looked around and realized where he was and he began to sink.
Know the feeling? I've been there many times. As a matter of fact, can't say that I've heard the audible voice of Jesus, but deep in my heart, I believe I've heard Him say, "Sit down, I didn't tell you to get out of the boat....yet!".
I have a tendency to jump out of the boat at the "drop of the hat". That can be good and it can be bad. At any rate, our Lord has been there to "rescue" me more times than I can even imagine.
So, here we are. We've reported for duty and we're standing by awaiting the final marching orders (generally depends upon funding) to head out to either the Balkans or the Philippines....or wherever our Lord will send us.
We continue to gather up supplies and prepare for the "next mission". We're also doing a lot of research on the region and the current conditions so that....when we get there (hopefully), we'll have a better idea of what to expect.
We are so THANKFUL for your prayers, love and support. We've already heard from some victims in the Balkans who have heard that we are attempting to get over there with clean water.
Several folks have reached out and called and said that they are sending something to help. Again, we're thankful.
We're also in touch with the folks in the Philippines. So many villages were completely destroyed and there are still areas that desperately need clean water. We're thankful that we've been able to bring in 45 Rescuers, but the need is so great.
Today, we'll do what we can toward getting ready to launch. I'm also reminded of that quote that I so often use...."Surely, our Lord knows how to deploy His troops". We've simply "reported for duty" and we're "standing by" and.....doing what we can. As always, THANK YOU again for your faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-23-14 Friday 6:58AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
FROM HAITI TO CROATIA WITH LOVE
It is a "small world". I first heard of Father Gio from Barbara (AKA "Rambo in the Blue Dress") in Haiti. Barbara, who "knows the ropes" in Haiti extremely well, has lent help and advice to Sandra, a Missionary in Haiti for Croation Relief Services.
Father Gio has also helped Barbara by assisting in bringing in containers to Haiti with much needed supplies. It is a beautiful thing and a good example of the Body of Christ working together.
Clean water is vital in this phase of the operation. Father Gio and I are discussing the possibility of Air Mobile traveling to the Balkans next week with at least 5 Air Mobile Rescuers. In order for us to accomplish this, we must raise $15,000 immediately.
As you, who follow this rambling "Blog" know, we've been working on getting back to the Philippines with more supplies and follow-up assistance with the 45 Rescuers that we have already placed there. What can we do?
We would like to reach out to both, the Balkans and the Philippines. I share this with you, so that you can join together with us in prayer that all of the funds necessary will come in allowing us to launch on these critical missions quickly.
Today, Father Gio will be reaching out to his base of support and explaining to them about the Air Mobile Rescuer and how it can save lives and prevent the rapid spread of disease in the affected areas. Please PRAY that folks will respond with generous gifts that will allow us to GO and help!
Often, my heart longs to GO, and the thing that prevents or allows this to happen is, funding. We are willing to GO and truly seek the direction and provision from our Lord. So, I am reminded of the words from Jesus...."Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven". May God's will be done. We stand READY to do whatever He wants us to do.
Now that you know more of the situation, you can PRAY with us with more direction. If our Lord prompts you to donate toward these outreaches, you may simply push the DONATE button in the upper left hand of this blog. I DO NOT want to put any pressure on you. Simply let our Lord lead in this matter.
As always, THANK YOU for your faithful prayer, love and support!! It is such a blessing to come to you daily and share my heart with you. THANK YOU again for standing with us and helping us to share the love of God to the suffering!!
Air Mobile Joe
PS - If you are not comfortable or don't want to donate on-line, you may use "snail mail" and send your donation to:
Air Mobile Ministries
5560 Fan Palm Ave.
Cocoa, FL 32927
Be sure to designate in the Memo section where you want your offering to go. God bless!
Air Mobile Joe
5-22-14 Thursday 6:49AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
BEING AMONG O.W.L.S.
We've been doing quite a bit of research into the needs in the hard hit Balkans (Serbia / Croatia) who have experienced the worst flooding in modern history (120+ years).
One of our associate missionaries, Sandra, who works very closely with Barbara in Haiti has been giving us information about the depth of this calamity. Sandra will be heading back to her home country of Croatia soon and will be able to provide us with more information about the immediate needs.
We continue to seek a way to get back to the Philippines to follow up on our latest missions there. As you may recall, the Philippines was struck with the largest storm (Thyphoon Haiyan) to make landfall in recorded history. We have a strong desire to return to bring in some more Air Mobile Rescuers and check on the units that we've already put in place.
Here's a short video telling more of our outreach to the Philippines - ALDRICH AND JAMES HELP AIR MOBILE SAVE LIVES . If you've yet to see it, may we encourage you to take a few minutes and view it. It'll give you more insight into what we do.
This morning, I'll be visiting a donor and friend who has the coolest water containers. He's been donating them to us and we in-turn disperse them among our friends. We're thankful for friends with generous and caring hearts!
So, it's that time. Need to head out and see what our Lord has for us today. It's such a grand adventure serving Him! As always, THANK YOU for your precious and vital prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-21-14 Wednesday 6:37AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
SLICK TOMATOES & RED RADISHES & SPEAKING TO O.W.L.S. - WORST FLOODING IN 120 YEARS IN BALKANS
I love speaking to this group at Space Coast Assembly of God in Titusville, FL. We're making this an almost "regular" thing. These Saints have gained so much wisdom and experience over the years. They also know how to PRAY!
It's always a joy and privilege to share the Word of God with them.
We're gathering supplies and believing God for funding to allow us to go and bring clean water where it is so desperately needed. Here's more on the terrible flooding - OVER 1 MILLION AFFECTED BY RECORD FLOODING IN BALKANS
As always, THANK YOU for standing and believing God with us. We so appreciate your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-20-14 Tuesday 7:24AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
AN ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL DAY
I awakened to the sound of birds singing and the smell of coffee....reminds me of a song by Chris Rice. The temperature outside (73 degrees) must be very close to the temp in Heaven. It's not going to get too hot today (83 degrees) and there's a nice ocean breeze. I'm thankful for days like this. Life is good!
We were out having a lite lunch in a local Sub Shop, when Bill Pastormack hailed me. I've known Bill for years. He owns one of the Premier Ace Hardwares in the U.S.. During our conversation, I mentioned our garden. He asked what we were doing to control the critters and I told him we were just talking about that.
Speaking of "Gardens", I've heard through the "grapevine" that in some cases, backyard "Gardens" were illegal. Well, after doing a bit of research on this matter, found out in the State of Florida, one can still have their own garden, just can't "sell" anything out of it unless it's been inspected. Hmmm, the "The Land of the Free".
A bit later today, Cindy and I will be meeting with Kevin. We met Kevin's parents when we spoke at First Baptist Merritt Island last month. Well, Kevin has a heart to help others and wants to start a Charity that raises money for clean water. This is a very noble mission. We'll be meeting with Kevin to share our experiences. Again, so thankful for our Lord putting such calls upon the hearts of young people.
Often, when I awaken, I have absolutely no idea what I'll write about. Today, as I checked the garden, the idea came to simply write about our little garden and that slippery oil that helps those tomatoes to "vine-ripen" and arrive on our table without being "shared" by bugs.
We hope you had an opportunity to view our recent "YouTube" video. We're gathering supplies and funds to return to the Philippines. Please pray that all of the resources come in to allow us to return to an area that was just hammered by a monster storm. We also want to check on the 45 Rescuers that we recently delivered there. We know that our Lord will dispatch us there in His perfect time.
In the opening paragraph, I mentioned Chris Rice and "Smellin Coffee". Just thought I'd share the song with you. As you can imagine, it's one of my favorites - 'SMELLIN' COFFEE by Chris Rice
May you be blessed today and....THANK YOU for your faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
PS - If you haven't had a chance to view our recent Philippines Video, just click here and be blessed - ALDRICH AND JAMES HELP AIR MOBILE SAVE LIVES
5-19-14 Monday 6:49AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
HISTORY AT THE HOSPITAL
We've been so thankful for the open door to preach the Gospel at the Hospital, that we just never thought to ASK for permission to perform a Baptism. The Bible says..."you have not, because you ask not". Well, we finally asked and permission was granted. Praise God!
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We hope you had a chance to see the new Air Mobile Video. If not, simply scroll on down to yesterday and hit the "link" titled: ALDRICH AND JAMES HELP AIR MOBILE SAVE LIVES (or just click this link). Our good friend, J. Brewer, helped us to put this video presentation together. We're very thankful to J. for doing such a good job.
We pray you have a blessed day. Ask HIM what He would have you to do today. Believe me, it will be the best possible thing you could ever do. We're so appreciative to have you on-board with us. Thanks for your prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-18-14 Sunday 6:51AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
ANOTHER CHANCE TO SEE AN AWESOME VIDEO
Yesterday, Cindy and I posted an Air Mobile Update letter. We usually don't send one out over the weekend, but once we got the final cut of the "Sea Change" video, we just had to let it "wing".
As a result, some of our "audience" was not in their normal environment and we noted that some did not open the letter or view the video. So.... we wanted to give another opportunity here, if you missed it yesterday.
Again, if you did not receive our Air Mobile Update Letter in your In-Box and would like to receive it, simply jot me a note with your e-mail address and we'll get you on the list. Just send it to my e-mail at: airmobilejoe@gmail.com - We promise, we won't "sell" your e-mail or spam you in any way!
So, today is Sunday. Peter has already headed to Church for early Band Practice. After service today, we'll be off to the Hospital where we are Chaplains. Must tell you, today, we'll be performing our first Baptism at the hospital. We requested permission from the administration and it was granted. So THANKFUL for this open door to proclaim the Good News of Jesus within the Hospital walls.
We pray you have a blessed day today. Hope you get a chance to open the Update Letter and view the video. As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-17-14 Saturday 6:21AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
MUST SEE "YOU-TUBE" OF AIR MOBILE IN THE PHILIPPINES
We are blessed to have gone to the Philippines 3 times since that terrible Typhoon ravaged the region. We are looking forward to returning. Here's the You-Tube "SEA CHANGE" - AIR MOBILE RESPONDS TO THE TEMPEST
Our experience of working together with Aldrich and James, along with their sisters, Cherish and Sharla was an awesome blessing. These young people love the Lord with a deep passion and are pouring their lives into helping others. We are so blessed to have gotten to know them and working together with them to save lives and bring the Good News of Jesus to a thirsty world.
Please help us to return. There is so much to do. If you'd like to donate to this critical return outreach to the Philippines, simply go to the "Donate" button up above. Above all, let the Lord lead you in this matter.
So, it's time to head out into this day. THANK YOU again for standing with us to help others!! God bless!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-16-14 Friday 7:11AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
COULD A TSUNAMI STRIKE THE U.S. EAST COAST?? SEE THIS ABC "NIGHTLINE" SPECIAL TO FIND OUT MORE
Early Warning is the key to survival. The more we can learn about this Volcano and other such threats the better.
I want to THANK YOU for your prayers for George Knoops' family. The entire mission community in Port-au-Prince is very upset and sad by his tragic death. Please remember them in your prayers.
Just another thought about that potential East Coast Tsunami (from the deadly Volcano), we are entering into Hurricane Season. It's been 8 years since a Hurricane has made landfall in Florida. It's easy to get laid back and complacent when it's been a while since one hit. My simple counsel is.....PREPARE!
So, it's time to head out into this day that our Lord has made. As always, we're so THANKFUL for your wonderful prayer, love and support! Be blessed today!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-15-14 Thursday 7:16AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
FAREWELL TO GEORGE
Received the call yesterday morning. The question: "Did you hear about George Knoop?" Then the story began to unfold after several calls to Haiti. George was murdered in his home in Port-au-Prince, Haiti on Tuesday afternoon. He was an incredible and likeable Volunteer, who truly loved the Lord, and faithfully served Missionary Flights International (MFI) in Haiti. We will all miss George. Please pray for his family and friends. Here's the tribute posted by MFI -
GEORGE KNOOP 1936 - 2014
On May 13, 2014, George passed away after being attacked in his home in Port-au-Prince. George faithfully served the mission community and met every MFI DC-3 flight at the airport in Port-au-Prince since moving there in the fall of 2010.
George is survived by his two sisters. At their request, George will be cremated in Haiti.
The MFI staff, as well as all the missionaries who interacted with George will remember him and his committment to the Lord fondly. George also had a close relationship with his home church in Chicago (Moody Church).
"Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in Him" - I Thessalonians 4:13-14
I had the privilege to have known George and was very fond of him. Met him immediately following the 2010 earthquake. Watched him "integrate" into the MFI organization and do an amazing job of a very complicated task. Just spoke to George recently. We will all miss George! Our consolation is knowing that George is with Jesus and indeed, knowing that George "fought the good fight of faith"!
As many of you know, I never "post" my travel itinerary to Haiti for security reasons. We know how dangerous Haiti can be. Let us pray for those who serve our Lord on the "front lines and in the trenches".
So, today, we continue to move toward our "next mission". As always, THANK YOU for your faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-14-14 Wednesday 7:37AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
"BLOGGING" ON A NEW DELL
I must tell you the story of how I received a beautiful new Dell Laptop. The "Story" begins while Cindy and I were in the final phases of departing for the Philippines in March. The phone rang. It was Penny from Oregon. She and her husband, Barry, had just watched the episode (on YouTube) of the Extreme Makeover Home Edition that featured our family.
I explained to Penny that I was running all over getting ready for our Philippine Mission and with the "hands free" feature on my cell, I just kept driving and talking to Penny. She explained how she and Barry wanted to fund several Rescuers for a Haitian school in the Dominican Republic (DR). That truly touched my heart, as we have ministered many times with the Haitians in the DR and know very well their "plight".
I kept driving and talking. During our conversation, I mentioned that my "next stop" was to bring my ancient, ailing computer to Ron, our very own Computer Guru. We hoped and prayed that Ron could "resurrect" the old laptop one more time. I had had the old laptop for over 6 years and it was 2 years old when I got it. It was like an old friend....but it's life was drawing to a close.
Penny suddenly said...."You need a new computer". My response was was, "Yeah I know...I just hope Ron can get it going one more time". Penny insisted again, "You need a new computer...." My response, "in His time" (I had no idea what Penny was really saying).
Finally, Penny said, "Look, Joe, Barry and I are going to buy you a new computer. Our son-in-law, Craig works for Dell and we're going to get you a new computer". Then it dawned on me what Penny was saying. Wow! Truly, our Lord knows how to deploy His troops...and His resources"!
One other thing, as Ron was transferring the data out of my old, ailing laptop, it finally and fully died. This Dell came just in time!
THANK YOU Penny, Barry, Craig and Julie! This Dell will "travel" all over the world and help me to bring a lot of clean water to thirsty and desperate folks!!
This laptop and 3 Air Mobile Rescuers began with a simple phone call. I recall, during that somewhat "breathless" conversation with Penny while in the final phases of prep and departure, something inside of me said, "take time and speak with this lady". It was the Holy Spirit! Now, Haitian children, along with their families have access to clean, safe drinking water and Air Mobile Joe has a new laptop. It would have been so easy for me to have "not taken that call".
Often, our Lord speaks to us in that "still, quiet" voice. I'm just thankful for the times that I'm listening. The truth is, often, in the "urgency" of the moment and the "roar" of the circumstances, I'm not always "listening". Thank God, even in the times that I "blow it", He's there to rescue me and help to straighten the mess out that I create.....by not "listening"!
The fact is, Jesus loves us and knows our weaknesses and all of our faults. He has promised to NEVER leave us or forsake us. That is why we can travel all over the world and bring the Good News and some clean water to those in need.
Again, I'm so blessed to have you along this "Journey" with me. THANK YOU again for your precious and faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-13-14 Tuesday 7:10(U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
BETWEEN "MISSIONS" ON A MISSION
Our life is a "Mission". Every day is a "mission". Just depends upon how we look at it and where we go. I recall so well, just hours before accepting Jesus into my life (many years ago) as my Savior, I was confronted with the "variables of life". There were so many. My eyes were opened and I just didn't know what to do. I knew I needed a Savior. So….I cried out to Jesus and He saved me.
All these years later, I still walk with Him and in reality, He with me. Sometimes I wander off the path and He is there to remind me of His great love. Just like on Sunday, during that Chapel Service, when He showed up in such a powerful way. His presence was so strong, it was awesome. His love filled that little "Church" service. If you missed the story, just read on down to A "FIRST-LOVE" ENCOUNTER.
Today, as I sit at this computer and write this "meandering blog", there are so many things that I can do. The question is, what should I do today? Oh, there are items on my checklist and chores and a 'hundred other things'. But, what should I really do today? That is where a simple PRAYER can make all the difference. It's easy to let life just "steer" you along. But…what does our Lord want us to do today? That is the question.
As I typed the blog, I was reminded of the need to meet with a dear friend. Just called him up moments ago and we're having lunch today. See, taking just a few minutes to pause and ask, "what would You have me to do today?" makes all the difference.
Now, as I launch into this day, on this "Mission" called today, may His will be done in my life. We know the rest of the prayer…."give us this day our daily bread, forgive us our debts as we forgive others and LEAD US away from temptation and deliver us from evil…. for Thine is the Kingdom and the Power and Glory…Amen!"
Who knows where this day will lead? We all know that HE knows exactly where it will lead. I'm eager to find out. Time to head out the door and see what He has for me to do today. As always, THANK YOU for walking down this path with me and THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-12-14 Monday 7:19AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
A "FIRST-LOVE" ENCOUNTER
I was reminded of that "thrill" of a new-born Christian yesterday. It happened while conducting our Chaplain Service at the Psych Hospital in Orlando. For over 16 years, Cindy and I have conducted a Church Service every Sunday at this Hospital. For many years, we have brought the Good News to the young people (the Clients) and Staff.
Recently, our "mission" expanded to include Adults. The "Services" are always 100% voluntary. The Staff announces that there will be a "Church" Service and "whosoever will" comes. It's that simple.
Yesterday, Cindy, Peter and Ariana took the Service with the young people and I headed over to the Adult Wing. As I walked down the halls, my mind went from "message to message". Was not quite sure which one I would present. One never knows who or how many will come. Soon, the activity room, the home of our little Church, began to fill up. Then….it happened.
A wonderful "flow" began and as I shared about the wonder of knowing Jesus, the questions began to come and in a way that I experienced when first "Born-Again". Several of our little Congregation knew Jesus. We all sensed that something extraordinary was happening. As the Scripture says, "if any two are gathered together in My Name, there am I in the midst of them". Jesus was with us in such a powerful way.
There is much more that I would like to share, but due to "Confidentiality Regulations" I cannot give details nor share any photos, but at the end of our "Service", I was asked, "Please, can you stay and share more?". The Service had already gone into "overtime". It was time to go, so we all joined in a circle and prayed. Lives had been touched and changed in those few moments together.
Now, we've conducted these services literally hundreds of times and we've seen our Lord do so many wonderful things but….the service yesterday stirred my heart and brought back so many sweet memories of those "early days" when all was so fresh and new.
I am reminded of that verse in Revelation 2:4, where our Lord encourages us not to abandon or forget our "First-Love". There are times that our Lord simply shows up and reminds us of things. That's what happened to me yesterday. It was very sweet and I'm sharing it with you today.
After bidding the little congregation farewell, I met Cindy, Peter and Ariana in the Hospital Lobby. It was difficult to capture in words what had just happened. I tried, but words seemed to fail me as I shared the experience. In those relatively few minutes, so much had happened. There were so many layers of ministry going on. All I can say is, "Wow"!
Today, my heart is still stirred and warmed at the memory of how our Lord came with such a powerful presence in that service yesterday. I pray that today…."Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven". I pray for those that are in that hospital in Orlando. I pray for those, whom our Lord will bring across my path today. I thank God for "First-Love" experiences!!
So, as you go forth into this day, ask our Lord to give you a "First-Love" experience with Him. Don't be surprised "if He shows up". The Bible says, we have not, because we ask not. The wonderful thing about yesterday is that I did not ASK our Lord for this experience. He simply poured it into my heart. May you be blessed today and…as always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-11-14 Sunday 6:55AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
THANK GOD FOR MOTHERS!!
There's not a single one of us that would be here without our Mothers! Thank God for Mothers!! May we all take some time today and honor and or remember our Mothers.
As we were having lunch in the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB), the wind was howling through that massive building, I thought of my Cindy fighting that headwind home. So glad when she arrived home safe and sound.
Later in the afternoon, went to a Birthday Party for Levi (he turned 4), another one of our handsome grandchildren. Levi is in the blue shirt. We now have a total of 8 Grandchildren and we're so proud and blessed!
We're up early and getting ready for church and then to the hospital for our afternoon Chaplain service. We're just blessed! Remember your Mother today and honor her with your thoughts, prayer and actions.
As always, THANK YOU for your faithful love, prayer and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-10-14 Saturday 6:19AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
ONE MORE "RESCUER"
Long-time friends are hard to find. Dan is one of those dear and faithful friends. Have known Dan since High School.
I recall, many years ago, Dan visited me in Haiti. During that visit, we flew over to the Dominican Republic to conduct an outdoor meeting showing the Jesus Film. Dan was "hooked" on missions and aviation.
Then, at the airport, while loading the equipment, I hurt my hand. The sun was setting, the time was running out for a VFR take-off, so I opted to fly with the busted hand. I asked Dan to assist me in pushing the throttle forward if I needed it.
Dan looked a little nervous and then sheepishly asked, "where's the throttle"?. We laughed. Well, it turns out that I was able to manipulate the throttle just fine. When Dan returned to the U.S., he immediately took up flying and got his license.
I did find out upon landing in Port-Au-Prince and going to the hospital that my hand was indeed broken. We made some great memories that evening.
Dan has followed our ministry faithfully and has been one of our staunchest prayer warrior supporters. He's also been invaluable in helping us to present the Air Mobile Rescuer. Dan's background is in marketing and he has a clear head when it comes to "capturing" the essence of the deal.
You can imagine my joy when Dan said it was time for him to get an Air Mobile Rescuer. Dan is thinking, not only of his family, but his friends and neighbors in time of an emergency.So, not only does Dan have a Rescuer, Dan IS a Rescuer! Just before he and Charlene "hit the road" for Baton Rouge, I was able to go over the latest improvements and additions to the Rescuer package.
Well, after serious repair and a lot of research, we've gotten the Old Buick back. We pray that there is no serious, undetected damage. In this shot, my Cindy is heading out for a bike ride.
Today is "OPEN HOUSE" at Kennedy Space Center (KSC). Our eldest son, Steve, is now an Engineer at KSC and has invited us all to come out and we may even see a Falcon 9 Rocket launch. The weather looks great. We pray all goes well.
So, it's time to head out into this beautiful day. So THANKFUL for friends such as Dan and for you who stand so faithfully with us. May you be blessed today!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-9-14 Friday 7:19AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
SOME SERIOUS THOUGHTS ABOUT AN "E.M.P."
Those 3 infamous letters...E.M.P. (Electro-Magnetic-Pulse) can certainly change all of our lives. Came across this article yesterday and wanted to share it with you. Here is a quote from the opening paragraph - "Experts on Capitol Hill Thursday warned that an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) attack aimed at the nation’s electrical grid could leave the majority of Americans dead."..
Most of us are busy with "life". We're usually late for an appointment, or have a "to-do" list that is entirely too long and just "overwhelmed" with life in general. So....what can we do about an EMP??
What would happen if....our electricity went out? I can tell you, it would be ugly for most of us. This is where it is a good idea to simply PRAY about the matter and ask our Lord to show us what we can do?
We discussed the basics: solar panels, a good battery and an inverter. I was very glad to hear that Dan was concerned and the fact that he's taking some action for an event that may or may not occur.
It was ironic, that upon returning home yesterday afternoon, I read the Article on "Hearings on Capitol Hill" from Experts about the danger of an EMP. Thus, my taking a few minutes today to share this information with you.
No one can say when or if an EMP will occur (except our Lord). But the key word is that we are extremely VULNERABLE to such an attack. Are there things that we can do in our lives right now, when we can, to help us in the event an EMP would occur? Most likely. That is where PRAYER comes in. We know WHO knows what the future holds!
Well, enough of all of this. Don't want to sound like a "Dooms Day Blogger", but.....these are some serious thoughts and certainly worth PRAYING about!!
I was meeting our mechanic, Paul at the airport going over our last flight when Fred and Judy arrived. It was fun hearing Paul and Fred discuss their time in the Air Force. They worked on many of the same types of planes.
After that little flight, headed home to meet with J. Brewer. J. is an extremely gifted Video Producer and we are working on a Video depicting our most recent missions to the Philippines.
All I can say is WOW! J. is almost finished with this video and it will be a blessing. Can hardly wait to share it with you.
Recently, some generous donors decided that it was time for Air Mobile Joe to get a new Computer. Again, WOW! So, I took my old, worn out computer to Ron, my Computer Guru. He withdrew all of the data out of the old computer and began the process of transferring it all into the beautiful new Dell Laptop.
Upon getting home yesterday, I discovered that my old computer got stuck in an endless loop. Probably it's last gasping breath. So....this morning, this Blog is a bit late because I had to borrow Dan's computer to get this blog out. Took me a little while to figure out the nuances of another computer, thus this later than usual blog. I hope to be getting my new, beautiful Dell laptop later today. And....thanks Dennis and Penny for your generous gift!!
As always, THANK YOU for rambling down this road of life with me. Do, indeed, take a bit of time and simply PRAY about what you can do today in regard to the threat of an EMP. We certainly PRAY that one does not occur. And, THANK YOU for your precious and faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-8-14 Thursday 7:24AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
FEELING MUCH BETTER - THANK YOU!
Whatever that little "bug" was, it left me yesterday. I certainly do feel much better. THANK YOU for your prayers.
In addition to just resting a bit, was still able to tend to a lot of business. Again, so thankful for cell phones and computers. It's amazing that we can have an "office" anywhere and do the things that we need to do.
One of our recent challenges deals with a broken car and an ensuing "fiasco". Cindy called me in Haiti recently from the Walmart parking lot in Titusville and explained that our 2006 Buick Rendezvous would not move, either forward or reverse.
Hmmmm, I thought. Must be the shift cable. So, I quickly snapped a shot of my AAA Card and "texted" it to Cindy. Within minutes she was on the phone ordering a Tow Truck. I then called our mechanic of 25 years, Robbie, and and told him to be on the look-out for our "shiftless" Buick. So far, so good.
I smiled, marveled at the technology and ability that we have at our fingertips and went back to work in the "Rescuer Refresh Facility" bringing Air Mobile Rescuers back to life. Little did we know what would happen next.
The Tow Truck showed up, right on schedule and hooked up the Buick (that's where our big troubles began). Our Pastor showed up and gave Cindy a ride to Peter's High School so that she could get our Ford Escape. So, what could go wrong? Plenty!
About an hour later, Robbie, our mechanic called me in Haiti with the bad news. You see, our Buick Rendezvous is an ALL-WHEEL-DRIVE vehicle and the tow driver hoisted the front end of the vehicle and left the rear 2 wheels on the road.
By the time the Buick arrived, it was nearly on-fire. All of the very expensive lubrication fluid had heated up and blew out of the transmission and the transfer case. The car was an absolute mess both externally and....internally.
Of course, the Tow Company has denied any wrong-doing, even though about half a dozen witnesses saw the Buick arrive with the front-wheels hoisted and the rear wheels rolling on the ground. Guaranteed trouble......"The Smoking Gun"!
So, yesterday was on the phone for hours with our Mechanic, the Tow Company Owner, AAA, Genuine Buick Mechanics and so on. The saga will continue today.
The day continued and I felt better and better, THANKS again to your prayers! Then, about 7:15pm, an old friend from High School, Dan Andrews and his lovely wife, Charlene showed up. Dan had some business to attend to in Jacksonville and worked in a few extra days to visit. Dan and I go way back and have had many "excellent adventures" together.
Well, at any rate, here we are with another beautiful day in Florida and many challenges and opportunities ahead of us.
As always, God Bless You and THANK YOU for your faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-7-14 Wednesday 7:09AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
WHAT ELSE WAS IN THAT LITTLE AIRPLANE WITH ME?
After that "Strange" flight through the Bermuda Triangle on Monday, I must have brought something else back in that little airplane with me? It was some kind of a "strange" bug. Was sick as a dog yesterday. Had a fever and diarrhea and aching all over my body.
Did the 1 hour radio interview yesterday morning with Lilly McDermott on her program, "You've got a friend" and then just went on upstairs, laid down and never got back up again until this morning. Feeling a bit better today, but have decided to stay home and just rest.
It must have been something that I ate. Over the years, have traveled to many different countries and eaten many strange things. Frankly, it's amazing how many times our Lord has protected our teams when traveling.
Today, I'll be working from home. Am so thankful for a computer and the internet. Will be gathering supplies and working toward that "next mission".....wherever that might be.
As always, THANK YOU for standing with us with your prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-6-14 Tuesday 7:07AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
A STRANGE FLIGHT....THROUGH THE BERMUDA TRIANGLE....AGAIN
I had spoken with Cindy earlier in the morning and asked for extra prayer, as I knew the routing that I would take today would put me right into the middle of a very strange region of the "Bermuda Triangle".
Did a final check of the weather via a satellite image on my I-Phone. Looked like it was going to be a beautiful day to fly. Took off at 7:58am (had flight planned 8:00am). All was right on schedule.
Was flying our Cessna 421. I distinctly recalled that some very strong and strange "magnetic" forces began to pull the aircraft off of my course. This was not the first time that had happened, so I was quickly made the course adjustments on that flight.
Fortunately, I had several good courses that I could take to get away from those "bad boys". After carefully scanning the horizon and listening to what the other airliners were doing, I opted to deviate to the west, or make a left turn.
Of course, I expected the Little Donkey to enter into a Standard Rate turn to the left. Nothing happened. I just kept flying toward that great big build-up straight ahead.
I "recycled" the switch and awaited the turn. Nothing happened, just kept barreling toward that big and "growing" build-up. Now, I know this equipment. Thanks to Garmin and other generous donors, this is some of the finest avionics equipment in the world. This had never happened.
Must say, this has never happened before on this system and I'll be on the phone with Orlando Aircraft Services explaining what happened and get their "take".
Have a mountain of stuff ahead of me. As soon as I post this blog, will be getting a call from a local radio station and conducting another "Live Interview" on WMEL 1300 Radio here in Cocoa, FL. The show is, "When you need a Friend with Lilly McDermott". Barely had time to get that second cup of coffee in before going on the "Air" with Lilly.
So, again, THANK YOU for your faithful and vital prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-5-14 Monday 5:27AM (Dominican Republic Time) - Sosua, Dominican Republic - Coco Condos – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
TIME TO GO
Recently, we heard about a school for Haitian Children in the Dominican Republic (DR). Some caring and generous donors wanted to help. It was then that I spoke with Marshall, the American who started this school several years ago.
It was a smooth, quick flight of 55 minutes to Puerto Plata. Along the way, to my right loomed the highest geographic point between the Rocky Mountains and South America, a 10,103 foot peak, Pico Durarte'. A beautiful sight.
Set up and landed right on schedule and was met by Frank, one of Marshall's good friends. He took good care of me, bought lunch and settled me into a nice little room where I would train Dan who would be the principle operator of the Rescuers.
It was with great joy that we were able to present these units for the Montellano Sunshine School. They would now be offer all of their students and their families fresh clean drinking water. Praise God!!
Had dinner with Dan last night and he was so excited about being able to bring clean water to the needy and thirsty. He just couldn't stop speaking about it. So glad when folks "get it" as far as seeing the strength and ability of the Air Mobile Rescuer.
Now, that I'm in the DR just may look around a bit. It's been many years since I've been here. It sure has grown up since my last visit (nearly 30 years ago). So, it's another day and another adventure. Where will our Lord lead?
Time to head out into this beautiful day. As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-4-14 Sunday 5:29AM (Haiti Time) - Bon Repos, Haiti - Air Mobile Base Camp – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
VISITING FRIENDS FROM "WAY BACK" - GOOD PROGRESS REPORT
Early yesterday morning, we loaded up the mission truck and the mission van and headed for "Love-A-Child" ministry. Every month, this ministry distributes thousands and thousands of pounds of nutritious food to scores of missionaries throughout Haiti.
Every time we get together we just laugh and laugh and rejoice in amazement of how our Lord has rescued us time and time again.
The name of my class will be "Mango 101 - Shock and Awe"....You're not in Kansas anymore. I'm honored and can hardly wait to share some of our experiences with the Missionary Students!
Please remember to pray for Bobby and Sherry and "Love-A-Child" ministries. They are some of the finest missionaries I have every had the privilege to work with.
I then headed back to Port-Au-Prince International airport to meet with the Director General (DG) of Civil Aviation. He had just returned from an international trip and it was time to give him a "Progress Report".
Soon....all aircraft coming into and departing Port-Au-Prince will be communicating on the Harris 'Liberty Star' equipment. The range will increase dramatically and the quality of communication will be "the best in the world"....in my humble opinion.
At the end of the day, returned to the "Village" to a delicious dinner and a pleasant evening of Yahtzee with Barbara. We ended our "tournament" at a dead tie.
It's early. The sun is just peeking over the mountains and we're entering into a new day. The JOY of the Lord is our strength. What adventure lies ahead? Don't know, but I'm eager to find out. As always, THANK YOU for meandering down this path with me and THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-3-14 Saturday 5:29AM (Haiti Time) - Bon Repos, Haiti - Air Mobile Base Camp – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
11 AIR MOBILE RESCUERS...."READY TO GO"
Just sat at my little work bench for hour after hour and brought Rescuer after Rescuer back to life. Was alone with my thoughts....and memories for most of the day. Can't begin to tell you what a pleasant day it was.
Oh, in my memories, there were some sad scenes of overwhelming destruction and gripping and tragic stories. But....just knowing that something that I was doing with my hands could save lives, would continually bring my heart to a place of great humility, thankfulness and prayer.
Even as I would remember people and places of past "Missions", the power of Prayer would prevail. I'd just keep on fixing Rescuers and praying, in many cases, to be able to get back to those areas I'd been.
And being right here in Haiti, knowing that the units being repaired in "real time" would soon be delivering clean, life-saving water, in many cases to orphans who had been Rescued by the Hand of God. Wow...what an honor!
In this shot, the "Refreshed" units are drying and yet to be tagged. But the "heavy lifting" has been done. The units are definitely ready to "wage war" against bacteria and viruses that literally kill people.
So, today, up bright and early and ready for "action". Where will our Lord direct and what will He have me to do? There is something so precious about the early morning (a good cup of coffee helps a lot). It's exceptionally peaceful, just before the world around you wakes up. I understand why the Psalmist David would often rise early to simply Praise the Lord.
I have no idea who reads this blog, but one thing I know. Folks are praying for me... I can feel it and I'm so THANKFUL! We are co-laborers together in this grand harvest. What a blessing! So, when I end my daily, rambling blog with...."THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support"....I really mean it. THANK YOU!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-2-14 Friday 7:10AM (Haiti Time) - Bon Repos, Haiti - Air Mobile Base Camp – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
RAISING RESCUERS
One of the true joys of my life is working on Air Mobile Rescuers. Now, I know that may sound a bit strange, but it's true. Every 4 weeks or so, Air Mobile launches a "mission" to Haiti. We bring in vital supplies, have communication meetings, repair Rescuers and tell others about Jesus and whatever else the Lord has for us to do.
As I have shared in the past, we now have 335 Air Mobile Rescuers spread all throughout Haiti. They are in orphanages, schools, clinics, churches, community centers, etc. These little machines keep clean water flowing and disease drops dramatically wherever they operate.
Over the years, we have equipped a full refresh / remanufacturing facility right here in Bon Repos. It's a beautiful little shop and I can virtually "raise a Rescuer from the dead". It's very cool.
The day after arrival, those last 2 Rescuers went up the mountain to an orphanage that has 45 children. The stock was empty. Time for me to get to work!
Don't want someone showing up at the mission with an inop Rescuer and unable to leave with a fully refreshed unit.
It is still such an amazing thought, that by sitting in a little refresh shop and "tinkering" with these machines, we're saving lives....lots of lives!
The bad news is that Cholera is about to raise it's ugly head in Haiti again. The number #1 need is clean drinking water. We are surely on a vital and noble mission. That is why I love working in that little shop "Raising Rescuers"!
Now, I know this task may not sound very "glamorous", but the joy I receive from doing this simple job is indescribable. Over the years, I've learned so much about this "near- miracle" machine. We're constantly making great improvements. Again, I'm so thankful to Rolf Engelhart for sharing his genius with us and the whole world by inventing the main module that purifies water by destroying the bacteria & viruses.
Also, one might ask, "do these things break a lot"? The answer is no, they're very reliable. But just like your car, if you don't perform regular maintenance and follow certain operation procedures, it will break. Imagine being responsible for 335 cars operating in a very harsh environment. That's the picture of the Air Mobile Rescuers in Haiti.
BTW, we haven't "run of out refreshed Rescuers" yet. That's a miracle. So thankful that we can keep the clean water flowing to so many! I'm also so THANKFUL to have you along with me for the "ride". We're so appreciative for your precious prayer, love and support. God bless you and THANKS AGAIN!!
Air Mobile Joe
5-1-14 Thursday 6:58AM (Haiti Time) - Bon Repos, Haiti - Air Mobile Base Camp – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
PLANTING "LITTLE" GARDENS - AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL EXCELLENCE...BECOMING A REALITY - SOLVING PROBLEMS
We're hoping to have the roofs in the "Village" lined with these remarkable growing systems providing fresh, delicious vegetables to the kids and the teams. Nice use of space. Thanks again Randy!
After the "Live" radio interview with J. Brewer on WMEL Radio in Cocoa, FL., headed into town to see how the progress was going on the installation of all new ATC Communication equipment for Port-Au-Prince.
The new system will be one of the finest in the world, The Harris Liberty Star. Can't begin to tell you how joyful I am to be working on this noble project.
Every aircraft that comes and goes into Haiti must "Communicate". This new system will provide much greater safety to each and every aircraft coming in and going out. Thank the Lord for affording me this privilege to be part of this new package.
This is just another example of how our Lord deploys His troops! I never cease to marvel at the Hand of God in our lives.
What was a problem, will be easily solved with the right people and the right equipment. Thank you, Jesus!
Today is a "Holiday" in Haiti (it's Labor Day). I'll be working in the Air Mobile Rescuer Refresh Center bringing Rescuers "back to life". Folks, I love doing this! My Cindy says, it's part of my "therapy". I think she's right.
Now, it's time for that second cup of coffee. The sun has risen and some "Rescuers" that need special attention are awaiting me. Life is good!
As always, we're so appreciative to our Lord for you. THANK YOU for standing so faithfully with us with your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
4-30-14 Wednesday 7:48AM (Haiti Time) - Bon Repos, Haiti - Air Mobile Base Camp – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
BETWEEN STORMS
Had been tracking those violent storms that brought destruction to the south. They were racing eastward. The Little Donkey had completed successful test flights, was fueled and loaded with vital supplies. I knew that timing was very important.
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Crawled inside the tightly packed cabin of the Little Donkey, fired up the engines, taxied into position and pushed the throttles forward.
Climbed to 15,000 and leveled off. Was speaking with Miami Center about the weather ahead and we agreed working round the east side would be the best course. Should I have gone to the west of course, it would have put me right in the middle of Cuba and that gets quite "complicated".
As I approached the main weather, began the eastward turn to circumnavigate the bad weather that was rapidly growing in strength. Heard N200MF, a Missionary Flights International (MFI) DC-3 working around the same weather. The pilot had on-board weather radar and a storm scope.
Miami Center's Radar was now out of range. Requested permission from Miami to speak with MFI on another frequency. It was granted. As I explained to the MFI Pilot what I wanted to do, working around the east of the storm, he agreed that it would be the best course.
As I got closer to this compact, powerful storm that was growing by the minute as the sun was about to rise, and things were heating up, the turbulence was quite strong. I reported the turbulence to the MFI Pilot.
Oh, the blues and oranges and colors that have likely never been named filled the morning sky and I just thanked our Lord for safety amidst this glorious beauty.
When I called Port-Au-Prince, the Controller greeted me and I told him we are getting very close to the completion of the install of all new Air Traffic Control equipment. He said he could hardly wait.
"Buzzed" the Village to let them know the Little Donkey had arrived. Landed, cleared Customs / Immigration without a hitch and loaded up the great supplies and headed for the "Village". Great to see Barb. After a quick lunch, headed back to the airport to meetings about the status of the new ATC equipment.
Thus begins another "Mission". Looking forward to the days ahead. The Lord is so good to have gotten me here between those two storms. What will this day hold? Only our Lord knows, but it's best to just hold tight onto His hand and go for the ride.
Oh, almost forgot to mention, will be doing a "Live" radio interview with our good friend, J. Brewer. Here are the details:
Listen to Speak Out Listen In, Wednesdays noon to 1:00 p.m. on AM 1300 WMEL and www.SpeakOutListenIn.com. If you get a chance, tune it in.
As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support. Stay tuned as the "Adventure" continues. God bless!!
Air Mobile Joe
4-29-14 Tuesday 2:48AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
THE GENEROSITY OF OTHERS & VIOLENT STORMS CONTINUE THROUGH TODAY AND TOMORROW
Many times, when Barbara receives a child into her "Village", the little one is barely hanging onto life. Barb has an amazing ability, powered by God's Amazing Grace, to literally save the child's life, and causes it to thrive and often, finds a home in the U.S.. It is an amazing thing to witness. Cindy and I have been blessed with two little girls, Juliet and Ariana who were one of the "rescued" ones.
This process often takes many steps and has many intersections. Along the way, we find folks who feel led to help. One of these is Dom, a Walgreens Manager in Titusville. Dom heard that Poly Vi Sol, an infant vitamin supplement, helps these precious little ones to make it along their journey and he wanted to help.
It may seem like a small thing, but to the children and those caring for them along the way, it's a HUGE blessing. Thank you, Dom and so many like you who give so freely.
I never cease to marvel at the "Network" of folks whom the Lord has sent our way. There are so many, my mind whirls as I think of the connections and how these came about how. Surely, "Our Lord know how to deploy His troops". My heart is overwhelmed with gratitude as I think of the many "miraculous" ways He has provided for us with His people.
PLEASE PRAY for those in the path of these violent storms. Many have lost everything. The death toll and number of those injured is rising. Again, we're keeping a very close eye on these developments. Above, we are PRAYING and asking our Lord for His wisdom and direction. God bless and THANK YOU again for joining with us with your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
4-28-14 Monday 6:43AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
TORNADOES RIP SOUTH....MORE COMING TODAY
The death toll is rising as rescue workers dig out the survivors. Folks, please PRAY for those whose lives have been shattered by these terrible storms.
WARNING: KEEP A CLOSE EYE ON YOUR LOCAL WEATHER IF YOU LIVE IN THE PATH OF THESE VIOLENT STORMS -
Here's more - ARKANSAS TORNADOES - "UTTER DEVASTATION" AT LEAST 16 DEATHS REPORTED
How quickly things can change. When I wrote yesterday's "Rambling" Blog, completely missed the "Severe Weather Warnings" for the South. Just goes to show how we need to keep an eye on things.
After, Cindy, Peter and Ariana went to Orlando to lead Chapel Service at the Hospital. We recently got permission to conduct a Baptism Service for whosoever wants to be baptized. We were pleasantly shocked when 18 young people wanted to be baptized. WOW!!
Spent the afternoon, taking my time and just methodically getting things ready for the "next mission".
Will be continuing the "load" today. Also, keeping a very close eye on the weather, as those "Severe Thunderstorms" are coming our way.
I must tell you how much I enjoy "hanging out" at the "hangar" just slowly, methodically preparing a load. It's like therapy. There's a continual stream of aircraft and helicopters taking off and landing.
Now, it's time to head out and continue to "prep" the load for the "next mission". As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support! Remember to keep an eye on your local weather, as there's a lot of severe weather happening today. God bless!!
Air Mobile Joe
4-27-14 Sunday 7:49AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
HOLD STEADY THE COURSE
As many of you know, I write this meandering, wandering "Blog" every single day. There are days (many), that when I sit down to plunk out my thoughts, I have absolutely no idea what I'm going to write. Imagine doing that every single day! To some, that may sound pretty horrendous, but....
When my fingers hit the key board, something wonderful happens. Words just begin to flow. Oh, I very well know that I am not an eloquent, or deep writer. I simply relay what is going on around me. Kind of like a "Witness". Just tell what you saw, heard or experienced.
If you've never seen the "show", here's the link - YOU-TUBE - "EXTREME MAKEOVER" BLESSES THE HURSTON FAMILY
Other than that, I've written this blog every single day from places like the Philippines, Japan, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, etc. & airports all over the U.S. and beyond. Been in jungles and stood in the midst of staggering destruction and grief that would literally take ones breath away.
There have been times when there just seemed to be absolutely NO internet connection and then.....the slightest little signal would "pop up" and I'd "Post the Blog". Amazing!! Somehow, with God's help and Amazing Grace, manage to get a little blog out every day. No one is any more amazed that this has happened than me.
For you see, writing a "mini-newsletter" is very, very difficult for me. When I was much younger, I worked for an Evangelist that had a world-wide ministry. My job was to get a newsletter out 3 times per month to 600,000 people. That was LONG before the internet.
Surely, our Lord can do all things and now, I write a "mini-newsletter" every single day. An incredible testimony to the power of God!
So, here I am on Sunday morning doing what I do every single day again. Cindy and Peter and Ariana are already at Church. Peter will be leading worship this morning. We're very proud of Peter. I'll wrap up this meandering blog in a few minutes and head to Church.
DG Roumer and I had a great time and we're making good and steady progress toward getting all new Air Traffic Control Equipment into place in Haiti. This will dramatically increase the safety for every single aircraft that arrives and departs Haiti.
So thankful that this is happening! After dinner, I bid farewell to DG Roumer and drove 225 miles home, arriving in the wee hours of the morning. Definitely running a little slow this morning.
We've been on so many "Journey's" together via this blog. Today, the world is in a perilous state with "Nation rising against Nation" and earthquakes and violent weather and turmoil all over the globe and my heart says, "Hold Steady The Course". As I begin to shake and worry, our Lord comforts me. I know that He will never leave me or forsake me.
I'm so THANKFUL for you, joining together with me on this wandering journey through life. If you're new to this "Blog" and feel as if you've jumped right into the middle of the story, you have. You may simply read on down to see how we've gotten to this juncture of the journey. As always, THANK YOU for your faithful love, prayer and support!
Air Mobile Joe
4-26-14 Saturday 7:52AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
UKRAINE FEARS INVASION IMMINENT - RUSSIAN SPY SHIP OFF COAST OF FLORIDA
Notice from this map, just how large a region the Ukraine covers. Here's more on this volatile situation - UKRAINE OFFICIAL SAYS HE FEARS RUSSIAN INVASION
Folks, these are events that warrant our prayer. We're certainly keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus and seeking his path and plan for our lives daily. "Seek ye first, the Kingdom of God....".
Today, will be gathering supplies and preparing for our "next mission". This evening, will be driving down to Miami to have dinner with the Director General (DG) of Civil Aviation for Haiti (OFNAC).
We're making excellent progress on getting all new Air Traffic Control (ATC) communication equipment installed at Port-Au-Prince. Looking forward to a pleasant evening with DG Leopold Roumer.
It's time to head out the door into this beautiful day that our Lord has made. Will be prayerful and diligent. We ask you to join together with us in prayer for the tense and volatile situation in the Ukraine. As always, we're so THANKFUL to our Lord for sending you along our side with your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
4-25-14 Friday 6:57AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
TEST FLIGHT - ALL IS WELL - SOME FOOD FOR THOUGHT...ON THE "CHIP"
There, they conducted a series of inspections that are due bi-annually. Now, the Little Donkey is certified for IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) flight.
Take a few moments and read this article and at least become aware of what is coming our way. Definitely, food for thought....and prayer!! MICROCHIP IMPLANTS WILL BECOME....NOT OPTIONAL!
As we look at the world and see so many things happening so rapidly, it behooves us all to "fix our eyes on Jesus" and seek His wisdom and counsel for direction for the day.
So, today as I head out the door, will be seeking His guidance. What will this day hold? Only He knows. May you be blessed today and THANK YOU for standing with us with your prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
4-24-14 Thursday 7:20AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
COULD BE A GOOD DAY TO FLY - THERE IS A LOT TENSION IN THE AIR
Now that the "winglets" are installed and all ground checks have been conducted, it just could be a good day to fly a certain "Little Donkey". If all goes well, will fly to Orlando and conduct our Bi-Annual IFR Certification. We'll see how it goes.
A similar incident occurred when a couple of Russian TU-95's approached the Dutch Coast and some F-16's were scrambled to turn them away. These are dangerous and provocative actions and certainly add to the already tense situation with the Ukraine. Here's more - DUTCH SCRAMBLE JETS AS RUSSIAN BOMBERS APPROACH
So, in the midst of this explosive atmosphere, we're going to focus on Jesus and seek His direction for this day. I think I'll go test fly a Little Donkey and continue to work toward our "next mission".
It's time to head out to the airport and go for a test flight. As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
4-23-14 Wednesday 6:37AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
WINGLETS AND TWEAKING
I brought them right out to the airport where Paul was awaiting them. He immediately began installing them.
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We're making good progress on completing the Annual Inspection. We could not proceed any further until those "Winglets" arrived. So glad to get them on. The Little Donkey will be back in the air pretty soon.
THANK YOU SHADIN! It'll be good to have this precious gift installed, With those 14 fuel tanks on-board, it's good to have all the information we can get on the actual fuel flow and how much fuel remains.
BTW, Shadin did a full refurb on this valuable instrument at NO CHARGE! God bless you, Shadin and Company!!
This is becoming a very "volatile" situation. Again, we PRAY for our Lord to have His way...."thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven"! Here's more - U.S. TROOPS ARRIVE IN POLAND
Time to head out. As always, THANK YOU for standing so faithfully with us with your prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
4-22-14 Tuesday 6:51AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
MAKING HAY WHILE THE SUN SHINES
Right now, we're in-between "missions" so it's a good time to be busy gathering supplies, building Rescuers, getting our little airplane, "Ti Burik" ready to fly and the list goes on. In other words, "we're making hay...while we can".
Every morning, we go out and check to see how it's growing. It's a beautiful thing to watch. Also, notice, our old chicken, Cheddar, also keeps an eye on the garden for us.
It is good to know, that should things get tight, we can eat out of that garden and even have enough to share with our neighbors. The key is to plant it before you need it.
Tommy loves tennis and plays like crazy. Well, after that tennis ball gets knocked back and forth it looses its punch and needs to be replaced. Some time ago, Tommy began saving the old balls for Haiti.
They make a perfect "topping" to our loads. They're light and pliable and can fill in the cracks and crevices of our Little Donkey. You should see they kids when I bring them an almost "inexhaustible" supply of balls. It's a thing of beauty and a "ball" to watch those kids in the village. One man's junk is another kids treasure!
So, today, we'll be making hay, so to speak and getting ready for our "next mission" ...wherever that may be. We, as always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support. Can't begin to tell you how much we appreciate you standing with us!!
Air Mobile Joe
4-21-14 Monday 7:29AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
MONDAY MONDAY
We offered the Good News and some great food and very sweet fellowship.
This was an incredible outreach. Our Church worked so well together and truly pulled this event off.
After that great service, Cindy, Peter, Ariana and I dashed off to Orlando for our second Easter Service at the Hospital. Again, we were able to share about the power of the Resurrection of Jesus. What a joy and privilege!
So, today, it's back to work on getting ready for our "next mission". Will be working on the Little Donkey. We should be completing the Annual Inspection this week. We're expecting to receive our "winglets" tomorrow.
We'll also be gathering more supplies to put together more Air Mobile Rescuers. One thing is for sure, "folks will always need clean water". Where will our Lord lead us today? We'll hold tight onto His hand. THANK YOU for standing with us with your love, prayer and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
4-20-14 Sunday 6:44AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
HE IS RISEN!!
Jesus died for our sins and paid the debt in full and HE is RISEN! Now, that is GOOD NEWS!
We'll be at Fox Lake Park in Titusville, FL. If you're in the area and free, come on out and join us, would love to see you. The Party begins at 10:00AM.
After our Resurrection Party in the Park, we'll head to the Hospital in Orlando and have another Celebration Party with the young people and adults there. What a joy to be able to share the Good News of Jesus!
Now, some of you who "ramble" down the road with me via this daily blog may know Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior. Others may not. To those who may be searching, may I encourage you to look to Jesus.
I did this 43 years ago and have not regretted one moment of my life with Jesus. The Word of God says, "Whosoever shall call upon the Name of the Lord shall be saved". I pray you find Him today!
So, it's time to head to the "Park". May you be extremely blessed today as you reflect upon the Gift of God, eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord! As always, THANK YOU for "rambling" down this road with me. We truly appreciate your prayer, love and support!
Air Mobile Joe
PS - If you did ask Jesus to save you and you want to speak with someone about it, do not hesitate to get in touch with me. I would love to speak with you. You may call me at: 321-544-7757 or e-mail me at: airmobilejoe@gmail.com. God bless!! Joe
4-19-14 Saturday 8:17AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
GOD'S NOT DEAD!!
If you have not had a chance to see it, may we encourage you to take the time to go see it while it's still in the Theaters. It's been out for a while and may not be around for very long.
I actually was "searching" for the Lord as a young man and spent a lot of time on the LSU Campus in my search. The Movie took on a whole new meaning, as I recalled my deep and desperate search for answers. Needless to say.....I cried a lot in the Movie. Again, if you get a chance, GO SEE IT...you'll be glad you did.
Tomorrow, we celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus! HE IS ALIVE!!
As always, we're so appreciative to you for your faithful and precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
4-18-14 Friday 7:55AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
GOOD FRIDAY
Please take some time today and simply reflect on what our Lord Jesus did for whole world. He paid the price (in full) for our sins. And...."whosoever shall call upon the Name of the Lord shall be saved!"
Wow! Sounds like Nazi Germany! We pray that this is not a sign of things to come. Here's the article - UKRAINE LEAFLET REQUIRING JEWS TO REGISTER
Also, the Solar Farm debacle certainly brings to "light" possible motives by the BLM & Harry Reid. We continue to PRAY for this volatile situation. Here's the link to the "Domestic Terrorism" statement - HARRY REID CALLS CLIVEN BUNDY SUPPORTERS "DOMESTIC TERRORIST"
Our kids are off from school today. We'll be hanging around the house and just "chilling" out and getting ready for the "Easter in the Park" Celebration in Titusville, FL (Fox Lake Park). If you're "local", consider coming to join us for a wonderful day. As always, THANK YOU for your faithful prayer, love and support!
Air Mobile Joe
4-17-14 Thursday 8:14AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
KINGDOM AGAINST KINGDOM....
No, it hasn't begun, but the article went on to say that the actions in the Ukraine involving Russian Troops could well be looked back on in history as the start of World War III. I certainly PRAY that that not be the case! Here's that article - COULD THIS BE THE START OF WORLD WAR III?
As I reflect upon the latest "Celestial" show, the 1st of 4 Blood Moons, could these actions lead up to some explosive events in the Middle East? I further went on to read about some of the "Miracles" that took place in the 6 Day War in 1967.
Israel was surrounded and vastly outnumbered by the Arab League (Egypt, Jordan and Syria) and won the War in 6 Days. Surely, our Lord's hand was involved and....there was a Tetrad and Blood Moons between 1967-1968. Here's more on the 6 Day War - 6 DAY WAR HISTORY
Now, I am not saying that we are entering the "End of the World". I am saying that there are some pretty significant "Signs" and it behooves us to watch for these signs and above all, keep our eyes fixed on Jesus.
Vicki, the Director, informed me that they had some baby food, diapers, etc. for the Ruuska Village in Haiti. Praise God! I quickly went and picked them up.
Also, our home Church, Redeemer, is having "Easter in the Park" this Sunday. This is going to be a beautiful outreach to our Community. We'll have food and fun and above, our Pastor, Gary, will share the story of the Resurrection! Now, that is GOOD NEWS!
The location of this event will be in Fox Lake Park in Titusville, FL beginning at 10:00AM on Easter morning. Come, if you can!! You'll be blessed!
We are so THANKFUL to so many who help us do what we do! We appreciate you and your precious prayer, love and support!
Air Mobile Joe
4-16-14 Wednesday 8:16AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
REFLECTIONS ON "HOLY WEEK"
Am so glad that tens of millions turned their eyes toward the heavens and witnessed the first of four Blood Moons. My hope and prayer is that many will reflect on Jesus and what He did for us.
Even this morning, when I awakened, I felt the presence of the Lord and just lay there for a longer time and soaked in His love.
Even as I type this "rambling" blog, my fingers are moving a bit slower, a bit more reflectively as I ponder the wonder of the cross.
The Word of God is clear....."All have sinned and come short of the Glory of God". That means that we are all in the same boat. All is all.
The "wages" for sin is death. That means that every one of us needs a Savior.
That's what Jesus came to do....to save the world. What an amazing thing and what great love God has offered to the world.
My hope and prayer today is that you will take some time to reflect on just what Jesus did for the whole world. Whatever you are doing today, may I encourage you to take some extra time to simply reflect on Jesus, and think about His Journey to the Cross.
Perhaps there are some whom you have been praying for to come to know Jesus in a personal way. Perhaps, there are some who have lost their way. I am eternally grateful to a dear friend who prayed for me to come to Jesus.
So, again, I encourage you to spend a bit more time simply thinking of and reflecting on Jesus during this "Holy Week". Of course, there are 52 weeks in the year and I pray that I will think of Jesus more and more every week.
Well, it's time to head out into this day. Will be gathering supplies for the orphanage in Haiti and we're making steady progress on getting a certain Little Donkey ready to take to the air again. We're also putting as many Rescuers together as we possibly can, in preparation for...the "next mission".
As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!
Air Mobile Joe
4-15-14 Tuesday 8:17AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
WHAT A SHOW IN THE HEAVENS!
So...at 12:53am, the eclipse began right on schedule. Of course, the change was initially undetectable but as time went on, the moon became a spectacular reddish / orange.
By 3:45am (mid-eclispe), the moon had become a deep, orange / reddish globe. It was awesome! We didn't sit out there all night and watch it, but we set our alarm for 2:00am, then at 3:00am getting little bits of sleep in between.
Of course, the sun rose right on schedule this morning and no, the world did not come to an end. Never thought it would, but, this, 1st of 4 Blood-Moon Lunar eclipses, can indeed mean that we have entered into a special time frame where our Lord will do something spectacular in the world. I certainly pray He does!
God created the world and He knows how it should operate. Along the way, man lost his way and fell into deep sin. From the beginning, our Lord has been drawing man back to Himself but....God respects our free-will and will not force Himself on anyone.
God does have a "time-frame" and will do certain things at certain times. By way of His prophets, He has explained just what He is going to do. Jesus WILL come back to this earth and set things in order, whether we like it or not. God DOES love the world and only wants what is best for us.
So, it's Tuesday morning and it's time to get to work. Earthquakes are increasing, disease is spreading, nations are rumbling and signs are being fulfilled everyday and people are thirsty. All one has to do is open the Bible and see that these things are all spoken of and are coming to pass as I type this blog.
I urge you to call upon the Lord and seek Him today and seek His direction in your life. We do not know the day or the hour of His return, but we can certainly read the "signs of the times".
The best news that I know is...."For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son and whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life". Amen! God loves the world and He loves you and He wants to save you. It's just that simple.
THANK YOU for rambling down this path with me. We so appreciate your prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
PS - Here is a good interview with Pastor Mark Biltz conducted this morning. In it, he gives a pretty "sane" approach to the this whole phenomenon - take a look - IS THE BLOOD MOON A SIGN FROM GOD?
4-14-14 Monday 7:46AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
SET YOUR ALARM TONIGHT IF....YOU WANT TO WITNESS A RARE AND WONDERFUL EVENT IN THE "HEAVENS" - COULD THIS BE A MESSAGE?
This morning, Pastor Mark will be on the "Today Show" telling more about this - Here's a good link - BLOOD MOONS - A SPECIAL MESSAGE TO AMERICA
To me, these Blood Moons serve as a reminder of how our Lord shed His blood for our sins. Furthermore, the Scripture speaks of a time when the Moon will turn to Blood and the Sun covered with sack cloth (a complete Solar Eclipse will occur right in the middle of the 4 Blood Moon Tetrad). Wow!
What are the "odds" of that happening? Here's a link telling about the Scriptural correlation - BLOOD MOON "TRAILER"
So, today, we'll continue to pray and prepare for the days ahead and for our 'next mission'. Another powerful earthquake (7.6) struck the Solomon Islands yesterday. This quake followed a 7.3 just hours before. Also, noted that Idaho was rattled by a 4.9 earthquake. This old world is shaking!
I'm THANKFUL that these "Blood Moons" are occurring as they are, because it will point some to Jesus and that is our prayer! God loves the world and sent His Son to save the world! We're also very thankful to our Lord for you. We truly appreciate your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
PS - This blog posted a bit later than usual because....after getting up early and writing the entire blog, it suddenly disappeared and I had to write the entire blog again. Sorry.
Joe
4-13-14 Sunday 8:04AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
PALM SUNDAY
Today, we'll be celebrating this day with joy, knowing what happens to our Savior and what He did for us. May we reflect on the life of Jesus and the events that led to the Crucifixion (the full payment for all of our sins) and His Resurrection (our Victory).
What an amazing Story we have to tell about Jesus and how He came to save us. This is truly what the world needs to know. The fact is, God loves us so much and He gave Himself for us.
Meanwhile, this old world just shakes (another powerful 7.6 quake hit the Solomon Islands yesterday) and groans under the heavy load of sin and darkness. May we look up to our Lord, for our Redemption draws nigh!
What a reminder of how our Lord Jesus shed His blood for us. And...it just so happens to occur on the Jewish Feast Day, the Passover! Wow!! Coincidence??? I think not!!
So, our prayer today for you is that you are Blessed on this Palm Sunday. We're so appreciative to our Lord for you and we're thankful for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
PS - Just read on down and see the links on the Coming 4 "Blood Moons" for more details of this amazing event....coming our way.
Joe
4-12-14 Saturday 7:12AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
BLOOD MOON COMING - LOOK UP - ANOTHER QUAKE RATTLES NICARAGUA - NATION ON ALERT - AUSTRALIA BATTENING DOWN THE HATCHES FOR CYLCONE ITA
"The most unique thing about the 2014-2015 tetrad is that all of them are visible for all or parts of the USA," longtime NASA eclipse expert Fred Espenak said in a prepared statement.
In the 21st century, there will be many tetrads, but look back a few centuries, and you'll find the opposite phenomenon, Espenak said.
Before the dawn of the 20th century, there was a 300-year period when there were none, he said. Zero.
That would mean that neither Sir Isaac Newton, Mozart, Queen Anne, George Washington, Napoleon, Abraham Lincoln nor their contemporaries ever had a chance to see one.
So, we're in luck. To take advantage of it, you'll have to stay up late from Monday night into Tuesday.
People in North and South America will be able to see the entire eclipse, while sky watchers in the western Pacific can catch only the last half. The moon will be setting in most of Europe and Africa during the eclipse, so residents there probably won't see much.
For gazing geeks, NASA has set up a live web chat to answer questions about the eclipse starting at 1 a.m. Eastern Time."
The heavenly curtain rises on Tuesday's lunar review around 2 a.m. ET, when the moon starts to slide into Earth's shadow. It should turn into a blood moon -- a coppery red -- about an hour later and stay that way for over an hour, NASA says.
I believe that sun will rise right on schedule on Tuesday morning and that we will all be here and the earth WILL NOT END. Now, that's just my personal opinion, as our Lord may come at any time He chooses. The heavenly curtain rises on Tuesday's lunar review around 2 a.m. ET, when the moon starts to slide into Earth's shadow. It should turn into a blood moon -- a coppery red -- about an hour later and stay that way for over an hour, NASA says.
Again, if we err on any side of the Prophetic / End-Time study, may we err on the side of looking unto Jesus, the Author and the Finisher of our faith. As never before, the world needs Jesus....whether they realize it or not. I pray that this astronomical event, the "Blood Moons", causes folks to think about Jesus and perhaps accept Him as their Savior if they have not done so.
Yesterday, I received a call from Penny, a compassionate donor. She and her husband, Dennis want to fund 3 Air Mobile Rescuers that will be going into the Dominican Republic.
There, another brother, Marshall has felt led by God to set up a school for some Haitian Children. It is very difficult for the Haitians in the Dominican and the clean water will be a great blessing! Praise God for caring and compassionate folks!
Meanwhile, we continue toward getting ready for the "next mission". Not quite sure where that will be, but our Lord does. That is why we're holding tightly onto His hand to lead us. We so appreciate you and your faithful and vital prayer, love and support.
Air Mobile Joe
4-11-14 Friday 7:19AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
ANOTHER REASON TO SEE RED ON APRIL 15TH & SOME THOUGHTS ON THE "SIGNS OF THE TIMES"
Found this very interesting explanation of this phenomenon and wanted to share it with you. This is from the guy, Mark Biltz, that "discovered" this remarkable series of celestial events and how they may be telling us something more... Here's the link - ANOTHER REASON TO SEE RED ON APRIL 15TH
I do believe, that according to the Words of Jesus, that our world would find itself in a mess prior to His return to earth. The world has always been in a "mess", but sometimes, things get "messier". Check out Matthew 24, Luke 21 and Mark 13 for more details.
Could our Lord be speaking to us on a "Giant Billboard"....the heavens? Could be. If we "err" on any side, may we err on the side of "looking up and looking to Jesus".
You may recall, in the Bible, that Jesus chastised the Religious leaders of the day, because they did not read (discern) the "The Signs of the Times" (Matthew 16:1-3).
Since accepting Jesus as my Savior, many years ago, have always been interested in the study of the "End Times". Then, when we began traveling the world and doing relief following natural disasters, the "Signs" given to us in the Bible began to become more clear.
It's one thing to "witness" a disaster on a TV screen (in the comfort of one's home) and an entirely different thing to "witness" the event, or the after effects, up close and personal. Folks, this world is truly in a very "messy" condition and it's getting worse.
Now, one may say, "Joe, it's always been this way". I beg to disagree. As we pray and ask our Lord to "open our eyes" to what He is doing and what is truly going on around the world, we may see things a bit differently. DO NOT DEPEND UPON THE MAIN-STREAM MEDIA AS YOUR MAIN SOURCE OF INFORMATION.
And there is so much more going on, i.e., Russia invading Ukraine, Extreme tension in the Middle-East, North Korea's ability to create a massive EMP on the U.S. (or anywhere) and the list goes on and on. Just within the last few hours, powerful quakes (6-7.3) have struck in Nicaragua, Chile and Indonesia.
Are things getting better? I think not. It is not a matter of IF a disaster (natural or man-made) is going to hit, but when. And how will it affect us?
So, what can we do? The first, and most important thing that I would suggest is to PRAY! Seek wisdom and counsel from our Lord.
Well, it took me a while to write this "rambling" blog today. There is so much more that I want to say, but it's time to "Post" the blog and get on with this day....that our Lord has made. THANK YOU for "rambling" through this blog today. We so appreciate your prayer, love and support!
Air Mobile Joe
4-10-14 Thursday 7:39AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
TENDING GARDENS
Yesterday was dedicated to gardens. The ability to grow ones own food is a precious gift. Have a good friend, Randy (AKA - Farm Daddy). He's developed a "self-watering" garden system that we've introduced into Haiti. I visited Randy at his farm and factory yesterday. What a blessing.
Several months ago, he donated 4 of these "grow boxes" to Haiti. Barbara recently contacted me and said that she's ready for more. Thus, the trip to see Randy.
Before visiting Randy, I met with Marlin, my good friend and great aviator. Marlin is looking at replacing his Cessna 402 (scroll back to April 1st for his amazing story).
We've had Cheddar for almost 5 years. She's like a member of our family.
So, today, will continue getting ready for the "next mission". As always, THANK YOU for your faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
4-9-14 Wednesday 6:48AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
MAJOR BREAKTHROUGH IN THE SEARCH FOR FLIGHT MH-370! DID YOU SEE MARS LAST NIGHT?
The search crews have heard 2 more distinct electronic "pings" yesterday, from what could be the missing flight, MH-370. This is the most encouraging "break" in this vast search and great mystery.
We pray that the searchers find the aircraft and we pray for the family and friends of all on-board.
There was Mars, eclipsing, for all to see. What a great "lead-up" to April 15th, the day of the first of four "Blood Moons".
The Bible refers to signs in the heavens multiple times (Acts 2:19, Luke 21:11, Matthew 24:29...just to name a few). What a great way to "communicate" to the world. All one has to do is "look up" and see the sign. Just hope we get the message! Jesus is coming back to the earth and "signs" are popping up everywhere.
We do not know what the future holds, but we know that another disaster is out there waiting to happen. It's just a matter of time. We want to be ready to GO and bring clean water and the Good News of Jesus!
This morning, I plan to meet my great friend and fellow pilot, Marlin. You may recall that Marlin recently had a "miracle" when the Cessna 402 he was piloting crashed....in a 150 foot open field and Marlin "walked away" with minor injuries. Every time I think about that, I just praise God for His Amazing Grace!
Marlin is looking at a possible replacement aircraft at the Melbourne International Airport and he asked me to join him. Looking forward to seeing my good friend and again, rejoice that he is alive and well!!
So, here we are, heading out into this beautiful day that our Lord has made...I'm rejoicing in it. Truly appreciate your faithful and precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
4-8-14 Tuesday 8:23AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
BEGIN LOOKING UP - TONIGHT, MARS WILL PUT ON A SHOW & THE 1ST OF 4 "BLOOD MOONS" ARE COMING - PINGS ON MH-370 GO SILENT
The Bible tells us that Jesus IS coming back to Earth. I simply believe His Word and say, "Come quickly Lord Jesus". The world needs Jesus. In the meantime, I will continue to look up....for His redemption draws near!
The "Pings" coming from the ocean have stopped and the mystery of Malaysian Flight MH-370 continues on. A number of ships and planes are scouring the area where several distinct pings were heard over the weekend.
At this hour, all is silent. Again, we pray that this mystery be solved. We pray for the families and friends of those who are lost. Here's the latest - SUBMARINE ON "HOLD" UNTIL FRESH PINGS ARE HEARD
We continue to "march ahead" preparing for our "next mission". Parts are coming in every day for more Rescuers. We're currently awaiting UPS to deliver the main module so that assembly can continue. Hopefully, they will arrive today.
I got some very encouraging news about the latest addition to the instrument panel of our Little Donkey. Shadin Avionics, who makes, in my opinion, the finest Fuel Flow Instrument, has agreed to "Check Out and Overhaul" our Fuel Totalizer at NO CHARGE!
So, we go forth into this day that our Lord has made. What adventure lies ahead? Don't know, but I'm holding tight onto His hand! As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
4-7-14 Monday 7:19AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
ARE THE "PINGS" PROMISING? - CHINESE CHRISTIANS FORM "HUMAN SHIELD" TO DEFEND CHURCH
First, the Chinese heard the 37.5 kHz ping on Friday. Then, the Australians have heard it over the weekend. We've had so many leads that have "evaporated" into thin air on this great mystery of the disappearance of Malaysian Flight MH-370. Could these latest leads help solve the mystery? Here's more - AUSTRALIA SAYS NEW "PINGS" BEST LEAD YET IN SEARCH FOR MH-370
Our Family had a beautiful day yesterday, beginning with Church and then our service at the Hospital for both young people and adults. We shared God's Word. We NEVER take this privilege for granted. We're so THANKFUL that we can worship God with Freedom and share the Gospel without the threat of being thrown in jail....or worse.
Today, Cindy and I are working on a new Air Mobile Video with a dear brother who is very talented in making videos, J. Brewer. We're grateful that J. has offered to share his gifts and talents with us.
We're also awaiting more components to arrive for the Air Mobile Rescuer. We're working on putting as many units together as we can for the "next mission".
As always, THANK YOU for your gracious and precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
4-6-14 Sunday 7:35AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
SUNDAY......& "CO-EXISTENCE"
Usually, I have some "headline" to mark a blog. Today, it's, SUNDAY....& 'CO-EXISTENCE'. We'll go to Church and then minister with the young people and the adults in the Hospital in Orlando this afternoon.
In scanning the headlines around the world, there were no extraordinary earthquakes or unusual weather reported.
That is still one "crazy" mystery. We may never know what happened. This must be so difficult on the family and friends of the "lost". Let's remember to pray for them and...for the mystery to be solved.
Rosie (our Chihuahua) doesn't mind the chicken and the chicken doesn't seem to mind Rosie.
So, it's time to get ready to head out the door to Church. As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!
Air Mobile Joe
4-5-14 Saturday 7:18AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
CHRISTIANS IN PAKISTAN....A DANGEROUS PLACE
Yesterday morning, the phone rang. It was Wayne. We don't talk that often, but when we do, it's good. Wayne had just met with some Pakistani Christians, Steve and Mercy, and gave them my name. They need clean water. Their ministry, in Pakistan, is to children who are in the brutal "Child Labor" world of Pakistan.
Within an hour, Steve and Mercy were at our home drinking tea. There was an instant rapport and love between us as they told their story of the danger and grace of our Lord among Christians in Pakistan.
Of course, I shared stories of our missions to Pakistan following the terrible earthquake of 2006/2007. Found out that the Governor of Punjab, who hosted us our first night in Lahore, Pakistan had been assassinated. The hotel where I blogged had been blown up. We talked about various other "connections" among Christians that I cannot share. Pakistan is a dangerous place to be a Christian.
There are many diseases in Pakistan that are ravaging the weak. Mercy shared stories of friends whom she had recently lost to "water-borne" disease.
I recall that when I traveled to Pakistan with Dr. Shaikh, the former Surgeon General of Pakistan, he explained to me that 70+% of disease would be eliminated with clean water!
We prayed together, and agreed that we would, one day, with our Lord's help, meet in Pakistan and bring clean water to the thirsty in Name of Jesus!
I love it when our Lord does things like this. I was simply sitting at my computer, sipping my second cup of coffee when that phone rang.
Then, our Lord, in His way, "deployed His troops" and we met Steve and Mercy. We don't know when or how, but in His time and in His way, we will return to Pakistan and share His love, and clean water, with the needy and persecuted. Wow, what a privilege and joy!
After that incredible meeting, I headed out, rejoicing at what our Lord had just done. Please join together with us, that we will be sensitive to His voice and know where to go and when to go there! We're moving toward getting more pieces in to build more Rescuers for the "next mission".
So, it's definitely time for that second cup of coffee and then on to chores. As always, we so appreciate you and your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
4-4-14 Friday 7:37AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
MEETING ON I-95 FOR CLEAN WATER IN RWANDA
The other day, Dave Redline (yes that is his name), called me. Dave has a heart for Africa, specifically Rwanda. Last year, he funded an Air Mobile Rescuer for a community that desperately needs clean water.
He traveled there and set the unit up and stays in close touch with the folks. Oh, did I tell you that Dave drives a truck and picks up 737 aircraft engines that need some tender, loving care.
Well, Dave called and told me that an emergency driving job came up to Florida and he'd pass right by our home base. We discussed his needs and I put together a box of supplies as well as our new "orifice" cleaning system. This would "Update" the Rwanda Rescuer allowing deep internal cleaning without disassembly.
We set the rendezvous time. I was on a "round-robin" series of pick up and deliveries. As I approached the meeting place, I saw his beautiful Peterbilt 18-Wheeler pulling into the designated spot. We arrived at precisely the same time. Love it when a plan comes together.
Sometimes, I just marvel at the fact that we have nearly 900 Air Mobile Rescuers in operation in 44 countries and....we've just begun!!
Oh, do these folks know how to PRAY! You can just sense their love and compassion and deep intercession. Cindy told about our latest trip to the Philippines.
Then, I had the privilege to share out of the Word of God from Matthew 28, The "Great Commission". It is so cool that these Prayer Warriors can "Join" us via this Daily Blog. Love this technology!
Been following the Chile Earthquakes and they had a 6.1 Quake last night. Looks like the intensity of the quakes is "calming down". Praise God!!
So, today, will be continuing to gather supplies and arrange for more Rescuers to be put into position for deployment. Please PRAY with us that funds come in to allow us to get ready for..."the next mission".
As always, THANK YOU for your faithful prayer, love and support. We so appreciate you!!
Air Mobile Joe
4-3-14 Thursday 7:26AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
ANOTHER 7.8 QUAKE SHAKES IN CHILE - ARE THESE "FORESHOCKS" IN THE "RING OF FIRE"?? - FORT HOOD SHOOTER GOES BERSERK
The U.S. media barely mentioned this strong Quake due to the late breaking news about the Fort Hood Shooting. Here's more on that 7.8 Quake - CHILE ROCKED AGAIN BY POWERFUL EARTHQUAKE
We are all saddened by the terrible shootings at Fort Hood. Final death toll is 4 with 16 injured. So many wounds (emotional) were re-opened. All we can do is PRAY for the victims and families. The entire base must be in shock following these horrific events.
Here's a quote from the story - "While the quake was large by any measure, seismologists remain concerned that it could have been a foreshock to a much larger quake that could strike this region – a section of plate boundary that hasn't seen a major rupture in 137 years."
All of these events, compel us at Air Mobile to diligently move toward our "Next Mission". We're getting as many "pieces" into place as possible. Our goal to have Rescuers already built and ready for "life-saving" action!
For a long time, I've wanted to add this wonderful device to the instrument panel of our Little Donkey.
After securing the instrument, I dashed to Melbourne for the speaking engagement to the men of F.U.E.L. It is always a joy to speak to these guys who are very serious about serving our Lord. Shared out of Matthew 28...."Go ye into all the world".
This morning, Cindy and I will be sharing with a group from First Baptist Merritt Island. While at First Baptist, we'll pass by Alternative Pregnancy Center (APC) and see if Vickie has any formula / diapers / baby food for the orphans in Haiti. Am so THANKFUL for the network of friends whom our Lord has given us!!
Well, it's time to head over to First Baptist. As always, THANK YOU for standing so faithfully with us with your prayer, love and support. You are such an important part of our outreach!!
Air Mobile Joe
4-2-14 Wednesday 8:07AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
8.2 EARTHQUAKE ROCKS CHILE - TSUNAMI WARNINGS - LANDSLIDES &.... ANIMALS FLEEING YELLOWSTONE - BRACE YOURSELVES & PRAY!
Early reports are indicating a relatively small death toll and damage. Again, these are early reports. Also, a 6.9 foot Tsunami was reported.
In 2010 following an 8.4 Earthquake the Tsunami warning was lifted prematurely and hundreds perished. So, the Tsunami warnings are still in effect in many areas. We are following this situation very closely. Here's more on the latest from Chile - 300 INMATES ESCAPE FOLLOWING DEADLY 8.2 QUAKE
We stand ready to GO as our Lord provides. Please join together with us that the resources will come in so that we can bring clean water to the needy, as per the directions from our Lord Jesus.
It appears that there is an unusual amount of "animal movements", literally fleeing the area following the 4.9 earthquake on March 30th. This is the largest quake to hit the area in 34 years. This is also something to keep a close eye on.
Jesus said that there would be "days like this" (Read Matthew 24). Here is the link to the strange animal movement and be sure to click on the YouTube showing the Buffalo "running". SOME BELIEVE ANIMALS ARE FLEEING YELLOWSTONE / SEE IT AS AN ALERT
Today, I've been asked to share with a group of men in Melbourne (F.U.E.L.). I love doing this. Will be speaking on Matthew 28...."Go ye into all the world and preach the Gospel".
Am so glad to have you with us with your prayer, love and support! God bless!!
Air Mobile Joe
4-1-14 Tuesday 7:37AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
PILOT SURVIVES CRASH TO TELL ABOUT IT
Several weeks ago, I received a text message with a link from Marlin Moudy, a long-time friend. Marlin, who is, without question, one of the finest pilots I've ever known or had the privilege to fly with, crashed. He survived! I rejoiced in the Lord for this MIRACLE!
Marlin also asked me give him some time to recover before taking calls or answering questions. I certainly understood his request. I was just glad that Marlin was alive.
Here is the original newscast that aired the day of the crash - PLANE CRASH - PILOT NAMED "HERO"
Yesterday evening, Marlin and I talked for over 2 hours going over every element of the crash. As Marlin explained the situation, several times, tears came to my eyes, as I knew, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that our Lord surely guided my brother and angels brought that aircraft down over houses and children and mothers and fathers, and with perfect precision and set down in that "one vacant lot" left in Stuart (according to one eye-witness).
As Marlin told me his story, again and again, he said, "Joe, God did this and I'm alive today because of His great power"!
Yesterday, Marlin sat down with a reporter and told his "Story". When Marlin knew his situation was "very bad", he called upon the Name of Jesus and asked for help. Jesus answered that cry for help and Marlin is alive and well today to tell his story. Here's the link to "Marlin's Story" - PILOT TALKS ABOUT SURVIVING CRASH
Marlin and I have made literally hundreds of flights together. All I can say this morning, is that I am THANKFUL that Marlin is still with us and already, getting ready for his next airplane and the "next mission" our Lord has for him!
I am reminded of Romans 10:13 "WHOEVER WILL CALL UPON THE NAME OF THE LORD SHALL BE SAVED". Surely, our Lord answered Marlin's prayer and He will answer our prayer if we call upon Him!
Folks, no matter what your situation is, or how "impossible" a situation may be in your life, remember, Jesus is there and is an ever present help in time of need!
So, it's that time. Need to head to the airport to continue the "Annual" on our Little Donkey. As always, THANK YOU for standing so faithfully with us with your prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
3-31-14 Monday 8:14AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
BACK TO WORK
Again, it's so good to be home. Have a "mountain" of work to do, but so grateful for the time we had in the mountains to just "recharge" our batteries.
One thing is for sure, folks will always need Clean Water following any disaster. It's a good thing to be "prepared".
Also, noted a 4.8 Quake hit Yellowstone Park (the largest quake in 34 years) yesterday.
Well, it's that time. Need to get to work and see what our Lord has for us to do today. As always, we so appreciate your faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
3-30-14 Sunday 9:28AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
"AND THERE WILL BE EARTHQUAKES IN VARIOUS PLACES..." - JESUS
Have you ever been in an earthquake? I'm sure a number of you have. Cindy and I have been through many, as we often go to places that have just had a large earthquake(s), and often, many quakes (after shocks) follow. We've lost count how many we've been through, but it is likely hundreds of quakes. Our hearts go out to the folks in the LA area.
The thing about an earthquake is, when it begins, one does not know when or how serious it will be by the time it ends. The folks in Southern California are going through literally hundreds of small after shocks after the 5.1 quake and....the experts are saying, there are likely more to come.
It is a good time to look to Jesus and remember that He said that earthquakes would come (Matthew 24:7). Also, it's a good time to look at PREPARATION. This takes many forms and it's good to have a "Plan".
We pulled into our driveway around 1:30 am. Again, thankful for a safe and pleasant journey home.
We'll be doing our Chaplain Service at the Hospital in Orlando this afternoon. So thankful to have had this rest and time to "re-calibrate" our internal clock. Time to get on with the "next mission". As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
3-29-14 Saturday 8:16AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Tennessee Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
5.1 QUAKE ROCKS LOS ANGELES....MAY BE FOLLOWED BY SOMETHING LARGER
Yesterday evening, Los Angeles was rocked by a "swarm" of earthquakes that seemed to get stronger and stronger as the evening wore on. Must have been a frightening evening.
Since the area had been shaken over the last few weeks, experts had been predicting that more quakes were likely to follow.
The quakes from last night have caused some damage (early reports are just coming in) and injuries and a sense of "panic" is being experienced by many. For most, it is a "wait & see" attitude. Here's more - 5.1 EARTHQUAKE CAUSES DAMAGE - SOME FLEE FROM HOMES
Please join together with us and pray for the folks in the path of these earthquakes and ask the Lord for wisdom and protection. L.A.'s Mayor offered some sound advice:
"Tonight's earthquake is the second in two weeks, and reminds us to be prepared," Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti said in a statement.
We, meanwhile, are preparing to leave the Tennessee Retreat Cabin this morning and head back home to Florida. This little "Spring Break Get-Away" has been such a blessing to us. What a nice way to work that "Jet-Lag" out of our system.
It's time to get on with packing our little Red Ford Escape and head back to Florida. Please remember to pray for those in the Los Angeles area. God bless and THANKS again for your faithful prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
3-28-14 Friday 9:24AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Tennessee Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
ON THE TRAIL OF DANIEL BOONE - MH-370 MYSTERY CONTINUES
Well, today is our last day to "sleep in". Awoke to a rainy, chilly morning and slept past 9:00am. Our last "hurrah" before returning to our usual, busy schedule. We'll be heading home tomorrow.
What a "Character". So much has been written about this fascinating Pioneer. A lot of "legend" and many, many accomplishments. We laid out our plan and hit the trail that this incredible man blazed.
Life is "hard" and every generation has their challenges. Yesterday, as we walked that famous trail, we had a beautiful time of enjoying nature and reflecting on those who walked before us. It was a marvelous day.
Today, the "Search" for Malaysian Flight MH-370 continues and now, in a new location closer to Perth, Australia.
Today, we'll be enjoying our last day at the Cabin. Time to get ready to head home and enter back into the "stream". Who knows where our "Next Mission" will be?
Again, we're so THANKFUL for you and your precious prayer, love and support! God bless!!
Air Mobile Joe
3-27-14 Thursday 7:48AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Tennessee Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
THE MYSTERY OF MALAYSIAN FLIGHT MH-370 CONTINUES.... TODAY, WE'LL WALK WHERE DANIEL BOONE WALKED
Must be so difficult and heart-breaking for the family and friends of the victims on board that "ill-fated" flight. Here's the latest I could find - 300 OBJECTS FOUND ON SATELLITE - EXPERTS SAY...LIKELY TRASH
Cindy and I were discussing this yesterday and she questioned my statement in yesterday's blog where I stated "strong" evidence points to the possible crash site of Flight MH-370. Well, the "evidence" may not be as "strong" as I thought. Until searchers find actual pieces of the missing aircraft, the "mystery" will continue.
High seas and obscured visibility are preventing ships from reaching the area where the debris has been spotted. Attempts will be made again today to reach the area. It appears that a Filipino fishing vessel may reach the area first. We hope and pray that the aircraft is somehow found and lives will be saved but....this is becoming less and less likely with the passage of time.
Meanwhile, we're just "chilling out" (and staying warm) in the cabin, in the mountains of Tennessee. Yesterday was another day of rest and napping and playing rummy and watching a movie or two and reading.
Again, so THANKFUL for this little "Spring Break" and time of refreshing and renewal. God is good!! As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
3-26-14 Wednesday 7:55AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Tennessee Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
RECORD COLD / BITING WIND SWEEP EAST & SOUTH & 122 OBJECTS SPOTTED NEAR "SPOT"
Cindy and I went shopping yesterday in Jonesville, VA (closest WalMart). I had forgotten my wallet and had to run back to the cabin.
While enroute, the snow came down like a blizzard with 25-30 mph winds & the visibility was about 50 feet. Again, what a "Spring"!
Many records are being broken and here's more about this extraordinary weather - RECORD COLD - BITING WIND SWEEPS EAST / SOUTH And to think, this is due to "Global Warming".....
Can't begin to tell you how nice it is to simply lay down and take a nap anytime I want. Or to just sleep-in a bit later than usual. Cindy, Peter and I have been staying up real late playing Rummy.
Since we three made that trip to the Philippines together, we're all working through the "Jet -Lag" together. What a pleasant way to just let that "Jet-Lag" work through the system. This is a wonderful "retreat" and we're so thankful to be able to do it.
Today, we'll just stay warm and continue to rest. We have a few more days to do this and we're again, grateful, to the Lord for His blessing and grace!! Also, very grateful to you for standing so faithfully with us with your prayer, love and support. May you be blessed today and....if you're in the East, stay warm!!
Air Mobile Joe
3-25-14 Tuesday 8:27AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Tennessee Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
HAS FLIGHT MH-370 BEEN FOUND? NOT YET, BUT, LOOKING STRONGLY LIKE IT'S GOING TO BE....WITH NO SURVIVORS
One can only imagine what the family and friends of the 239 souls on-board of that ill-fated flight must be going through. Again, I urge you to join us in prayer for them. There are still so many unanswered questions. What happened? We may never know.
Currently, gale force winds and high seas are preventing search teams from getting to the exact area of where authorities fear the flight went down. We should hear more today. Meanwhile, we PRAY!
Oh, yesterday was such a "lazy day" for us. We just napped and read and stayed up very late playing rummy. What a blessing to just "get away" and rest here in the "Retreat Cabin".
So, today, we'll do more of the same. Have a few more days to this "Spring" Break. The temperature is hovering around 28 degrees and it's supposed to get down into the teens again tonight. Love it.
Yesterday, had a call from a High School friend, and brother in Christ, Fred Mack. We discussed the upcoming "Blood Moons" and the fact that there are definitely signs in the heavens.
Time to go join my sweetheart for a good cup of coffee and another day of rest and reflection. As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
3-24-14 Monday 7:56AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Tennessee Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
19 DEGREES - A BROKEN HEATER & AND A WARM WOOD STOVE - A NICE WAY TO WORK THROUGH "JET LAG"
A little kindling and a couple of good logs and voila, heat, stove and comfort! A good lesson for the possibility of harder times that might lie ahead.
Now, he had some obstacles to overcome and his attitude was amazing. A great and timely message. Thanks, Pastor Dan!
After Church, we did a little shopping and went back to the Cabin. There, Cindy and I both collapsed and slept for a couple of hours. What a nice way to work through "Jet Lag" from our recent Philippines trip.
Pastor Dan, who is also a heating and A/C guy will be coming by to see what's wrong with our heater. Nice to have friends in the business. Don't really have anything planned today. Just taking a little "chilly" Spring Break and recharging our batteries for the "Mission(s)" ahead.
May you be blessed today and THANK YOU for your sweet prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe and Cindy, Peter and Ariana
3-23-14 Sunday 5:51AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Tennessee Retreat Cabin – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
12 HOURS LATER....
Cindy, Peter, Ariana and I loaded up our Red Ford Escape and hit the road for the mountains of Tennessee yesterday. The ride was just beautiful, relaxing and fun. We knew we were headed for a little slice of paradise. Had no problems and thankful for a quick and safe journey.
Upon arrival, 12 hours later, stopped in at our neighbors, Bill and Judy. Bill is the County Clerk of Court and a wonderful neighbor. Judy recently had surgery and has been having a bit of a struggle during her recovery. So glad that we could pray together. Please remember to pray for Judy with us.
Cindy and I will be pouring over all of the great photos and video footage from our last trip to the Philippines and hope to put together a nice video "capturing" the wonder and grace of God from our last mission there.
It's time for that delicious, 2nd cup of coffee and to get ready for church. Looking forward to being with our Tennessee brothers and sisters. As always, THANK YOU for your invaluable prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
3-22-14 Saturday 6:44AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
LITTLE DONKEY....LESS POD - HURSTONS TO THE CABIN IN THE MOUNTAINS - HAITI QUAKE
In this shot, the "Pod" has been removed allowing full access to the bottom of our little airplane. Again, so appreciative to have Paul's expert eyes looking the aircraft over.
Yesterday, had so many things to take care of before we "head to the mountains". Spring Break is the perfect time to go spend some quiet, cabin time in Tennessee.
Here in this shot, the school that received the unit had the water containers all ready and the Rescuer was making a lot of clean water for the students. We're so THANKFUL for Dandy and Michell!
In addition to providing clean water, we were able to bring little dresses made by caring Delta Flight Attendants (thank you Lauretta).
Michell and Dandy located some very needy children in a very poor part of town and provided many little girls with beautiful, lovingly made dresses. What a blessing!!
So, we're up early, packing sandwiches for the trip up to the Cabin in Tennessee. We can hardly wait to get there. There's still just a "nip" of winter left in this chilly spring. We may even get the wood-stove cranked up. Please pray that we have a safe and fun and restful trip up to our little "retreat" cabin.
As always, THANK YOU for your precious love, prayer and support!! God bless!!
Air Mobile Joe
UPDATE: JUST SAW THAT YESTERDAY, HAITI HAD A 4.5 EARTHQUAKE - NO SERIOUS INJURIES REPORTED - THANK GOD!!
Air Mobile Joe
3-21-14 Friday 6:22AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
MAKING THE ROUNDS
It's good to be home and back to work. Made the big circle from our home to the Air Mobile shop to check inventory for the Rescuers, to the hangar to check on the Little Donkey (in the midst of the Annual Inspection) and over to Orlando to see how the Piper Aztec was coming along. Ended the day with speaking to a group of new inductees into the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society.
BTW, it was such an honor to speak to these young people who were being inducted into this fine Honor Society.
And, speaking of Jet Lag, take a look at this article that just came out yesterday on a new pill to possibly deal with "Jet Lag" SCIENTIST MAY HAVE DISCOVERED WAY TO "RESET" THE BODY CLOCK AFTER "JET LAG"
These young people were a hit everywhere we went. Most Filipinos had heard of them and it was just great hearing them sing and worship our Lord. Peter had a blast playing with them.
Already, we're planning our next trip back to the Philippines. We're simply seeking the direction from the Lord to know exactly when He would have us to return. We plan to visit Aldrich and James on their Island of General Santos. Stay tuned for those travel plans.
So, today, it's time to head out into this day and keep this "show on the road" through the semi-delerium of "Jet Lag". Will be building more Rescuers as our Lord provides the funds and getting our Little Donkey back into the air after we finish the Annual Inspection. We'll be gathering supplies for Haiti and looking forward to...."The Next Mission".
As always, THANK YOU for your precious and faithful prayer, love and support!! Be blessed today!!
Air Mobile Joe
3-20-14 Thursday 6:46AM (Eastern U.S. Time) - Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
HOME!!
Well, we did, and not only did we find seats, but we found "Business-Class" seats all the way to Detroit!! THANK YOU for your prayers and THANK YOU Delta Airlines and Delta Rose!!
I just have to take a moment and explain how wonderful this was. As you know, we often fly on a "Buddy Pass" Ticket. This is a ticket provided from a friend who flies for the airline. The cost of this ticket is usually 50-75% less than a normal Economy Class Ticket. So, it is a VERY good deal. But.... there is a slight "down-side" to this great deal. One must fly on "Stand-By". That means only if seats are available, do you board the aircraft.
Been doing this kind of flying for 35+ years and know the "game" quite well. We have never been completely "left behind". Now, that doesn't mean that you don't get "bumped" off a couple of flights. Just means that you have to wait a bit longer. But....have always made it home.
Now, must tell you also, that flying "Business Class" is VERY, VERY expensive. So, through the wonder of the Grace of God and having some very special friends, i.e. Delta Rose, Cindy, Peter and I flew Business Class all the way TO the Philippines and FROM Manila to Detroit! Again, all I can say is THANK YOU!!
Upon landing in Detroit yesterday, we only had 45 minutes to clear Immigrations, claim our bags, reload our bags onto the domestic flight home and literally run from Gate 1 to Gate 64 and board a completely FULL Boeing 757 Bound for Orlando. As we arrived, they were just getting ready to close the door. We got, literally, the last 3 seats on that aircraft.
We had just flown half way around the world. We had left islands that had been ravaged by the largest and fiercest Typhoon in recorded history. We had, again, by our Lords' amazing power and grace, brought clean water to thirsty people.
We are simply humbled and so appreciative to have been used by our Lord. And....you helped with your precious love, prayer and support!!
Back up early this morning. My "internal" clock is just "spinning". Will be checking on a certain Little Donkey. We're in the middle of the Annual Inspection. Getting that precious bird ready for our...."Next Mission".
Oh, this evening, been invited to speak at the Induction Ceremony for the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society at Eastern Florida State College. You may recall, the young people from PTK organized our 2013 Gala last December. It will be an honor to speak to these gifted young people who have hearts to serve others.
Time to head out the door to the airport. God bless and THANKS AGAIN for your prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
3-19-14 Wednesday 2:34AM (Philippines Time - Note Manila time is 12 hours ahead of Eastern U.S. Time) Manila, Philippines - Remington Hotel – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
FLIGHT TO MANILA THEN.....HEADING HOME
Recently, we met an extraordinary Aviator from the Philippines, Joy Roa. He met us and gave us a lift to the Hotel. We agreed to meet later in the evening.
Joy has a TV Series called, Air Safari and he documents his flights all over the world. A very interesting guy and he's extremely well connected and knowledgeable about flying all over the Philippines.
Spike is following in his father's footsteps and truly loves aviation with a passion. There is a strong camaraderie among aviators.
Am up very early...what's early?? My internal clock is all whacko. Don't know if it's morning or night inside.
We'll be catching an early flight out to Negoya, Japan and then home. Our Dear Delta Rose informs me that it's going to be challenging (finding a seat) from Tokyo, so, please pray that our Lord has 3 seats on the airplane that He wants us to fly.
Time to get Cindy and Peter up and head to the airport to make the final leg home. As I type this "rambling blog", my heart is overwhelmed with just how good our Lord has been to us on this journey for clean water.
We have made some incredible new friendships. Our hearts have been broken by the destruction and suffering, but so encouraged by the love and generosity and courage of so many. We know, that by His help and grace, we shall return to this amazing country called the Philippines.
Time to sign off for now. May be a while before I check back in, due to the fact that we still have nearly 20+ hours of flying ahead of us and an uncertainty of whether or not there will be seats for us. Again, we're so THANKFUL to you for your precious prayer, love and support!
Air Mobile Joe
3-18-14 Tuesday 5:47AM (Philippines Time - Note Manila time is 12 hours ahead of Eastern U.S. Time) Tacloban, Leyte, Philippines - Relief Command Center – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
WHIRLWIND DAY ENDING IN TACLOBAN....AIR MOBILE MISSION "COMING TO A CLOSE"
They had a blast....even had a water party. Meanwhile, I stayed back at our temporary "Command Center" and wrote the blog (& missed the fun of the water party).
Just a bit about the mini "Command Center". It was a tiny hotel room in downtown Ormoc City where we had 3 single beds together and it left about 2" between each and they went wall to wall. The beds were soft and water was hot. We managed quite well and we're just thankful to have had a place to lay our head.
As we were departing Ormoc City, we bid farewell. Though this town had sustained significant damage from Typhoon Yolanda, it was "minor" in comparison as to where we were headed.
The road to Tacloban has so many turns as it winds over the mountains. As we got nearer, the destruction became staggering as we approached the "Ground Zero" of that wicked girl, Yolanda who mercilessly ravaged these beautiful islands.
Again, I can only imagine what it was like to have sustained a 20-30 "Wall of Water", in reality, a Tsunami. Accompanied along with 200+ (up to 235mph) winds. It must have been absolutely terrifying!
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We did a thorough training led by Dandy and Michelle. They have become extraordinary "Water Mules" on this trip. We are so thankful for them.
The sun was now setting. As we drove to our last location of the day, we passed by the "Mass Grave" where a dear Filipino friends of ours, husband lay. We spent a few moments praying there.
As we drove away, we were not sure where we would sleep tonight. Tacloban is still lying in ruins. We headed to the main Command Center and found a friend who offered us a place to set up and included mosquito nets and a fan.
We quickly laid out our sleeping mats, made some "Survial Food". I found out that the Air Mobile Rescuer that we had placed here in November needed a little "tender, loving care". Soon, it was up and pumping water.
It had been another long day. We are "wrapping" up this mission. Today, we'll depart the Tacloban Airport for Manila. We'll overnight there and then, on Wednesday morning, point toward home and fly back....half way around the world.
Time to wrap up this little "rambling blog" today. About to lose "juice" on the laptop. As always, THANK YOU for your faithful love, prayer and generous support!!
Air Mobile Joe
3-17-14 Monday 6:40AM (Philippines Time - Note Manila time is 12 hours ahead of Eastern U.S. Time) Ormoc City, Leyte, Philippines - Air Mobile "On the Move" – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
LEYTE SOUTH BOUND - ALDRICH & JAMES SING - LOVE GROWS
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When Aldrich began to sing, the Spirit of the Lord seemed to sweep through the room. We are so glad to have made contact with these young men. What an amazing connection in Christ!
I, so want to share the music "clip" with you, but the limited internet signal we have prevents that. We'll make a beautiful complete video for you later (when we have signal strenght) and you'll be able to experience the precious gift that our Lord has given to this young man.
This area is no stranger to disaster. Several years ago, a mud slide hit a nearby town and completely inundated it destroying every building but one.
We believe that by placing a couple of Rescuers in this region, they would be better prepared....should another disaster occur. The ride to Hilongos was simply beautiful, breath-takingly beautiful, with pristine beaches and virgin forests.
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We then headed a bit further south to the HIlongos National Vocational School to present our second Rescuer to this region.
I want you to know just what a vital part of this outreach that you are. We so appreciate your prayer, love and support!!
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We then headed back north to Ormoc City. We had accomplished our mission for the day of bringing Rescuers where needed.
The ride back was long and we got Aldrich and Company back to the dock to take the "Fast Cat" back across the sea to Cebu where they would return to their home on General Santos Island. Wow, this plan that my Cindy had "cooked" in the States several weeks ago really happened.
Cindy, Peter and I will not be the same. Our hearts have been touched and love has grown as we ministered together. Again, we are so THANKFUL for this beautiful day.
So, today, Cindy and Peter have already headed out to deploy to more Rescuers in schools here in Ormoc City. I was "left behind" so that I could write this rambling blog this morning. They'll be back to pick me up in a bit and we'll be back on the road headed to Tacloban and beyond. The mission marches on. What will our Lord do today? Only He knows! God bless!!
Air Mobile Joe
3-16-14 Sunday 6:50AM (Philippines Time - Note Manila time is 12 hours ahead of Eastern U.S. Time) Ormoc City, Leyte, Philippines - Air Mobile "On the Move" – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
FROM HIGH SCHOOLS TO PRISON - ALDRICH & JAMES ARRIVE - WHAT? CAN MH-370 BE IN PAKISTAN????
Oh, the beauty and wonder of a "relatively" soft bed and a warm shower. Even though our "internal clocks" are completely upside down, we manage to function, particularly after a good nights sleep. We plunged into yesterday with joy, though a bit "dingy".
We were reminded of the Words of Jesus, "I was in prison and you visited Me". Again, Praise God for this precious tool (clean water) that opens so many doors!! BTW, we were able to sing and pray for the prisoners.
Dandy and Michelle know Ormoc City very well and took us to wonderful Chinese Restaurant, Chow King. The food was plenteous and tasty. There is a special desert in the Philippines called Halo-Halo. There are so many levels of frozen delights, it's difficult to describe, but amazingly refreshing beautifully filling. We left extremely satisfied.
We were greeted by the Head of the Council along with about 100 residents. Again, no power, so we fired up the Rescuer with a Motorcycle battery. Again, great appreciation and joy at the prospect of having extremely clean water for FREE! That's the beauty of the Rescuer.
We had run "full speed" for the entire day. Delirium was setting in. Our special guest (stars), Aldrich and James and company were on the high seas coming over to Ormoc City from Cebu on a "Fast Boat". Their ship was running behind schedule due to weather and seas. This delay gave Cindy, Peter and I the opportunity to grab a few much needed winks of sleep.
Our hotel managed to find 2 extra rooms for them and we all "crashed" at the end of this very long day. Surely, we are being powered by the Holy Spirit, giving us extraordinary strength and endurance.
So, here we are this morning. Up, bright and early, even though, our bodies are thinking it's 7:30 pm, it's actually 7:30 am. Again, we lean upon the Lord to guide and strengthen us today. Who knows where our Lord will lead?
Oh, before signing off, just checked the headlines and saw that Flight MH-370 "may" have gone to Pakistan. What is going on???
Seems like accurate information is very difficult to find and for the most part, we, the public are really in the dark. All we can do is PRAY for those victims and their families. This is a true mystery, the likes of which I have never seen. Here is more on this incredible story - MH-370 MAY HAVE BEEN FLYING TOWARD PAKISTAN!!
Again, THANK YOU for wandering down this rambling blog and excellent "Adventure" with us. May you be blessed today!!
Air Mobile Joe
3-15-14 Saturday 5:59AM (Philippines Time - Note Manila time is 12 hours ahead of Eastern U.S. Time) Ormoc City, Leyte, Philippines - Air Mobile "On the Move" – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
"HIT THE GROUND RUNNING"....LITERALLY
Dr. Aaron had arranged for Dandy (that's his name) to pick us up and bring us wherever we needed to go. THANKS AARON!
Dandy and his wife, Michelle were there waiting for us. Michelle had baked delicious banana bread, mmmmm. We headed straight over to the Philippine Air Force (PAF) base located at Tacloban Airport to check on the Rescuer that we had donated to the PAF on our last mission here.
As I have shared in the past, many Filipinos love McArthur and consider him a true hero in helping to liberate the Philippines from the Japanese.
We then headed to the High School that we had visited on our last mission to the Philippines. Dandy's brother is the HS Administrator. As we drove through the devastation, we could see steady progress. Roads were clear, roofs were being replaced and even the "mass burial" site that we had passed on our last trip was all covered up and the health clinic was back in operation.
We were greeted by hundreds of students who sang and danced and expressed incredible joy at our return. We brought them a second Rescuer. The first one looked like brand new and was functioning beautifully. Peter even sang for them.
We made the training presentation and then, the part that I love, we presented the school with an Air Mobile Rescuer. Have I told you how much I love my job??
We then made the offer and it was gladly accepted. We did our training and presentation. The rain poured down and thunder shook the building. We then presented Grace Baptist with it's own Air Mobile Rescuer.
Cindy, Peter and I were running on fumes. We had not slept in a bed since Tuesday night. We were in approaching 3 days with no real sleep. Dandy, our faithful guide and driver headed back to Ormoc City, a grueling 2.5 hour drive through the mountains. I drifted in and out of sleep. What a long, but very successful day. We literally "Hit the ground running".
Dandy found a very comfortable room in downtown Ormoc City. Oh, the warm shower and comfortable bed was like heaven.
Up early this morning. Already had 3 little bitty cups of coffee out of the hotel vending machine. Dandy and Michelle will be here in about an hour.
Time to head out into another day. Who know what our Lord will have for us. Still reeling and rejoicing in the successful day we had yesterday. As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe, Cindy and Peter
3-14-14 Friday 3:54AM (Philippines Time - Note Manila time is 12 hours ahead of Eastern U.S. Time) Manila International Airport - Air Mobile "On the Move" – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
TRAVELED HALF WAY AROUND THE WORLD....ALMOST THERE
The last blog report was from Orlando. Cindy, Peter and I are now sitting in Manila about to board a flight to Tacloban, Leyte (the Ground Zero of the Typhoon Yolanda).
This will be a very brief blog because my computer has only a tiny bit of juice and I can't find power. Our flight will be boarding in 15 minutes.
So, when we left Detroit on Wednesday afternoon, we got bumped up to Business Class. There was a terrible snow storm and our flight was delayed due to de-icing.
BTW we also got bumped up to Business Class from Orlando to Detroit!
The flight over Alaska, Russia to Japan was a bit rough, but....Business Class sure took the sting out the rough air. We landed in Negoya, Japan about 2 hours behind schedule.
We made a mad dash to board the Manila Flight and just made it. Again....bumped up to Business class. THANK YOU DELTA ROSE AND DELTA AIRLINES! Not only were we on a very economical ticket, but our Lord gave us favor with Business Class half way around the world!! We were able to really rest on the 20 hour flight.
I'll try to add to this blog once we get settled in Tacloban.
Oh, also must tell you that Philippine Airlines waived all freight charges to those 8 blue tubs filled with 15 Rescuers. Again, THANK GOD for favor.
So sorry this blog is so "choppy" and short and lacking photos. My computer is just about to die and wanted to get a "progress report" out. So grateful to have you along on the journey with us. Appreciate your precious prayer, love and support!
Air Mobile Joe
3-13-14 Thursday - Somewhere in time - Air Mobile Team traveling on a Delta 747-400 between Detroit and Nagoya, Japan. Every hour flown, 2 hour are taken off our clock - we cross the international time zone.
3-12-14 Wednesday 5:49AM (Eastern U.S. Time) Orlando International Airport - Air Mobile "On the Move" – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
8 TUBS "TO GO" - MAGGIE "GRACE"
Up at 2:00am to head out to the Philippines for our 3rd mission there since the terrible Typhoon Yolanda ravaged so many in November. We, Cindy, Peter and I, will be bringing in 15 more Air Mobile Rescuers...thanks to your generosity and prayer!
Anytime one brings this much "baggage", one needs amazing grace with the airline. Our dear Delta Rose arranged for our "Buddy Passes" and now....we needed extra grace to get this precious cargo cleared all the way to Manila.
Our next stop: Detroit and then Negoya Japan and finally, Manila, Philippines. By the time this mission will be over, we will have flown nearly 24,000 miles. Spent 46 hours in the air and had 8 stops. It's going to be a LONG journey and we'll be moving very fast.
PLEASE PRAY for traveling mercy as we bring clean water to the thirsty in the Name of Jesus. As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
3-11-14 Tuesday 7:39AM (Eastern U.S. Time) Cocoa, FL - Air Mobile Home Base – Report submitted by: Air Mobile Joe
THE MYSTERY OF FLIGHT MH-370 CONTINUES - FUEL / DEBRIS "FALSE ALARM" - CONSPIRACY THEORIES ABOUND - STRONG QUAKE OFF CALIFORNIA COAST...MORE EXPECTED
Debris, that had been cited has proven to be "inconclusive", so the mystery continues. Searchers are turning to space and high technology to locate the missing aircraft. Here's an excellent article on the "search" - Malaysia Crash Search Taps Technology as Debris Eludes
Today, will be the final loading and finishing touches on packing before we depart and fly "half-way" around the world. We're very excited and joyful about heading back to the Philippines!
So, it's that time....need to head out and go over the final check-list. Please pray that we get all done that we need to before departure. As always, THANK YOU for faithfully standing with us with your precious prayer, love and support!!
Air Mobile Joe
