December 17, 2010 Friday – 5:45am (Haiti Time) – Undisclosed location – Haiti – Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

Port-Au-Prince streets were somewhat normal yesterday.  Many wait for the next news on the elections but life goes on….It is early, the sun has not yet risen and as I sit and write, there are 2 church services going on within earshot.  Been going on for the last hour.  I have been amazed at how so many Haitians just pick up the pieces and keep on marching forward overcoming staggering odds.  This is a remarkable gift from God.

It is interesting to read the reports on the Cholera outbreak.  There are numerous studies on where and how cholera arrived into Haiti.  The overall conclusion is that it was brought in by someone from afar, perhaps Nepal.  There are many angry denials and accusations flying around.  The fact is, it is here and must be dealt with.  Thousands of foreign aid workers, along side Haitian health workers are working tirelessly everyday to combat this dreadful disease.  Fortunately, it is relatively easy to treat.  There are many regions that are isolated and difficult to reach.  These are the areas that we are focusing on.

Air Mobile is working with other organizations to gain access into the more remote regions.  Today, we will continue to do so.  We are also seeking out organizations who can benefit from the remarkable Rescuer (Voyager) water purifier.  We are training operators on the effective usage and maintenance on the unit to keep the clean water flowing.  This is so important in the treatment and….the prevention of cholera.  

The work team here in the village continues to perform wonders with welding.  Several of the newly constructed buildings now have metal stairs leading to the second floors.  These guys work fast and well.  We are so blessed to have so many volunteers willing to come down and work beside us.  We’re just thankful to the Lord.

Before the church service began around 4:30am, I was already awake reflecting on “The Joy of the Lord”. What a rich and powerful message and gift from the Lord.  The Joy of the Lord truly gives unimaginable strength in the darkest and most difficult times.  As I have shared numerous times, the situation in Haiti can be overwhelming and our efforts can seem so small in the face of the staggering needs.  This is where the “Joy” kicks in and gives strength for the day. We simply do what we can do and trust the results to Lord.  His Joy helps bring us through the day.  Many times we may never see the results of our efforts.  Again, that is where the joy comes in.  I pray you experience great joy today.

Well, the sun is just rising and must get on about the day.  It’s going to be a good day and most likely, quite interesting.  Thanks as always for your prayer, love and support!

Air Mobile Joe