Article submitted by Glen Dubois, President of MVI
Linda and I want to thank you for your prayers, support and heartfelt concern and care for Norb and Esther Anahi in Paraguay. We have been overwhelmed with the emails and phone calls and are so thankful for the MVI family that understands that if one of us is hurting we are all hurting. If you did not know them personally I encourage you to go to read Julie’s blog.
They were one of those families that loved each other and others in such a way that Christ shined through them in every situation. They had a profound impact on Linda and me personally and all who had the pleasure to know them. Our hearts will continue to grieve yet with the hope that many will come to know Jesus through this tragedy. I wanted to update you on the latest news as we cry to to God and pray for one of our own.
Most of you know that the family was heading into Asuncion to pick up their daughter’s birth certificate and passport. It was to be a day of great celebration. It was around 5:00 am yesterday (April 18) that they were involved in a devastating car accident.
Norberto’s parents (missionaries) and brothers and one sister live in Paraguay near to Norberto. They are surrounding him at this time and Norb’s sister is helping with the care of Esther Anahi. Norb was at the church in Obligado surrounded by family and friends in prayer most of the night. The funeral was this morning (April 19) 10:00 am and Julie’s extended family was able to participate through Skype.
Norb said he is still in shock. “I feel like I am in a movie, it hasn’t even been a full day yet. I can’t believe this is happening.” On the other hand he and Esther Anahi did not suffer any serious injury.
You may send an email of prayer, scripture or support to send to MVI (info@mvi.org) or mail to P.O. Box 593550 Orlando, FL 32859-3550.
I want to encourage everyone to continue to pray for Norb and Esther Anahi as well as their families and friends who are hurting so much at this time. To lose your best friend, partner in ministry and your beloved son is so hard to imagine. Pray for Julie’s extended family in the States, for the community and church in Obligado that lost such a caring and compassionate woman and a child who had a such heart to minister to those in his community.
Psalms 34:18 promises us that the Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. God is close. May we as a family continue to cry out for His presence to overwhelm Norb and Esther Anahi during this trial.
Serving together with an eternal purpose,
Glen and Linda
P.S. Julie and Timothy did celebrate yesterday – they entered eternal life.
