Sing to the Lord a new song. Sing to the Lord, all the earth. Sing to the Lord. Praise his name. Announce every day how he delivers. Tell the nations about his splendor. Tell all the nations about his amazing deeds. Psalm 96:1-3

What should you do then, brothers and sisters?When you come together, each one has a song, has a lesson, has a revelation, has a tongue, has an interpretation. Let all these things be done for the strengthening of the church. 1 Corinthians 14:26

He said to them, The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. Luke 10:2 Conduct yourselves wisely toward outsiders, making the most of the time. Colossians 4:5

Chifles (Fried green banana/plantain chips) Chifles are also known as mariquitas, chicharitas, platanutres, platanitos or plataninas, are thin fried green plantain banana chips.  This is a common snack in Ecuador. Seven out of seven Downings recommend this treat. Ingredients Peanut oil for frying Green… Continue Reading "Chifles"

It will happen in one day—a day known to the Lord—not in the day or the night, but in the evening there will be light. Moreover, on that day living waters will flow out from Jerusalem, half of them to the eastern sea and half of them… Continue Reading "The Evening Light"

Now by this we know that we have come to know God: if we keep his commandments. The one who says “I have come to know God” and yet does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in such a person. But whoever obeys… Continue Reading "Abide"

Today’s cultural insight comes in the form of a story. The legend of Father Almeida tells a story of sin and redemption. Just click play below to be regaled with local Ecuadorian lore. With love, The Downing Family Friend we need your support! Click… Continue Reading "Cultural Insight: Until When….?"

Missionary zeal does not grow out of intellectual beliefs, nor out of theological arguments, but out of love. Roland Allen The Apostle John was known as the “disciple whom Jesus loved” His Gospel account has been called the Gospel of love. In his first… Continue Reading "Grown Out Of Love"

Unless I am sure I am doing more at home to send the gospel abroad than I can do abroad, I am bound to go.-A. B. Simpson In Matthew’s rendering of the Great Commission Jesus puts legs on the Great Commandment. Love of God… Continue Reading "Bound To Go"