Today’s post is written by Dick. Trips to the Immigration Office to renew my visa are always interesting. Today though I was struck by the lack of “separation of church and state” we experience here in Guatemala. Nativity displays in government offices and the ability of missionaries to visit and teach Bible lessons and values in public schools are two examples. No, I can’t say Guatemala is a particularly Christian country, despite the religious celebrations and processions, but they do at the very least acknowledge the reality of God. Somehow the different religious groups seem to coexist somewhat peacefully. Maybe when you’re struggling to survive it’s easier to put aside doctrinal differences and focus on our dependence on God for our very lives.
Dick writes:
This morning Pat, Dave and I headed for the big city. All 3 of us had at least 1 reason or another to go to the immigration office. Not our favorite thing to do but misery loves company. Besides that I am the only one who has a car. (Not to mention that I’m the one who can communicate effectively—sort of—with the government workers.~~Pat)
It is more than 3 weeks after Christmas and this Guatemalan government building still has it's Nativity display up. It has been quite a few years since I have been in the USA for Christmas but it is my understanding that nativity display's are not allowed to stay up in government buildings 3 weeks after Christmas. The World Race teem is sharing Jesus in several of the Guatemalan public schools this week. Perhaps they can ask one of the students if they know if that is true. (Yes that was meant to be a little sarcastic, but it does leave one wondering who should be sending missionaries where.) 
We got back from the City just in time to go to the opening ceremonies of the School that Cesar and Fernando are attending. Most of my kids started school this week. Calin and Miguel are the only one not going yet but they will start next week and now I will once again have to wait in line to use my computer.
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