Day 1 – January 27, 2010: The day began early (3:30 a.m.) since the flight out of OKC leaves at 6:30 a.m. I am so thankful for Kenny Hixson for driving me to the airport. This time of year, the flight leaves Oklahoma City before daylight. I read for just a little while on the plane, but was soon asleep. We arrived in Houston without problem. The connecting flight leaves Houston at 9:15. I was able to sleep some on this leg of the trip, as well. I had known for some time that today was inauguration day for the new president of Honduras. My good friend Jesús Pagagua had told me just Monday that the government was anticipating a very large crowd of people to descend upon the airport today to wish former president Manuel Zelaya “bon voyage” as he and his family left the country for vacation in the Dominican Republic. Because of this news, I had no idea what to expect when I arrived in Tegucigalpa. My flight might be cancelled; Jesús told me that it was very possible that he would not be able to get to the airport to pick me up for several hours. The worst case scenario (other than having the flight cancelled) was that I would have to spend the night in the airport. Well, after a comfortable flight, I arrived safely and only had to wait a few minutes before spying brethren Jesús and Nery Irías at the door. The police had barred anyone from coming into the airport terminal who was not a passenger, so they could not come in, but there was no problem getting out to them and getting my luggage loaded up in Jesús’ pickup. The problem was outside. Several thousand people had indeed descended on the airport awaiting Zelaya. We were able to stay on the upper level so we had a great view of the street below where the crowds were. We did not know, however, when the former president was leaving. After waiting three hours, the announcer below on the street, who had kept up a constant monologue, with some music and other speakers sprinkled throughout, announced that former president Zelaya would be entering the airport at another entrance; so, everyone started off from the main entrance which left us to get to the pickup and get out of the airport. We went across the street and had a late lunch. After lunch we headed out; 45 minutes later we were two blocks away. It seems this great multitude of people was now walking back toward us and they completely filled the street. There was never any sense of fear in being surrounded by such a crowd, although the pickup was jostled from time to time and on one occasion people climbed into the back. Eventually, we were able to get through the crowd and then the horrible traffic jam that was left after the disruption. We arrived in Danlí a little before 6:00 p.m.; a long day. I was able to have dinner with Denton Landon and we visited for some time before retiring to our rooms. Tomorrow I will accompany him to class and will return to the room for some work here. Thanks to all who are praying for us on this trip. ¡Que Dios les bendiga!
Day 2 – January 28, 2010: I had a good night’s sleep last night…almost eight hours! It was cool this morning and it was obvious that it had rained during the night. The temperature drop to the upper 50s during the nights this time of year; very pleasant. I met Denton for breakfast in the hotel restaurant at 6:30. I then accompanied him to class where I sat in one the study and discussion until a little before 10:00 when they took their first break. After the break, I returned to the hotel. After lunch with the students, brother Nery and I went downtown to buy some things, including a gift for brother Denton for his service to the institute. Denton concluded the class on Christian Ethics and he and I went downtown to walk and for him to buy some gifts to take home. At 6:00 p.m. we went to the home of brother Nery for a worship service with the brethren of the El Zarzal congregation. I had the pleasure of preaching to the brethren gathered there. After this meeting, Denton and I had supper at Chester’s Fried Chicken. We talked until late into the night, but, finally, we had to stop and try to sleep.
Day 3 – January 29, 2010: I almost did not get up in time to meet Denton for breakfast, but I was able to arrive on time. This morning the students take their final exam. Brother Nery presented brother Denton with a gift and a certificate of appreciation for his work here in the institute. Around 9:30 brother Jesús Paguaga arrived at the hotel to take Denton to the airport in Tegucigalpa. Brother Cesar Tábora and I accompanied them. After buying some things for children to help brethren so they can attend school, we returned to Danlí. We have tonight and the majority of tomorrow free.
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