December 2023 Newsletter

Dear Friends,

Christmas is almost here! Even though it is the busiest time of the year, it is my very favorite. I look at our tree all lit up at night and think about the many children who have gathered around it on Christmas morning.

Our first Christmas, twenty-three years ago, we hardly had any ornaments, but that didn't matter to the eleven little children who had never seen anything quite like it! Now the tree is full of ornaments that children have made. Some have names and little painted hands of children that have long gone to their forever homes. So many memories...so much joy.

And even after so many little hands have tugged and pulled on its branches, the tree stands tall and strong. This year we have three grandchildren that will gather around the tree too! I am grateful for the Lord's loving kindness...His faithfulness through it all.

We are busy getting food boxes ready for needy families. We have met some new families over the last six months that have touched our hearts. We met Roy, a very nice young man, who watches over cars at a small store nearby. His story has touched the heart of a young man who has been living with us. He came to our home needing a friend and so much love. Reaching out to Roy has given him so much joy!

Isn't it just amazing how every time we reach out to others, our hearts begin to heal too? That is what we have seen so many times! We want to bless Roy and his family with a food box. His mother has cancer and Roy is her caregiver. With your help, and by God's grace, we can serve many families in our neighborhood and region. Each family has their own story and getting to know and serve them has blessed our lives.

We still need to provide extra care for our youngest foster child. She was born prematurely and will need special medical help in catching up. We pray all costs will be met. It will be $250 a month above and beyond our current budget to provide for her needs.

We have had some leaks in the roof after very heavy rains at the "Carolyn House" up in the mountains. This has been a home for many children through the years, but it needs some serious repair work. We are looking into costs and what will need to be spent to make repairs. We also have had some extra medical expenses for sick babies and loved ones. We trust the Lord to provide for every need. So many times, He works through friends like you.

Would you prayerfully consider a special year-end gift to support the ministry of Hidden Treasures? All gifts in the United States, large or small, are tax-deductible and vital to the future of this ministry serving children and families across central Costa Rica.

I ask for prayers for my dear husband, Enrique, as he walks closely with people who are living broken lives; some are dealing with trauma, pain, stress, and anxiety. Pray for wisdom and strength. Enrique is such a blessing to our family and so many others.

Thank you to all who prayed for my father over the last few weeks. He is home from the hospital and working on recovery. We are SO very grateful to the Lord for his life! Please continue to pray for strength, wisdom, provision, and complete healing. It is hard to be so far away when loved ones are sick. Your prayers have meant so much to me and our family.

We want to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! We have been so blessed by each one of you. Thank you for your love and prayers. We pray you have a wonderful and very blessed holiday season!

Much love,

Enrique and Charlyn Mejia

P.S. Would you please keep us in your prayers and in your giving this month? All U.S. gifts are tax-deductible. In addition to our Facebook Page, you can also visit our website: HiddenTreasuresOutreach.com