From Historic Streets to Changed Hearts — What Jesus Did in Mérida, Mexico

June 30-July 7, 2026 | Mérida, Mexico

One transformed life quickly became an opportunity to share the Gospel with another friend.

Some mission trips are carefully planned.

Others remind you that God already has the appointments prepared—you simply need to walk through the doors He opens.

That is exactly what we experienced during our time in Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico.

Known for its beautiful colonial architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture, Mérida attracts people from around the world. Many choose to retire here because of its charm, safety, and welcoming atmosphere. The city is full of colorful streets, historic buildings, and life. Although the tropical heat and humidity can be intense, we quickly discovered that God was already stirring hearts that were even more ready than we expected.

The historic streets of Mérida became the setting for new conversations about Jesus.

Before we even arrived, the Lord had prepared a place for us.

Our longtime friend, Marius, graciously offered her vacant home beside hers, giving us not only a place to stay but also a place where people could come, ask questions, hear the Gospel, and encounter Jesus. We are deeply thankful for her generosity and willingness to serve the Kingdom.

One of those divine appointments was Andi.

As we shared the Gospel, it became clear that the Lord was working in her heart. She made the decision to surrender her life to Jesus Christ and desired to be baptized. Afterward, she told us she felt a freedom and peace unlike anything she had experienced before.

Matt sharing what it means to surrender one's life completely to Jesus with Andi.

No vacation destination, no career, and no earthly success can give what only Christ can.

Watching someone become a new creation in Him never grows old.

The Lord continued opening doors.

We spent time with a married couple who already belonged to Christ. Our conversation centered on a simple but important truth: genuine faith is meant to be lived, not merely spoken. The way we treat others, make decisions, and persevere through trials should reflect the One we follow.

Before leaving, we prayed for healing.

We're thankful for friends like Marius (far right), whose hospitality opened doors for ministry throughout our stay.

Later that evening, we received encouraging news. The pain that had been troubling the wife's abdomen was gone.

We give all glory to Jesus.

As often happens, one transformed life began leading to another.

Andrea introduced us to a friend who wanted to hear the Gospel. Then Marius connected us with another friend who had already committed her life to Christ. We spent time praying with her and asking the Lord to fill her with the gift of the Holy Spirit.

It was a beautiful reminder that the Gospel spreads naturally when believers simply invite others to come and hear about Jesus.

Our journey then took us north to Progreso, a stunning coastal city known for its white sand beaches, clear blue waters, and lively boardwalk lined with restaurants and shops.

Our journey continued north to the beautiful coastal city of Progreso, where God had more people prepared for us to meet.

People come to Progreso looking for rest.

We came hoping people would find something even greater.

On Sunday, we met with another husband and wife. As we shared the Gospel, both sincerely desired to turn their lives over to Jesus Christ. We eagerly planned to meet with them the following day for baptism and prayer.

Sharing the Gospel with another couple in Progreso and praying that God will continue the work He has begun in their hearts.

Then our plans suddenly changed.

An unexpected situation at the wife's job required her to stay much longer than expected, making it impossible for them to meet with us that day.

While it was disappointing, it reminded us that ministry belongs to the Lord—not to our schedules. We continue praying that He will complete the work He has begun in their hearts and provide another opportunity for them to take that next step of faith.

Even then, God was not finished.

Andrea brought yet another friend to meet with us.

Once again, the Gospel was shared.

Once again, Jesus touched a heart.

She also chose to surrender her life to Christ.

Karla made the life-changing decision to surrender her life to Jesus Christ.

By the time our visit came to an end, we had seen two people baptized, prayed for those battling sickness, encouraged believers to walk faithfully with Christ, and watched the Lord continue drawing people to Himself through simple conversations and faithful invitations.

Looking back, what stands out most isn't Mérida's beautiful buildings or Progreso's breathtaking beaches—though both are certainly worth seeing.

Praying for healing and encouraging believers to live lives that reflect their faith in Christ.

What we remember most are the people.

The conversations around kitchen tables.

The prayers whispered in faith.

The tears of surrender.

The peace that filled hearts after choosing Jesus.

These are the moments that remind us why we go.

Please continue praying for Andrea, the new believers, the couple in Progreso, and everyone we met throughout this journey. Pray that they will continue growing in their faith, remain steadfast in Christ, and become faithful witnesses to their families, friends, and communities.

Thank you to everyone who prays, encourages, and supports this ministry. You are part of every conversation, every prayer, and every life that hears the Gospel because of your partnership.

Jesus is still seeking the lost. Jesus is still changing lives. Jesus is still building His Kingdom.

To Him alone be all the glory.

Ruthie and friends sharing testimonies of God's faithfulness with Netzi beneath the stars.