Jorje is married, has a wife, three children (I believe), two sons in their teens, and a young daughter. We were able to briefly meet all family members. Jorje didn’t speak English, but was great at teaching Mark and me some Spanish words throughout the week. He was very fun – I sure wish I could have communicated more with him.
Jorje’s story is interesting, but unfortunately my memory may not get all of the following facts correct, but I will try. Jorje was adopted by Mirtza’s mom as a young boy, I believe he might have been a street child. As Jorje grew into his teens – he went the gang and drug culture route – and pretty much disappeared for many years. He married along the way, and had his two son’s during this dark period – but was active in drug trafficking and use. One day he showed up at Dana and Mirtza’s place out of the blue; he was very nervous, and said he had a message for Dana. They retreated to Dana’s office, and Jorje said that he was told to kill Dana from the devil. Dana prayed out loud and asked the Lord to cast the Lord bind the evil spirit and cast it out of Jorje- who shook violently, and after continued prayer, went limp. Being free from the demon’s control, he revealed to Dana that satan had been trying to kill Dana, and that he would not stop pursing this until Dana was dead. Dana noted to me that this is pretty much the case for all active Christians – but that he could also see by reflection a series of years where serious medical issues nearly took his life, and suspects this was part of the enemie’s attacks. For a short time after this excorcism Jorje did pretty well – but like with most caught up in drugs – fell back into the drug scene for another 5 or so years – disappearing from the family again.
About five years ago Jorje showed up again, and Dana was very skeptical. However, for five years now Jorje has stayed clean. A lot of the work he does around Dana and Mirtza’s house has been a way of keeping Jorje busy, active. The Lord’s presence in his life has grown. Jorje’s family lives right next to Calan school. In fact, their property is part of the church and school property. Jorje’s family act as care takers for the school as well as Dana and Mirtza’s home. Jorje is a walking a reflection of a service oriented believer – one who was in the grips of the enemy, but has been snatched back to his Savior and Lord. A very special and enjoyable man.