It was another early morning start for a full day of ministry. Today mirrored yesterday’s ministry schedule, which helped us all feel more confident in what to expect for the day. YET as every missions trip goes, we knew we had to be flexible in case plans change.
Our morning started with devotions from Pastor John reading through 2 Timothy 3:14-17. We reflected on ways that we have learned about Christ this year. Katie explained how she learned about God’s justice, while Abby has been reminded of God caring for the little things. Joyce learned the importance of obedience which an example is being here on this trip. Susan explained how she’s reminded that one can’t have salvation without knowing Christ and seeing the importance to share Jesus with anybody- where ever you are in the world. Hannah reflected that she’s learned to be in the still moments. To just be still and waiting on God, and during that waiting period is where the most growth can happen.
We were challenged to read the word, so that we can be ready to testify and reveal Christ. Instead of asking how to live better or what can I do- we need to see God, to see Him through His word. Not only read his word but memorize His words. To find pockets of time while serving to memorize and reflect on His word. His word gives us an expectation, but then helps us achieve that expectation.
This was a great reminder for us here especially as we are starting to really feel exhaustion hit, that we need to be continually in God’s word, but also a life habit to continue as we return home.
After team devotions, we had breakfast and packed up ready for another full day of ministry.
When we arrived at the school, the kids were so excited to see us - giving hugs, and remembering names. Many of them kept their paper name tag stickers from yesterday for us to remember their names. It was the sweetest reunion in only a 24 hour period.
VBS went great with the songs, skits that included many team members acting like animals, and the craft, games, memory verse, Bible story rotations. It was an amazing experience to see how every member of the team jumped in and made VBS run well.
A few team members went on a construction project to fix a church member’s roof, and were able to quickly finish the project.
After VBS, we had our PBJ lunch time at the church, and then worked together to pack 60 food bags that we will be distributing tomorrow.
During the afternoon some of the team did the parenting classes, some did home visits and others watched the children during the parenting class. It was a full day, and wonderful to be able to partner with the church and to their members and people of their community.
We left Dennis behind at the church to teach for a leadership training. He was able to have time with the Pastor and two translators for the evening.
Once back at the hotel we had dinner, and a time of testimony and worship as a team.
A consistent saying that has been brought up during our time here is : we may live differently, we may speak differently, but we have the SAME God. A very large thunderstorm came through during dinner with incredible lightning and thunder.
That same God can create a Thunderstorm in Roanoke, and a Thunderstorm here in Guatemala. His power and love is the same for these Guatemalans as it is for our neighbors in Roanoke. We may be here focused on serving and ministering to the Guatemalans- but our mission is still the same when we get back home to our neighbors and coworkers and family members.
Tomorrow we plan for a very long day with a packed schedule. Praying for a restful night for each team member.
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