This Mission Team is amazing. Monday was a tough day. Don’t get me wrong – it was amazing ministry, but it was long, hot, and exhausting. I went to bed praying for the youth’s energy and strength. (I pray that every night for the adults already.) I’m grateful that the Lord answered with abundant energy and gave renewed spirits and attitudes eager to serve. It’s been another amazing day. We have a great group of youth.
Today’s projects were very similar to yesterday’s. We got more painting done. One team tackled a hugely overgrown field and conquered it. Additionally they tackled the property of a neighbor who needed help. Another team sorted all of our hygiene and school supplies so that they’re ready for distribution at the end of this week. A final team worked on scraping and painting exterior doors. Tomorrow we hope to finish most of these projects.
Our kid’s club is growing. Yesterday we had 38 kids, and today we had 49. This is a great turn out for them, and it’s amazing to see the connections being made with families. In addition to crafts, games, snacks, and songs, the kids are hearing about God’s love each day. It’s exciting to watch.
Here are just a few personal highlights from the day:
- Hearing our youth returning from a grueling task in the 90+ heat and humidity asking, “What can I do next?”
- Seeing the local elementary school outreach director get moved to tears seeing our youth working with her kids and seeing the mountains of hygiene and school supplies we’re giving to her to distribute to needy families throughout the school year
- Seeing a worker from the local elementary school walking over with 29 kids for VBS
- Watching my 3 daughters jump in with the teens and serve on most of the projects
- Encouraging our developing leaders run with worship, AV, recreation, crafts, snacks, etc. They’re not just helping. They’re doing and leading!
- Getting to “spar” with a real live ninja (long story)
Please continue to pray for our safety and strength.