The light of the world...

Our first day of ministry felt like 3 days rolled into one as we completed Vbs/home visits, tour and storytime at the orphanage, and teaching in the evening at the church. Mister Don told the story of Daniel in the lion's den complete with sound effects and kids playing each of the characters at the church for VBS as well as at the orphanage. We also played games, sang songs, did a craft, and served as jungle gyms for kids of all shapes and sizes. 

Gail, Sarah, and Amy went on home visits while the rest of the team completed VBS. they had the opportunity to connect with 2 families and agreed that the time they spent in the homes was a highlight of the day. 

The evening was spent teaching at the church. We divided the parents and children for a special message to each group. Beth and I took the kids and told the story of Maria, a girl who had 2 fathers with one face, a father who was kind and loving and a dark father who hurt Maria. We reminded the children that their bodies belonged to them and belonged to God. If someone touched them in a way they did not like, they could say stop and then tell someone they trusted at church if they did not stop. We used the hula hoop as a fun game and then as a visual to teach the kids about boundaries and the space that belonged to them. 

Amy taught the adults about the how their children are a gift from God and they must take care of them. She used the analogy of taking care of a plant to tell a story that was interactive and relatable for a group that does a lot of farming. She then raised awareness about the incidence of abuse within Guatemala. When she finished our host Betty and the pastor of the church, Marvin spoke of the hope in Christ and the opportunity of a fresh start for each of these families. Marvin invited the men to the front of the church and prayed over them as leaders of their households. Everyone there agreed it was one of the most powerful things they experienced during the day.  Though no one from our group understood the words that were spoken, the presence of the Holy Spirit was palpable. God is moving in an incredible way! We are so blessed He has allowed us to be a small part of it. 

"You are the light of the world.  A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on a stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.  In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven."  ~Matthew 5:14-16

 Pray for strength and endurance, health and protection for us as a team. Pray for Abby and Kelby as they are up today for teaching segments. Pray that our eyes see, our ears hear, and our hands and feet are obedient to The Holy Spirit throughout the day. Until tomorrow!