A note to the reader. This writer some times finds it difficult to put into words things that happen while doing mission work. We call it “God things”. Things that can't be explained any other way except to know that the Holy Spirit was at work. Things that may not be miracles but are far from coincidences. Things that are beyond chance and happen for a reason. These “God things” have been happening on a regular basis during this trip and it is incredibly humbling to realize that He is using us for His purpose. I ask that you talk to us upon our return and we will be happy to tell our stories.
Morning devotions were led by Shawn and included Proverbs 29 and Romans 12. Romans 12 was one of those “God things”; ask Lance.
Breakfast was then served at the El Bambu and consisted of fried cheese, eggs, ham and plantain. As today was a construction day, Eric and Paul went to the site to get the project going. The rest of the team took a trip through the marketplace as Monday is the busiest day. It's always quite an experience to walk through the Azua marketplace. Solid people for blocks with vendors selling everything imaginable. Piles of clothes, meat (not always so fresh), vegetables, grains, electronics, housewares, etc. It's a great place to hand out tracts and about 250 were delivered. Pictures never due justice to the chaos, sounds and smells.
The team then travelled to the construction site in El Quatto. We visited this village last year and were impressed with the pastor and his wife. A section of a thatched pavilion had collapsed so a concrete footing and slab were poured for a base to replace/improve it. Eric was in his prime and Paul, Duane, Betsy and Hank helped him all day. It was difficult work in the hot sun but much was accomplished. The rest of the team spent the day with the children and/or witnessing through the streets. Many miles were walked, many bibles were handed out and many lives were impacted. So many stories with all of those visits.
Around 5pm the job was done and most of the team headed back to the house to clean off the concrete and rest from a strenuous day. Dan and Betsy attended a local church service and each gave a message. The congregation was literally dancing in the aisles worshipping (including Dan & Betsy).
Paul, Mark, Shawn, Jim, Lance and Pablito stayed in El Quatto to show the Jesus film for the last time on this trip. After a few songs the crowd was only 4 older ladies and a small handful of kids. They started the film and within 15 minutes the crowd had grown to about 100 with many young adults. After the film Jim and Shawn gave a message followed by the pastor and his wife. The Holy Spirit was at work again as these people received the message with enthusiasm.
The men also held another men's meeting during the film and about 25 attended to hear raw testimony and hard-hitting truth about their role as men and what God expects. About half decided to give their lives to Christ tonight! God is great and faithful to those who heed his Word.
Another late night was finished off with ice-cream back at the house.
Jesus te ama (Jesus loves you)
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