It's hard to believe that soon we will be back home. The team is now relying heavily on the power of the Holy Spirit to keep them going physically. Spirits are high but the physical and mental strain of the past week is starting to show in fatigue and some sickness. As we will start the journey back tomorrow afternoon, most are now looking forward to reuniting with their families.
With that in mind we should caution the families of the first time team members. Those that you sent will return changed. In the past week they have seen the hand of God many times. This has changed them emotionally and spiritually. Please be patient with them as they adjust to home life. This change is for the glory of God so you will benefit, rest assured.
This morning's devotions were led by Paul. He asked us to tell about a favorite bible verse and/or story. This led to many interesting discussions.
Breakfast of ham and cheese empinadas was brought to the house. Today was Compassion day. The day where those members who sponsor children through Compassion International in the Azua area see their children and spend a little time walking them home, giving them gifts, meeting their families and praying over them. Dan, Eric, Shawn, Paul and Duane each sponsor children. The kids were waiting for them with a poster. Of the 1 million children in Compassion schools worldwide less than 1% get visits from their sponsors. It's a joy to see first-hand how God's blessings to us can be leveraged for His kingdom.
Lunch (chicken and rice) was served at the El Bambu before the bus was loaded for a village near Carmen's church. Some of the team poured concrete for a floor in a house while the others walked the streets witnessing.
At 4pm the team met with the center for the blind which they do each year. This is a Christian organization that does not consider the lack of sight a disability. They inspire us through their perseverance and faith. Another “God thing” occurred as through a series of special events the team will hopefully be able to restore the sight to a 23 year old college student who is going blind.
The last night is always special and tonight was no different. We went into the hills to the house that we stayed in 2 years ago. It is a gorgeous and secluded setting under a large pavilion. Pizza and soda followed by Dominican coffee was the fare. Of course, as 2 years ago, the Lord allowed the lights to fail just after eating. Candles added a serene effect to the many speeches given by the team members.
Everyone was present to include all those support people who make this trip possible: the american team, Nataniel and Iris, Pablito and Dorcas, Pablo and Ruth, Carmen, Wilfredo and his wife, Genesis, Wilson and his wife, Cesar and his wife, Pedro and the rehab boys and others I'm forgetting. Rejoicing, prayers, thank-you's, singing and tears filled the half-lit pavilion. It's hard for this not to happen with so many like-minded and spirit-filled people involved. Another “God thing” night to cap the final day.
Good Night
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