Friday, March 13, 2015
Video Done
The 2015 video can be viewed by clicking on the link on the right side of this page. Hope you enjoy.
Wednesday, March 11, 2015
Epilogue
Looking back after a few days of trying to catch up on sleep, one can more easily put things into perspective. 2015 was a unique year. The team was the smallest in 7 years with only 3 men and 3 women and only 1 first-year member. While we may have had to pull-back a bit on our ministry, it turned out to be quite positive for a number of reasons.
The smaller group allowed Dan & Paul to spend much more time with the team doing day-to-day activities and less time trying to manage 14 people going 2 or 3 directions. The smaller team had more of a close-knit feeling as we did everything together. It meant greater individual participation at morning devotions. It made basic household living easier without mattresses on the floor, less food to prepare, more bathrooms per person, etc. Having fewer numbers also eliminated the need for the bus and allowed us to use just Pablo's truck and Genesis' van. It did mean Paul and Shawn driving more than usual.
This was an experienced team. While it was Deb's first year it was year 3 for Chloe, the 4th for Chris, 8th for Shawn, 10th for Dan and 11th for Paul. As the youngest member that has been on this team (15), it has been fun watching Chloe mature and the relationship she has with her dad. With the start of college this fall it will be difficult for her to return and they took that to heart and cherished every day to make memories that will last. Serving Christ in this capacity with your child is something special.
While team numbers were half of recent years, the ministry activities were only slightly reduced. There was some concern early about finances as team members are solely responsible for raising funds but our supporters have been generous with their blessings. Bibles, tracts and food was all reduced by about 20%. The following items were the major expenditures for 2015:
- 400 adult bibles
- 1080 children's bibles
- 1200 gospel tracts
- 125 wheelchairs (plus a number of walkers, crutches, and canes)
- 825 lbs. of beans and rice (plus oil) to make 275 family sized bags
- continued funding for 2 year-round feeding programs (hundreds of kids fed weekly)
- concrete floors for 2 churches
- tin roofs for 2 churches
- bathroom for church
- 5 mattresses
- other various small projects, items
The wheelchairs were unique this year. Much of our total budget (125 chairs at $200 each) was allocated to this ministry. Besides blessing people with a physical item, it allowed our spiritual ministry into homes and people's lives that we don't always see. We weren't totally prepared for the impact and response that this ended up having. The tears shed in the name of thankfulness to Jesus is something to behold and words cannot do it justice.
The Bible talks about the "body of Christ" as analogous to the human body (1 Cor. 12). Each member has a role for the entire body to be successful in caring out it's mission, all need to be functioning correctly, and every part is vital. We may have had only had 6 individuals but each one is blessed with spiritual gifts that complimented each other to allow the light of Jesus to shine.
We had a leader; someone with the ability to coordinate multiple situations at one time, have an understanding of the overall goal, how to reach that goal, and enable others to believe in that goal. We had a leader/servant; a person that worked in harmony with the leader and gives great effort with usually little recognition. Someone that is able to perform any task asked of them and is really the backbone of the team. We had a teacher; this person is called "pastor" in the DR. This is someone always focusing on the spiritual nature of our mission with the ability to speak the Gospel to the masses. We had another with the gifts of teacher, servant, and mercy. A soft heart with the ability to not only speak the native language but do it with truth, conviction, and compassion. We had another servant; always looking to get their hands dirty and do physical labor but with a touch of mercy and the ability to communicate well with the youth. And we had another member with mercy as their principle gift. While a servant when needed, always looking to the children and showing them the love of Jesus through hugs. The body was complete and functioned well.
While this blog may appear to some to focus on the team and what we did let us be clear. We want this to be about Jesus; only Jesus. Jesus is the reason we spend our own money to leave our families, jobs, and school for 9 days. This is not a vacation but the spiritual rewards are greater. We know what Jesus did for us and we cannot help but tell others and share the blessings He gave us. How much would we have to hate someone to know what Jesus did for us and not tell them? This isn't done out of a sense of duty or obligation (Eph. 2:8-9). We do this because we are called. Jesus chose us and we cannot help but follow Him and do works in His name (Matt. 5:16, James 2:26).
We are blessed. No way to get around that. Blessed with life in the U.S. Blessed with good health and safety while in the DR. Blessed with our ministry partners from the DR. Blessed by our financial and prayer supporters. Blessed by the faith we see in some of the Dominican people who live in conditions less than most of our pets. Blessed in the knowledge that Christ has saved us from an eternal punishment and allowed His Spirit to dwell in us for His glory.
Gracious Jesus!
The smaller group allowed Dan & Paul to spend much more time with the team doing day-to-day activities and less time trying to manage 14 people going 2 or 3 directions. The smaller team had more of a close-knit feeling as we did everything together. It meant greater individual participation at morning devotions. It made basic household living easier without mattresses on the floor, less food to prepare, more bathrooms per person, etc. Having fewer numbers also eliminated the need for the bus and allowed us to use just Pablo's truck and Genesis' van. It did mean Paul and Shawn driving more than usual.
This was an experienced team. While it was Deb's first year it was year 3 for Chloe, the 4th for Chris, 8th for Shawn, 10th for Dan and 11th for Paul. As the youngest member that has been on this team (15), it has been fun watching Chloe mature and the relationship she has with her dad. With the start of college this fall it will be difficult for her to return and they took that to heart and cherished every day to make memories that will last. Serving Christ in this capacity with your child is something special.
While team numbers were half of recent years, the ministry activities were only slightly reduced. There was some concern early about finances as team members are solely responsible for raising funds but our supporters have been generous with their blessings. Bibles, tracts and food was all reduced by about 20%. The following items were the major expenditures for 2015:
- 400 adult bibles
- 1080 children's bibles
- 1200 gospel tracts
- 125 wheelchairs (plus a number of walkers, crutches, and canes)
- 825 lbs. of beans and rice (plus oil) to make 275 family sized bags
- continued funding for 2 year-round feeding programs (hundreds of kids fed weekly)
- concrete floors for 2 churches
- tin roofs for 2 churches
- bathroom for church
- 5 mattresses
- other various small projects, items
The wheelchairs were unique this year. Much of our total budget (125 chairs at $200 each) was allocated to this ministry. Besides blessing people with a physical item, it allowed our spiritual ministry into homes and people's lives that we don't always see. We weren't totally prepared for the impact and response that this ended up having. The tears shed in the name of thankfulness to Jesus is something to behold and words cannot do it justice.
The Bible talks about the "body of Christ" as analogous to the human body (1 Cor. 12). Each member has a role for the entire body to be successful in caring out it's mission, all need to be functioning correctly, and every part is vital. We may have had only had 6 individuals but each one is blessed with spiritual gifts that complimented each other to allow the light of Jesus to shine.
We had a leader; someone with the ability to coordinate multiple situations at one time, have an understanding of the overall goal, how to reach that goal, and enable others to believe in that goal. We had a leader/servant; a person that worked in harmony with the leader and gives great effort with usually little recognition. Someone that is able to perform any task asked of them and is really the backbone of the team. We had a teacher; this person is called "pastor" in the DR. This is someone always focusing on the spiritual nature of our mission with the ability to speak the Gospel to the masses. We had another with the gifts of teacher, servant, and mercy. A soft heart with the ability to not only speak the native language but do it with truth, conviction, and compassion. We had another servant; always looking to get their hands dirty and do physical labor but with a touch of mercy and the ability to communicate well with the youth. And we had another member with mercy as their principle gift. While a servant when needed, always looking to the children and showing them the love of Jesus through hugs. The body was complete and functioned well.
While this blog may appear to some to focus on the team and what we did let us be clear. We want this to be about Jesus; only Jesus. Jesus is the reason we spend our own money to leave our families, jobs, and school for 9 days. This is not a vacation but the spiritual rewards are greater. We know what Jesus did for us and we cannot help but tell others and share the blessings He gave us. How much would we have to hate someone to know what Jesus did for us and not tell them? This isn't done out of a sense of duty or obligation (Eph. 2:8-9). We do this because we are called. Jesus chose us and we cannot help but follow Him and do works in His name (Matt. 5:16, James 2:26).
We are blessed. No way to get around that. Blessed with life in the U.S. Blessed with good health and safety while in the DR. Blessed with our ministry partners from the DR. Blessed by our financial and prayer supporters. Blessed by the faith we see in some of the Dominican people who live in conditions less than most of our pets. Blessed in the knowledge that Christ has saved us from an eternal punishment and allowed His Spirit to dwell in us for His glory.
Gracious Jesus!
Friday, March 6, 2015
Day 7 - Seeing God's Hand
The final day of this journey is always somewhat bittersweet. One side of the coin is being tired and looking forward to seeing loved ones after 8 or 11 days. The other side is that this place is a part of us. We will be leaving our “DR family” and there’s so much more to do.
After breakfast, the team went to the YWAM center for devotions. While we don’t actively participate, it’s relaxing and moving to just sit and immerse ourselves in the songs, prayer, and scripture readings of these young people from around the globe that God has called to his service.
Since we didn’t take a trip to the ocean yet this year and it’s only a few miles from YWAM, we drove down to the shore and found we had the beach to ourselves for a little walk. Not exactly to resort standards but a view found only in the Caribbean: bright blue water, palm trees, and mountains in the background. God may not have blessed this country with financial wealth, but he sure did with natural beauty.
A quick stop at the house to load the van and the team headed north to La Vereda. We have a soft spot for this very poor town. It’s some of poorest we see in terms of human needs but very strong in terms of spiritual wealth. The pastor and others continue to tell us that they are wealthy because they have Christ in their hearts. In fact, as we were blessing an elderly woman with food (who we also blessed with a mattress as she slept on a pile of clothes) we ran into a man of great faith. He earned money making coal, had lost his wife, had serious health issues of his own, and was raising 3 children. His thin tin house is pictured below. The team noticed his well-used pocket new testament in his back pocket and asked about it. Without hesitation he pulled it out and praised God for what he had! Not complaining, not asking for a handout, not blaming God or man, but praising His name in the midst of human hardship by anyone’s standards. Moments such as these can be both humbling and uplifting.
While at La Vereda, the team played with kids and blessed them with food, bibles, and money for a small structure they needed to enclose an electrical box at the school.
At 2pm the team had an appointment to meet with the blind at their center in town. This is an annual ritual that is always inspiring as they never ask for money, only prayer and encouragement. While living with a significant disability in a third-world country they continually look for ways to educate themselves to ensure they are self dependent. In fact, a couple are teachers and one a lawyer! Dan blessed them with audio Bibles made possible through the Lion’s club. Another example of the “wealthy in spirit” blessing the “wealthy in possessions”.
The team then made some last stops to include checking on one of the church builds and delivering crutches to a young man they met the day before who lost a leg in a shooting. This is a “God story” best left to the telling by one of the team. An example of the Holy Spirit’s power and His ability to change hearts using simple Americanos.
While it was a couple of hours before the going-away party the team used that free time to finish errands or just relax. Chloe, Shawn and Deb used that time to walk a few miles down to the tidal flats looking for shells.
The house was full (50?) for the annual pizza party on the last night. Everyone (and their families) associated with the team over the past week comes looking their best for pizza, soda and cake. Kris, Alberto, and Nathanial are there to help with interpreting. It’s an evening of socializing with praise, prayer, good-byes and a few tears.
After cleaning up and a final team meeting to go over the last financial decisions the team was in bed by 12:30am to be ready to leave at 8am.
A final post will be written in the coming days to wrap up the 2015 trip.
God bless
Tuesday, March 3, 2015
Day 6 - Nearing the Finish
After breakfast Shawn led a devotion from Romans 12 on spiritual gifts.
The team then headed for the Compassion International School where Dan, Paul and Shawn's families each have a sponsored child. They play with all the kids at the school, treat them to ice-cream and then spend a little time with their individual compassion child families. Less than 1% of the over 1 million kids in the Compassion program worldwide get a visit from their sponsors. These 3 children have been visited now at least annually between 8-10 years. While brief, it's a special day in our and their lives.
Pablo had a true Dominican lunch back at the house which consisted of boiled plantain, plantain chips, rice, a pumpkin and chickpea dish and salad.
After a siesta to recover from yesterday the afternoon was spent running errands, tying up loose ends with the wheelchairs from yesterday, and making a concrete wheelchair ramp at the disabled center.
Supper was quick and consisted of lunch leftovers before the team headed out to show the Jesus film for the last time this year. Dan and Deb went to a church service. While the numbers were small, the film was well-received. This is an area that one of our church builds is happening and few are Christian. In fact, a recent hurricane destroyed the last church in the area that was worshipping idols. A message was given to the many kids in attendance and Pastors Anderson and Alberto also had something to say before the praise and worship.
The team finally got their ice-cream stop before returning home. Thanks Dan.
Monday, March 2, 2015
Day 5 - Gifts from God
After breakfast Chris led a devotion on trusting God.
The team split up immediately to prepare for the big wheelchair project. Dan, Paul and Kris ran errands while Shawn took Chloe and Deb to the marketplace to pass out tracts. While minimal Spanish can be spoken between the three, the gospel of Jesus transcends language. They are always warmly received and about 300 tracts were passed out in only 30-45 minutes.
Later in the morning was the beginning of probably the largest single-day project this team has undertaken in terms of both financial and time. Of the 125 wheelchairs purchased, 75 were scheduled to be distributed through the Disabled Center using the Blind Center facilities. The chairs (in addition to crutches, walkers, and canes) had to be transported 10 at a time from a warehouse to the Blind Center. (It finally gave Chloe a chance to do the hard physical work she’s been looking forward to.) Part of the team transported and part of the team unboxed and assembled.
The Familia brothers had invited the team for supper earlier in the week so chicken, salad, and cheese bollitos (yucca) were served on their veranda.
Because of such a full day, by the time the team got to the site where the Jesus film was to be shown it was dark. We usually like to get to the site an hour prior to set-up, play music and canvass the area to encourage people to attend. To our surprise there were about 100 kids already sitting in chairs in the middle of the street waiting for us. What joy to be welcomed in such a way! After the start of the film about another 50-100 people showed up to make it a special night. A very poor area but such an event. A moon almost full, many stars in the sky, 80 degrees,150+ people intently watching the Jesus film which was followed by a message on Biblical Manhood and Children. Genesis and his brother the local pastor also gave a call to prayer and music and praise followed.
The Team retired by 11pm after the nightly debrief: exhausted, some minor health issues otherwise in good spirits.
Day 4 - God is Good
After our typical breakfast of fruit, toast, and eggs, Paul led the devotion on the deepest faith. He took us to the book of Job where we discussed the faith of some of the early patriarchs.
On Sunday morning, the men typically head to the prison in Azua. There are always a few security issues as we are enclosed with them in their courtyard. Vacation tip: don't end up in a prison of a 3rd-world country; not pleasant by any imagination. Each of the guys gave a message pertinent to the men and their current "status". Two cases of soap and two cases of Bibles were also delivered.
While the men were in the prison, the girls went to a church service that was dedicated to women/girls with unwanted pregnancies. Teenage pregnancy is quite common here and some are as young as 14. Because of financial reasons, many become homeless. This ministry is trying to help them in their time of need. Kris gave a message.
Ham and cheese empenadas for lunch hit the spot.
Sunday afternoon is usually a rest time and the past few years have been spent at the beach. The team decided to go on a "Sunday drive" instead. We visited two of the church builds we are helping to finance, the site of the future home of an Azua mission center that Nathaniel and the team are looking to build, and at the home of Mileisy who was a past member of the team as our house keeper. Such a pleasant personality.
After a quick chow down of Pablo's famous burgers and fries, we headed to the Jesus film site: another village outside of town. It started small but the crowd grew quite large quickly (maybe 150?). They were especially attentive and messages were given by the local pastor, Genesis and Shawn ("Who is Jesus?").
Like every night, the team traveled back to the house, unloaded vehicles, and did a debrief to be finished by 11pm. No ice cream, again.
A big day tomorrow for us so continue to pray. Gracias.
On Sunday morning, the men typically head to the prison in Azua. There are always a few security issues as we are enclosed with them in their courtyard. Vacation tip: don't end up in a prison of a 3rd-world country; not pleasant by any imagination. Each of the guys gave a message pertinent to the men and their current "status". Two cases of soap and two cases of Bibles were also delivered.
While the men were in the prison, the girls went to a church service that was dedicated to women/girls with unwanted pregnancies. Teenage pregnancy is quite common here and some are as young as 14. Because of financial reasons, many become homeless. This ministry is trying to help them in their time of need. Kris gave a message.
Ham and cheese empenadas for lunch hit the spot.
Sunday afternoon is usually a rest time and the past few years have been spent at the beach. The team decided to go on a "Sunday drive" instead. We visited two of the church builds we are helping to finance, the site of the future home of an Azua mission center that Nathaniel and the team are looking to build, and at the home of Mileisy who was a past member of the team as our house keeper. Such a pleasant personality.
After a quick chow down of Pablo's famous burgers and fries, we headed to the Jesus film site: another village outside of town. It started small but the crowd grew quite large quickly (maybe 150?). They were especially attentive and messages were given by the local pastor, Genesis and Shawn ("Who is Jesus?").
Like every night, the team traveled back to the house, unloaded vehicles, and did a debrief to be finished by 11pm. No ice cream, again.
A big day tomorrow for us so continue to pray. Gracias.
Saturday, February 28, 2015
Day 3 - Kids and more kids
Breakfast was hard boiled eggs (served hot), fruit and pancakes. Chloe led the devotion titled "Being Christian in an Un-Christian World".
After a stop to overload Pablo's truck with wheelchairs, today's first stop was to the Nelson's village at El Quattro. It was also Shawn's first opportunity to do some real DR driving versus just the occasional short trip. Always an adventure in defensive driving tactics. In addition to providing bibles, food, and wheelchairs, the team showed the Jesus film to the kids in their church and spent time playing with the kids. Nelson's church is one of the churches we fund throughout the year for a feeding program. Lunch was the feeding program fare: chicken, beans, and rice, the staple diet in the DR.
The team and the remaining wheelchairs were then taken to Alberto's church where he and his wife were waiting with a group to receive them. The people included a young lady with muscular dystrophy, an elderly woman with a foot amputation from diabetes, a middle-aged man who was badly hurt and unable to walk from an accident, a young man with birth defects, and various others who either had no or limited use of their limbs. In addition to the wheelchairs, the team also is blessing the people of the DR with canes, walkers, and crutches. Smiles and praises to God were in abundance.
Dinner back at the house was steamed vegetables and Pablo's famous meatballs with pasta. Not very Dominican but seriously good.
The Jesus film was shown in another small village outside of town that we haven't been to before. Tonight we set up in the main street with maybe 150 in attendance. Dan gave a message to the young men and the local pastor talked before worship and praise. Like every night, food and bibles were left with the pastor and a needy woman blessed with a wheelchair. The team was back for the debrief by 10:30. A lot of kids today between the Nelson's church and the movie. This is the future. These are the ones we need to reach for Christ before it's too late.
Good night
After a stop to overload Pablo's truck with wheelchairs, today's first stop was to the Nelson's village at El Quattro. It was also Shawn's first opportunity to do some real DR driving versus just the occasional short trip. Always an adventure in defensive driving tactics. In addition to providing bibles, food, and wheelchairs, the team showed the Jesus film to the kids in their church and spent time playing with the kids. Nelson's church is one of the churches we fund throughout the year for a feeding program. Lunch was the feeding program fare: chicken, beans, and rice, the staple diet in the DR.
The team and the remaining wheelchairs were then taken to Alberto's church where he and his wife were waiting with a group to receive them. The people included a young lady with muscular dystrophy, an elderly woman with a foot amputation from diabetes, a middle-aged man who was badly hurt and unable to walk from an accident, a young man with birth defects, and various others who either had no or limited use of their limbs. In addition to the wheelchairs, the team also is blessing the people of the DR with canes, walkers, and crutches. Smiles and praises to God were in abundance.
Dinner back at the house was steamed vegetables and Pablo's famous meatballs with pasta. Not very Dominican but seriously good.
The Jesus film was shown in another small village outside of town that we haven't been to before. Tonight we set up in the main street with maybe 150 in attendance. Dan gave a message to the young men and the local pastor talked before worship and praise. Like every night, food and bibles were left with the pastor and a needy woman blessed with a wheelchair. The team was back for the debrief by 10:30. A lot of kids today between the Nelson's church and the movie. This is the future. These are the ones we need to reach for Christ before it's too late.
Good night
Day 2 - Behind the doors
Breakfast was served at 7:30 with fresh fruit, eggs, and oatmeal followed by the devotion led by Dan on challenging us to "leave nothing on the court" during our time in Azua.
The first stop was Pastor Wilfredo's village where the team has a long and deep relationship. Wilfredo is a terrific servant of the Lord and had the children waiting for us with prepared songs. Many of the team members gave a short message. We participated in serving the kids lunch (part of the feeding program we fund) and then spent time with the kids playing ball and painting faces. Wilfredo's village is very poor and, like himself, are mostly Haitian. They had a need for food, bibles, and wheelchairs; therefore, the team blessed them with those items. Realizing how Jesus has blessed him, Wilfredo was in tears upon our leaving.
We returned back to the house for a quick lunch and a 30-45 minute siesta for those that needed it. The days are long, the sun is warm (not complaining, just saying), and the emotional toll is noticed.
Mid afternoon the team headed to El Hefe's (Cesar) with wheelchairs as he knew people in need. He took us to places in Azua we haven't been in a while and we weren't totally prepared when going behind closed doors. Since one of our main projects is the blessing of wheelchairs we get to see much more of the behind-the-door suffering than we would in our normal travels.
This team is relatively seasoned with experiences of witnessing suffering and poverty. We were here and went into Haiti for a brief visit just 5 weeks after the earthquake of 2010. It's always hard to put into words many of our experiences. No words or photos can put you into the dark and filthy bedroom of an elderly man huddled in the fetal position on an old bed frame and blanket (not even a mattress). Having no ability to move or take care of himself without the constant care of his elderly sister he has laid here for nearly all of the past 4 years. There is no nursing homes in the DR. Either families take care of the disabled or they die. That simple.
That's just one story of one image-bearer of our Creator we have visited. Faithful to Jesus even under the worst of circumstances. Praising his name for the blessing of a wheelchair so he can at least enjoy the sun and become a little more "human". Suffering isn't unique to the DR but in countries like this it takes on a whole different meaning when you are disabled. Families even consider themselves cursed if a member is in this condition. We feel blessed we can be a small part is shining the light of Christ through prayer, encouragement and what to us is the simple blessing of a wheelchair.
Supper was boiled potatoes, fish, steamed vegetables and plantain slices. Pablo spoils us.
The Jesus film was shown in a small village in the hills north of Thursday night’s showing. Because we support the local churches, it was shown in their church under the stars. That means walls but no floor or ceiling. After the Jesus film, a message was given about the power of the cross which was followed by praise and worship. Getting back to the house at around 10:15, we had a debrief, then went to bed, anxious and eager for the next day to arrive.
The first stop was Pastor Wilfredo's village where the team has a long and deep relationship. Wilfredo is a terrific servant of the Lord and had the children waiting for us with prepared songs. Many of the team members gave a short message. We participated in serving the kids lunch (part of the feeding program we fund) and then spent time with the kids playing ball and painting faces. Wilfredo's village is very poor and, like himself, are mostly Haitian. They had a need for food, bibles, and wheelchairs; therefore, the team blessed them with those items. Realizing how Jesus has blessed him, Wilfredo was in tears upon our leaving.
We returned back to the house for a quick lunch and a 30-45 minute siesta for those that needed it. The days are long, the sun is warm (not complaining, just saying), and the emotional toll is noticed.
Mid afternoon the team headed to El Hefe's (Cesar) with wheelchairs as he knew people in need. He took us to places in Azua we haven't been in a while and we weren't totally prepared when going behind closed doors. Since one of our main projects is the blessing of wheelchairs we get to see much more of the behind-the-door suffering than we would in our normal travels.
This team is relatively seasoned with experiences of witnessing suffering and poverty. We were here and went into Haiti for a brief visit just 5 weeks after the earthquake of 2010. It's always hard to put into words many of our experiences. No words or photos can put you into the dark and filthy bedroom of an elderly man huddled in the fetal position on an old bed frame and blanket (not even a mattress). Having no ability to move or take care of himself without the constant care of his elderly sister he has laid here for nearly all of the past 4 years. There is no nursing homes in the DR. Either families take care of the disabled or they die. That simple.
That's just one story of one image-bearer of our Creator we have visited. Faithful to Jesus even under the worst of circumstances. Praising his name for the blessing of a wheelchair so he can at least enjoy the sun and become a little more "human". Suffering isn't unique to the DR but in countries like this it takes on a whole different meaning when you are disabled. Families even consider themselves cursed if a member is in this condition. We feel blessed we can be a small part is shining the light of Christ through prayer, encouragement and what to us is the simple blessing of a wheelchair.
Supper was boiled potatoes, fish, steamed vegetables and plantain slices. Pablo spoils us.
The Jesus film was shown in a small village in the hills north of Thursday night’s showing. Because we support the local churches, it was shown in their church under the stars. That means walls but no floor or ceiling. After the Jesus film, a message was given about the power of the cross which was followed by praise and worship. Getting back to the house at around 10:15, we had a debrief, then went to bed, anxious and eager for the next day to arrive.
Friday, February 27, 2015
Day 1 - A Good Start
The first morning Dan let us sleep in until 8am. Shawn then led a devotion about focusing on Christ while here in the DR and back home. Breakfast was fresh fruit (best pineapple ever) and pancakes.
As is the case every year, day 1 begins with the packaging of food. About a half ton of beans and rice is measured into individual bags and then bagged again with a container of oil that will provide a family with a decent sized meal. About 275 packages were made which will be delivered to those in need throughout the week. This is always a good activity for team bonding and a low stress, low sun activity to get us acclimated to the climate after a day of travel.
Pastor Nelson stopped by to brief us on the feeding program that we fund and he oversees. The numbers continue to increase with between 300 and 400 children being fed both physically and spiritually. It moved the team when he told how his 4 year-old daughter prays for us.
Lunch was chicken and rice with a short visit from Pastor Wilfredo. The Familia brothers stopped by for a briefing and an invite to supper later in the week that ended in an emotional response when they were blessed with a case of adult bibles (24) and a case of children's bibles (180). It moves us when we see the appreciation of those who truly cherish the Word of God and don't take it for granted. The fellowship of the Holy Spirit transcends countries and language.
After a quick visit to well 1, we traveled to the disabled center and the warehouse to pick up some wheelchairs. The team headed back to the house for a quick supper of ham and cheese sandwiches (DR style). Loading up Genesis' van and Pablo's truck with our movie equipment, we went to the village of Carrisel about 30 minutes outside of town. While the guys set up the sound and video system, the girls went canvassing the town passing out tracks, witnessing, and inviting to the movie. The Jesus film was well attended and well received with about 200 in attendance. Shawn gave a message focusing on children and parenting, and the local Pastor and Genesis also spoke (not sure what they said).
The night wrapped up around 10:30 with ice cream celebrating Dan's birthday and a debriefing about the day.
God Bless until mañana
As is the case every year, day 1 begins with the packaging of food. About a half ton of beans and rice is measured into individual bags and then bagged again with a container of oil that will provide a family with a decent sized meal. About 275 packages were made which will be delivered to those in need throughout the week. This is always a good activity for team bonding and a low stress, low sun activity to get us acclimated to the climate after a day of travel.
Pastor Nelson stopped by to brief us on the feeding program that we fund and he oversees. The numbers continue to increase with between 300 and 400 children being fed both physically and spiritually. It moved the team when he told how his 4 year-old daughter prays for us.
Lunch was chicken and rice with a short visit from Pastor Wilfredo. The Familia brothers stopped by for a briefing and an invite to supper later in the week that ended in an emotional response when they were blessed with a case of adult bibles (24) and a case of children's bibles (180). It moves us when we see the appreciation of those who truly cherish the Word of God and don't take it for granted. The fellowship of the Holy Spirit transcends countries and language.
After a quick visit to well 1, we traveled to the disabled center and the warehouse to pick up some wheelchairs. The team headed back to the house for a quick supper of ham and cheese sandwiches (DR style). Loading up Genesis' van and Pablo's truck with our movie equipment, we went to the village of Carrisel about 30 minutes outside of town. While the guys set up the sound and video system, the girls went canvassing the town passing out tracks, witnessing, and inviting to the movie. The Jesus film was well attended and well received with about 200 in attendance. Shawn gave a message focusing on children and parenting, and the local Pastor and Genesis also spoke (not sure what they said).
The night wrapped up around 10:30 with ice cream celebrating Dan's birthday and a debriefing about the day.
God Bless until mañana
Monday, January 12, 2015
Preparing
Just over 6 weeks until we're in Azua. After experiencing the bitter cold in Wisconsin last week the warm temperatures are very inviting but that part of the trip is so far removed from our purpose and focus. All of us look forward to warm vacations and getting away from the cold and the snow when we can. Azua, however, is different. Yes, it's warm but when we think of Azua our first thoughts are not of vacations or the temperature. It's the sights, the sounds, the smells, the people.
The city of Azua is busy and noisy and smells of exhaust. The sounds of large trucks and scooters is intermingled with various horns and the occasional blasting of music from speakers mounted in the back of pickups. The marketplace is crowded with people sometimes shoulder to shoulder picking through piles of used clothes or household goods. The smells vary from the beautiful fresh produce to the pungent fish and meat prepared under standards different than our own. While better than years ago, it is not clean. Vendors take positions along the streets selling fish, fried food, cashews, fruit and bootlegged dvd's. Intersections are crowded with young men on scooters looking for a fare (taxis). It seems chaotic to the uninitiated.
Outside of the city is a bit slower but not rural to our definition. Village after village with tens of thousands of people live within 20 miles of the center of town. The sounds of scooters is nearly always present at least in the background and loud music from bars not uncommon but the crowdedness is gone. While still heavily populated to our sense of country living, the people of the city are replaced by other living things: like pigs, and chickens, and goats.
This is where we spend much of our time. The dusty dirt streets littered with broken glass and garbage. Homes made out of plywood with tin roofs, a concrete floor and a single light bulb hanging from the support structure made of hewn branches. Lumber is expensive in the DR. Privacy in the homes is often-times just a hanging bed sheet. Beds themselves are some times a luxury only for the adults.
While becoming more available, electricity in the rural areas can not always be depended on. Even in the nice house where we stay in the city we sometimes find it difficult for our American eyes to focus as the bulb wattage is so low.
Further yet outside of town is where the poverty becomes shocking to the unwary. Small, isolated villages where the men work in the nearby fields. Little to no access to clean water. Limited to no electricity. Single room homes made of scrap lumber and tin with dirt floors. Children running around naked until they are about 2 or 3 years old. No sanitation to speak of.
We've seen it before. Three of us have been down there yearly for 8 years or more. We fear we have gotten accustomed to it but we pray with intensity that we do not become callous to it. They are no different than us. They only live under different circumstances. They, like us, are image-bearers of the Creator. They need a savior the same as us. In fact, an argument could be made that because of their humbleness they have a heart more open to receiving that savior. They don't have the trappings of busyness or the distractions of wealth. While a different skin color and language, as a people they are much more open and inviting than Americans.
It's more than the sights and the sounds or the smells, however. It's always the people. The people and their stories. Not one person can go on these trips and not return home without having a story touch their heart. Thirty-two separate Americans have been on this trip in the last 8 years. While I can't say for sure I would find it hard to believe that any left the DR without shedding tears at least once.
The stories of heartache, pain or suffering are numerous in a third-world country. But it doesn't end there. The story of Christ didn't end with His suffering and death. The many stories we witness of sacrifice, redemption, repentance and salvation are the ones that bring the most emotion. These are the stories of Christ's power as He is alive and working in those who have accepted Him. May our hearts be prepared to serve Him and may the hearts of those in the DR be prepared to hear His message.
The city of Azua is busy and noisy and smells of exhaust. The sounds of large trucks and scooters is intermingled with various horns and the occasional blasting of music from speakers mounted in the back of pickups. The marketplace is crowded with people sometimes shoulder to shoulder picking through piles of used clothes or household goods. The smells vary from the beautiful fresh produce to the pungent fish and meat prepared under standards different than our own. While better than years ago, it is not clean. Vendors take positions along the streets selling fish, fried food, cashews, fruit and bootlegged dvd's. Intersections are crowded with young men on scooters looking for a fare (taxis). It seems chaotic to the uninitiated.
Outside of the city is a bit slower but not rural to our definition. Village after village with tens of thousands of people live within 20 miles of the center of town. The sounds of scooters is nearly always present at least in the background and loud music from bars not uncommon but the crowdedness is gone. While still heavily populated to our sense of country living, the people of the city are replaced by other living things: like pigs, and chickens, and goats.
This is where we spend much of our time. The dusty dirt streets littered with broken glass and garbage. Homes made out of plywood with tin roofs, a concrete floor and a single light bulb hanging from the support structure made of hewn branches. Lumber is expensive in the DR. Privacy in the homes is often-times just a hanging bed sheet. Beds themselves are some times a luxury only for the adults.
While becoming more available, electricity in the rural areas can not always be depended on. Even in the nice house where we stay in the city we sometimes find it difficult for our American eyes to focus as the bulb wattage is so low.
Further yet outside of town is where the poverty becomes shocking to the unwary. Small, isolated villages where the men work in the nearby fields. Little to no access to clean water. Limited to no electricity. Single room homes made of scrap lumber and tin with dirt floors. Children running around naked until they are about 2 or 3 years old. No sanitation to speak of.
We've seen it before. Three of us have been down there yearly for 8 years or more. We fear we have gotten accustomed to it but we pray with intensity that we do not become callous to it. They are no different than us. They only live under different circumstances. They, like us, are image-bearers of the Creator. They need a savior the same as us. In fact, an argument could be made that because of their humbleness they have a heart more open to receiving that savior. They don't have the trappings of busyness or the distractions of wealth. While a different skin color and language, as a people they are much more open and inviting than Americans.
It's more than the sights and the sounds or the smells, however. It's always the people. The people and their stories. Not one person can go on these trips and not return home without having a story touch their heart. Thirty-two separate Americans have been on this trip in the last 8 years. While I can't say for sure I would find it hard to believe that any left the DR without shedding tears at least once.
The stories of heartache, pain or suffering are numerous in a third-world country. But it doesn't end there. The story of Christ didn't end with His suffering and death. The many stories we witness of sacrifice, redemption, repentance and salvation are the ones that bring the most emotion. These are the stories of Christ's power as He is alive and working in those who have accepted Him. May our hearts be prepared to serve Him and may the hearts of those in the DR be prepared to hear His message.
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