What a day.
The morning began with some of our team leading a devotional with the older girls before they went to school. We then went to work painting the dormitory where the younger kids sleep. It looks pretty good so far and we should be able to finish the painting tomorrow.
We then went to La Chureca which is a community inside the Managua city dump. Our bus fell silent as we entered the gates to the dump. The sights and smells were powerful, but it was the amazing people we met that were more impacting. We all felt the weight of the poverty lift as we got off the bus and met the children that we would spend the afternoon with. We went for a walk around the amazing school that sits in this place and met some wonderful people. In particular we were welcomed into the home of a remarkable woman named Ramona who gracefully let us tour her place. When we asked her what was really important for us to know about her community she told us that we were blessing them by coming and giving to the kids what they are not able to, she said they would pray that we would be blessed by God and that we could use that to provide for them. She also asked that we not forget them.
We promise not to.
We toured the school and prayed for the place, the children, the staff and the school that is such a refuge and source of hope in this place.
Then we took 21 children out for a wonderful lunch and playtime at a local restaurant. We were struck by several things in particular. They saved most of their meals to take home to the rest of their families. We actually had to convince them to eat the ice cream right then! Secondly, as we played with them, drew pictures with them and talked with them it seemed entirely normal, easy, light, joyful and meaningful. Friendship and connections were fast and strong.
These children understand community in a powerful way and it was an honor to enter into it with them. The staff of the school have asked that we encourage the children and talk with them about the future, about hope and about possibilities. We were obedient to this and it was an amazing experience.
Tomorrow another day with God and these amazing people!
a
4 comments:
I only wish I was there to feel the power with you guys. I know God is touching each of you and the kids each day. After reading your blog I somehow feel I have been with you. Keep going strong. May God bless each moment you spend there. Robin
Hi Gillian,
It must have been hard seeing all those children in such poverty. It's amazing how they can smile and be happy in spite of their circumstances. There's a lesson for us right there, isn't it?
All is well here. Cats are fine, went to Michaels with Bethany yesterday to get her a scrapbook tote. Mom wants me to hurry up and finish so she can read the entry, so talk to you later!
To the awesome, Jesus-lead team that is serving as our Lord's hands and feet for our brothers & sisters in Nicaragua!!
The verse I'm thinking of as I write this is Proverbs 25:25. It says, "Like cold water to a weary soul is good news from a distant land.
That is my prayer this evening. That you represent the cold water brought from a distant land. We know that this world is made up of many dry places but we also know that the Holy Spirit is often the only cure to this longing thrist.
Just as Jesus says to the Samaritan woman (an outcast in her own village and country), "whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life."
So, know this....you are being covered in prayer. That God has gone before you to prepare and soften hearts (as I'm sure you are already experiencing). And that what kids want is what Jesus says is "the greatest of these" - love!
I know that you will (through Spanglish!) show the Good News from a distant land and comfort those who may have a weary soul.
Also, know this. We have already scheduled a time for YOU to share your Awesome Stories. We will have a time of fellowship, laughter, tears and praise for both your group and the Youth Group that will be down there in a couple weeks. It will be August 17th after the 2nd service at SBCC.
Stay in His Love and continue to lean into His Grace. And most of all, expect great things when God shows up.
Grace and Peace,
James Balam
Hey Gillian! I cannot imagine seeing what you are seeing. It must be heartbreaking. Jess is right though, it is amazing to see them smile thoughout it all. This is quite a summer trip.
I saw the picture of you and the little girl. You do know that you can't take her home with you. Right? She's not going to fit in your luggage. And neither will any of the monkeys...so put them back too. Hee hee hee!! ;o)
I hope all is still well down there! Check back with you soon!
Your most FAVORITE cousin.
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