Monday, February 28, 2011
Thank you all for sending us to this amazing place. We have already witnessed the Holy Spirit working through the American team as well as the Brazilians. Today we visited Paraiso ("Paradise"). Poor Kramer Hickok got sick. He's doing much better now, so do not worry!! Kramer will get to experience village work bright and early tomorrow morning. This first day was a grand success. For the people who have been on this trip before, it was a great blessing to see our friends again. The Spirit's work is genuinely evident in this village as we already see a great transformation in the people's attitude and receptiveness of our message.
The VBS successfully started off with a small group of children. The children were much more open and joyful than they have been in the past. It was such a joy to see the little "tinies" again, as we affectionately call them. We have already learned so much about selfless love through the children's sacrifice and love for us and one another.
Today, I (Gracie McCormack) had the joy of getting to see my friend from last year, Danielle. Last year, Clarissa Pavey and I had the joy of witnessing the Spirit working through Danielle and transform her right in front of our eyes. Today was a true testimony to how the Lord is faithful to finish His work! Although I have not personally seen Danielle in a year, I have a picture of her in my Bible and pray for her daily. It is such an encouragement to see her joy that she has now with her newfound life in Jesus Christ!
Another touching reunion today took place for Shannon Thompson. Shannon got to see a young girl, Rafael, from a neighboring village (Sol Nascente). Pastor Vanderleigh and his wife, Erica, are currently looking after Rafael, so she came with them to be with our American team today. Shannon spent the entire day, never leaving Rafael's side. Although they do not speak the same language, they both love each other dearly and are a great blessing in each other's lives. It was touching to see the connection the Lord had made between these two girls from two completely different parts of the world. It is a beautiful reminder that we are truly not very different from these people here. We are all lost, and we all need saving.
Our team's new best friend is our pal Leroy. Leroy lives in the sink upstairs next to Mr. Welwood's hammock. Leroy provides us with constant laughs and entertainment as we tried to feed him crickets we find, which he surprisingly doesn't want. We aren't sure if he eats, but we know he lives in the sink!!
Another blessing today came during door-to-door. Karaline Coats, Taylor Landry and I (Gracie) had the pleasure of visiting with various villagers with a translator, Rosie. We came across a 16-year-old girl who happened to be home alone, Vivianne. Vivianne was very welcoming and open to us as she immediately welcomed us into her home. We asked Vivianne if she knows who Jesus is, and upon her negative answer, we got to share our personal testimonies and experiences with our Lord. Vivianne was clearly interested and thirsty for more knowledge about this God we all love. We talked with Vivianne about having a personal relationship with our God and how He is such a great hope for us in our day-to-day lives. We asked Vivianne if she wanted to accept this Lord and Savior, and she was excited to do so. Karaline Coats prayed our commonly known "prayer of salvation" as Rosie translated and Vivianne happily repeated. It was such a blessing to witness the Spirit's work through Vivianne's thirsty heart to get to know her Lord and Savior. It was humbling for us to remember how much we have at our feet that we take advantage of. The Lord taught us through Vivianne how much we need Him and how we will never know Him fully. We are now encouraged to pursue the Lord with renewed strength and passion!
Overall, day one was a great success. We thank you for your prayers and support throughout the rest of this week!
P.S.- Kyle failed as my (Karaline Coats) protector today. Enough said..... but don't worry everyone is fine! :)...Mom- say hi to Bozzly!
