A day of worship, a day of rest

Two nations that speak two different languages came together under the same roof today and worshiped the same God. Many members of our team were reminded today that God doesn’t care that we speak different languages. God doesn’t care that we don’t look the same. We are all brothers and sisters that He loves equally. The church may have been packed with residents of La Chureca and team members, but even more so, it was filled with the overwhelming sensation of the Holy Spirit’s presence. Unlike the stereotypical Christian, our brothers and sisters in Nicaragua are reckless in their worship and their praise. As team members stated tonight, “they have their priorities in order.”

Sunday at church is also a “Family Reunion” for most of the 16 girls that live at Villa Esperanza. The girls were so excited to drag team members by the hand around the church to introduce them to their family and friends. For some it was an emotionally straining time, and others a time for joy.

The rest of the day was spent finishing the playground. We filled in the holes, painted until we ran out of paint, and cleaned up our mess. Then, for hours, we played like we haven’t played before. Rick enjoyed learning how to jump rope. Dan got so caught up in a game of duck, duck, goose that he just about got “clothes lined” by an actual clothes line when he was “it.” And Kris was leashed and walked, like a dog, by a nine year old.

The night ended with an emotional roller coaster. After dinner Susie shared a devotional that she prepared for the girls at the Villa. She talked about the fruits of the spirit and related all of them with examples that fit with the daily lives of the girls. Tears of sorrow, sympathy and joy fell from most of the eyes in the room, as Wilbert closed with a further explanation and the laying of hands on all of the girls and house Mom’s. After we prayed and hugged everyone goodnight, the team gathered for the debriefing. Once again, the Holy Spirit moved through everyone’s heart, which led to a raw and vulnerable conversation. Once again, the tears of sympathy and joy fell from many of the team member’s eyes.

In closing, we ask that you pray for each of us and each of the girls, that God would help us to exercise the fruits of the Spirit. We also pray that each of you would open your Bibles and open your hearts to Galations 5:22-26. God has wonderful things in store for each and everyone of us. As we begin this new week, let’s reflect on Him and strive to be more like Jesus.