We were up and ready for devotions bright and early today. Then we piled our things into the bus and headed out to bring VBS "GT style" to some children in a small rural area near La Vega. Children slowly but steadily began pouring into the church and by 10:00 we were ready to begin. Our team led the children in "Superhero" and "Tomalo" and by the end of the service most of the Dominicans were dancing and clapping along. The Sin Chair drama went a little awry when the "Chair" physically broke in the middle of the skit,Cassie will now go down in history for breaking sin. Danielle gave an awesome children's lesson and helped the children learn how special each of them is in God's sight. Then we split the group of 60+ children into 3 groups. They worked on a craft, a snack and outdoor games.
There were so many highlights and it was such a high-energy time that really brought out the best in everyone. Kudos to Andrea for orchestrating so many children in such a tiny space.
Our youth were touched by how a simple Polaroid photo could bring such joy to a child, while in the US they take "selfies" all the time.
At the games station, Cassie, Justin, Hannah, Caleb and Mike led the children in multiple parachute games and "Simon dice" even as the rain began to fall.
During snack, the children were delighted to make a simple, interesting "face" using a graham cracker, icing and some decorations.
Seeing their faces, hesitant smiles, dancing with them, realizing how strong their family bonds are, and watching their hopeless eyes turn into a broad smile were just some of the highlights the youth shared.
After that we had lunch and went out to see the area. We learned some history of the Dominican Republic as we saw a cathedral and monument.
We returned home to a delectable home-cooked dinner of shepherd's pie, salad and warm brownies. Mmmmmm :)
After a quick stop for frozen yogurt and arm wrestling we returned home for "Family Time."
We all shared who our Heroes of the Day were and then God really moved in his Holy Spirit as Pastor Eran led the youth in prayer for direction in their lives and/or healing from hurts. Each and every one of us was touched by God in a powerful way as He used us all as His vessels to pray with and encourage one another.
One final thought, after lunch as we were gathering to discuss our plans for the afternoon, Caleb and Justin began to casually play around with their guitars. Before we knew it, we were all singing a beautiful chorus of "White Flag" with thunder punctuating in the background. (and a few neighborhood dogs) It was just another moment when we all "surrendered" to God.
We are happy to report that we have had rain and thunder on and off, but have not seen any damage. It is supposed to continue to rain tomorrow, but we don't plan on allowing that to deter us from our VBS plan for the morning. We would appreciate your prayers that all would go smoothly and that children would arrive safely ready to receive God's Word into their hearts.
E-
Awesome job team!! I am always in awe watching our youth use their gifts for God. They continue to amaze me on so many levels..... What an incredible day for you guys. So thankful for how the weather turned out so that you could continue to bless so many! God is moving in a big way there, we can see it in the pictures and hear it in the daily reviews. Keep pressing forward, for each day holds new blessings and testimonies.
ReplyDeleteIsaiah 61:1. The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because The Lord has anointed me to proclaim the good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners
On a lighter note, only Cassie would have that happen to her lol!!! Love you girl!!!! LOVE the song for Casey!!!!!!!!!!! That's genius, and you do know he will return home singing it everyday I'm sure :)))).
Danielle, love and miss you! Nick says he's ready to give you that hug now ;) they say hi and love and miss you too!!! Sending many prayers your way. God bless!!
Woo hoo! Those La Vega littles won't even know what hit 'em with your EXTREME VBS! :)
ReplyDeleteSo happy that you guys are safe and that the storm is passing. Hopefully it cooled down a little for ya!
Cassie...you now get to join the ranks of Ryan in the Hall of Broken Chairs Fame. Did we learn nothing from last year?!? :)
Special shout-out to Andrea, the Real Housewife of Bringing Joy to Kids County...be boop beeep bop bop. Love ya! :)
Keep on keepin' on team! Praying for you!
What an awesome day for you all! Having that moment where you all came together and just started singing white flag must have been the coolest thing ever. When everyone can just surrender together to God and forget about the world around them is amazing. You are all so amazing and I will continue to pray for safety with the storm and for more days like these!
ReplyDeleteWhat an amazing day! I love hearing everything you guys did. It's great to hear those kinds of God's moments. The fact that everyone was able to lay day there troubles to God is amazing and God is going to do great things in all of your lives. Leave all of your troubles to God and enjoy every moment in the DR! I am continuing to pray for you guys and that you all may have more days like this one!
ReplyDeleteOh and Pastor Eran this is and IMPORTANT MESSAGE for Olivia...tell her on the 15th to read the letter written for the 16th that same day too. Hopefully that wasn't to complicated haha
Philippians 4:6-7
ReplyDeleteBe anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Awesome work Real Life!!!! Love the pictures - what a difference you are making in the DR!!!! God's power, love, peace, and protection over you all!!!! : )
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