Read and think about Luke 10:17-20.
Jesus sent out 72 of His followers to minister in surrounding towns and cities, and now they've returned, excited about the amazing things they have seen and done. Jesus' response to His returning mission team is good for you to think about today as you're fresh off the mission field. Jesus turns their attention away from what they've done, and reminds them of who they are. What you do changes. Your mission trip is over and you're back at home, but that doesn't change who you are. You are a child of God, set apart for God's purposes, an ambassador for Christ, appointed to bear fruit and share the Good News! Keep on being who you are, even though the trip is finished!
What have you learned about yourself and who God has made you to be during the last couple weeks?
I have most definitely become more outspoken on this trip. I've also learned how much of an impact my opinions have when they are heard. I mostly keep them to myself. I've also learned that I have a true heart of compassion and encouragement.
How can you continue to live like that now that you are home?
I will not be silent when it comes to matters about Jesus. Now that I know I can speak, I will.
Spend some time praying and thanking God that you are His child!
Last night was pretty great after the storm. I know now that I don't prefer to ride in airplanes unless it's night. I got on that plane and it was dark and it was quiet and I could see all the city lights below me. They were so beautiful! Then I pulled out the little table/tray thing in front of me, put my pillow down on it, laid my head down, and thought, "Well this is kind of comfortable. It's nice and quiet and dark and..." Next thing I knew, I was out for the next 2 1/2 hours. I was in such a deep sleep that I had no clue where I was when I woke up. It took me a little bit to figure out I was on an airplane.
So, we got home about 3:00am. Gosh, you don't know how great it felt to be back home. I walked through the door, smelled the Homemade-Apple-Pie-scented candle, and could've died from how good I felt. I pretty much collapsed on my bed and fell asleep.
Today I told my fam all about my trip. Tomorrow I'll pick up all 70 of my pics (yes, i took a lot on that trip!). Now I'm going to bed.
TRIP UPDATE
What was the best part about today? Explaining my trip!
What was the hardest? Dad had to get back to work, so he was kinda grouchy.
What do you miss most about your teammates? I miss just seeing them in the morning, all still sleepy! And just all the great times with them.
What short yet informative answer can you give to the question, "How was your trip?" (it is good to be prepared for this!) "Do you have a few minutes?"
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
On Trip - Day 10 - June 18th, 2007
Read and think about John 2:12-16 and Mark 11:15-17.
Here we see two similar passages (some say it's teh same event, some say Jesus threw tables around in the temple a couple of times). These aren't passages discouraging us from selling brownies in the church foyer. They're giving us a glimpse at Jesus' heart for all nations, and His heart for the poor. You see, the temple court was the only area where the Gentiles (non-Jewish people) were able to enter and worship the Lord. Now that it had become the temple Wal-Mart, the Gentiles no longer had a place to worship. The temple is to be a "house of prayer for ALL nations." And then there's what's being done to the poor. In John it mentions that Jesus paid special attention to those selling doves, which were the sacrifice of the poor. It was Passover time, and everyone was coming to the temple to offer sacrifices for their sins. The well-off offered up sheep and cows, but the doves were reserved as a sacrifice for the poor. So you see Jesus specifically turning his anger to those selling doves in the temple court. Usually a dove could be bought for mere pennies outside the temple, and now inside the temple courts the price had sky-rocketed, potentially cutting off the poor from being able to offer up their sacrifices to the Lord. We don't see Jesus angry much, but when the poor are being oppressed, when someone is being cut off from the opportunity to worship, He takes action.
How has your time in another culture changed your view of the world? Your view of the poor?
I've seen what they really live like. I mean, I knew they didn't have much, but now that I've personally seen it, it really means more to me. A lot of them keep smiles on their faces and thank the Lord for what they do have. It's going to be really weird to go back to the States and not see all the poverty I've seen here.
What is something God is calling you to do this week on behalf of the poor?
God has just called me to reach them and not be afraid to share the hope of Jesus.
Spend some tiem praying and asking God to give you a greater heart for reaching the nations, and helping the poor.
Currently it's 7:30pm. We are stuck at the Miami airport because it's storming. We were supposed to leave 30 minutes ago. So I might as well tell of my day so far. When our team woke up, the New Yorkers were already gone at the airport. We ate breakfast with the Georgians, then they left. We had an hour before we left.
God certainly does have a sense of humor. I'd lost my sandals and I'd looked EVERYWHERE for them but couldn't find them. Finally I said, "Lord, I can't find my sandals. You can guide a heart that's lost, so surely You must know where my sandals are." Right then a voice spoke to me inside: "Look behind you." So I looked behind me and there were my sandals. I just laughed.
We got to the Montego Bay airport and made it through with no problems at all (Ian, Jed, Amy, and Anna, the 4 without passports, all made it through as well). The flight came into Miami late because of storms. And here we are now. It's still storming pretty good. I'll update when it gets better.
8:00pm - Update. Our flight has been delayed again for 9:00pm.
8:30pm - Another update! Our group decided to pray for the weather. Then we sang a bunch of praise songs. Now we are aboard the plane and it's 8:30. GOD IS SO GOOD!!
TRIP UPDATE
What was the weather like today? Originally it was hot and sunny, but it's storming now, which would explain why our flight's been delayed.
What are you most excited about doing when you get home? Getting pictures developed and telling my family all about the trip.
What was the best part about today? When I get home
What was the hardest? So far, it's our stinkin' flight getting delayed!
Did anyone say anything "quote-worthy"? Clayton, Brianna, and I were poking fun at each other.
Clayton: "Brianna, what are you eating?"
Brianna: "A fruit popsicle."
Clayton: "Haha! You're fruity! Only fruity people eat that."
Brianna: "Only fruity people would think that."
Clayton: "But you're still fruity."
Me: "Brianna, just call him a piece of junk. At least fruit's good for you."
Here we see two similar passages (some say it's teh same event, some say Jesus threw tables around in the temple a couple of times). These aren't passages discouraging us from selling brownies in the church foyer. They're giving us a glimpse at Jesus' heart for all nations, and His heart for the poor. You see, the temple court was the only area where the Gentiles (non-Jewish people) were able to enter and worship the Lord. Now that it had become the temple Wal-Mart, the Gentiles no longer had a place to worship. The temple is to be a "house of prayer for ALL nations." And then there's what's being done to the poor. In John it mentions that Jesus paid special attention to those selling doves, which were the sacrifice of the poor. It was Passover time, and everyone was coming to the temple to offer sacrifices for their sins. The well-off offered up sheep and cows, but the doves were reserved as a sacrifice for the poor. So you see Jesus specifically turning his anger to those selling doves in the temple court. Usually a dove could be bought for mere pennies outside the temple, and now inside the temple courts the price had sky-rocketed, potentially cutting off the poor from being able to offer up their sacrifices to the Lord. We don't see Jesus angry much, but when the poor are being oppressed, when someone is being cut off from the opportunity to worship, He takes action.
How has your time in another culture changed your view of the world? Your view of the poor?
I've seen what they really live like. I mean, I knew they didn't have much, but now that I've personally seen it, it really means more to me. A lot of them keep smiles on their faces and thank the Lord for what they do have. It's going to be really weird to go back to the States and not see all the poverty I've seen here.
What is something God is calling you to do this week on behalf of the poor?
God has just called me to reach them and not be afraid to share the hope of Jesus.
Spend some tiem praying and asking God to give you a greater heart for reaching the nations, and helping the poor.
Currently it's 7:30pm. We are stuck at the Miami airport because it's storming. We were supposed to leave 30 minutes ago. So I might as well tell of my day so far. When our team woke up, the New Yorkers were already gone at the airport. We ate breakfast with the Georgians, then they left. We had an hour before we left.
God certainly does have a sense of humor. I'd lost my sandals and I'd looked EVERYWHERE for them but couldn't find them. Finally I said, "Lord, I can't find my sandals. You can guide a heart that's lost, so surely You must know where my sandals are." Right then a voice spoke to me inside: "Look behind you." So I looked behind me and there were my sandals. I just laughed.
We got to the Montego Bay airport and made it through with no problems at all (Ian, Jed, Amy, and Anna, the 4 without passports, all made it through as well). The flight came into Miami late because of storms. And here we are now. It's still storming pretty good. I'll update when it gets better.
8:00pm - Update. Our flight has been delayed again for 9:00pm.
8:30pm - Another update! Our group decided to pray for the weather. Then we sang a bunch of praise songs. Now we are aboard the plane and it's 8:30. GOD IS SO GOOD!!
TRIP UPDATE
What was the weather like today? Originally it was hot and sunny, but it's storming now, which would explain why our flight's been delayed.
What are you most excited about doing when you get home? Getting pictures developed and telling my family all about the trip.
What was the best part about today? When I get home
What was the hardest? So far, it's our stinkin' flight getting delayed!
Did anyone say anything "quote-worthy"? Clayton, Brianna, and I were poking fun at each other.
Clayton: "Brianna, what are you eating?"
Brianna: "A fruit popsicle."
Clayton: "Haha! You're fruity! Only fruity people eat that."
Brianna: "Only fruity people would think that."
Clayton: "But you're still fruity."
Me: "Brianna, just call him a piece of junk. At least fruit's good for you."
On Trip - Day 9 - June 17th, 2007
Read and think about John 8:1-11.
She'd been caught in the act: in bed with a man that wasn't her husband. Adultery, punishable by death. She is brought to stand before Jesus. The Pharisees expect condemnation, but what they see instead are scribbles in the sand and some lavish grace. If anyone has the right to condemn the adulterous woman, it's the Holy Son of God. But He doesn't. He saves her from the hands of hypocrites, and points her to the gracious hands of God. He doesn't ignore her sin (He doesn't ignore the the sins of the Pharisees either!), He asks her to leave it behind. That's the hope found in the grace of Jesus: that we can leave behind the sin that condemns us, and know the love of the one who made us.
Spend some ways thinking of how demonstrated His frace in your life and praising Him for it.
What are some ways God is calling you to show some lavish grace this week?
There have been some people that I have really been annoyed at this week, a few Jamaican people and even a couple people on our team. But I have prayed about it and chosen to smile and be kind to them, even though they usually don't return the favor.
Who are some people you have met this week that need to know the hope of God's grace? How can you share it with them?
I don't think I've talked to anyone this week and failed to show them at least that I act like a Christian should act. One person on our team that isn't serious about his walk of faith at all is Robert. He's just here because it's Jamaica and he's been pretty bored with all the ministry stuff we've been doing. Other team members and I have tried to show him what this trip is actually about, but he only tells us to shut up. So we've done our part. He hasn't accepted it. So we must move on.
Today was basically more relaxation. Our group went to a different church in Bessie Baker while the Georgians and New Yorkers went to the church we went to last Sunday. PJ preached at the church we went to, so there was no yelling. The service lasted an hour and a half, which I thought was great cuz for some reason I woke up SO exhausted. I could barely keep my eyes open. Every time we rode in the bus I had to take a nap. I'm pretty sure that once I get a good night's sleep in my bed at home, I'll feel much better.
I was allowed to give a 3-minute phone call to my Dad for Father's Day. Dad answered and I said, "Hey, Dad, it's Rachel" and there was a pause on the other end. Then he sputtered, "R-Rachel?! Really? Oh, honey!" He was sooo excited to hear from me. Of course I told him nothing, except that I was having the time of my life. I can't wait until Tuesday when I can get my pictures developed and tell them all about it!
Tomorrow we leave for home!
TRIP UPDATE
What was the weather like today? Hot and sunny.
You're going home soon. Are you more excited or sad? Excited!!
What was the best part about today? Our meeting/devotional
What was the hardest? Staying awake this morning
Did anyone say anything "quote-worthy?" --
She'd been caught in the act: in bed with a man that wasn't her husband. Adultery, punishable by death. She is brought to stand before Jesus. The Pharisees expect condemnation, but what they see instead are scribbles in the sand and some lavish grace. If anyone has the right to condemn the adulterous woman, it's the Holy Son of God. But He doesn't. He saves her from the hands of hypocrites, and points her to the gracious hands of God. He doesn't ignore her sin (He doesn't ignore the the sins of the Pharisees either!), He asks her to leave it behind. That's the hope found in the grace of Jesus: that we can leave behind the sin that condemns us, and know the love of the one who made us.
Spend some ways thinking of how demonstrated His frace in your life and praising Him for it.
What are some ways God is calling you to show some lavish grace this week?
There have been some people that I have really been annoyed at this week, a few Jamaican people and even a couple people on our team. But I have prayed about it and chosen to smile and be kind to them, even though they usually don't return the favor.
Who are some people you have met this week that need to know the hope of God's grace? How can you share it with them?
I don't think I've talked to anyone this week and failed to show them at least that I act like a Christian should act. One person on our team that isn't serious about his walk of faith at all is Robert. He's just here because it's Jamaica and he's been pretty bored with all the ministry stuff we've been doing. Other team members and I have tried to show him what this trip is actually about, but he only tells us to shut up. So we've done our part. He hasn't accepted it. So we must move on.
Today was basically more relaxation. Our group went to a different church in Bessie Baker while the Georgians and New Yorkers went to the church we went to last Sunday. PJ preached at the church we went to, so there was no yelling. The service lasted an hour and a half, which I thought was great cuz for some reason I woke up SO exhausted. I could barely keep my eyes open. Every time we rode in the bus I had to take a nap. I'm pretty sure that once I get a good night's sleep in my bed at home, I'll feel much better.
I was allowed to give a 3-minute phone call to my Dad for Father's Day. Dad answered and I said, "Hey, Dad, it's Rachel" and there was a pause on the other end. Then he sputtered, "R-Rachel?! Really? Oh, honey!" He was sooo excited to hear from me. Of course I told him nothing, except that I was having the time of my life. I can't wait until Tuesday when I can get my pictures developed and tell them all about it!
Tomorrow we leave for home!
TRIP UPDATE
What was the weather like today? Hot and sunny.
You're going home soon. Are you more excited or sad? Excited!!
What was the best part about today? Our meeting/devotional
What was the hardest? Staying awake this morning
Did anyone say anything "quote-worthy?" --
On Trip - Day 8 - June 16th, 2007
Read and think about John 11:17-43.
It's a child's favorite verse to memorize: Jesus wept. It's short, and earns a quick gold star in Sunday school, but it's also powerful. We see Jesus moved to tears. His good friend had died, but it is doubtful that that was the reason for the tears. Jesus knew how things were going to turn out. There was no need to cry over a death that was temporary and would end in an amazing miracle. It is quite possible that it was Mary and Martha's sorrow that caused Jesus to feel the same. He saw His friends hurting, and He felt their hurt. Mary and Martha had no idea that their brother was not going to remain in the grave, but they knew who to go to with their pain. Jesus experienced it with them, and He responded. There seem to be two miracles here: a man brought back from the dead, and an almighty and powerful God that feels the pain of His people.
Ask God to give you a heart that feels the pain of the hurting and knows how to respond.
How do you think God is calling you to respond to the pain that is around you this week?
I have discovered about myself this past year that God has given me the gift of compassion and encouragement. When someone is hurting or is in sorrow or even if they just need a kind word to pick themselves up, I always say all the right things in all the right ways. Everyone comments about how I made them feel better, not just by sympathizing with them, but somehow also telling them the right thing to do in such a way where they'll agree with me and not get mad, where it doesn't sound like I'm judging them. I myself do not know how I do it, only that it's God that speaks through me and not myself. I have the ability to listen to every last word they have to say, to understand them and to actually feel their pain. I actually love those situations. When I feel their pain, I feel their joy when they feel better too.
Spend time praying for some of the hurting people you have met this week.
Today was so amazing, even though I got more injured in 3 hours than I have the whole trip. I went shopping and bought earrings (something I can't get enough of), a bracelet, and a coffee mug for the fam that says "Someone who loves me very much went to Jamaica and got me this mug" at a flea market (I ain't stupid. I got all those things at lower prices than they were worth...when it comes to good stuff and bargaining, I know all the tricks of the trade). There was no point in shopping anywhere else. It cost $25 for an 8-inch figurine.
Then we went to the beach. I barely swam in the ocean -- I was too busy climbing up the waterfall! There was a huge rocky waterfall with rushing water that we were allowed to climb. First with Megan R., Megan V., Erynn, and Michael (Christian's older brother), we all climbed up the easy path, helping each other. It took about an hour the first time. Then I decided to go up again with Ian and go the hard route. I fell down and bruised myself so many times, but it was so much fun. Ian was a real gentleman and led the way, reaching out his hand and pulling me up at tough spots. But I will tell you now: I will never take Ian for granted again. Thank the Lord for a friend like Ian. I was near the top of the waterfall and we were at this really slippery spot where there weren't a lot of places to place your hands and feet. I guess I decided to be adventurous and I climbed ahead of Ian. But it is by the grace of God that I did. While I was climbing, I slipped and lost my foothold...and I began to fall down the waterfall. The water was moving so fast and there was nowhere to grab onto. I looked down and all I saw was rushing water and rocks. I screamed as loud as I could and oh wow, was I absolutely terrified. I thought I was going to break a bone or crack my head falling down the waterfall. I even had thoughts that I might die (it happens when you're going a gajillion miles an hour down a rocky waterfall). I was so scared. But you know what? Ian grabbed me. He wrapped his arms around my waist, held tight, and never let go as he slipped and fell with me down the waterfall. Miraculously Ian managed to stick his foot somewhere and stopped us before we tumbled over the edge and crashed onto the rocks below. If Ian had not grabbed me, I would have definitely fallen further than I did and would probably be with major injuries. But Ian risked himself to save me from that. If I had not climbed ahead of him, he could never have stopped me. God was definitely watching over me.
But aside from the potentially-life-threatening situation, today was great. I forgot sunblock (and having very fair skin, I burn easily), but for some reason I was not burned one bit today. And when I climbed up the falls the first time, I forgot my watch was on (and it's not waterproof), but somehow it still works.
TRIP UPDATE
How was the weather like today? Hot, but somewhat cloudy.
What are you going to miss the most about the culture you're in? How nice the people are.
What was the best part about today? The beach.
What was the hardest? My little experience falling down the waterfall.
Did anyone say anything "quote-worthy?" --
It's a child's favorite verse to memorize: Jesus wept. It's short, and earns a quick gold star in Sunday school, but it's also powerful. We see Jesus moved to tears. His good friend had died, but it is doubtful that that was the reason for the tears. Jesus knew how things were going to turn out. There was no need to cry over a death that was temporary and would end in an amazing miracle. It is quite possible that it was Mary and Martha's sorrow that caused Jesus to feel the same. He saw His friends hurting, and He felt their hurt. Mary and Martha had no idea that their brother was not going to remain in the grave, but they knew who to go to with their pain. Jesus experienced it with them, and He responded. There seem to be two miracles here: a man brought back from the dead, and an almighty and powerful God that feels the pain of His people.
Ask God to give you a heart that feels the pain of the hurting and knows how to respond.
How do you think God is calling you to respond to the pain that is around you this week?
I have discovered about myself this past year that God has given me the gift of compassion and encouragement. When someone is hurting or is in sorrow or even if they just need a kind word to pick themselves up, I always say all the right things in all the right ways. Everyone comments about how I made them feel better, not just by sympathizing with them, but somehow also telling them the right thing to do in such a way where they'll agree with me and not get mad, where it doesn't sound like I'm judging them. I myself do not know how I do it, only that it's God that speaks through me and not myself. I have the ability to listen to every last word they have to say, to understand them and to actually feel their pain. I actually love those situations. When I feel their pain, I feel their joy when they feel better too.
Spend time praying for some of the hurting people you have met this week.
Today was so amazing, even though I got more injured in 3 hours than I have the whole trip. I went shopping and bought earrings (something I can't get enough of), a bracelet, and a coffee mug for the fam that says "Someone who loves me very much went to Jamaica and got me this mug" at a flea market (I ain't stupid. I got all those things at lower prices than they were worth...when it comes to good stuff and bargaining, I know all the tricks of the trade). There was no point in shopping anywhere else. It cost $25 for an 8-inch figurine.
Then we went to the beach. I barely swam in the ocean -- I was too busy climbing up the waterfall! There was a huge rocky waterfall with rushing water that we were allowed to climb. First with Megan R., Megan V., Erynn, and Michael (Christian's older brother), we all climbed up the easy path, helping each other. It took about an hour the first time. Then I decided to go up again with Ian and go the hard route. I fell down and bruised myself so many times, but it was so much fun. Ian was a real gentleman and led the way, reaching out his hand and pulling me up at tough spots. But I will tell you now: I will never take Ian for granted again. Thank the Lord for a friend like Ian. I was near the top of the waterfall and we were at this really slippery spot where there weren't a lot of places to place your hands and feet. I guess I decided to be adventurous and I climbed ahead of Ian. But it is by the grace of God that I did. While I was climbing, I slipped and lost my foothold...and I began to fall down the waterfall. The water was moving so fast and there was nowhere to grab onto. I looked down and all I saw was rushing water and rocks. I screamed as loud as I could and oh wow, was I absolutely terrified. I thought I was going to break a bone or crack my head falling down the waterfall. I even had thoughts that I might die (it happens when you're going a gajillion miles an hour down a rocky waterfall). I was so scared. But you know what? Ian grabbed me. He wrapped his arms around my waist, held tight, and never let go as he slipped and fell with me down the waterfall. Miraculously Ian managed to stick his foot somewhere and stopped us before we tumbled over the edge and crashed onto the rocks below. If Ian had not grabbed me, I would have definitely fallen further than I did and would probably be with major injuries. But Ian risked himself to save me from that. If I had not climbed ahead of him, he could never have stopped me. God was definitely watching over me.
But aside from the potentially-life-threatening situation, today was great. I forgot sunblock (and having very fair skin, I burn easily), but for some reason I was not burned one bit today. And when I climbed up the falls the first time, I forgot my watch was on (and it's not waterproof), but somehow it still works.
TRIP UPDATE
How was the weather like today? Hot, but somewhat cloudy.
What are you going to miss the most about the culture you're in? How nice the people are.
What was the best part about today? The beach.
What was the hardest? My little experience falling down the waterfall.
Did anyone say anything "quote-worthy?" --
On Trip - Day 7 - June 15th, 2007
Read and think about Matthew 8:1-3.
He knew he wasn't supposed to get close to the crowds, but he also knew that Jesus was his only hope for getting his life back. Who knows how many miserable years the man had lived with his sickness that caused his body to rot away, and demanded separation from his family and friends. So he did it. He somehow passed through the crowd and made it to the feet of Jesus before anyone could stop him. "Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean." He was confident in the power of Jesus to heal, but what probably caught him offguard was the touch of Jesus. Who knows how long it had been since this guy had had anyone touch him? Who knows what the crowd was thinking when Jesus, who was quickly becoming known as a holy man of God, defiled Himself by touching a man that was declared unclean by the law? Whatever the case, Jesus' touch made the sick man see that Jesus was not only out to heal the body, He was out to heal the heart as well.
From this passage, what do you see as the relationship between meeting physical needs and meeting heart needs?
Physical needs easily connect with heart needs. Physical pain can make the heart depressed and cry out for relief. If you heal the physical, the heart can't help praising.
Who is someone you have met this week that needs a "touch of Jesus"?
Dara has lost her voice completely. And...I've wanted a healing touch ever since the headaches began. God has given me strength to carry on, though, and I'll go through it however long He wills it.
Spend some time praying, asking God to show you how He wants to use you to touch that person's heart.
Today was so great. This morning we had nothing planned, but there was talk that we'd do more construction work. We decided to take all of the missionary groups, and all of us were to spend 10 minutes in prayer to see what God wanted us to do. It was amazing how God revealed to every single one of us that He didn't want us to do construction. He wanted us to do a prayer walk. So we split off into groups of 4. Beau, Bradley, Brianna, and I were a group. I've been talking to Beau lately, encouraging him because he's very shy. This mission trip has definitely changed me in a way. I've become more outspoken. So on the prayer walk, I did all the talking for the first few people about salvation (I even walked up to a couple people and started talking to them about the salvation message and realized that they had marijuana...didn't realize that at first, but I kept witnessing anyway and they were really friendly...I got out fairly quickly though). Then I decided to let one of the others in my group do the talking. So I asked Brianna. "Oh no, no, I'm not gonna do it." I asked Bradley. "Nah, not me." I could just see the extremely nervous look on Beau's face as I asked, "Beau, will you do it?" He wanted to say no. He honestly did. But he said yes. He trusted God to give him the words to say, and God did. I'm very, very proud of Beau.
We stopped at a boy's home. Not for very long (the Georgians and New Yorkers stayed longer than we did), but enough to see what it was like. Basically it's a home where orphaned boys and extreme troublemakers go. Before we even got off the bus, the boys were fighting, hitting each other in the head with rocks and stuff. I was pretty nervous, but we were safe.
Today was our last day of VBS. Renise, the little girl who'd written me the note earlier, leaped into my lap and gave me a huge hug. She is so nice. I'll miss her bunches.
Well, that's our last work day. Tomorrow is our reward day. We're going to Ocho Rios so we can shop and then go to the beach. :)
Btw, I've made a couple new friends, one from the Georgia team and the other from the New York team. The one from Ggeorgia, Carlie, looks almost exactly me (which is what initially drew us together) and we have so much in common. Right now she's lying in bed sick from a huge centipede bite. I was the first person she asked to see, because I've kind of gotten a reputation of being the encourager and the compassionate one on this trip. It was cool. I hope she feels better tomorrow. She's 17. The one from New York is a guy named Christian (a name that fits who he is very well). He's 15 and really shy and quiet. But I find out he's a homeschooler like I am! Having that in common, we got to talking right away.
We also did this really cool thing during group devos. We were all instructed before the trip even began to bring a bunch of index cards. So what we were to do was first, one person would stand up and pick one person that inspired them that week, and then that person would pick another person, and you couldn't pick the same person, so you'd go around until every person was picked. Pastor Harold started it out, and he picked me. Throughout the week, I got the feeling that he was very impressed with me.
Then after that, to whoever touched us that week, we'd write notes of encouragement on the index cards and give them to them. Man, I got so many, even from people I didn't get to know very well. It was awesome.
TRIP UPDATE
What was the weather like today? Hot and humid (notice a pattern here?)
Which person has had the most impact on you this week?
Either Jordan or Brede. Jordan spurts out inspirational things when you never expect them, and Brede is so amazing with kids. He led one kid to Christ on Thursday. It was amazing.
What was the best part about today? VBS.
What was the hardest? Boys home.
Did anyone say anything quote-worthy? --
He knew he wasn't supposed to get close to the crowds, but he also knew that Jesus was his only hope for getting his life back. Who knows how many miserable years the man had lived with his sickness that caused his body to rot away, and demanded separation from his family and friends. So he did it. He somehow passed through the crowd and made it to the feet of Jesus before anyone could stop him. "Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean." He was confident in the power of Jesus to heal, but what probably caught him offguard was the touch of Jesus. Who knows how long it had been since this guy had had anyone touch him? Who knows what the crowd was thinking when Jesus, who was quickly becoming known as a holy man of God, defiled Himself by touching a man that was declared unclean by the law? Whatever the case, Jesus' touch made the sick man see that Jesus was not only out to heal the body, He was out to heal the heart as well.
From this passage, what do you see as the relationship between meeting physical needs and meeting heart needs?
Physical needs easily connect with heart needs. Physical pain can make the heart depressed and cry out for relief. If you heal the physical, the heart can't help praising.
Who is someone you have met this week that needs a "touch of Jesus"?
Dara has lost her voice completely. And...I've wanted a healing touch ever since the headaches began. God has given me strength to carry on, though, and I'll go through it however long He wills it.
Spend some time praying, asking God to show you how He wants to use you to touch that person's heart.
Today was so great. This morning we had nothing planned, but there was talk that we'd do more construction work. We decided to take all of the missionary groups, and all of us were to spend 10 minutes in prayer to see what God wanted us to do. It was amazing how God revealed to every single one of us that He didn't want us to do construction. He wanted us to do a prayer walk. So we split off into groups of 4. Beau, Bradley, Brianna, and I were a group. I've been talking to Beau lately, encouraging him because he's very shy. This mission trip has definitely changed me in a way. I've become more outspoken. So on the prayer walk, I did all the talking for the first few people about salvation (I even walked up to a couple people and started talking to them about the salvation message and realized that they had marijuana...didn't realize that at first, but I kept witnessing anyway and they were really friendly...I got out fairly quickly though). Then I decided to let one of the others in my group do the talking. So I asked Brianna. "Oh no, no, I'm not gonna do it." I asked Bradley. "Nah, not me." I could just see the extremely nervous look on Beau's face as I asked, "Beau, will you do it?" He wanted to say no. He honestly did. But he said yes. He trusted God to give him the words to say, and God did. I'm very, very proud of Beau.
We stopped at a boy's home. Not for very long (the Georgians and New Yorkers stayed longer than we did), but enough to see what it was like. Basically it's a home where orphaned boys and extreme troublemakers go. Before we even got off the bus, the boys were fighting, hitting each other in the head with rocks and stuff. I was pretty nervous, but we were safe.
Today was our last day of VBS. Renise, the little girl who'd written me the note earlier, leaped into my lap and gave me a huge hug. She is so nice. I'll miss her bunches.
Well, that's our last work day. Tomorrow is our reward day. We're going to Ocho Rios so we can shop and then go to the beach. :)
Btw, I've made a couple new friends, one from the Georgia team and the other from the New York team. The one from Ggeorgia, Carlie, looks almost exactly me (which is what initially drew us together) and we have so much in common. Right now she's lying in bed sick from a huge centipede bite. I was the first person she asked to see, because I've kind of gotten a reputation of being the encourager and the compassionate one on this trip. It was cool. I hope she feels better tomorrow. She's 17. The one from New York is a guy named Christian (a name that fits who he is very well). He's 15 and really shy and quiet. But I find out he's a homeschooler like I am! Having that in common, we got to talking right away.
We also did this really cool thing during group devos. We were all instructed before the trip even began to bring a bunch of index cards. So what we were to do was first, one person would stand up and pick one person that inspired them that week, and then that person would pick another person, and you couldn't pick the same person, so you'd go around until every person was picked. Pastor Harold started it out, and he picked me. Throughout the week, I got the feeling that he was very impressed with me.
Then after that, to whoever touched us that week, we'd write notes of encouragement on the index cards and give them to them. Man, I got so many, even from people I didn't get to know very well. It was awesome.
TRIP UPDATE
What was the weather like today? Hot and humid (notice a pattern here?)
Which person has had the most impact on you this week?
Either Jordan or Brede. Jordan spurts out inspirational things when you never expect them, and Brede is so amazing with kids. He led one kid to Christ on Thursday. It was amazing.
What was the best part about today? VBS.
What was the hardest? Boys home.
Did anyone say anything quote-worthy? --
On Trip - Day 6 - June 14th, 2007
Read and think about John 13:1-17.
It wasn't the job any Jewish kid aspired to have. Someone walks in the door, after walking who knows how far on dusty roads in just their sandals, and you must stoop to their stinky feet and wash away the grime of the journey. It was the menial talk of a servant. So when Jesus stooped down to do the dirty work, the disciples were shocked. Just as thirty some years before Jesus had laid aside the glory of heaven to take on human form, He now laid aside His clothing and took on the garment of a servant. The King of heaven knelt humbly at the feet of His followers. And in a very real way He showd His disciples what His mission had been from the beginning: to be a servant and lay down His life for others.
What stands out to you about Jesus' example of service?
He did it without complaining and humbled Himself greatly.
What have you learned about being a servant this week?
I've learned it makes you very exhausted! But also it gives a great sense of joy knowing that I am doing this work all to God's glory.
In what ways is Jesus calling you to serve your mission team? Get specific - what are you doing to do today to serve your team?
I helped others when I wasn't supposed to be doing their duties.
What about those you've come to minister to?
To really get down on their level and sometimes act a little crazy just to get them into it. Not to place myself above them.
Today was the day that messed up, but it was still good. I woke up feeling more groggy than I've ever felt in my life. It literally took 15 minutes just to get my eyes to stay open. After breakfast, we went to do construction, but none of the other Jamaican workers that we'd worked with previously were there, so we had no tools. I dug rocks out of mud with my bare hands (not even gloves) and now I've got dirt under my fingernails that will never get out (dirt under my fingernails irks me). Then we went out on a prayer walk, where we just walked down the roads and prayed. It was really great, even though we climbed so many hills.
Then we had VBS. The whole day was one big miscommunication. Half of us were t stay with some kids outside playing soccer while the other half went to VBS, then the kids would switch. 3 of us team members down by the soccer field (myself included) had no clue how to play and didn't want to just stand around doing nothing. So we went back and there were about 65 kids in the VBS room alone (there were about 20 in the soccer field). The recreation/games leaders weren't ready, the craft leaders didn't have enough help, and a lot of us were just left standing around because of the busyness. Tomorrow we'll do much better.
Tomorrow is also our last day of work.
TRIP UPDATE:
What was the weather like today? Hot, humid, hot, and humid.
What cultural differences stood out to you today? --
What was the best part about today? Prayer walk.
What was the hardest? VBS!
What item are you most thankful you packed for this trip? Razor, sunblock, and hairbands.
It wasn't the job any Jewish kid aspired to have. Someone walks in the door, after walking who knows how far on dusty roads in just their sandals, and you must stoop to their stinky feet and wash away the grime of the journey. It was the menial talk of a servant. So when Jesus stooped down to do the dirty work, the disciples were shocked. Just as thirty some years before Jesus had laid aside the glory of heaven to take on human form, He now laid aside His clothing and took on the garment of a servant. The King of heaven knelt humbly at the feet of His followers. And in a very real way He showd His disciples what His mission had been from the beginning: to be a servant and lay down His life for others.
What stands out to you about Jesus' example of service?
He did it without complaining and humbled Himself greatly.
What have you learned about being a servant this week?
I've learned it makes you very exhausted! But also it gives a great sense of joy knowing that I am doing this work all to God's glory.
In what ways is Jesus calling you to serve your mission team? Get specific - what are you doing to do today to serve your team?
I helped others when I wasn't supposed to be doing their duties.
What about those you've come to minister to?
To really get down on their level and sometimes act a little crazy just to get them into it. Not to place myself above them.
Today was the day that messed up, but it was still good. I woke up feeling more groggy than I've ever felt in my life. It literally took 15 minutes just to get my eyes to stay open. After breakfast, we went to do construction, but none of the other Jamaican workers that we'd worked with previously were there, so we had no tools. I dug rocks out of mud with my bare hands (not even gloves) and now I've got dirt under my fingernails that will never get out (dirt under my fingernails irks me). Then we went out on a prayer walk, where we just walked down the roads and prayed. It was really great, even though we climbed so many hills.
Then we had VBS. The whole day was one big miscommunication. Half of us were t stay with some kids outside playing soccer while the other half went to VBS, then the kids would switch. 3 of us team members down by the soccer field (myself included) had no clue how to play and didn't want to just stand around doing nothing. So we went back and there were about 65 kids in the VBS room alone (there were about 20 in the soccer field). The recreation/games leaders weren't ready, the craft leaders didn't have enough help, and a lot of us were just left standing around because of the busyness. Tomorrow we'll do much better.
Tomorrow is also our last day of work.
TRIP UPDATE:
What was the weather like today? Hot, humid, hot, and humid.
What cultural differences stood out to you today? --
What was the best part about today? Prayer walk.
What was the hardest? VBS!
What item are you most thankful you packed for this trip? Razor, sunblock, and hairbands.
On Trip - Day 5 - June 13th, 2007
Read and think about John 9:1-12.
He'd been in darkness since the day he was born. As Jesus and his disciples walked by, one of them asked the question he may have been asking all of his life: what did I do to deserve this? Who is to blame for this suffering!? Jesus' answer blew right out of the water the idea that hard things in our lives indicate God's anger towards us. Sure, sin has its consequences, and God may allow thins to happen to get our lives on track. BUT His love and mercy are great, and He has taken the punishment of our sin on Himself so we could know freedom. So what was the purpose of this man's many years in darkness? That the power of God might be displayed in him. It wasn't this man's physical blindness that caused him to not see God's perfect purposes behind his difficulties, but that blindness common to us all, caused by our limited human perspective of this life. God's got a plan, whether you see it or not.
What feelings have you had this week as you've seen the hard circumstances that people are living in?
It's been so very humbling, seeing so many people living in poverty or suffering from a mental illness. With some of them I can't help feeling joyful because that's what they are, they're happy. They don't focus on the so little things that they have. They're just happy to be alive. But I've also had my heart broken. Earlier today I just broke down in tears when I was at the infirmary that we went to. These people were so old and so sick that they barely looked alive. The flies just kept buzzing around them and they were so wak and so used to it that they didn't even bother wiping them away. We read to them from the Bible and sang a ton of songs for them. They really liked it, and those who were strong enough sang with us. What really got to me was when we sang "Lean On Me" for them. The words just really became real for me, and in the end I did break down in tears. One thing I love about my teammates is that they will comfort you. This is the second time I've broken down on this trip and both times I was very much comforted by my friends.
What does this passage show you about what God's purposes might be in allowing hard things to happen in people's lives?
When we are weak, God's strength can shine through us. I know that very well. This "Headache Trial", which is still going on even now, has definitely showed me that God can use my pain to reach others. The pain is still here so I'm thinking that I'm still being used to reach people in that way.
Ask God to show you how to help people see that He cares for them even when they are suffering.
VBS was so great. It didn't rain today so we got around 45 kids. I did my second and final Bible story. I decided at the very last minute that I didn't want to do it the way I planned. So by the help of God, I totally revamped the story as I was teaching it to the kids. It was awesome.
Ugh, the bug bites itch so bad right now!
TRIP UPDATE
What was the weather like today? VERY hot and VERY humid.
What is the strangest food you've had to eat so far? Either chop sui (not bad) or cornbeef sandwiches (vomit-inducing).
What was the best part about today? All of it.
What was the hardest? Too hot!
Did anyone say anything "quote-worthy"? Our coordinator, Pastor Harold, told us this during group devos: "Tiredness is temporary. The fruits of your work lasts a lifetime."
"LEAN ON ME"
Verse: You just call on your brother when you need a hand
We all need somebody to lean on
I just might have a problem that you'll understand
We all need somebody to lean on
Chorus: Lean on me when you're not strong
And I'll be your friend, I'll help you carry on
For it won't be long
Till I'm gonna need somebody to lean on
He'd been in darkness since the day he was born. As Jesus and his disciples walked by, one of them asked the question he may have been asking all of his life: what did I do to deserve this? Who is to blame for this suffering!? Jesus' answer blew right out of the water the idea that hard things in our lives indicate God's anger towards us. Sure, sin has its consequences, and God may allow thins to happen to get our lives on track. BUT His love and mercy are great, and He has taken the punishment of our sin on Himself so we could know freedom. So what was the purpose of this man's many years in darkness? That the power of God might be displayed in him. It wasn't this man's physical blindness that caused him to not see God's perfect purposes behind his difficulties, but that blindness common to us all, caused by our limited human perspective of this life. God's got a plan, whether you see it or not.
What feelings have you had this week as you've seen the hard circumstances that people are living in?
It's been so very humbling, seeing so many people living in poverty or suffering from a mental illness. With some of them I can't help feeling joyful because that's what they are, they're happy. They don't focus on the so little things that they have. They're just happy to be alive. But I've also had my heart broken. Earlier today I just broke down in tears when I was at the infirmary that we went to. These people were so old and so sick that they barely looked alive. The flies just kept buzzing around them and they were so wak and so used to it that they didn't even bother wiping them away. We read to them from the Bible and sang a ton of songs for them. They really liked it, and those who were strong enough sang with us. What really got to me was when we sang "Lean On Me" for them. The words just really became real for me, and in the end I did break down in tears. One thing I love about my teammates is that they will comfort you. This is the second time I've broken down on this trip and both times I was very much comforted by my friends.
What does this passage show you about what God's purposes might be in allowing hard things to happen in people's lives?
When we are weak, God's strength can shine through us. I know that very well. This "Headache Trial", which is still going on even now, has definitely showed me that God can use my pain to reach others. The pain is still here so I'm thinking that I'm still being used to reach people in that way.
Ask God to show you how to help people see that He cares for them even when they are suffering.
VBS was so great. It didn't rain today so we got around 45 kids. I did my second and final Bible story. I decided at the very last minute that I didn't want to do it the way I planned. So by the help of God, I totally revamped the story as I was teaching it to the kids. It was awesome.
Ugh, the bug bites itch so bad right now!
TRIP UPDATE
What was the weather like today? VERY hot and VERY humid.
What is the strangest food you've had to eat so far? Either chop sui (not bad) or cornbeef sandwiches (vomit-inducing).
What was the best part about today? All of it.
What was the hardest? Too hot!
Did anyone say anything "quote-worthy"? Our coordinator, Pastor Harold, told us this during group devos: "Tiredness is temporary. The fruits of your work lasts a lifetime."
"LEAN ON ME"
Verse: You just call on your brother when you need a hand
We all need somebody to lean on
I just might have a problem that you'll understand
We all need somebody to lean on
Chorus: Lean on me when you're not strong
And I'll be your friend, I'll help you carry on
For it won't be long
Till I'm gonna need somebody to lean on
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