Monday, March 21, 2011
Friday, March 18
Friday
Today we packed all of our belongings and boarded the bus for a 3 hour drive to La Fortuna where we will spend the night. There are many on the trip that have motion sickness and certainly had a problem with the steep curves we encountered going down the mountain – but attitudes have been great! Our devotion today came from Philippians 3 – again – right on target! With the majority of our mission work complete – we wanted to maintain the spirit of unity, the desire to serve, and keep our eyes on the lookout for God’s hand and provision. We need to be aware of Satan’s attempts to bring us down. Paul encouraged believers that it is not deeds that God desires but the righteous living – we must not boast or have confidence in our own flesh. Our daily focus should be knowing Christ - counting all else rubbish. So much of our journey has been a faith walk and God has powerfully shown His faithfulness to each of us this week. We discussed faith and desiring to become more and more like Him! These devotion times have been great – just looking at what God has said and applying it to today and when we get home. Susan got up and spoke to the students – she shared that every day we have a choice to make – to fully engage – have a positive attitude – or pull back in negativity and just not engage in life at all. Her words were so impactful to the group – over and over we heard the students at various crossroads say – I choose…..(a positive choice). Great encouragement!
Our first stop on the way was a small store on top of the mountain. There was a huge hill that the students immediately ran down – it was straight down!!! The way they ran and played - you would think they grew up in a town with no hills! The ride was beautiful – mountains, rolling hills, fields of pineapple, coffee, cows, more cows, flowers, unusual vegetation, houses on cliffs, the students could not take it all in! The roads are not wide – but our bus driver has 20 years of experience – Drew kept him straight!
The next stop was at a magnificent church and gardens in Zarcero. The shrubbery in front of the church had one man that groomed these for the last 20 years. These were 15 plus foot shrubs are in the shapes of an elephant, tunnels, monkeys, etc. The students played all in the gardens. No one expected what they saw when they entered the church. It had a cathedral ceiling. The primary religion in Costa Rica is Catholic. The church had paintings on the walls and ceiling. There was a man painting and repairing the ceiling art. It is a grand church. The stained glass windows are beautiful. Elizabeth M. explained the altar and the candles. Most students had never seen anything remotely that spectacular. It literally took your breath away and drew you to worship!
We still had a little over 2 hours left on the drive. Some of the students played games while others slept. Courtney has introduced the team to a variety of random games – Brandon told her she had more games than Hasbro! Finally we arrived in La Fortuna. The place we are staying tonight is simply beautiful. The soil is so rich in the area which is evident in vast variety of flowers and trees - they are so vivid, unique, and beautiful. We quickly had lunch – lasagna, fish, and salad – and of course – rice and beans. No meal is complete without them.
The entire way to the hotel we could see the volcano in the distance; however, clouds were significantly covering the top. Right when we got off the bus – they parted. The hotel workers encouraged us to take pictures quickly before the clouds settled back on it – they were not very optimistic that we would see much. After photos were taken everyone had about 5 minutes to settle in their rooms and we headed off to hike a trail which led up a mountain to see the volcano closer and some of the lava from the 1992 explosion. What a hike! We walked on large trails through the rainforest – there were orchids, ferns, and bamboo scattered all around as well as unique other flowers. Jimmy stopped us at several points and explained trees, flowers, and the landscape. He showed pictures of the eruption and talked about the volcano today. It is still active – it stopped spitting fire about 5 months ago – so no one knows what to expect next.
The last 5 – 10 minutes of the hike was steep and there were difficult stairs and rocks to climb to be able to see the lake and volcano. There was such team unity – no one was left behind – all the team members pulled each other up to the top so all could see the volcano and the lake. The clouds stayed lifted the entire time – it was amazing! Again – creation testified to a mighty Creator who is not only AWESOME – but never ceases to thrill and delight! Creation has over and over again spoken to this group!
The climb down was really tough – there was a steep staircase – the students lined the stairway and sang Praise Concert songs as they held the hands of those that needed help – it was such a special sight – the entire senior class loving and helping each other - I truly do not think anyone will forget the bond at that moment – all in one accord singing praises and unifying to help the body of Christ – it was a precious moment – a witness to Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
9 Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their labor:
10 If either of them falls down,
one can help the other up.
But pity anyone who falls
and has no one to help them up.
11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.
But how can one keep warm alone?
12 Though one may be overpowered,
two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
As the last of the team members exited the trail – it began to rain – we never had a clear view of the volcano again – God’s blessings and provision again prevailed! We missed the rain and saw the volcano with perfect timing! We are all amazed at how He is blessing us! Jimmy is too!
Another highlight was around the corner – literally – we went and swam in natural hot springs. This water was heated by the volcano. What a blast! There were several “pools” you could swim and they were varying degrees of heat. It was so much fun and helped all the aching muscles from the previous three days of work.
Exhausted – we loaded the bus and headed back to the hotel – yes – for chicken, fish, rice, beans, or a hamburger. Most of the team went straight to bed after they ate – others hung out by the pool and visited. Again – Hasbro made them play a game – this time it was to tell random facts about themselves. These students have been together for years and yet knew so little about each other – it was fun to listen to!
Finally, they were ready to call it a night – another blessing! It rained hard on the tin roof most of the night. At first it was loud – then it became soothing. We were beyond exhausted.
I have loved every minute of the work we have done this week. I have loved seeing the students literally broken by their time with the children. Certainly today was not better – just different. Since this is the first time for most of the students to travel beyond North and South Carolina – the landscape, flowers and mountains are blowing their minds. Psalm 104:24 (Amplified Bible) says, 24O Lord, how many and varied are Your works! In wisdom have You made them all; the earth is full of Your riches and Your creatures. This is what they are saying – often not verbally – but it is all over their faces. They cannot take it in. Over and over we have said today – He spoke this into existence. What a mighty God we serve! A God so powerful that since He can speak this into being He can certainly empower us to fulfill our call – our need to go back and live fully and completely for Him.
Today we packed all of our belongings and boarded the bus for a 3 hour drive to La Fortuna where we will spend the night. There are many on the trip that have motion sickness and certainly had a problem with the steep curves we encountered going down the mountain – but attitudes have been great! Our devotion today came from Philippians 3 – again – right on target! With the majority of our mission work complete – we wanted to maintain the spirit of unity, the desire to serve, and keep our eyes on the lookout for God’s hand and provision. We need to be aware of Satan’s attempts to bring us down. Paul encouraged believers that it is not deeds that God desires but the righteous living – we must not boast or have confidence in our own flesh. Our daily focus should be knowing Christ - counting all else rubbish. So much of our journey has been a faith walk and God has powerfully shown His faithfulness to each of us this week. We discussed faith and desiring to become more and more like Him! These devotion times have been great – just looking at what God has said and applying it to today and when we get home. Susan got up and spoke to the students – she shared that every day we have a choice to make – to fully engage – have a positive attitude – or pull back in negativity and just not engage in life at all. Her words were so impactful to the group – over and over we heard the students at various crossroads say – I choose…..(a positive choice). Great encouragement!
Our first stop on the way was a small store on top of the mountain. There was a huge hill that the students immediately ran down – it was straight down!!! The way they ran and played - you would think they grew up in a town with no hills! The ride was beautiful – mountains, rolling hills, fields of pineapple, coffee, cows, more cows, flowers, unusual vegetation, houses on cliffs, the students could not take it all in! The roads are not wide – but our bus driver has 20 years of experience – Drew kept him straight!
The next stop was at a magnificent church and gardens in Zarcero. The shrubbery in front of the church had one man that groomed these for the last 20 years. These were 15 plus foot shrubs are in the shapes of an elephant, tunnels, monkeys, etc. The students played all in the gardens. No one expected what they saw when they entered the church. It had a cathedral ceiling. The primary religion in Costa Rica is Catholic. The church had paintings on the walls and ceiling. There was a man painting and repairing the ceiling art. It is a grand church. The stained glass windows are beautiful. Elizabeth M. explained the altar and the candles. Most students had never seen anything remotely that spectacular. It literally took your breath away and drew you to worship!
We still had a little over 2 hours left on the drive. Some of the students played games while others slept. Courtney has introduced the team to a variety of random games – Brandon told her she had more games than Hasbro! Finally we arrived in La Fortuna. The place we are staying tonight is simply beautiful. The soil is so rich in the area which is evident in vast variety of flowers and trees - they are so vivid, unique, and beautiful. We quickly had lunch – lasagna, fish, and salad – and of course – rice and beans. No meal is complete without them.
The entire way to the hotel we could see the volcano in the distance; however, clouds were significantly covering the top. Right when we got off the bus – they parted. The hotel workers encouraged us to take pictures quickly before the clouds settled back on it – they were not very optimistic that we would see much. After photos were taken everyone had about 5 minutes to settle in their rooms and we headed off to hike a trail which led up a mountain to see the volcano closer and some of the lava from the 1992 explosion. What a hike! We walked on large trails through the rainforest – there were orchids, ferns, and bamboo scattered all around as well as unique other flowers. Jimmy stopped us at several points and explained trees, flowers, and the landscape. He showed pictures of the eruption and talked about the volcano today. It is still active – it stopped spitting fire about 5 months ago – so no one knows what to expect next.
The last 5 – 10 minutes of the hike was steep and there were difficult stairs and rocks to climb to be able to see the lake and volcano. There was such team unity – no one was left behind – all the team members pulled each other up to the top so all could see the volcano and the lake. The clouds stayed lifted the entire time – it was amazing! Again – creation testified to a mighty Creator who is not only AWESOME – but never ceases to thrill and delight! Creation has over and over again spoken to this group!
The climb down was really tough – there was a steep staircase – the students lined the stairway and sang Praise Concert songs as they held the hands of those that needed help – it was such a special sight – the entire senior class loving and helping each other - I truly do not think anyone will forget the bond at that moment – all in one accord singing praises and unifying to help the body of Christ – it was a precious moment – a witness to Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
9 Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their labor:
10 If either of them falls down,
one can help the other up.
But pity anyone who falls
and has no one to help them up.
11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.
But how can one keep warm alone?
12 Though one may be overpowered,
two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
As the last of the team members exited the trail – it began to rain – we never had a clear view of the volcano again – God’s blessings and provision again prevailed! We missed the rain and saw the volcano with perfect timing! We are all amazed at how He is blessing us! Jimmy is too!
Another highlight was around the corner – literally – we went and swam in natural hot springs. This water was heated by the volcano. What a blast! There were several “pools” you could swim and they were varying degrees of heat. It was so much fun and helped all the aching muscles from the previous three days of work.
Exhausted – we loaded the bus and headed back to the hotel – yes – for chicken, fish, rice, beans, or a hamburger. Most of the team went straight to bed after they ate – others hung out by the pool and visited. Again – Hasbro made them play a game – this time it was to tell random facts about themselves. These students have been together for years and yet knew so little about each other – it was fun to listen to!
Finally, they were ready to call it a night – another blessing! It rained hard on the tin roof most of the night. At first it was loud – then it became soothing. We were beyond exhausted.
I have loved every minute of the work we have done this week. I have loved seeing the students literally broken by their time with the children. Certainly today was not better – just different. Since this is the first time for most of the students to travel beyond North and South Carolina – the landscape, flowers and mountains are blowing their minds. Psalm 104:24 (Amplified Bible) says, 24O Lord, how many and varied are Your works! In wisdom have You made them all; the earth is full of Your riches and Your creatures. This is what they are saying – often not verbally – but it is all over their faces. They cannot take it in. Over and over we have said today – He spoke this into existence. What a mighty God we serve! A God so powerful that since He can speak this into being He can certainly empower us to fulfill our call – our need to go back and live fully and completely for Him.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Thursday
Today was humbling and I cannot wait to share with you all that God did! We had breakfast at the hotel and headed to Guarari. We began with our team devotion again in Philippians 2. Several of the points we discussed included putting others needs before ourselves, humbling ourselves and esteeming others. A challenge was issued to really look for ways to put this into practice and they really did! Each day has been so relevant to our teams needs. Today is very hot and this is going to be a severely poor area we will be working. Paul encouraged them to do everything without complaining or grumbling. Today is going to be hard – and they will need to keep this thought before them at all times. We are here to be light bearers – putting forth the Word of Hope – our attitudes and reactions have such an opportunity to shine. In addition to the work we hope to accomplish, we also want to encourage the pastor and his family. We need to be very careful to guard our actions and words keeping team members encouraged.
The housing changed drastically along the drive. Many homes would be condemned in the states. They were small, housing 5 or more family members with poorly affixed tin roofs. The bus got very quiet – eyes were wide! We pulled up beside a small yellow concrete house. Our job today is painting a portion of the parsonage. We met in the church behind the parsonage – this was a small building with wooden benches that could seat maybe 70 people. It was fenced in with a small play area out front. There was a tiny kitchen where ladies were busy fixing lunch. Jimmy took half the team to begin painting the walls and scraping paint off the bars that surrounded the house. It was hot! We had just begun our work when police came on the street – with rather large guns. A robbery had just occurred – eyes were wide – but the excitement ended with no consequence.
We spent several hours painting and scraping the home. The odor was a little strong and when scraping the paint was flying. We had brought towels to donate and had meant to leave half at the Abraham Project. But in our disorganization – we had not taken them. What we did not realize was God was providing them for this project. The students tied the towels around their faces – they looked like bandits. We painted the walls a bright yellow and the iron was painted a dark green. The home looked so nice freshened up. Again – we needed the provision of towels – the student had paint all over them- it was great to have the towels to clean up.
Many people stood at a distance on the street corners watching. This is such a poor area – I would love to know what they were thinking and saying to one another. The pastor so desires to be a beacon of hope – to offer the good news of Jesus in an area that seems to have no hope. Everyone worked diligently – they are so engaged in the mission part of this trip– many are disappointed not to have another day.
The ladies served a wonderful lunch of tuna salad, rice and vegetables, and chips. It was very good! We are learning to embrace the food. Most meals are a consada with a choice chicken, fish, or steak. Every meal has rice and beans. Usually at mealtime they are so hungry from all the work – they just are glad to eat! We quickly cleaned up and set up for Bible School – Chelsea H and Chynna had spent the morning arranging everything so we could move quickly.
At first, we only had a few children. The pastor Susan, Courtney, Erin, and Jimmy began walking the neighborhood and inviting children to join us. They were overwhelmed at the houses they saw. Susan described them as the size of 2 dugouts square– they were dug out into the ground with particle board sides and tin laid on top. It was so pitiful. They began with songs. Then our students sat on the floor of the church – most of them had 2 children and colored, made animals from pipe cleaners, made bracelets, etc. It truly was a tender site. Language was not a barrier because they were loving those children beyond words. Many of the boys went outside for soccer – slowly the girls went out and blew bubbles, jumped rope, and colored with chalk. This went on for a couple of hours. We handed out suckers and then cookies. It was great! As our time came to an end – everyone got into a huge circle. Jimmy shared the gospel. We sang Alabare and Jesus loves you – and then the crosses and Bibles were presented. Tears were flowing from team members and children. They were begging us to return. In a few short hours they had bonded. Crosses and Bibles were also given to the Pastor and ladies that cooked. We had about 8 mothers there and they received one as well. They were thrilled! As we drove off – many children chased the bus. It was overwhelming. Our students have been so broken by the conditions in which others live as well as the sheer hunger for affection these children long for. They are radically being changed!
We came back to the hotel and had about an hour before dinner – tonight there is a surprise. The students gathered by the pool and were ready for a treat – and they got one! Jimmy took them upstairs where there were 3 giant piles of pizza boxes. He had a tray and told them pizza was different in Costa Rica – he took the napkin off and presented them with a pizza with rice and beans on top! Eyes got wide – he then said the 3 piles were rice and beans pizza with chicken, steak, or fish. There was silence – some said no way – then he laughed and said – meat lovers, pepperoni, or cheese! Everyone died laughing! Of course –no food should be wasted – so any ate the rice and beans sample as well!
During devotion time, Jimmy read Hebrews 6. He encouraged them that it is not possible for God to lie. He has promised eternal life and a relationship with Him. Jimmy is 34 years old. He told them that in life they will have things happen to them and wonder why. Our students have been so overwhelmed with why they were born in the states and these they have served are so impoverished. We must have faith that God is in charge of all things. He calls us to have unwavering faith. These with nothing are doing that - it is not as easy for us because we have so much that we depend so little. He said that during the tough times in life we turn our eyes to God. God has spoken truth – He does not lie – He is waiting for each of us to step into the truth He has spoke – Jimmy asked them if they would be willing to take His words as the reality that they are? The seniors love Jimmy – he was raised in Costa Rica and only has become fluent in English in the last two years. Often it is broken – and some words are a little off – but the kids are hearing him speak from the heart about true faith in God. You can see the intensity and sincerity in his eyes as he speaks. He is inspiring them to a much deeper level of trust and faith and the need to deny self and serve!
During our share time many reflected on their time with the kids. Since most only had two children – they had such personal experiences. One small girl when given a Bible asked to be read to. One student said tearfully – that she came to serve them and instead she was being so blessed. We brought suncathers to give the children and one girl asked Jimmy what they were for – he explained and she said – I do not have windows in my house – so humbling. Over and over again our team members are feeling extreme shame for how ungrateful they live.
One team member expressed how wonderful this week has been – she said I can’t remember the last time I was this excited to read Bible! Oh praise!!!!! Others were overwhelmed that families of 6 live in houses smaller than their bedrooms!
One person said that where these kids live is a place we would not even want to go into to get something out of. Others remarked on the joy the children exude – it is so contagious! The boys said they had been given nicknames by their new friends – Brandon was big Joey, Andrew F was gringo, and Jonathan was Joseno.
One of the girls said she had learned this week that even if we don’t think we have something to give we always have God’s love to give. Another said that God can break down barriers like language. The children did not get frustrated when they/we could not understand each other. One girl said she is not a “touchy feely” person – but this week has been open to physical affection – God broke through her barrier. Another – who has an aversion to runny noses – wiped a nose and dirty mouth of a child. Another was reminded of what she learned in Hosea 11 and that God’s love transcends everything and breaks down barriers (like kids/crafts).
One of the boys acknowledged how fascinated he was by Jimmy’s language – being able to speak Spanish today in sharing the gospel and English well enough to speak to each of our hearts in devotion time. He acknowledged that he wished he took his Spanish class more seriously – all agreed.
I then challenged the students to really reflect about all the profound things God has taught you - what is He speaking to their hearts? I reminded them that if
we say that today is just another fun day – we have “missed” what has happened over the last few days. God is at work in these students’ hearts – and He will continue to work. He has so much in His word and in your prayer life that He desires to share with you – I challenged them not to deny Him the time or opportunity for Him to continue to speak to them.
I wish I had a new adjective to describe this week - I think I cannot find one because it is so far beyond description. I did not get to post this on Thursday because I have had the privilege of spending some personal one on one time with students. We have shared our hearts. Many are wrestling through some issues and are having encouraging breakthroughs. Oh how I pray that individuals will step up and continue one on one disciple time with each of these guys and girls when we get home. God has begun such a powerful work in them! They need your prayers and support when they get home!!! Keep praying – we love you all and look forward to the opportunity for you to hear from each of them how God has exploded in their lives! Tomorrow we head to La Fortuna.
Good Morning - Saturday
It is Saturday morning - I apologize for not posting again - our schedule has been so crazy - the students are doing amazing - thank you for all of the prayers - we are in La Fortuna - words cannot express how much every student in growing in their walk with the Lord - I wish I had time to write - but I will tonight or when we arrive home I will post things quickly. We definitely are going to plan a time of testimony - everyone is feeling great - prayers answered - we have no phone service - so Hunter Tyner Happy birthday - your sister really tried - but we will tonight - tomorrow we leave for the airport at 4 am - which will be 6 am your time - I have all ideas no one will go to bed tonight - but what is new! We love you all!
Friday, March 18, 2011
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