On a pervious mission trip down to Mexico, the words I found convicting me were "to him much is given much will be required." I knew God had given me many talents, ablitites and resources, yet at that point I knew I had been squandering them and not using them to bring about His glory.

After a few years and some spiritual growth, I found myself on a plane rapidly approaching Peru with many fears raging inside me. My prayer was two-fold: that God would help me do what I needed to despite my fears and that He use me. My prayers were answered beyond expectation. I didn't need to work despite fear; it was completely removed from me. I am beinging to understand that perfect love drives away all fears. I am surrounded by love--love from those back home praying for me, love from fellow team members, love from the children, and love from the neighbors in the community in which we are working. When I prayed "God use me" I also prayed that my pervious experiences be enough to equip me for the work ahead. I work in a daycare so I knew God use that time there. What I didn't know was that even in my childhood God was preparing me for this trip. I spent much of my younger years digging in the dirt piles while my dad worked on building our home. Now at the end of the day I am covered once again covered in dirt from in my hair to in my shoes. I am helping clear away an old pig sty, removing the old rubble so something new and beautiful may come.

I think this trip I will come away with I am blessed to be a blessing. From the silly things I occupied my time with while I was young to my hopes and drams for the future, I find God working in it all.

Is This It????/

That was the question that went whizzing past Brenda's head as her and Judy walked into the girl's dorm at Hogar de Ninos. Is this all these girls own? The sad fact, Brenda said, is that she brought more in her suitcases than girls own at the orphanage. Kinda a commentary on the American way of life, hmmmmmmmmm.......

Peru Passport

This trip has been described with such words as magical, progress in action, joy, and faith. It seems like God is everyone, in all the details and people. The team enjoyed church on Sunday where the children of different ages recited memorized Bible verses and songs and danced as they praised God. The children and people were so gracious and warm and stopped the service to greet us. (Peruvian time can be a little flexible!). The children at Hogar de Ninos are truly a family. We enjoyed a day at the park after church where we, kids and adults alike, played and laughed. For a first workday, it felt like we had been working together all week. Bricks and mortar were knocked down, supplies were sorted, lights and electricity enstalled, and then we were able to enjoy an art project "We are created as God's Workmanship" where the children painted masks. What joy and vibrancy and love. It is winter here, cold and dreary, rather bleak landscape, yet everyone filled with energy and joy, especially the orphans. Blessing to all who are supporting this trip with prayers! It is felt! the July Peru team