A rainy Sunday

This morning, we began our day of rest with Sunday school. A school bus was taken out into the community and children flock to it in order to attend Sunday school here at the Children's home. Even in the heat (no electricity = no fans), it was an experience I wouldn't want to miss. We had the added pleasure of meeting another mission group that was in the area. They came to the home this morning and led the children in songs and the bible story message. The children enjoyed singing and the bilingual service was a fun chance for our Ridge team to jump in and sing right along with the kids. Don't worry - there are photos and even a video!

We bonded with many of the village children during the brief snack time after service, which made the bus ride home even more personal. Taking the kids back into town after Sunday school was an experience in and of itself. We drove through town yesterday and the conditions were heartbreaking and eye opening even if you know what to expect. This time, we were now associating specific children with whom we had become fast friends to these huts and shacks. I know the experience was deeply moving for me and something I won't forget. The joy the children had this morning when coming here was obvious on their faces and it is easy to see why the Children's home is considered a beacon to them as well as the rest of the community. I look forward to seeing many of my new friends this week when they return for the feeding program.

Tonight we will have our own church service and begin a hard work day tomorrow. We got a great deal of rain today which will likely make things more difficult, but our team is motivated and hopefully we will be able to complete all of our intended projects before the week is up. We were all sad to lose power just before Skyping into service this morning, but overall today was a fun day even with the rain. The unknown forecast caused us to constantly change plans, but instead we had the chance to further our relationships with the children here at the home and also with each other. The laughter was abundant and I will go to bed with a smile on my face. Just another reminder that no matter what we have planned, the real plans are up to Him! He knows what is best and what we needed today. Whether that was worship, friendship, a cooling rain, rest, or all of the above - we were definitely blessed today.

Miranda G.