When we got to this village, we were told that no one except the pastor and his family would go to church. Apparently, there has been a lot of spiritual warfare and many bad things have happened to the pastor and his family. The most recent was the passing of his daughter shortly after giving birth to her 6th kid. When we asked one of the people in the village how many people attend their church, they responded with "people or demons?" We knew we were in for a much more difficult time.
We prayed a lot and slept very little in this village. Every day we had VBS and games with the kids. 2 o'clock bathing times with the village. Lots of funny moments as we tried to balance on logs so to not fall completely in the river but it didn't work. The water was refreshing but we never seemed to feel or smell clean!
The kids were attentive to our Bible stories and programs. Church services at night were interesting. Many kids came in but few adults. In fact, the adults would stand outside the church and watch our dramas, listen to us share testimonies and preach, but not come in. Even the nights we showed a movie (The Passion of the Christ)! We continued to pray and intercede on behalf of the village whenever we weren't in front of the church.
One of the last days we were there, the pastor and the mayor met with Randy and other men in the village. They had time of prayer and discussion and finally a break through happened between the pastor and the mayor where they confessed to each other for not respecting each other and holding up their end of responsibility. That night, the mayor rededicated his life to Christ.
We were able to fit many people in the village with eye glasses which were donated. The village seemed to come alive as we went door to door asking the women if they needed help and just serving them. We talked to them in spanglish, washed dishes with them, hung up their laundry and showed God's love.
Our sleeping arrangements were pretty rough, we slept in an open hut which allowed for dogs and cats to roam around our tents all night. We woke up with fresh bites (over 200 bites per person, no lie!) and constantly scratching, it was incredibly hot to play futbol with long pants and high socks on. Going to the bathroom was a chore and an experience every time, but through it all, I know that I can get through anything with God. In fact, coming away from that last intense village, I realized that in this next season, I will be happy anywhere there are children (besides the US). All I have to do now is let God guide me and be obedient :) Life is good with God!
I hope you all are doing well and staying refreshed in God's goodness and faithfulness! More VBS and church renovations in the city this week and back to the river next week!
Do not grow weary in doing good, for in due season, you will reap the harves- Galatians 6:9
