It is not very often that you get to be part of an event that can impact your life and others in such a meaningful way. Often when we go on mission trips, we are the ones who want to be able to shine God's love and bless those around us. Incredibly, it is often we who walk away feeling so blessed.
This afternoon, after completing the final two homes, we met with all of the families for a key giving ceremony. The ceremony started off with some praise and worship. With a band consisting of keyboard, bass guitar, electric guitar and drums, the songs were uplifting and soulful. The pastor then shared a full gospel message devotional which was clear about God's unconditional love and desire to have a relationship with everyone. An invitation was given to make a commitment to follow the Lord and many of the families chose to become believers!
After praying for these families, we moved into handing out the keys and Bible's to each family. We each prepared a few sentences and shared a scripture. Some of the families shared a few words back to our El Salvador team. Happiness, joy and pride were clearly evident as the keys and Bibles were put into the hands of the new home owners. 12 new homes had been completed in two and a half days...how incredibly awesome for these families.
Walking away from this event today had me pondering about many things. It made me think of how many blessings I have at home and take for granted. How many times do I walk into my home and not thank the Lord that I have roof over my head and walls to protect me from the elements. How many times do I complain about having to cook another meal, when some of these families can hardly make ends meet.
It was clearly evident that the small home was a new beginning for some, a form of protection for all and health for those who were living in environments no one should be living in. They were clearly touched by all the efforts made by everyone involved. Even though we have been able to bless these families with homes, I am also walking away blessed. I am walking away with a whole new appreciation for the blessings God has given me...and with a whole new desire to not take things for granted.
What a great day for all!
Thankyou for blessing us with your blogs, clearly written with abundant joy in your hearts and a deserved degree of satisfaction at achieving your home building goal in such a short period of time. We thank our Heavenly Father for each one of you and rejoice in the permanent impact you have made in the practical and spiritual needs of the families. They will never forget your love! Safe travels ...until we welcome you home. Art and Val Barkey
ReplyDeletePriceless! God at work in a powerful way!
ReplyDeletePriceless! God at work in a powerful way!
ReplyDeleteSo great to read about your adventure. Praying for you all!
ReplyDeleteThere's nothing like the privilege of serving in this way. Once you experience this, you are never the same again. The graciousness of these people is like no other. They have taught me so much. Blessings on the team
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