Heading
Yesterday morning we were awakened around 6:30 AM, by drums and bells, which turned out to be a small marching ensemble playing Happy Birthday to Joven.
Micah led us in a devotion titled Transformed.
Romans 12:1-2 Don’t copy the behaviour and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. (NLT)
In addition to the usual ways we think about this verse-- ie: meditating on Scripture, avoiding harmful or excessive media consumption, we can also see how this type of trip can transform our thinking. We are reminded of what is important. Community, faith, showing love, joy and gratitude in the small things. The wealth and predictability of our own society is definitely is not the key to peace or lasting joy.
The kids are the most obvious example of this. Their enthusiasm is contagious. Yesterday we made bead bracelets with the five colours of the wordless book. Black to represent our sinful hearts. Red to remind us of Jesus atoning sacrifice, white to show the cleansing of our hearts upon belief and confession, yellow to remind us of the promise of our forever life with God, and green, representing new life and growth in Him. Today is our final day of VBS. May the kids both understand and receive the message of hope and life that Jesus brings, not just as a decision for today, but as a truly transformed life. Pray that those who commit to follow Christ this week will grow strong roots and continue on in faith.
The houses are nearly done. A number of painters and builders gave up recreation time to stay on track. Tomorrow, before we head out, each home will be blessed and dedicated.
Last night we enjoyed another birthday celebration with Joven. This feast was put on by the staff here at the Oasis and included a roast pig! Unfortunately Anita had a cold and wasn’t able to be here for all the festivities. Pray she would continue to feel better and that the rest of us would remain in good shape for our travels tomorrow.
The evening ended with an informal and enjoyable sing-along led by Adrian, one of the Filipino teens here who sings and plays guitar. Though it began with a few secular songs, they switched to heartfelt worship songs in English and Tagalog.
We end our time here with gratitude. Thanks to God and to you for your prayers for his hand of protection. Of several scraps, cuts, bruises, falling off a ladder and a jellyfish sting, none have turned out to be anything major. May he continue to transform hearts and minds, both those we have ministered to and our own.
