Load tents, crafts, sports equipment, lesson material, puppets, water and snacks; walk to invite children; and finally present everything with enthusiasm and love for them. Starting this past Wednesday, Team 2 began to serve at a colonia in Alton. We experienced physical tiredness but thanks to God for re-energizing us each day. Every day each member of the team was blessed to work with the children and some had the opportunity to also minister to the parents. The people at this colonia live without much everyday, but we were glad to see how simple actions of love through the activities brought smiles and laughter to the children. Yesterday, the VBS ended with snacks for everyone and small gifts for all the children. Our hearts rejoiced in seeing their happiness, but our desire is that they will experience the true joy that only God gives.
“But be glad and rejoice forever in what I will create, for I will create Jerusalem to be a delight and its people a joy.” Isaiah 65:18
We know that some material things are needed to live here on Earth but we cannot truly live without Jesus. He brings full purpose into our lives. I cannot imagine how difficult it is to go through trials without Jesus by our side, and that is why we hope that these parents and children keep the learned material from this week in their hearts and most importantly accept Jesus. Even though these families have gone through difficulties, we know and pray that God will keep working in their daily living. Jesus came to bring joy into the world. He delights in his children and our joy pleases him.
Yesterday also culminated the VBS at Principe de Paz. We were greatly blessed to see the children recite the memory verse and answer questions about what they had learned throughout the week. It’s always a little sad to say bye to the kids, but we were happy to see that God used the team in every role so that they would enjoy VBS in learning about Him.
Let’s continue to pray that all the seeds that are being planted in the hearts of the people will grow, be fruitful, and multiply.
Thank you for all your prayers,
Brenda R. Gonzalez
