Big things can happen even when we offer the shortest, tiniest prayer. I fully believe God adores our big long prayers as well as our short, to the point prayers. The Holy Spirit takes all of our prayers and lays them at Jesus' s feet. Thank you, Lord!
The orphanage that LCF supports in Haiti especially needs prayers right now. Satan is trying to get a grip around certain aspects and certain people in Haiti that directly impact the children. The prayer team is asking anyone that reads this post to pray Big, pray Often, and to pray Over the decisions that need to be made for God's will concerning the children's well-being.
Matthew 17:20
He replied, "Because you have so little faith, I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
Blessings,
Amy
Friday, April 29, 2011
Friday, April 22, 2011
Good Friday wishes
I miss the children! Strange, I know, since I have never met them. It has been a couple of weeks since the Haiti team visited the children at St. Louis. I love hearing their stories about how the children are doing. I especially love imagining their smiles and giggles.
I was reflecting on the fact that today is Good Friday. The day Jesus told the world, "I pick you" over his own life. It is an overwhelmingly beautiful thought. I imagine that being an orphan can lead to thoughts of abandonment and that no one cares. The greatest thing that we can do for the orphans is to let them know about Jesus and his unfailing love for each one of their sweet faces. To let them know that God is whispering in their sweet ears, "I pick you, come follow me, I will never forsake you".
Take time to pray for God to continue to guide the children to Him. They are precious in His sight!
Blessings,
Amy
I was reflecting on the fact that today is Good Friday. The day Jesus told the world, "I pick you" over his own life. It is an overwhelmingly beautiful thought. I imagine that being an orphan can lead to thoughts of abandonment and that no one cares. The greatest thing that we can do for the orphans is to let them know about Jesus and his unfailing love for each one of their sweet faces. To let them know that God is whispering in their sweet ears, "I pick you, come follow me, I will never forsake you".
Take time to pray for God to continue to guide the children to Him. They are precious in His sight!
Blessings,
Amy
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Psalm 19:1
All week long, the prayer team felt two themes for this Haiti trip: joy and God's mighty power. No matter where the team was yesterday, you can sense from the blog that they felt God's joy pouring out on the children and God's mighty power as he orchestrated the time with the villagers during the showing of the Jesus film. May the seeds that were planted yesterday spread across Haiti! Pray big!
Today's verse: Psalm 19:1
The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
Continue to pray for the team today as they leave the orphanage. Pray that tears of sadness turn to tears of joy of good memories. Pray for the safety of the team and for smooth travel as they travel back to PAP today and then leave for home tomorrow. And one last thing, please take a moment to thank God for how he orchestrated this week through the happy times and even through the struggles.
Blessings,
Amy
Today's verse: Psalm 19:1
The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
Continue to pray for the team today as they leave the orphanage. Pray that tears of sadness turn to tears of joy of good memories. Pray for the safety of the team and for smooth travel as they travel back to PAP today and then leave for home tomorrow. And one last thing, please take a moment to thank God for how he orchestrated this week through the happy times and even through the struggles.
Blessings,
Amy
Day 6
From Saturday
Today felt like a day full of accomplishment. We started off in your standard size school bus instead of our typical passenger van packed with about seven bags of clothes and additional supplies we still had to give out to the mommas and children. Samuel, our interpreter even got a little western wear. He is such a blessing to have with us. As we pulled into St. Louis, Scott had already effectively delegated duties as we were on a tight schedule today in hopes to get everything we had planned to complete.
Several of the ladies were busy laying out all the clothes to distribute. Jewel worked closely with Madame Pastor as she helped to evenly distribute the clothes. They were very grateful and a resounding thank you was given.
The library was in full use this morning with new toys breaking the scene. Puzzles and zooming cars were keeping kids busy, while Linda was having tea parties with all the boys and girls. Other girls enjoyed the baby dolls. Sarah and Andrea completed the last of the children getting their checkups.
We also had the men pulling up the bunk mats that the children sleep on to take outside and spray down with a bleach solution and dry in the heat of the sun to eradicate any remnants of scabies and other diseases that remained. We finished in very little time so we split up in teams of three to walk the street inviting the patrons of the town to our Jesus movie that afternoon. It was an eye opening experience to be a part of the culture and feel the way of living so close. We made our way back to St. Louis and gathered the children into the bus and began our trek about 30 minutes east to the beach.
We were excited to see the children’s faces when they set their feet on the sand and see a glimpse of the beauty God has created for us. It was funny to see that most of them were rather intimidated by the water. It took our hands holding theirs or picking them up and wading in the shallow water to build up their confidence. There were about 15 brave souls that were comfortable enough to walk down the shore and get their feet wet. Many were playing under the shade of the palm trees with the various sport toys that we brought along. We made them peanut butter and honey sandwiches and gave them fruit juice to help finish off the last of their antibiotic pills. Amazed by how well they listen and wait patiently in line, we attended to all the children in less then 30 minutes. Our time was cut shorter then expected because the weather looked like it was going to rain on our parade… AND…we still had all the bunk mats sitting outside in the heat that needed to be put back in the dorm rooms.
We pulled back into St Louis surprised to see that the mats had been moved indoors. Several of the men, with the assistance of the momma’s, put them back in their places while the ladies got out their buckets and soap to start washing the children’s hands and feet. It was humbling to sit next to Brandi while she prayed over and washed the hands of several young boys. Kelsey, Aubrey, Lisa, and Andrea manned the other soap stations washing hands, scrubbing nails and then applying lotion. I was cracking up because a few of the children would take and wipe the lotion from their hands on their faces and legs to make them smoother.
The church started filling up with those that we had invited earlier in the day. We passed out peanut butter and honey sandwiches to all the guests and shortly thereafter, started the movie. A rough count of about 180 filled the church walls and there was an anticipated silence as it began. Our prayer is that a seed was planted where fertile ground was ready.
Sunday is going to be a tough. Anticipation has already set in and the children know we will be leaving. We will miss their smiles, we will miss their giggles, and we will miss the hands that come up behind us to hold ours and the hug from behind showing just how much they can love. Love breaks the boundaries of verbal communication. We have seen it everyday. Thank you for your prayers back at LCF. Please keep Aubrey in your prayers as she is under the weather tonight.
In God’s Grace,
Travis and Brandi
Today felt like a day full of accomplishment. We started off in your standard size school bus instead of our typical passenger van packed with about seven bags of clothes and additional supplies we still had to give out to the mommas and children. Samuel, our interpreter even got a little western wear. He is such a blessing to have with us. As we pulled into St. Louis, Scott had already effectively delegated duties as we were on a tight schedule today in hopes to get everything we had planned to complete.
Several of the ladies were busy laying out all the clothes to distribute. Jewel worked closely with Madame Pastor as she helped to evenly distribute the clothes. They were very grateful and a resounding thank you was given.
The library was in full use this morning with new toys breaking the scene. Puzzles and zooming cars were keeping kids busy, while Linda was having tea parties with all the boys and girls. Other girls enjoyed the baby dolls. Sarah and Andrea completed the last of the children getting their checkups.
We also had the men pulling up the bunk mats that the children sleep on to take outside and spray down with a bleach solution and dry in the heat of the sun to eradicate any remnants of scabies and other diseases that remained. We finished in very little time so we split up in teams of three to walk the street inviting the patrons of the town to our Jesus movie that afternoon. It was an eye opening experience to be a part of the culture and feel the way of living so close. We made our way back to St. Louis and gathered the children into the bus and began our trek about 30 minutes east to the beach.
We were excited to see the children’s faces when they set their feet on the sand and see a glimpse of the beauty God has created for us. It was funny to see that most of them were rather intimidated by the water. It took our hands holding theirs or picking them up and wading in the shallow water to build up their confidence. There were about 15 brave souls that were comfortable enough to walk down the shore and get their feet wet. Many were playing under the shade of the palm trees with the various sport toys that we brought along. We made them peanut butter and honey sandwiches and gave them fruit juice to help finish off the last of their antibiotic pills. Amazed by how well they listen and wait patiently in line, we attended to all the children in less then 30 minutes. Our time was cut shorter then expected because the weather looked like it was going to rain on our parade… AND…we still had all the bunk mats sitting outside in the heat that needed to be put back in the dorm rooms.
We pulled back into St Louis surprised to see that the mats had been moved indoors. Several of the men, with the assistance of the momma’s, put them back in their places while the ladies got out their buckets and soap to start washing the children’s hands and feet. It was humbling to sit next to Brandi while she prayed over and washed the hands of several young boys. Kelsey, Aubrey, Lisa, and Andrea manned the other soap stations washing hands, scrubbing nails and then applying lotion. I was cracking up because a few of the children would take and wipe the lotion from their hands on their faces and legs to make them smoother.
The church started filling up with those that we had invited earlier in the day. We passed out peanut butter and honey sandwiches to all the guests and shortly thereafter, started the movie. A rough count of about 180 filled the church walls and there was an anticipated silence as it began. Our prayer is that a seed was planted where fertile ground was ready.
Sunday is going to be a tough. Anticipation has already set in and the children know we will be leaving. We will miss their smiles, we will miss their giggles, and we will miss the hands that come up behind us to hold ours and the hug from behind showing just how much they can love. Love breaks the boundaries of verbal communication. We have seen it everyday. Thank you for your prayers back at LCF. Please keep Aubrey in your prayers as she is under the weather tonight.
In God’s Grace,
Travis and Brandi
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Deuteronomy 33:12
A day like today makes Satan mad. He doesn't want the team to have a blessed day with the children and the mommas at the beach. Satan doesn't want the team to share the gospel to the people. Please take time to pray over the last full day that the team has with the orphans and the people there. Satan is furious. You know what? God will always be victorious! Pray, pray,pray today!
Today's verse: Deuteronomy 33:12
About Benjamin he said: "Let the beloved of the Lord rest secure in him, for he shields him all day long, and the one the Lord loves rests between his shoulders."
Take a moment to picture that verse. Then picture the LCF team, the children, and the people in the village being able to rest between God's shoulders...beautiful verse to consider as the team fulfills God's purpose.
Blessings,
Amy
Today's verse: Deuteronomy 33:12
About Benjamin he said: "Let the beloved of the Lord rest secure in him, for he shields him all day long, and the one the Lord loves rests between his shoulders."
Take a moment to picture that verse. Then picture the LCF team, the children, and the people in the village being able to rest between God's shoulders...beautiful verse to consider as the team fulfills God's purpose.
Blessings,
Amy
Friday, April 8, 2011
Day 5
Hey from Haiti!
Praise God!..today was such a fun and encouraging day! It rained again today. I am loving the correlation between prayer and the rain..thank you prayer team! The kids did not have school today so we had a full day to play with them!! The team got kids in the library to play today and they had a blast! The kids loved all of the toys and reading the books. I was really surprised at how well clean-up went (definitely better than the average American play room). We are hoping that the library will get used more often. The kids are very well behaved. We also played games and sang songs in the school room like down by the banks, the hokey pokey, and Father Abraham (which the kids thought was hilarious). The rain stopped and we had more time with the kids outside. The men worked in the rain and finished the roof today! They had quite an audience of kids watching. Scott hit his finger with a hammer (its pretty blueish/blackish). The men worked very hard and got very sweaty so they are getting the first showers tonight. The men also put a cross, which they made, on the front of the church. Not long after they were asked to take it down because it is mainly a Catholic symbol here and the pastor's wife did not want it there. We got a picture outside the church with the cross on it before it was taken down. We also had a couple pretty sweet dance parties outside today..even the mommas were getting into it. We are all very encouraged at the way the mommas have been involved in the activities and are much much more receptive to us. Several women have gotten hugs or at least a bunch of smiles and waves from them! We discovered outfits for the mommas in one of the bags tonight and are majorly pumped to give them to them! Please continue to pray for the mommas and our bond with them. I volunteered to do laundry this week and they are lovin’ it. The mommas work very hard with the resources they have. The VBS today was about the resurrection. The kids had another coloring sheet, which they always love. They also got egg shakers and toilet paper tubes to color, shower with stickers, and yell threw (of course the stickers also ended up on their faces and clothes). The kids had a blast singing and using their instruments. We went out to dinner at a restaurant in downtown Les Cayes with Samuel and Sarah tonight which was fun and delicious. We discovered that Nelson, our driver, speaks Spanish so he and I talked as the team fed me questions to ask him. He was very grateful to be able to converse with us and I’m sure he was very entertained as we were all cracking up. Sara and helpers completed the assessments of the younger girls today. We haven’t had our nightly meeting, worship, and prayer yet but we had great fellowship again today. I have been very blessed by the other team members this week. It’s crazy to think that today is Friday..that means one more full day with the kiddos. It definitely gets harder and harder to say goodbye and the end of each day. My little buddy Mardoche, who is very shy and quiet and rarely talks, laughs, or smiles has been opening up to me more and more each day. I put him down today to say bye to the other kiddos and he immediately jumped right back up into my arms. Hanging with these kids and this team has definitely given me a very cool picture of God’s love and challenging me to go all out to share it. We all continue to be blessed with the service at the Pastor Louis’ house. Please pray for them as well. The plan is to take the kiddos and perhaps the mommas to the beach for a few hours tomorrow. They have been looking forward to the beach all week. Please pray for sweet time there. We also plan to show the Jesus film tomorrow and have tracts to pass out to the people that come. Please pray that the Lord would work through the movie and that time and bring lots of people. Well thanks again for all of the prayers!
With love and blessings,
Kelsey (with some input from Greg)
Praise God!..today was such a fun and encouraging day! It rained again today. I am loving the correlation between prayer and the rain..thank you prayer team! The kids did not have school today so we had a full day to play with them!! The team got kids in the library to play today and they had a blast! The kids loved all of the toys and reading the books. I was really surprised at how well clean-up went (definitely better than the average American play room). We are hoping that the library will get used more often. The kids are very well behaved. We also played games and sang songs in the school room like down by the banks, the hokey pokey, and Father Abraham (which the kids thought was hilarious). The rain stopped and we had more time with the kids outside. The men worked in the rain and finished the roof today! They had quite an audience of kids watching. Scott hit his finger with a hammer (its pretty blueish/blackish). The men worked very hard and got very sweaty so they are getting the first showers tonight. The men also put a cross, which they made, on the front of the church. Not long after they were asked to take it down because it is mainly a Catholic symbol here and the pastor's wife did not want it there. We got a picture outside the church with the cross on it before it was taken down. We also had a couple pretty sweet dance parties outside today..even the mommas were getting into it. We are all very encouraged at the way the mommas have been involved in the activities and are much much more receptive to us. Several women have gotten hugs or at least a bunch of smiles and waves from them! We discovered outfits for the mommas in one of the bags tonight and are majorly pumped to give them to them! Please continue to pray for the mommas and our bond with them. I volunteered to do laundry this week and they are lovin’ it. The mommas work very hard with the resources they have. The VBS today was about the resurrection. The kids had another coloring sheet, which they always love. They also got egg shakers and toilet paper tubes to color, shower with stickers, and yell threw (of course the stickers also ended up on their faces and clothes). The kids had a blast singing and using their instruments. We went out to dinner at a restaurant in downtown Les Cayes with Samuel and Sarah tonight which was fun and delicious. We discovered that Nelson, our driver, speaks Spanish so he and I talked as the team fed me questions to ask him. He was very grateful to be able to converse with us and I’m sure he was very entertained as we were all cracking up. Sara and helpers completed the assessments of the younger girls today. We haven’t had our nightly meeting, worship, and prayer yet but we had great fellowship again today. I have been very blessed by the other team members this week. It’s crazy to think that today is Friday..that means one more full day with the kiddos. It definitely gets harder and harder to say goodbye and the end of each day. My little buddy Mardoche, who is very shy and quiet and rarely talks, laughs, or smiles has been opening up to me more and more each day. I put him down today to say bye to the other kiddos and he immediately jumped right back up into my arms. Hanging with these kids and this team has definitely given me a very cool picture of God’s love and challenging me to go all out to share it. We all continue to be blessed with the service at the Pastor Louis’ house. Please pray for them as well. The plan is to take the kiddos and perhaps the mommas to the beach for a few hours tomorrow. They have been looking forward to the beach all week. Please pray for sweet time there. We also plan to show the Jesus film tomorrow and have tracts to pass out to the people that come. Please pray that the Lord would work through the movie and that time and bring lots of people. Well thanks again for all of the prayers!
With love and blessings,
Kelsey (with some input from Greg)
Isaiah 40:11
I just read the Day 4 blog. The team talked about the rain yesterday. The daily blogs from the teams are so inspiring. I cannot wait for each post to see what God is doing through the team and how we can pray for them.
I felt lead to share a correlation between Day 4 post and the prayer team's gatherings...After the prayer meeting last night, I received a text from Janese asking for a specific prayer for Samuel, the interpreter. He is a man of God that interprets each time the team is in Haiti. My text back to Janese and Scott was, "Let me just say that the team and everyone involved has been BATHED in prayer. I am surprised if they don't feel dripping wet from our showering of prayers." Little did I know when I sent the text that the team actually did get rained on yesterday AND the mamas washed their feet in a humbling act of kindness. God supplies the needs of all involved with LCF Haiti even through a rainstorm AND the team hopefully feels a showering of prayers from us as well. PRAISE GOD for a new day!
Today's verse was inspired by Cindy, one of the prayer team members. The verse comes by accident and she may not even realize that her typo in a text lead to a beautiful verse for today.
Isaiah 40:11
He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.
Blessings,
Amy
I felt lead to share a correlation between Day 4 post and the prayer team's gatherings...After the prayer meeting last night, I received a text from Janese asking for a specific prayer for Samuel, the interpreter. He is a man of God that interprets each time the team is in Haiti. My text back to Janese and Scott was, "Let me just say that the team and everyone involved has been BATHED in prayer. I am surprised if they don't feel dripping wet from our showering of prayers." Little did I know when I sent the text that the team actually did get rained on yesterday AND the mamas washed their feet in a humbling act of kindness. God supplies the needs of all involved with LCF Haiti even through a rainstorm AND the team hopefully feels a showering of prayers from us as well. PRAISE GOD for a new day!
Today's verse was inspired by Cindy, one of the prayer team members. The verse comes by accident and she may not even realize that her typo in a text lead to a beautiful verse for today.
Isaiah 40:11
He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.
Blessings,
Amy
Day 4
From Thursday
Bonjour!
Thank you God, for the way you have created the sun to rise and shine light on a new day. “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalms 118:24. This is the overall feeling we received this morning as our group began the day. Last night as we talked about the many unexpected discouragements we faced that day, we went to the Lord in prayer and gave our burdens over to Him. This followed by a few hours of praise and scripture sharing (as Drew and Sara have already mentioned) prepared us to start fresh today.
After breakfast we loaded up as usual and headed to the orphanage. We traveled through some small patches of rain but were hopeful they would not follow us to our final destination. However, that was not the case. The men had just gotten underway on the roof project and the kids had headed back to class after their morning break when the rain began to fall. After the men had received a good bath while gathering their tools our team convened in the orphanage clinic to wait out the rain. The ladies prepared to bring children through the clinic for their health screenings as the men headed to the church to repair some worn out pews.
Scott missed out on the fun as he had already left with two of the children (Windy and Rosela) to go to the medical clinic in Les Cayes for further test. After the testing that took place Sara was able to start Rosela on an anti-biotic for a minor infection and we are awaiting results on blood tests before taking further action. Windy was examined by an eye doctor who thinks he has a cataract on his left eye that could possibly require surgery. So progress on medical issues are certainly taking place.
Back at the orphanage Sara and many other team members were able give all of the boys their health screening along with a lot of personal love and attention. This involved height and weight tests along with general questions to help us learn more about the kids.
God continued to sprinkle in many blessings as the day went on. A large amount of mud was created due to the abundance of rain. Two of the children and one of the mommas were able to bless Lisa, Aubrey, and Jewel by washing their feet. Lisa later mentioned, “We came to serve them and here they are washing our feet, what a humbling experience.” With the rain postponing the construction on the roof the men were able to spend more time with the kids as they awaited their turn in the clinic. The mommas shared smiles throughout the day and as we left said they would see us tomorrow as they waved good bye. This progress with the mommas is an answer to prayer and a drastic improvement, even from the day before.
Drew and Sara had requested prayer for the meeting Scott was to have today. Thank you for those prayers. The meeting that was planned did not end up taking place; however, Scott and Drew were able to meet with Pastor Louis this evening. They both said they felt the meeting went well and please continue to pray as they seek God’s face concerning our kids.
We are thanking the Lord for His abundant grace and the many blessings He is pouring out on us daily.
Thank you for all your prayers,
Tyler and Andrea
Bonjour!
Thank you God, for the way you have created the sun to rise and shine light on a new day. “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalms 118:24. This is the overall feeling we received this morning as our group began the day. Last night as we talked about the many unexpected discouragements we faced that day, we went to the Lord in prayer and gave our burdens over to Him. This followed by a few hours of praise and scripture sharing (as Drew and Sara have already mentioned) prepared us to start fresh today.
After breakfast we loaded up as usual and headed to the orphanage. We traveled through some small patches of rain but were hopeful they would not follow us to our final destination. However, that was not the case. The men had just gotten underway on the roof project and the kids had headed back to class after their morning break when the rain began to fall. After the men had received a good bath while gathering their tools our team convened in the orphanage clinic to wait out the rain. The ladies prepared to bring children through the clinic for their health screenings as the men headed to the church to repair some worn out pews.
Scott missed out on the fun as he had already left with two of the children (Windy and Rosela) to go to the medical clinic in Les Cayes for further test. After the testing that took place Sara was able to start Rosela on an anti-biotic for a minor infection and we are awaiting results on blood tests before taking further action. Windy was examined by an eye doctor who thinks he has a cataract on his left eye that could possibly require surgery. So progress on medical issues are certainly taking place.
Back at the orphanage Sara and many other team members were able give all of the boys their health screening along with a lot of personal love and attention. This involved height and weight tests along with general questions to help us learn more about the kids.
God continued to sprinkle in many blessings as the day went on. A large amount of mud was created due to the abundance of rain. Two of the children and one of the mommas were able to bless Lisa, Aubrey, and Jewel by washing their feet. Lisa later mentioned, “We came to serve them and here they are washing our feet, what a humbling experience.” With the rain postponing the construction on the roof the men were able to spend more time with the kids as they awaited their turn in the clinic. The mommas shared smiles throughout the day and as we left said they would see us tomorrow as they waved good bye. This progress with the mommas is an answer to prayer and a drastic improvement, even from the day before.
Drew and Sara had requested prayer for the meeting Scott was to have today. Thank you for those prayers. The meeting that was planned did not end up taking place; however, Scott and Drew were able to meet with Pastor Louis this evening. They both said they felt the meeting went well and please continue to pray as they seek God’s face concerning our kids.
We are thanking the Lord for His abundant grace and the many blessings He is pouring out on us daily.
Thank you for all your prayers,
Tyler and Andrea
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Romans 8:28 and Ephesians 6:10-20
The prayer team has been praying in earnest for the Haiti team as they are facing trials as well as times of joy on the trip. We sense a spiritual battle happening. Satan does not want us there helping the children in the orphanage. But God has other plans. Please pray in earnest for Scott and for the team today as they face some tough situations. Pray that God shows them His desire and His purpose for the children. Their basic needs must be met. Our main mission is that these children find Jesus in their mind, body, and soul.
Thank you, God, ahead of time for Your will in this situation. Thank you for being right there alongside Scott and the team as they just want to do Your work for the least of these...the precious children.
Romans 8:28: And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Ephesians 6: 10-20: The Armor of God (These are too beautiful and powerful of verses for me to type...take some time today to read them in your Bible)
Blessings,
Amy
Thank you, God, ahead of time for Your will in this situation. Thank you for being right there alongside Scott and the team as they just want to do Your work for the least of these...the precious children.
Romans 8:28: And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Ephesians 6: 10-20: The Armor of God (These are too beautiful and powerful of verses for me to type...take some time today to read them in your Bible)
Blessings,
Amy
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Day 3
As we write this, it is 10:45 PM and the team is still together following our 8 PM meeting—still worshipping, praying, sharing Scripture with one another. There is a sense that we must come together and rely upon God’s power more than we were prepared to do when we woke up today. Some extra time before his throne will help, and we all know it.
During the debriefing session at the beginning of our meeting, as we shared our hearts’ reflections on the day, there was one major theme: discouragement. Maybe not what you expected to hear, but if we are honest, it is true. We experienced some things today that caused our hearts to hurt . . .
The two of us (Drew and Sara) took eight of the kids to a medical clinic in Les Cayes. One kid, Windy (new since January) does not use his left eye (we’re thinking he may be blind in that eye). Another, Rosela, has been ailing for a while, and we were hoping for a diagnosis for her prolonged disability and suffering. The other six have an itch outbreak on their skin. After sitting in the waiting room for a while (precious time with those kiddos!), the kids were rushed one-by-one in front of the “doctor,” and he hurried through, not answering Sara’s questions and not giving us anything conclusive.
The rest of the team experienced disappointment in St. Louis at the hands of the administration of our orphanage. Kelsey, Lisa, Jewel, Linda, Brandi, Aubrey and Andrea made a concerted effort to reach out to the mommas, but the mommas were defensive and disengaged. Meanwhile, the kids did not eat all day until 4:45 PM when they were treated to a pudding mixture of flour, sugar, and water. Add in the fact that there are rising tensions between our administration and El Shaddai Ministries, and we have a recipe for tension and sadness.
The day was certainly not all cast in gloom. There were several sprinkles of light along the way! Later in the day, Jewel received a hug from two of the mommas who appreciated the shoes we brought for them (the kids got them too). Kelsey and others heard several “mesi”s (“thank you”s) from them after helping with the laundry. The two of us received a love note from Rosela while we waited at the clinic. Travis had the whole camp busting tunes after they attended his spontaneous beep-box and rhythm class. Greg had a kid attempt to share half of his granola bar after Greg gave it to him. Linda is now known as “crazy lady” after she told the kids that “sweet potatoes have eyes” in Creole (she was trying to tell them to share!) Travis, Tyler, and Greg got started constructing the roof for the latrine. All of the ladies had the opportunity to pray with Sarah (our translator Samuel’s girlfriend) and hear her testimony. What a tangible, powerful reminder that there are Haitians who worship our Lord passionately!
These moments cause us to fall deeper in love with our kids. As Linda said tonight, we feel like we each have about 90 Haitian kids of our own now. And this is why we are so disheartened when we realize that they are not being cared for to the fullest potential. Please pray for Scott as he prepares to have a tough conversation with some leaders tomorrow. Pray for us, that God would continue to supply us with his energy and love to pour out on the kids. Pray for our kids, that God would care for them with his omnipotent hands.
It was sweet time tonight with the team tonight. We are leaning on the Lord and leaning on each other as we minister together. Please join with us in seeking God’s power and control over our situation. He is the King. We are simply serving him and trusting Him.
With love,
Drew and Sara
During the debriefing session at the beginning of our meeting, as we shared our hearts’ reflections on the day, there was one major theme: discouragement. Maybe not what you expected to hear, but if we are honest, it is true. We experienced some things today that caused our hearts to hurt . . .
The two of us (Drew and Sara) took eight of the kids to a medical clinic in Les Cayes. One kid, Windy (new since January) does not use his left eye (we’re thinking he may be blind in that eye). Another, Rosela, has been ailing for a while, and we were hoping for a diagnosis for her prolonged disability and suffering. The other six have an itch outbreak on their skin. After sitting in the waiting room for a while (precious time with those kiddos!), the kids were rushed one-by-one in front of the “doctor,” and he hurried through, not answering Sara’s questions and not giving us anything conclusive.
The rest of the team experienced disappointment in St. Louis at the hands of the administration of our orphanage. Kelsey, Lisa, Jewel, Linda, Brandi, Aubrey and Andrea made a concerted effort to reach out to the mommas, but the mommas were defensive and disengaged. Meanwhile, the kids did not eat all day until 4:45 PM when they were treated to a pudding mixture of flour, sugar, and water. Add in the fact that there are rising tensions between our administration and El Shaddai Ministries, and we have a recipe for tension and sadness.
The day was certainly not all cast in gloom. There were several sprinkles of light along the way! Later in the day, Jewel received a hug from two of the mommas who appreciated the shoes we brought for them (the kids got them too). Kelsey and others heard several “mesi”s (“thank you”s) from them after helping with the laundry. The two of us received a love note from Rosela while we waited at the clinic. Travis had the whole camp busting tunes after they attended his spontaneous beep-box and rhythm class. Greg had a kid attempt to share half of his granola bar after Greg gave it to him. Linda is now known as “crazy lady” after she told the kids that “sweet potatoes have eyes” in Creole (she was trying to tell them to share!) Travis, Tyler, and Greg got started constructing the roof for the latrine. All of the ladies had the opportunity to pray with Sarah (our translator Samuel’s girlfriend) and hear her testimony. What a tangible, powerful reminder that there are Haitians who worship our Lord passionately!
These moments cause us to fall deeper in love with our kids. As Linda said tonight, we feel like we each have about 90 Haitian kids of our own now. And this is why we are so disheartened when we realize that they are not being cared for to the fullest potential. Please pray for Scott as he prepares to have a tough conversation with some leaders tomorrow. Pray for us, that God would continue to supply us with his energy and love to pour out on the kids. Pray for our kids, that God would care for them with his omnipotent hands.
It was sweet time tonight with the team tonight. We are leaning on the Lord and leaning on each other as we minister together. Please join with us in seeking God’s power and control over our situation. He is the King. We are simply serving him and trusting Him.
With love,
Drew and Sara
Philippians 4:19
Last week I was thinking about the Haiti team and the children waiting to see the team. The children's song, "Jesus Loves Me" came to my mind. I started singing the song but changed it to "Jesus Loves You" and praying that the children would know that they are loved by us and, most importantly, by Jesus. They are so precious.
Please pray for two of the children with medical issues. The team will hopefully be able to take them to a clinic to find out answers to their needs. Pray as the team interacts with the children and plays with them. Imagine the smiles on the team's faces as well as the children's faces. It will make your day brighter :)
Today's verse:
Philippians 4:19
And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
Blessings,
Amy
Please pray for two of the children with medical issues. The team will hopefully be able to take them to a clinic to find out answers to their needs. Pray as the team interacts with the children and plays with them. Imagine the smiles on the team's faces as well as the children's faces. It will make your day brighter :)
Today's verse:
Philippians 4:19
And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
Blessings,
Amy
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Day 2
Okay, forewarning, I’m long-winded.
It seemed as though everyone woke up this morning feeling pretty refreshed, even though we didn’t get a ton of sleep last night! Today was the first time for me and many others on this team to be here in Haiti and also to see the orphanage. The roads here are…bumpy. Sometimes they’re non existent. In fact, in both going to the place that we’re staying in Les Cayes and to the orphanage, you turn onto roads that look like either you’re going into a ditch, river, or other dangerous trench. Since being in Haiti, I have discovered that 1. Haitians are loud, and 2.They are the best drivers bar none. I thought we were going to die….well not really, but God is faithful in keeping us safe and getting us everywhere we need to be. I’ll just leave that ride up to your imagination, and yes, you who have been to Haiti before know EXACTLY what I’m talking about!
The Haiti team boiled with anticipation as we arrived at the orphanage. As we walked in, the kids were still in school and were all looking out the windows as we waved excitedly to them. We kept busy in the morning, the guys all scoped out the latrine in preparation for the new roof, while the ladies helped wash laundry then proceeded to hang the clothes to dry over cactus and other assorted bushes.
The kids got a break and we got to hug A LOT OF THEM!! Unfortunately their break was really short so we had to wait another couple of hours to see them again. We did have some time to scope out the area and get to visit with the mommas a little. We plan to spend much more time with them this week. It’d be great if you all could be praying that they would open up to us and see our love and care for them as well!
FINALLY the kids got out of school (I seriously could hardly stand it). We spent the afternoon playing, jumping rope, with lots of hair braiding (with the ladies), some games of dominos, duck duck goose, and “down by the banks” (the group laughed on the last word every time “POW”).
We also had a time of VBS. We taught them about Palm Sunday, which involved some acting out of parts within our group…We decided Travis would be Jesus, and yes, Scott was the donkey. After Travis took a piggy back ride over the palm branches that the kids made (they LOVED coloring them and putting on stickers…even on their faces), the kids got to ride on the backs of the team members, too, while the rest of the kids shouted “Hosanna!”. It. Was. Awesome.
After VBS, we took the kids inside the church and watched the Haiti video and the personal messages from the previous Haiti team. The kids LOVED it! They all got excited at different parts throughout the videos, and I could tell the girls I was sitting by got excited when they heard their name on the personal message video. They all remembered the team members’ names! After the video, the kids all got their daily vitamin, a snack, and we all went out and played for the rest of our time there. The kids are way more active than what Scott and other team members have seen in the past! It’s a great thing! Also, even the mommas enjoyed the snack (they call snacks “bon-bon”).
As we were leaving, the kids kept asking if we’d be back “demen”, which means tomorrow! So before we left, Samuel (our wonderful translator friend) told us how to say “See you tomorrow!” I can’t wait.
Everyone at Pastor Louis’ house has been wonderful and feeding us amazing food. We’re so thankful for everyone’s prayers…we can feel God’s presence here and we’re all excited to see what He’ll be doing for the rest of the week. It’s an amazing feeling knowing so many people are praying for us while we’re here. The kids are understanding God’s love through our commitment to them as we continually return.
I feel so blessed to be a part of this.
All the best,
Aubrey and Jewel
It seemed as though everyone woke up this morning feeling pretty refreshed, even though we didn’t get a ton of sleep last night! Today was the first time for me and many others on this team to be here in Haiti and also to see the orphanage. The roads here are…bumpy. Sometimes they’re non existent. In fact, in both going to the place that we’re staying in Les Cayes and to the orphanage, you turn onto roads that look like either you’re going into a ditch, river, or other dangerous trench. Since being in Haiti, I have discovered that 1. Haitians are loud, and 2.They are the best drivers bar none. I thought we were going to die….well not really, but God is faithful in keeping us safe and getting us everywhere we need to be. I’ll just leave that ride up to your imagination, and yes, you who have been to Haiti before know EXACTLY what I’m talking about!
The Haiti team boiled with anticipation as we arrived at the orphanage. As we walked in, the kids were still in school and were all looking out the windows as we waved excitedly to them. We kept busy in the morning, the guys all scoped out the latrine in preparation for the new roof, while the ladies helped wash laundry then proceeded to hang the clothes to dry over cactus and other assorted bushes.
The kids got a break and we got to hug A LOT OF THEM!! Unfortunately their break was really short so we had to wait another couple of hours to see them again. We did have some time to scope out the area and get to visit with the mommas a little. We plan to spend much more time with them this week. It’d be great if you all could be praying that they would open up to us and see our love and care for them as well!
FINALLY the kids got out of school (I seriously could hardly stand it). We spent the afternoon playing, jumping rope, with lots of hair braiding (with the ladies), some games of dominos, duck duck goose, and “down by the banks” (the group laughed on the last word every time “POW”).
We also had a time of VBS. We taught them about Palm Sunday, which involved some acting out of parts within our group…We decided Travis would be Jesus, and yes, Scott was the donkey. After Travis took a piggy back ride over the palm branches that the kids made (they LOVED coloring them and putting on stickers…even on their faces), the kids got to ride on the backs of the team members, too, while the rest of the kids shouted “Hosanna!”. It. Was. Awesome.
After VBS, we took the kids inside the church and watched the Haiti video and the personal messages from the previous Haiti team. The kids LOVED it! They all got excited at different parts throughout the videos, and I could tell the girls I was sitting by got excited when they heard their name on the personal message video. They all remembered the team members’ names! After the video, the kids all got their daily vitamin, a snack, and we all went out and played for the rest of our time there. The kids are way more active than what Scott and other team members have seen in the past! It’s a great thing! Also, even the mommas enjoyed the snack (they call snacks “bon-bon”).
As we were leaving, the kids kept asking if we’d be back “demen”, which means tomorrow! So before we left, Samuel (our wonderful translator friend) told us how to say “See you tomorrow!” I can’t wait.
Everyone at Pastor Louis’ house has been wonderful and feeding us amazing food. We’re so thankful for everyone’s prayers…we can feel God’s presence here and we’re all excited to see what He’ll be doing for the rest of the week. It’s an amazing feeling knowing so many people are praying for us while we’re here. The kids are understanding God’s love through our commitment to them as we continually return.
I feel so blessed to be a part of this.
All the best,
Aubrey and Jewel
Day 1
Greetings from Haiti!
We arrived in Port au Prince about 5:30 yesterday (just 12 hours since we had gathered in the KC airport!). After delays in Dallas and talk of missing our flight, we were thankful that we made it. If our flight had to leave just 10 minutes later from Fort Lauderdale, they would have cancelled. They do not allow flights after dark in Port au Prince.
As we were loading our luggage outside the air port, we heard the shouts and celebrating of Haitians in the streets. The election results were announced at 5:00PM, just thirty minutes before our plane landed. Thankfully, most people were happy about the results. Martelly is the new President of Haiti. Pray that he would lead with integrity and that there could be positive change in Haiti.
While traffic was light because of our late arrival, we were slowed at times by crowds of people marching and celebrating in the streets. You could see and hear the happiness and hope in the people.
The drive to Les Cayes was slightly less than 4 hours, a record for us I think! There was food waiting for us, so we had some rice, etc about 10:30. It had been along day, so the team headed to bed soon after.
It’s Tuesday morning. The roosters have been crowing for hours. The sun is up and we are excited to see the kiddos today. Pray we would shower them with the love of Christ today!
If you are interested, we are "tweeting" more frquent updates. Text "follow rshickox" to 40404 and you will receive them on your cell phone. As Amy Newberry said, "tweets from a third world country, isn't technology amazing?"
Blessings
Scott
For Team Haiti
We arrived in Port au Prince about 5:30 yesterday (just 12 hours since we had gathered in the KC airport!). After delays in Dallas and talk of missing our flight, we were thankful that we made it. If our flight had to leave just 10 minutes later from Fort Lauderdale, they would have cancelled. They do not allow flights after dark in Port au Prince.
As we were loading our luggage outside the air port, we heard the shouts and celebrating of Haitians in the streets. The election results were announced at 5:00PM, just thirty minutes before our plane landed. Thankfully, most people were happy about the results. Martelly is the new President of Haiti. Pray that he would lead with integrity and that there could be positive change in Haiti.
While traffic was light because of our late arrival, we were slowed at times by crowds of people marching and celebrating in the streets. You could see and hear the happiness and hope in the people.
The drive to Les Cayes was slightly less than 4 hours, a record for us I think! There was food waiting for us, so we had some rice, etc about 10:30. It had been along day, so the team headed to bed soon after.
It’s Tuesday morning. The roosters have been crowing for hours. The sun is up and we are excited to see the kiddos today. Pray we would shower them with the love of Christ today!
If you are interested, we are "tweeting" more frquent updates. Text "follow rshickox" to 40404 and you will receive them on your cell phone. As Amy Newberry said, "tweets from a third world country, isn't technology amazing?"
Blessings
Scott
For Team Haiti
Psalm 138:8
The team arrived in Les Cayes in record time...only a 4 hour bus ride!
Pray for the team and for the children as they meet and interact with one another today. This is the day that the Lord has made!
Psalm 138:8
The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your love, O Lord, endures forever--do not abandon the works of your hands.
Blessings,
Amy
Pray for the team and for the children as they meet and interact with one another today. This is the day that the Lord has made!
Psalm 138:8
The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your love, O Lord, endures forever--do not abandon the works of your hands.
Blessings,
Amy
Monday, April 4, 2011
The team has arrived in Haiti!
I just saw a Twitter post from Scott that the team has arrived in PAP. They must go through customs and then they will begin a 5 hour bus ride to Les Cayes. Pray for them as they still have a long journey ahead of them. But...with a great reward to come... seeing the children! Praise God for His blessings upon this trip!
Amy
Amy
Travel update
The team has arrived in Florida! They are scheduled to leave for a flight out to Haiti soon! Praise God!
Amy
Amy
Weather delay
I just received a text from Scott that said that the team is stuck in Dallas due to a weather delay. Please pray that the weather clears up and that the team can arrive in Haiti today. I will update as soon as I know more.
Blessings,
Amy
Blessings,
Amy
James 1:5
Team Haiti is on their way to the orphanage. They have a long travel day ahead of them. Please keep them in your prayers as they begin their journey of showing God's love to the children this week.
Today's verse:
James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
If the team has internet access, they will blog from Haiti. I will also post daily verses and any information that I receive through texts. Please PRAY!
Don't forget to come and pray for the team. There are daily times. Even if you can only join in one prayer session or all of them, please join us as we cover the team and the children in prayer. We pray for one hour.
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 8pm at the church house
Wednesday: 6pm
Friday: 8pm
Saturday: 9am
Sunday: 5:30pm
Blessings,
Amy N.
Today's verse:
James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
If the team has internet access, they will blog from Haiti. I will also post daily verses and any information that I receive through texts. Please PRAY!
Don't forget to come and pray for the team. There are daily times. Even if you can only join in one prayer session or all of them, please join us as we cover the team and the children in prayer. We pray for one hour.
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 8pm at the church house
Wednesday: 6pm
Friday: 8pm
Saturday: 9am
Sunday: 5:30pm
Blessings,
Amy N.
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