Here we are! All 16 of us together before the trip. Including one via FaceTime on a laptop! We spent time together last Sunday talking about the logistics of the trip and in prayer over each other and the people we will be serving while we are there.

It’s hard to step back and remember we are really there to serve them, we need to step into there customs and lives. We are not there to push our American agenda on them. Sometimes that’ll mean hanging around after lunch and chatting instead of getting right back into work, other times it means playing with kids that are so excited we’ve come to see them. Don’t worry, there is still plenty of time for work!

I also attached a picture of Ray, mom (Carol) and myself standing at the table at our church where we’ve been collecting donations for the past several weeks to build Felecia a bathroom and kitchen. Yes, that is a toilet seat- hey we’re raising money for a bathroom, wanted to make sure everyone knew it!

Here are some of the scripture that was shared by Sarah from our meeting:

1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

Romans 15:5
“May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had.”

Psalm 90:17
“May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us—yes, establish the work of our hands.”

1 Corinthians 15:58
“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”

Cannot wait to begin sharing with you while we are there- deséame suerte.

Ray & Nicki