God is With Us…Safe Travels to Roaring Creek, Belize
After leaving East Lake Church around 6am, the team was driven safely to the CLT airport by Tom Chumney, Gary Shoults, and Wes and Donita White (thank you so much). We were able to check-in without interruption, although our fearless church youth pastor Barry Russell was “randomly” selected for an individual search.
Fortunately, we arrived in plenty of time including Richard Rice (pictured above along with Barry Russell, who also somehow ended up in 1st class) who was shown the favor of God by being given an upgrade to First-Class by US Airwways.
Richard Rice with his Favor From God (1st Class Upgrade) and Barry Russell
We arrived at the airport in Belize City around 12:30 Central Time. Amazingly, all of our luggage including the 18 bags of gifts donated by the wonderful family of East Lake Community Church arrived safely. However, it was at that time that we ran into a slight issue with customs as they did not like the idea of us bringing all of these gifts for the people and children of Belize.
They especially had their eye on Mike Lackey after they asked him what was in his second bag, and his response was “stuff I’m going to wear.” Unfortunately when the bag was opened, it was full of children’s’ socks and underwear. The customs lady held up a small pair of pink footies and responded, “You are going to wear this?” Those of you who know Mike Lackey can imagine how funny this was, and Mike even can look back and enjoy this moment now that God delivered us after we paid a $25 “fine” to the customs’ agents.
Our leaders from STEM, Rachel and Shanda, were there to meet us and we loaded our luggage on the school bus from the YWAM campus.
Our partners from YWAM, Omar and Alyssa Myrie took care of transporting us to Rolling Creek, Belize campus about a 50 mile drive away. During the drive, Alyssa told us about Belize and helped us understand YWAM. Upon arrival, we went to the cafeteria area to have sausage and beans and rice. We then were introduced to our living quarters for the week, which the counselors refer to as “The White House.” If you are thinking 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, you are a little off-base as we are going 5 deep in the rooms without any sign of hot water.
Omar and Alyssa
Our Wheels for the Week
Suspended Bridge over to YWAM Belize
Welcome to YWAM
YWAM Dining Hall
Our Wonderful Living Quarters, The White House - I LOVE HOT WATER!
After settling into our rooms, we had an amazing time of worship and prayer. We were absolutely in the presence of God as Beth Tuten played the guitar and we all sang and prayed to worship God. Tomorrow we are going to a church within walking distance, and they are having a special service as they have invited many of the children with special needs from the community to this service. We are so excited!!!
Beth Playing Guitar and Leading Us in Worship
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Authentic Worship…Truly In His Presence
This entry is at 4:00 p.m. eastern time. We have truly been in the presence of God already today. After the morning devotion by Richard Rice, we all prepared to go to River of Life Community Church. Omar came by to lead us over to the church, and the service began at 10:30. We arrived early enough to take a group picture in front of the church.
Group Picture at Church
We settled in for around 45 minutes of pure worship, and it was amazing! God was in this place! I would challenge anyone to find that kind of commitment and desire in their own place of worship. I hope to have a few videos up of that service on Sunday, because no words can describe the people truly giving themselves up to the Lord.
Picture of Sanctuary from Front of Church
Picture of Sanctuary During Worship
Pastor Frankie Preaching During Service
After the worship, we were given the opportunity to share with the church. The congregation of approximately 125 was blessed to listen to Taylor Winesett and Robert McCardle give their testimony. Both of them did an amazing job, and it was a blessing to hear them tell their “story.” All of the children, approximately 50 in number including many with special needs, were then sent outside as we handled the children’s service for the duration of the time.
After Barry Russell gave a brief devotion to the children, Amy Long led them through an arts and craft session making faith bracelets with all of the children. As expected, sports was the universal language with many of the children as we played soccer, volleyball, and even introduced many of the children to Futbol Americano.
Barry Leading Children in Lesson
We have come back to the house to prepare for the rest of the week. At around 4:15 central time, we are going to the home of Pastor Frankie and his wife Abby from River of Life. It is such an honor to be invited into their home, and we look forward to learning other ways we might be able to help glorify the Lord and share his Kingdom with many more in this area!
Cookout at Pastor Frankie's House
Pastor Frankie's Wife Abby Speaking About Special Needs Children in Belize
Please keep praying for God to show us the best way to increase his kingdom! Please continue praying for our team unity! Please continue praying for our leaders to have discernment and clarity. Thank you already for the prayers you have lifted up, and please know we feel those prayers being lifted!
2 comments:
Thanks for the update. We pray for your opportunities to tell others about Jesus and his wonderful gifts of hope, faith and love. You are being truly Blessed already with opportunities to serve His children. May God continue to grant you peace and security in your pursuits for the day.
Gary and Suzanne Long
Through your message, I can feel your hearts full to overflowing with the love of God you are sharing with each other and the people of Belize. Our prayers are with you for God to continue to bless your journey and your mission. Robert & Elaine Tuten (Beth's parents).
Elaine.
Post a Comment