Tuesday in Palencia

We began our day at America Latina School, the main campus of their network of schools. Chapel was already in session in the outdoor gym, and we entered to the chorus of enthusiastic praise. There was a special time of recognition for Lenny, one of our doctors, who just graduated from medical school. What a role model and encourager he is! Like most of the staff of the school, Lenny is a graduate of America Latina, from a poor background and a lot of strikes against him. But he was nurtured at AL and believed that he indeed had a “future and a hope” and persevered through medical school, not to become wealthy and comfortable, but to give back to those in need, just as he was. We then had a very special treat indeed, a young actor/evangelist who travels and shares with young people throughout Latin America. What a talent!! He’s a Christian Colombian version of Robin Williams! To see him act out and b-box (is that the term?) the story of David and Goliath and Joseph was something to behold. With humor and great dramatic expression, he fleshed out these stories but also brought it to a profound, serious conclusion that obviously touched the young people in the audience. He ended with a call to commitment to sexual purity and challenged the students to commit their talents and future careers to serving the Lord. Quite a few students came to the floor of the gym for prayer and dedication. Though this is a Christian school, they estimate that about half have accepted Christ, so it was very encouraging to see those who were willing to seriously think about their lives and desire to truly serve the Lord.

We returned to Palencia for our first full afternoon of VBS. At first there was a sparse crowd, “Guatemala time,” as they call it, meaning that people trickle in for events. Before long, the audience had about tripled, and the church was filled with singing, laughter, and learning more about God and His promises through the story of Noah. A big surprise this week was hearing that the church in Palencia had begun an AWANA group, which was strongly encouraged by our team last year. A number of the AWANA kids came to VBS today in their special tshirts and several brought their study books along with them. It was wonderful to hear several of the girls read and recite scriptures for us and to encourage them to continue to hide God’s Word in their hearts. What a wonderful way to mentor young people through programs like AWANA.

It doesn’t take long to fall in love with these children and young people, and we are so impressed with our Guatemalan teammates. Their hearts for the Lord, dedication and passion for their people is very humbling and challenging. They are teaching us so much as we share this special time together.

Please pray with us for a very packed day tomorrow with construction, clinics, VBS and women’s meetings. We know the Lord’s plans are perfect, and we want to be pliable and eager to take our role as He sees fit. Another day of blessing! Gloria a Dios!