We've seen the future of the North Boulevard Church of Christ. And it looks great. Especially the view from Ensenada Mexico. Sometimes stepping back gives you the best view. I can't say enough about our teens. Jumping in to get things done. Always ready to help. Getting involved -- sometimes literally getting down in the dirt -- with the Mexican children without the normal teenage angst over talking to someone you don't know or working with adults. It's blessing to watch them. They're teaching us and showing us to take heart in what's ahead...that the world and our church might just be a little bit better in their hands.
Today's posts will be brief. But I'll log on this afternoon to put up pictures. I'm a little rushed because the house crew leaves early in the morning. But stop by later for pics.
Today was a truly a "Festival of Sharing." Puppet shows, hot dog-cooking for the people Manadero, food distribution, house-building, teen classes, frame construction for the t-shirt wall, playing with the children, skit practice and performance, etc. It was a great day. We saw Jesus' face in so many places.
It's good to see Him smiling.
The food crew visited Raimundo's widow, Maria, today. Raimundo was the minister at the Manadero Church of Christ, our base of operation for food distribution. Last year, weak from cancer and its treatment, Raimundo still came out to greet and encourage us as we fed the children. Skid said to Raimundo last year that he would see him again. Raimundo replied, "Yes, I will see you. Either here or in heaven." We look forward to seeing Raimundo in heaven. It was good to pray and sing with his wife today.
[Note: the picture I've posted here is our group praying with Raimundo last year.]
Our evening skit continues to be well received. You can't believe how beloved Joe Mayes is here...or, perhaps, you can. When he graces the stage, young and old, American and Mexican, are united with smiles and laughter. Joe is a rock star here in the City of Children. It's wonderful to watch the reach of the children to this man of God. It's not his acting. He can't act. It's all heart. He'd be embarrassed to see this written. But it's the truth.
At the end of the day, we gathered weary but satisfied in our souls to share in praise, our thoughts from the day and the renewed knowledge of what a blessing it is to serve together. Skid's question for the group was "What did God have to say to you today?" There were many stirring answers but one that we all shared. One person heard God in the service of our preachers and elders here. "It's just wonderful to be part of a congregation where our preachers and elders take such an active part in what our youth are doing. I don't think we know just how special this is." How many youth outings enjoy the participation of two preachers and four elders?
Whether elder, preacher or teenager, when you serve alongside someone you have a whole new view of them, a new perspective, a new respect, a new love. With or without Jeff McClain, our vision is defintely improving here in Ensenada.
Come back later and I'll have some pictures posted for Day 3.
Until then, 10:10.
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