Oh Man!
It has been sweet so far.

I would say that a lot of what I’ve experienced here and learned can be sifted down to a central theme: developing a heart to follow Christ. That’s really where I’m at right now; just in a place of sharing, learning and growing alongside the people of Maria Auxiliadora.

Jesus said that “Whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.” I am realizing more and more the boundless applications of this statement.

My cousin Darin- along with three other teachers from Canada- arrived on Tuesday, followed by a team of twenty-three from Oregon on Wednesday. Needless to say this week has been out of the ordinary. The team from Oregon has been busy painting, putting on all kinds of kid’s activities, and leading worship services. They are a great group- full of energy and sincere love.

Meanwhile, the teacher training program is underway. It has been cool to sit in on a few sessions and see all the relationships that are being built and new ideas being shared. The teachers are just taking it all in and enjoying the experience. Darin has been doing his thing and doing so with vibrancy and talent. In the mornings he is teaching drama to the staff at El Camino, and in the afternoons a photography class. I’ve had the opportunity to join him and learn some new techniques and ways of approaching this art form.

I feel more strongly than ever that things like photography, art and drama are very tangible and important aspects of God’s Kingdom; that, rather than being simply extraneous things that we do, they matter. They are a beautiful part of the gospel of Christ. I’ve always been creative at heart, so that’s why I feel so inspired lately. Hallelujah!

Thanks for all your prayers back home.