So it is super late and I know that you are all wanting the play by play of the day but I have to be up in 4 and a half hours. The reason I am getting to my blog so late is because of all the spiritual conversations I am having with my team. We spent a few hours talking tonight about the GRACE of Jesus and what defines a Christian? If anything everyone took away something by looking to scripture and being open and honest with each other. I know for myself I struggle with this question daily and I truly desire to want to be more like Him everyday.
Highlights from the day:
1. Spent some time at the new property/land. We prayed for God to turn this land into a future for the boys at Zanfan Lakay... spiritual community, a place of fellowship and a safe refuge. We also BROKE ground with machetes, pick axes and shovels. On the drive to and from we learned a lot about the stories of each of the girls that live in the house from Jimmy, and got an update on the boys' school, discipline and way of life.
2. Then off to Maison Orphanage to put on a special Christmas program with songs, an interactive Christmas story about Jesus' birth, a stocking craft, some minute to win it games and just hang time. We were there for almost 6 hours loving on those kids, holding newborns, eating pizza and cake and celebrating Jesus' birthday. The most memorable moments were seeing first time parents embrace their child for the very first time and of course, giving the gifts to the kids and seeing their faces light up as they showed each other their American Girl books, barbie dolls, footballs, hello kitty stuff and toy trucks. It was such a gratifying moment to see those kids experience the hands and feet of Jesus through various people giving back in our home town. Pretty cool!!!
3. Finally reached Zanfan Lakay around 6 to find the majority of the house watching the big soccer game- Brazil vs. Madrid. Once they were finished we played a minute to game called "A bit dicey"- they had to stack five dice on a popsicle stick in their mouth. They loved it; they also got to make up a team name and think of a title to their team song that they will be performing tomorrow night. Gingerbread house making was a huge success- everyone got involved and of course after the teams had been judged they all FEASTED on sugar, sugar, sugar. The night ended with a time of singing which started with the song, "Teach Me How to Dougie" and ended with Sing, Sing, Sing and "He Loves US". Super cool moment to hear the boys playing all sorts of instruments, singing loud to Jesus, and being together. Oh and Katia played the drum with sticks- pretty insane rhythm!
Tomorrow on the agenda... We are heading to Pierre's church, over to the women and kids at the cemetery to pass out some gift bags and toys and give a message and then the remainder of our day will be spent continuing on our Christmas party at Zanfan Lakay. Super tired, but needed to share how God is so good, He Loves us, oh How He Loves Us...
Goodnight. Jen, Carl says hi and gave me a few things to give to you. He is doing well!!!
In the Grip of God's Grace,
Dougie
Aaaaaahhhhh!! Thank you so so much for updating the blog, especially all the pictures. I am dying hearing about everyone and not being able to be there. Tell everyone I miss them SO VERY MUCH!!! I can't wait to see them in the summer. You are all such troupers. You must be exhausted, but you keep on going to spread Jesus' love. You are all being the hands and feet of Jesus right now. So go out into your day being confident of that. James 1:27 says "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress..." Jesus LOVED children and took caring for them very seriously (check out matt. 18:5-7). I think if Jesus were here right now, he would be doing exactly what you guys are doing. So keep pressing on : )
ReplyDeletePraying for you all,
Jessi
Great to hear these updates Doug!! We are praying for you and the team-love you and keep being the hands and feet of Jesus! Can't wait to see you in a few weeks!
ReplyDeleteHey Doug, Great to hear about the happs in Haiti! Looks like you are packing a month of stuff in the few days you have. Dad and I continue to pray for you and your team, also those you come in contact with. May God bless your efforts. Love Mom T.
ReplyDeleteWhat a blessing for this adopting momma to see such awesome people blessing our children this Christmas! Our little boy is Samson, (button-up shirt holding papers). It's people like you that make this wait easier. To know that our children are being loved on! Thank you!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for all you do for Maison. As an adoptive mom to Hugo, (the boy in the blue tank top that someone is holding above) it is precious to see you guys there and loving on our children. To come across pictures of them is the most precious gift we can receive. Thank you and Merry Christimas to you and yours.
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