What a wonderful day! We traveled to Montego Bay for morning services and had three great Bible Class groups. We had about 55 in attendance for worship. Andre lead several Jamaican choruses which are always joyful as everyone sings from memory and lifts their voices in praise. Matt Dickenson lead the singing and Burt brought us a great sermon on perseverance. After a quick lunch, we drove back to Savanna la Mar for afternoon services at 4, where we had about 75 in attendance. Everyone is excited for VBS to begin and energy of the kids' anticipation is wonderful! After dinner and our devotional, which was lead by Mike B., we spent some time finalizing lessons and details for tomorrow. This will be the first time we've held two VBS programs in one day. Tomorrow morning will be in Sav and tomorrow afternoon at Grange Hill.
There is so much that I learn each year from this experience. Take today for example: we left at 9:30am and got back at 8:30pm. In that time we went to two services, ate two fast food dinners, and took people to/from church. The service this morning ended at 2 pm, and the two children's bible classes were held outside on a concrete slab. At 11am, in the beating sun, children gathered with smiles to sing and learn about God. We didn't have to fight for their attention or reprimand poor behavior due to the heat or discomfort. This is simply how it is here and there's very little complaining. Without the comforts of padded pews, carpeted aisles, air conditioned buildings, audio systems, water fountains, or so many other conveniences that we are accustomed to, the brethren come and engage in worship each and every week. Also, there is only one vehicle amongst all of the Christians in Montego Bay, so getting to services is not as simple of a task as one would think. This takes preparation, planning, and taxi fare. There is much to be learned from their example!
Thank you for your continued prayers and notes - We are encouraged by your comments and emails. If you know anyone on the trip, please take a moment and tell them hello on here or through email, and I assure you they will be encouraged! Our email is reachingjamaica@gmail.com.
Love & blessings,
Sarah
Wishing all of you safety and blessings on your 2nd day of VBS!
ReplyDeleteHave a wonderful day. It must be encouraging to be so aware of the work the Lord is accomplishing through you. Weary not in well doing!
ReplyDeleteGreetings to our family in the Lord in Jamaica. Special greetings to our loved ones from Martinez, Georgia. We remember you all by name each time we pray. Maggie and I helped weigh the Stone family's sweet puppies who are doing very well. And Abby, your bird is chirping away. We have given it something to perch on to strengthen its legs. The Shaffer family moving van is arriving Wednesday. All is well here.
God bless you all!
Love,
Kathleen Trigg and family
Sonja Winburn says:
ReplyDeleteJust found the blog today. Glad everyone arrived safely. God bless you all in this effort. Tell Jefty, my husband and Shane, my son hello for me. I look forward to keeping track of you all.