Day 2

Today, Monday, was our first day of VBS on Jacob’s Hill, the village we’ll be at all week. Because of some of our previous experiences with the first day of VBS, we completely expected it to be chaotic and out of control. To our delight, the day was surprisingly calmer than in the past. We were also blessed with a very good turnout for our first day. We had visited the village the previous day, and the “community center” where VBS would be held had inappropriate phrases etc. written on the walls graffiti-style. We were a little concerned about this, but had to work with it, since it was all we had. Later today, though, a group member mentioned that it seemed like a completely different place when it was filled with kids, and it showed us how God can work anywhere in any conditions or circumstances. Another striking thing about VBS was the interest that kids of all ages took in it. We had a craft station, but assumed the teenage boys would steer clear or be obnoxious. To our surprise, the older boys worked meticulously on their crafts, and really enjoyed doing them. This simple realization had a huge affect on the guys in their group (J.T. and Jim).

We also have another neat opportunity regarding our busdriver for the week, Keysure (sp?), who is a Hindu man. We have gotten to have quite a bit of good conversation with him already, and he has decided to bring his daughter to the VBS if she wants to. Please pray the hearts of him and his daughter as we continue to get to know them better this week.

This afternoon we visited two Hindu temples with Pastor Ashoke. For most people, it was their very first time. We saw the 85 foot statue of their monkey god, Hanuman; and naturally, we do not understand how they can possibly worship such a thing. But, as Pastor Ashoke pointed out, their eyes are and have been blinded to the truth. Also, my dad and I were talking later, and he mentioned that the monkey reminded him of the idols we all have. Even though they may not take the form of 85 foot statues, they are idols nonetheless. Then we enjoyed a fantastic, Americanized dinner at Pizza Hut.

Lastly, some other group members and I were talking tonight, and we have decided to challenge ourselves not to use the word awesome when not referring to God, or the words love and hate when referring to things, stuff, etc. The “awesome” idea was brought about Sunday night, when my dad reminded us in his teaching that nothing is truly “Awesome” except God. Also, we realized that love and hate are very strong words, and should not be used frequently. All three of these words tend to lose their value when overused.

And lastly for real this time…it has just been such a blessing to see this eclectic group bonding and enjoying each others’ company. I am so incredibly blessed to be sharing this experience with so many devoted followers of Christ. Continue to pray for us, that we will be glorifying God in all we do, and that Jesus would fill us up so we can pour out to the kids here. Thanks again for your care and support!

Allison & Stephanie
For Team Trinidad 2007