Thanks Guys

We enjoyed having the youth group with us last week. They were a huge encouragement. We found the team to be considerate, accepting of us and one another, kind, helpful, open, passionate for God and thoughtful. They came with an attitude to participate whether that meant riding a crowded bus, eating some strange food like grasshoppers, leading the Sunday service or cleaning up around the house.

The group came with a heart of a servant and God honored that. Thursday was particularly memorable as they connected with Mexican youth in a three hour jam fest and praise service. It was good enough for the young people from El Puente to ask if they could get together again on Saturday.

If they had come for nothing else but to encourage our family, it was worth it - late night conversations, thoughtful gifts, letters of encouragement or that Saturday evening challenge; all meant a great deal to us.

We also appreciate the parents who overcame their fears of influenza, travel, health, safety and all the unknowns that lurk in the shadows of Mexico to trust God. They must have taken a lesson from Mr. Beaver who reminded Lucy, “Course he isn't safe. But he's good. He's the King, I tell you.” These parents gave their children the gift of a lifetime. Not only in learning a different culture but encouraging them to be open to God’s leading in their lives…..and that is invaluable.

Jason and Angela are a quality couple and have a unique gift to minister to teens. They have the balance of having fun (like playing the beat box, nailing our son with an airsoft gun and using the toilet tongs) and taking the Word of God seriously. Their lives reflect what they believe; no plastic Christianity for them.

Oh yes, there was the little matter of a birthday this week