Thursday 8-6-09

Hello everyone,
Sorry for the delay between updates. Our group has been running nonstop, and has not had a lot of time to blog. Yesterday a group of us went hiking early in the morning to see some natural hot springs. Once again we were awed by the beauty of God’s creation as we sat in the middle of the springs to do our devotions. We spent a relaxing morning in the Otavalo market. Some of our friends from the Otavalo youth group, along with Edi, helped us with our bargaining. It was a wonderful chance for us to experience the Ecuadorian culture. In the afternoon, we hiked back up to the village to finish our last day of the older children’s VBS. We presented the Gospel to the children by way of the wordless book, and between yesterday and today ten children accepted Christ. Please be praying for these children, that they would have adults and mentors in their lives to encourage them in their relationship with Jesus. After hanging out with the children for a while, we headed down for a delicious supper. Our large group worship time was very powerful. We are very blessed to have leaders who are so passionate about God, and so excited about teaching us about Him. We all hit the hay early to be ready for a new day.
VBS went well today; we were so excited to see what God is doing in the village. It is amazing to think that God does not need us, but wants us to be a part of His work. After taking countless numbers of pictures, the leaders of San Luis de Pigulca called us over to present us with some gifts. They presented each of us with a bracelet with our name on it, a handmade doll, and some other braided bracelets. It was a touching moment. Leaving the kids was tough. We were attached to them, and they were attached to us. Several of them followed us all the way down the hill just to spend a little more time with us before we left. After a quick trip to the market, we loaded onto the bus and headed off to Quito. We ate in a rather nice restaurant tonight named “La Choz” where we enjoyed llapingachos, churrascos, and many different types of juice. Some of the boys were tempted to try the pig’s feet, but Edi (who is coming to help with the youth conference) discouraged them. Phase two of our missions trip is about to commence as we head to Mindo tomorrow for the youth conference. Praise God for all of our new brothers and sisters in Christ that are in the village and for our safety thus far.
Sarah