Horse in the House

While talking with one of the families whose house we were building today, they shared about what their old house was like.  They said there were many holes in the house, some of which were very large. And they were thankful to God that they never had any thieves.  However, often they would wake up and their horse would be inside! Their chickens also frequently came in.  The family joked that it was like living in a zoo! Fortunately the new house, with no holes, that they now have will provide much more protection and the family said they will sleep better at night feeling safer.  They also won't have to worry about their horse coming in anymore!

Despite the poor state of their previous house, the family was able to joke about it and embrace the humour of the situation!  I think that is something we can all learn from.  Being the horse lover that I am, I might find it funny the first time my horse joined me for breakfast but after a while I'd probably get tired of cleaning the manure up off the floor.  But as we encounter less than ideal situations in our day to day lives, lets try not to let them get us down.  Let's try to find the humour in the situation and make the most of what we have.

Tiff  

Faithful and true

Tonight I am thankful for all the men I know, from my husband, to my dad, to my brothers, to so many faithful male friends within our extended church family. I am thankful for the honest and true legacy they are leaving to their wives, their children and ultimately, their communities just because they have chosen to stay. God has asked them to be faithful and they have answered that call.

Here in El Salvador, there is a generational legacy of choosing to leave. With downcast eyes, several women told us today, of being left alone. Of husbands and fathers who walked away and never returned. They told us stories of hopelessness and abandonment. It is always tough to hear.

We have a tough week ahead of us as we seek to raise these houses, but more importantly, to attempt to raise up hope and an understanding that all these people are special and worthy in God's eyes. He has not abandoned them. His love for them is faithful and true.

Amanda.

Almost Gone

Well in a few minutes we will board our flight to El Salvador. Thanks so much for joining our SEMC team on this trip. Your prayer and encouragement are a vital part of what makes this possible. Despite missing our exit off the highway and despite going to the wrong terminal and despite the fact that one of us forgot to unpack their camping utensils from the backpack their son was using and one of us was pulled aside for an explosives check ( not the one you're thinking)...we've made it through security and are almost gone.  Maybe this week you will read the Gospel of John, chapter 4 and enter into God's Story.