Sunday – what a day to see God’s faithfulness!

We arose after a night of rest from a previous days work mostly in the rain. Today is partly sunny, cool with a chance of showers. Definitely a day to rest in Him.

After our breakfast we headed into the city to attend Iglesias de Dios (Church of God). We were warmly welcomed by the pastor as the “Americanos.” The service was a wonderful time of worship and praise with an hour of praise singing and then the message. The worship team played some familiar songs sung in Spanish, I believe most of the songs we were familiar with! The worship leader is co-pastor at the church and definitely had a strong presence! Then the other pastor preached on Ephesians 1 about wisdom given to believers because of our relationship with Christ. A powerful message given in Spanish to a packed church. Although we did not understand the message during the service the Director of the orphanage (Angie) filled us in over lunch.

One of the things that stood out to us was how the Hondurans really cried out to God during the service. There was wailing, open prayer, shouts of amen and hallelujah. They were actively seeking His face and crying out to Him in desperation! Their love for Him and act of worship was something to hear, see and be a part of. We were all moved by their need of the Father and the way they called out to Jesus.

At the end of the message the pastor gave the invitation of the altar call and many came forward, crying out to God in desperation for help in their lives. There were verbal requests for help with family situations, lack of food, deaths in the family, how are we going to make it, etc. The pastor and those in the congregation came forward and laid hands on them in prayer… Very powerful, moving – the body of Christ caring for each other…

They closed the service with an offering. Not like we are used to for sure! Baskets were held by children near the alter and the congregation came forward in orderly lines to place their offering in the basket. Something neat to see and participate in. Although they have little they actively gave for Kingdom work.

After church we headed to the orphanage to meet Angie and her kids. We delivered 6 team bags (suitcase size bags) of needed clothes, toys, sports equipment, hats, candy and surprises. What a great time of greeting and spending time with them. We played football, soccer, basketball, played on the swing set, talked with the kids and just loved on them. We talked and heard about their lives and how the orphanage has cared for them over the years. It was an honor for us as men to show them God’s love through our compassion acting as Godly father figures. These kids just crave time and attention with adults – they loved being with us and the feeling was mutual. What an experience that is hard to put in words – we look forward to Friday afternoon and more time with them (they will be in school this week while we play construction workers!).

After our visit we headed to a local restaurant (casa viajas) for a late lunch. Angie and several of the children joined us. We dined on soup, beans and rice, chicken, pork, beef, sausage and fresh hot tortillas – an outstanding meal with great fellowship. We were truly blessed by the food and time spent with Angie and the kiddos… Oh, it was a safe restaurant – couple of pictures on our site with guys next to the armed guards protecting the place!

We said goodbye to Angie and the children and returned to the hotel for rest, team meeting, prayer for tomorrow and dinner. We anticipate good progress tomorrow and are excited about how God is going to use us for His glory.

Author: Bennett for the team