My time in Trujillo has been amazing and a passage that God has put on my heart is Psalm 146:5-9. He gave me these verses Friday night, just a few hours after my most unforgettable memory here. When we went to the garbage dump that day, my group got to talk with an elderly woman and what has stuck with me the most was that her smile never faltered during our conversation. We found out that she had been there for at least thirty years, and she said she would stay there until the Lord took her. Those few minutes with someone I will never meet again, gave me the perfect amount of motivation as I spent the rest of my time making and moving bricks for a wall which will surround the orphanage, trade school and camp. If there is nothing else that I am taking home from my time in Trujillo, I am definitely bringing back the necessity of keeping a positive attitude, no matter what. How can I not after what I have seen God doing here?
- Lila A.
Hello how are you guys doing. Hope you guys aren’t missing all of us to much. So this week in Peru has really been something that has made me think. About both God and my own life. I came hoping to play with some kids and show them how much God loves them and what he can do for them if they fallow him. To find out we only got a short amount of time with the kids, and the kids were more filled with Gods love then us. I remember walking in and this kid just runs full force into me and puts his hands up in the air like he wanted me o carry him. I have seen peruvian kids who grow up in poverty. They dont run and give hugs, they run and drop kick your knee or think its funny to spit on you. That what I expected to get when I went in only to be shown differently.
When we were told that we were growing to be doing a lot of construction I was like a little mad because I wanted to work with kids but instead I had to shovel dirt, cut bars , and make cement. But then I remembered Jon’s word of having flexibility. So I jumped in head first with all the energy I could bring. I was then shown by the interns on how important the Albergue was. That it would house 70 something kids, give them skills to move on up in life, show them Gods love, And allow them to grow up in the proper environment. Then I realized we weren’t just shoveling dirt, we weren’t just cutting bars , and we weren't just making cement. We were building the foundation to a new hope for these kids and there kids and even those kids. Because it might just be 70 something kids now but they will grow up and hopefully prosper and then there kids will even prosper more. Some might become shoe makers and carpenters but compared to working in the trash dumps thats a much better job that can bring more opportunity. Also some of those kids might grow up to pastors and they will spread the love they received to other kids in all of Peru so that they can grow up to be men and women of God and hopefully not fall into a corrupted lifestyle. The construction is only a baby step to greater things. As long as we trust in God and love him how we all have so far. Inca Link will grow and prosper in his name
Going to the dump I thought it was going to be a humbling experience to just remind me that my life wasn't that bad.Only because I have seen a lot of poverty in Peru of ll sorts from my time in Peru already. So I went in just thinking I’m going to try and get these people to smile give them some fruit and then leave. I talked to so many people and herd there story. It got me sad to see how they got there. Most had no choice but to work there. One man worked construction all his life. But because he was old no one wanted to hire him. They much prefer to higher younger workers. Stories like that got me mad because it reminded me how unfair life could be. But I didn't do anything. I didn’t pray for him or any of the other adults I saw there, I felt like it would be awkward. Most of my time there was like that. On our way back to the bus’s I saw a family of three watching us and I went to hand them my last 3 pieces of fruit with David. Again we talked and conversed. But this time instead of awkwardly walking away I decided to ask to pray for them. What the lady said to me hit me so hard, she told me “de eso se trata todo , por eso estan aqi “. In english that whats it all about thats why you are here is it not. I felt like a light bulb went off In my head. It was God telling me you are here not to just hand out fruit but to spread my love. I wish I could of gone back and dine it right but I left with my mind refocused on what I was doing there in peru.
Everyone here is so great the interns have mentored us so greatly in this short time we have been here. The workers have been so patent and loving to us. The kids gave so much joy to us with there smiles, and the construction has allowed us to be apart of something great. I came trying to bring Gods love and had my plans and my thoughts on what I was going to do for God. Only to have God be like nope I need you to do this and learn this. So I did and I fell like I have grown. I plan on keeping in touch with inca link to see what I can do next year. But also with the ex president of Inca link. Who despite being the president was working along side everyone. He such a great man. Hopefully I can help him in his mission to rebuild his church in his home town in the jungles of Peru next sumer (which is where he is going to go after his term is over next month). But once again God knows what I need to do, so I can only listen and fallow, Trust in him and I will be safe.
-Dylan R.
In the book of Nehemiah, Nehemiah begins the 'good work' of rebuilding the temple walls of Jerusalem. "Eliashib the high priest and his fellow priests went to work and rebuilt the Sheep Gate. They dedicated it and set its doors in place, building as far as the Tower of the Hundred, which they dedicated, and as far as the Tower of Hananel. The men of Jericho built the adjoining section, and Zakkur son of Imri built next to them." Neh 3:1-2 (but please read the full chapter for full effect!).
It continues this way over two dozen times, with families and neighbors building alongside each other as "they laid its beams and put its doors and bolts and bars in place." For eight days I had the absolute pleasure and blessing of building next to 28 incredible 'neighbors.' Today, on our last day of work at Albergue, we put our pick axes and shovels to the ground as we attempted to complete as much of the building projects as possible, keeping the goal of January 2012 at the forefront. We annihilated another mound of dirt as we almost completed the leveling in the space by the cafeteria. Throwing down the pick axe had much more meaning knowing we had but a few hours left of construction. The hardest part of today was putting the shovels down, turning off the cement machine and cleaning out the brick molds one last time, having to leave our unfinished work for the next group. I'm not used to incomplete projects but have an unusual sense of peace that we have completed exactly what He had planned.
Ultimately I am so proud of our group and blessed to be part of it as I worked alongside each student and leader this week. They have been outstanding servants and have gone above and beyond in how they loved God and loved people in Peru. It is clear that when this group joins together God moves in mighty ways.
"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you."
Grace +Peace
Sara
This week has been life changing for me. I have learned a lot, but what really hit me was that I have to start being appreciative for what I have. Watching people with nothing, yet having big smiles on their faces really got to me. They are digging through garbage and picking things out that they can eat and take home to give to their family. It is truly heartbreaking, but they are doing all of this with a smile and I don’t understand how that works, Another thing that got to me was when we had VBS the first day. We got there kids were jumping on us like we had known them forever. I felt that God was showing His love through the kids. Also, making bricks isn’t as easy as it looks and that’s what I was doing most of the time in construction. Those bricks will be used to make a wall around the children’s home where many abandoned kids will be living in. I just love the fact that I was a part of this and that just by making those bricks I’m changing a kids life.
Thanks for all the support and prayers :)
See you guys soon!!!!!!
Isabella C.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Day 8
Today was a great day. Construction in the morning! We finished our 75th bag of concrete and made over a 100 bricks! WE MADE A DIFFERENCE!
However, there is a big goal ahead. In order for the school and home to open, the cafeteria must be completed! Please pray that God would meet the need so that the school and home can open in time!!!
incalink.org > Donate
Grace + Peace in the heat!
Jon
“Hey bros just wanted to check in and give a little idea on whats going on here in Trujillo today.
These past couple of days have been tough with the lacking of sleep and all but I think just getting through it and realizing the motivation for it all has just opened me up to something god has been putting on my heart. God could not have made it clearer to me these past couple of days that he wants me here giving all I have to serve him. Its a great feeling to have a since of where i’m going in life, to know god has placed me on a path loaded with missions. Im excited to know what other missions are in store for me but I have that much more motivation in me now to continue on in pursuing god and reaching out to others and showing them gods love. I want all to know that the impact that is occurring here is not only to stay here but to come back and impact all of ridgeway and much more. Thank you so much for your continued prayer and god bless. Grace + Peace.” Tino S.
“My week in Trujillo didn’t start out the way that I planned on it starting. As soon as we flew over Lima I started having a ear ache which didn’t stop hurting until Tuesday. Looking back I wondered how I got through construction, however I worked my butt off regardless of all the pain. Everyone was great to me, everyday I must have heard the words “how’s your ear” at least 50 times a day! People prayed for me continuously and it felt great to see the people I have been with for years care so much about how I was doing.
Aside from my ear infection, my time here has been amazing. Most of the time we did double days of construction and I started out the week by making bricks which sounds easy but its not. Monday came and me and three other girls decided that we were going to do what the boys were doing and make cement. The boys didn’t seem too thrilled about this and definitely did not think that we had the strength to shovel and push the cement back and fourth. However, we did and they were so surprised to see this although it was very tiring. Our group has been amazing in how we’ve come together and worked as a team through all the hard work we have been doing. We have a lot of memories built from the past week and I hope to see our group adventure to other parts of the world someday soon to show Gods love to other people. Thank you guys so much for all your support and prayers, see you all in a few days!” - Kathryn L. (:
“ “Enjoy serving the Lord, and He will give you what you want. Depend on the Lord; trust Him, and He will take care of you.” Psalm 37:4-5
My biggest lesson from the week: Be Here Now.
Before coming on the trip, I had a mindset that the answers to the decisions I was facing in my life would all be revealed to me during these 10 days in Peru. I’m not sure why I thought like that, but the first day here, I was convicted and shown how I needed to be living in the moment. Jon Weller (the assistant director of Inca Link) told us to truly be living here now. I took this to heart, and asked God to help me to truly live in the moment, and to focus on my service here, and not all of the decisions I had to make back at home. Ever since then, my eyes have been opened to so much about myself and about my relationship with God. God has shown me that I don’t have to have everything figured out, but that I can just trust in Him. Also, He has revealed to me that maybe an answer won’t be concrete, and God is giving us a choice. I think that the bigger choice is being able to allow God to use us no matter where we go.
This week, I have learned to truly rely on God, and to not rely so much on myself and my own abilities, or on what other people can offer me, but to instead love God with all of my heart, soul, and mind, and to help others to do the same. I also have seen that my passions are MY passions, and that God has given me these passions in order to serve Him. An intern at Inca Link named Amber said “You can’t be passionate about something you don’t know about”, and that has impacted me so much since being here in Peru. I have learned that I am truly passionate about children, and that was revealed to me through working with the children at the day care, and the joy I feel from being around children in everyday work. I also learned that I have a passion for the Alburgue project that we are working on, and the vision that the Inca Link staff has for these children has become my vision. I never would have learned that I have these passions if I hadn’t known they existed.
This week, I have been so proud to be a part of this group (The Well). The love and unity and support that is overwhelmingly present in these people is amazing, and contagious. The team unity that we seem to have has been a dream of mine, and I am so thankful that I have been present to witness this unity. I have been so blessed by the conversations that I have had with people in our group, and the prayers and love that have been given to me by others.
I love Peru. I have felt so blessed to be here, and it feels like home. I have learned that whenever I am serving God and truly living in His presence, it feels like home. I was so blessed when yesterday, the youngest Kimbro son (a missionary family here) told us “Welcome Home” when we arrived at the worksite. That made my heart feel so warm, and it truly summed up my feelings. I already miss it here, and I haven’t even left yet. How weird is that?
I am trying to take the lesson of “Be here now” home with me. I realize that I need to be happy with what I have, and learn that God truly is enough (scratch that, more than enough) for me. Thank you for your prayers and love, and I can’t wait to see everyone in a few days!” -Allie A.
However, there is a big goal ahead. In order for the school and home to open, the cafeteria must be completed! Please pray that God would meet the need so that the school and home can open in time!!!
incalink.org > Donate
Grace + Peace in the heat!
Jon
“Hey bros just wanted to check in and give a little idea on whats going on here in Trujillo today.
These past couple of days have been tough with the lacking of sleep and all but I think just getting through it and realizing the motivation for it all has just opened me up to something god has been putting on my heart. God could not have made it clearer to me these past couple of days that he wants me here giving all I have to serve him. Its a great feeling to have a since of where i’m going in life, to know god has placed me on a path loaded with missions. Im excited to know what other missions are in store for me but I have that much more motivation in me now to continue on in pursuing god and reaching out to others and showing them gods love. I want all to know that the impact that is occurring here is not only to stay here but to come back and impact all of ridgeway and much more. Thank you so much for your continued prayer and god bless. Grace + Peace.” Tino S.
“My week in Trujillo didn’t start out the way that I planned on it starting. As soon as we flew over Lima I started having a ear ache which didn’t stop hurting until Tuesday. Looking back I wondered how I got through construction, however I worked my butt off regardless of all the pain. Everyone was great to me, everyday I must have heard the words “how’s your ear” at least 50 times a day! People prayed for me continuously and it felt great to see the people I have been with for years care so much about how I was doing.
Aside from my ear infection, my time here has been amazing. Most of the time we did double days of construction and I started out the week by making bricks which sounds easy but its not. Monday came and me and three other girls decided that we were going to do what the boys were doing and make cement. The boys didn’t seem too thrilled about this and definitely did not think that we had the strength to shovel and push the cement back and fourth. However, we did and they were so surprised to see this although it was very tiring. Our group has been amazing in how we’ve come together and worked as a team through all the hard work we have been doing. We have a lot of memories built from the past week and I hope to see our group adventure to other parts of the world someday soon to show Gods love to other people. Thank you guys so much for all your support and prayers, see you all in a few days!” - Kathryn L. (:
“ “Enjoy serving the Lord, and He will give you what you want. Depend on the Lord; trust Him, and He will take care of you.” Psalm 37:4-5
My biggest lesson from the week: Be Here Now.
Before coming on the trip, I had a mindset that the answers to the decisions I was facing in my life would all be revealed to me during these 10 days in Peru. I’m not sure why I thought like that, but the first day here, I was convicted and shown how I needed to be living in the moment. Jon Weller (the assistant director of Inca Link) told us to truly be living here now. I took this to heart, and asked God to help me to truly live in the moment, and to focus on my service here, and not all of the decisions I had to make back at home. Ever since then, my eyes have been opened to so much about myself and about my relationship with God. God has shown me that I don’t have to have everything figured out, but that I can just trust in Him. Also, He has revealed to me that maybe an answer won’t be concrete, and God is giving us a choice. I think that the bigger choice is being able to allow God to use us no matter where we go.
This week, I have learned to truly rely on God, and to not rely so much on myself and my own abilities, or on what other people can offer me, but to instead love God with all of my heart, soul, and mind, and to help others to do the same. I also have seen that my passions are MY passions, and that God has given me these passions in order to serve Him. An intern at Inca Link named Amber said “You can’t be passionate about something you don’t know about”, and that has impacted me so much since being here in Peru. I have learned that I am truly passionate about children, and that was revealed to me through working with the children at the day care, and the joy I feel from being around children in everyday work. I also learned that I have a passion for the Alburgue project that we are working on, and the vision that the Inca Link staff has for these children has become my vision. I never would have learned that I have these passions if I hadn’t known they existed.
This week, I have been so proud to be a part of this group (The Well). The love and unity and support that is overwhelmingly present in these people is amazing, and contagious. The team unity that we seem to have has been a dream of mine, and I am so thankful that I have been present to witness this unity. I have been so blessed by the conversations that I have had with people in our group, and the prayers and love that have been given to me by others.
I love Peru. I have felt so blessed to be here, and it feels like home. I have learned that whenever I am serving God and truly living in His presence, it feels like home. I was so blessed when yesterday, the youngest Kimbro son (a missionary family here) told us “Welcome Home” when we arrived at the worksite. That made my heart feel so warm, and it truly summed up my feelings. I already miss it here, and I haven’t even left yet. How weird is that?
I am trying to take the lesson of “Be here now” home with me. I realize that I need to be happy with what I have, and learn that God truly is enough (scratch that, more than enough) for me. Thank you for your prayers and love, and I can’t wait to see everyone in a few days!” -Allie A.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Day Seven
¡CONSTRUCTION! Today we worked to help pour the foundation of the vocational school that will teach abandoned children how to make shoes. We made bricks that will be the walls of the school and leveld the couryard so trucks can come in with supplies. Today we (as a Ridgeway family) changed someones life! You should praise God!
One of our favorite Inca Link interns Annie is working on a project to build a church right inside the garbage dump. She is looking to raise money. Part of the project is to provide these people with clean drinking water via a well (wink wink)... Please pray about how you can get involved...
incalink.org --> Click Here to Donate --> fill out info and choose 'Dump Building' from Ministry drop down menu...
Prayer...
We are doing great! Please praise God!
Tomorrow we are doing a half day at the school and then heading to the market (Please pray for continued safety!)
“This trip has been exactly the opposite of what I expected. In the weeks prior to coming to Trujillo, I was prepared for a lot of manual labor which I was thankful for but I didn't quite know if our group would be able to come together as a team, and once again I'm incredibly happy to say that our team has gone above and beyond as a cohesive unit under Christ. Our team is encouraging and inspiring and I'm so grateful to be surrounded by such a great support system of believers. Yes, our group is hysterical and we always have a great time together but I was surprised to see how well we'd blend and get work done on site. Seeing God’s love move through The Well is a true testament to His faithfulness.
We have all been given different gifts and talents, none more superior than another. Throughout the past week I have both been challenged to try new things and encouraged and acknowledged for what I bring to the group. I started the week with brick making but switched over to cement (mainly a 'guys' task). At first the guys were a little thrown off with a couple of girls helping with cement, but they welcomed us and taught us how to balance wheelbarrows of cement across the worksite on a series of wooden planks. Even when I spilled about half a wheelbarrow, the guys still supported me and pushed me to do better. Just as support is important, challenge is also necessary for growth. It was my turn to lead a small group devotional this morning. I would definitely say that this was out of my immediate comfort zone but the positive feedback really helped me have more confidence for the rest of the day. I started to take just a bit more cement in my wheelbarrow and took a few less stretching breaks. The atmosphere we have here is the perfect combination of challenge and support for me and I'm sure everyone here will leave knowing that we have truly become one family, united under christ seeking to change each other and the world whether it be one wheelbarrow of cement or a simple high five at a time. Thank you to all of you back home for your prayer and support, see you guy soon!” - Kelly L.
"Facts About Peru:
-Cars here replace there horns with ambulance sirens/car alarms.
-Churros are the real deal here. Fried dough balls covered with sugar and filled with amazingness manjar (some kind of carmel/apple/something). Deliciouso!
-It apparently never rains here, only mists. Awkward…
-I haven’t seen the sun yet except when it sets.
-It’s chilly here. YEAH!
Experiences of the Week:
-We now know how to make legit bricks.
-I saw a donkey head carcass.
-All the locals working here are so fantastic here that they serve us (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner...Already had breakfast, lunch, and dinner? Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner AGAIN!)!
-Everyone has been so encouraging towards everyone. ^__^” - Hunter and Nikki
"The week so far has been absolutely, positively, without a doubt the best week of my life so far. It has been a life changing experience for me. We've done a lot of construction and loving n kids and i've made a lot of new friends!
We started out our first day with VBS at the day care center (which was my favorite part of the week without a doubt!) and had and awesome time dong worship, a lesson, a craft and games with all the kids. They were so ready to just hug and jump on us and love us when we walked through the mini door! Some of them were rather dirty, and yet had the biggest, brightest smiles on their faces. It was really a great way to start the week.
The most emotional experience for me so far was the garbage dump ministry that we did. Hearing the people there tell us their stories and hearing that some of them had been working there throughout their childhood was really tough to hear and really got me thinking about hoe good I have it back home compared to these people. And yet they were just genuinely happy to see us and talk to us. It's cool that they find us so interesting.
I also had an awesome time at the beach! It was my first time and it was so much fun even though the water was kind of really cold and not many people stayed in except for me.
I'm gonna wrap it up here by saying a few things. One, the streets are never boring here. It's like walking in rainbows because the houses are so many different colors...it's awesome!! Two, thank you all so much for your prayers and financial and spiritual support. None of us would be where we are right now without all of you so thanks a million!! Three, I want to challenge you to make the most of everyday you have no matter what the circumstances because it could be much, much worse than it is. And last but not least I wanna let you guys know that I miss you and can't wait to see you all when we get back!
Until then, stay happy and healthy!!
~Kyra (:
“This week so far has been great, spiritually and joyfully. Everything from playing with kids, constructing buildings and translating for people has been awe-some. I believe that everyone connected with each other and got closer. These experiences that we share, will stay with us for the rest of our lives.
What really encourage me to give me 111% during working in constructing was the smiles of the orphans and the humbleness of the people in Peru. Every time I struggled, I would just remember those people, and out of no where I would just get strength to push me through. Those kids really need a place to live and to learn. I thank God that this mission is striving to change to lives and I'm happy to be a part of it. Not only that but I am also glad to be sharing the will of the lord and sharing his love to all places, even in the garbage dumps of Trujillo. The happiness that I have shared with people made me stronger as a servant if the lord. Just being able to share Gods love made me heart be filled with joy.
Ultimately this trip was extremely eye opening and great. I love it and I love God.”
-Daniel R.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Day 6
Construction! We worked very hard today making bricks, pouring concrete and leveling the ground. We are building a dorm where children from the garbage dump will come to live and learn!
Prayer -
Praise - Kathryn L. is doing great!
Digestive health
Continued Team Unity
Enjoy!
"Thank you guys for reading my blog post! I am so happy that you guys are supporting me financially as well as spiritually, and I am very happy that I can help these people in need in Peru. I am happy to be building a place for people to live in and able to advance God’s kingdom. And yes Pops, I am eating my vegetables, and the only reason is so I don’t clog these weak Peruvian toilets. Once again, thank you so much for reading my post, and I’m going to keep working hard and giving 110% of my effort and energy to help these people here. - Robin H.
“Hey everyone… Hope you’re all doing really well. Today we had a full day of construction, which is always a struggle for me to do. When Jon told us to work out I didn’t really think that we would need to workout before I got here, I would just be fine. But this work is insane. Im using muscles that I didn’t know I had. I’ve been doing brick making and its nothing like Mr. Mollers VBS tent what so ever. So I now I can make my own house when I move out (hahaha). Definitely keep my back in prayer, its definitely a crucial thing that I need for the next two days of work. What helps me keep going is that I am building a place where kids will be loved and have a place to live and learn about Jesus..that is definitely a motivational thought. Please keep everyone in prayer and I hope you all are doing really well. Much much love… Lauren O.”
“Today is officially the halfway point of our trip and it makes me sad to realize that at some point we are going to have to go home. However today was one of the most memorable days for me so far. Each morning we begin our day with devotionals in small groups and I find it one of the best ways to start my day. This morning in particular I was so moved by my group member, Kevin. Earlier this week he accidentally got cement in his eye and through the midst of his injury he said during devotionals this morning that he gave thanks to God for his injury because it made him dependent on God for strength and perseverance so that he was forced to then pull away from his own strength and independence. His words truly made me reflect on the reason that we’re all here which is to grow closer to God and put all of our faith in him.
From the start of this trip one of our primary goals has been to build relationships with one another and form new friendships in Christ. Today, I had the pleasure to talk to a very special person named Annie who is one of the interns here at Inca Link. I was extremely happy to have the opportunity to talk to her because it turns out that she is one of the most amazing individuals I have ever met. As we were working during construction today she took the time to work with myself and a few other girls and talk in depth with us which truly opened my eyes to the wonderful person that she is and how wonderful and special all the people here are. Her love, compassion, and kindness was just so abundant that I felt so welcomed by her presence and welcomed as a friend.
At the end of today we had a debrief session to sort of just bring the group together a discuss the day and be with one another. We played the “thank you game” today which was a really great way to end our day of hard work. One by one we went around the room and thanked each other for one thing and the love in the room was so incredibly tangible. We were all so excited to thank one another for all the amazing things we had received. We were able to end our day with love and appreciation for every person and truly experience the way in which God had brought us all closer to one another. - Danielle <3”
“SURPRISES (sopresas) it’s what keeps us going
Day after day
The things we aren’t expecting
Tiny above all things
Influence our experiences
From the size of the garbage dump to the realness of our friends/family coming out,
Perú is changing us.
We love each other more today than before and are seeing other sides of people we wouldn’t have seen before.
For the we see before us, like the 100 bags of cement we need to complete (32 bags done so far), we can see this center done by January, we can see our love changing in these kids, we can although we can’t just see it yet.
P.S
Perú vs Venezuela
4 1
Perú vs España”
2 2
- David R."
Prayer -
Praise - Kathryn L. is doing great!
Digestive health
Continued Team Unity
Enjoy!
"Thank you guys for reading my blog post! I am so happy that you guys are supporting me financially as well as spiritually, and I am very happy that I can help these people in need in Peru. I am happy to be building a place for people to live in and able to advance God’s kingdom. And yes Pops, I am eating my vegetables, and the only reason is so I don’t clog these weak Peruvian toilets. Once again, thank you so much for reading my post, and I’m going to keep working hard and giving 110% of my effort and energy to help these people here. - Robin H.
“Hey everyone… Hope you’re all doing really well. Today we had a full day of construction, which is always a struggle for me to do. When Jon told us to work out I didn’t really think that we would need to workout before I got here, I would just be fine. But this work is insane. Im using muscles that I didn’t know I had. I’ve been doing brick making and its nothing like Mr. Mollers VBS tent what so ever. So I now I can make my own house when I move out (hahaha). Definitely keep my back in prayer, its definitely a crucial thing that I need for the next two days of work. What helps me keep going is that I am building a place where kids will be loved and have a place to live and learn about Jesus..that is definitely a motivational thought. Please keep everyone in prayer and I hope you all are doing really well. Much much love… Lauren O.”
“Today is officially the halfway point of our trip and it makes me sad to realize that at some point we are going to have to go home. However today was one of the most memorable days for me so far. Each morning we begin our day with devotionals in small groups and I find it one of the best ways to start my day. This morning in particular I was so moved by my group member, Kevin. Earlier this week he accidentally got cement in his eye and through the midst of his injury he said during devotionals this morning that he gave thanks to God for his injury because it made him dependent on God for strength and perseverance so that he was forced to then pull away from his own strength and independence. His words truly made me reflect on the reason that we’re all here which is to grow closer to God and put all of our faith in him.
From the start of this trip one of our primary goals has been to build relationships with one another and form new friendships in Christ. Today, I had the pleasure to talk to a very special person named Annie who is one of the interns here at Inca Link. I was extremely happy to have the opportunity to talk to her because it turns out that she is one of the most amazing individuals I have ever met. As we were working during construction today she took the time to work with myself and a few other girls and talk in depth with us which truly opened my eyes to the wonderful person that she is and how wonderful and special all the people here are. Her love, compassion, and kindness was just so abundant that I felt so welcomed by her presence and welcomed as a friend.
At the end of today we had a debrief session to sort of just bring the group together a discuss the day and be with one another. We played the “thank you game” today which was a really great way to end our day of hard work. One by one we went around the room and thanked each other for one thing and the love in the room was so incredibly tangible. We were all so excited to thank one another for all the amazing things we had received. We were able to end our day with love and appreciation for every person and truly experience the way in which God had brought us all closer to one another. - Danielle <3”
“SURPRISES (sopresas) it’s what keeps us going
Day after day
The things we aren’t expecting
Tiny above all things
Influence our experiences
From the size of the garbage dump to the realness of our friends/family coming out,
Perú is changing us.
We love each other more today than before and are seeing other sides of people we wouldn’t have seen before.
For the we see before us, like the 100 bags of cement we need to complete (32 bags done so far), we can see this center done by January, we can see our love changing in these kids, we can although we can’t just see it yet.
P.S
Perú vs Venezuela
4 1
Perú vs España”
2 2
- David R."
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Day 5
The Lord rested on the seventh day... and so did we!
Church this morning, followed by the beach, a team dinner at a restaurant and finished off with a fútbol game!
Prayer
Kathryn L. - Ear ache
Physical Strength
Rest
"So much has happened, and we're only half way through! Within the past few days we've all been pushed emotionally, spiritually, and physically. God has given us the strength to do incredible things, and to chose joy even when we're covered head to toe in mud, dirt and cement. It's been exciting to see the work God is doing in us individually, as a group, and in the city of Trujillo.
Halfway through our time here, today was a much needed day of rest. We went to a local church to worship with them, and even got to sing a familiar song or two, in Spanish of course. After, we headed off to Huanchacho beach! Even though it's "winter" here in Peru, and most locals would think we were crazy, we had a great time relaxing, swimming, and surfing! (Yes mom, surfing.) " Laura D
"This week has been a different experience for me as a leader. It's been so great to see all of the students really step up and take the challenge to "give 110%" every day. Several of the interns have commented about how much they are amazed by our group's willingness to approach this trip with open hands and hearts without holding anything back. I am proud of the flexibility exhibited by all of the students and I have yet to hear a complaint. It's also great to be a part of some firsts: first trip out of the country, first mission trip, first trip to the beach (Kyra), etc. I love seeing everyone's excitement and it's great to see moments I take for granted through fresh eyes.
For me, this trip gives me comfort and confirmation that I'm doing what I was born to do: mentoring young people, loving on children and the unloved, and just serving in whatever way I can. Although the days are exhausting, they are also life-giving to me. I find myself challenged as well as I am 1 of 2 women assigned to the particular construction task we are doing: leveling the foundation for one of the buildings. I am grateful that God has given me endurance thus far and I pray that He will continue to do so. I am also amazed by how much of my high school Spanish I recall-I understand about 75-85% of what people say around me although I have some difficulty speaking it. God has given me boldness to speak what little I am able and to communicate with the pastor who is the foreman on the work site.
Thanks so much for your prayers and encouragement. I love sharing your comments with the students and many of them come in perfect timing. You are definitely a part of what we're doing!" Bethany R.
Church this morning, followed by the beach, a team dinner at a restaurant and finished off with a fútbol game!
Prayer
Kathryn L. - Ear ache
Physical Strength
Rest
"So much has happened, and we're only half way through! Within the past few days we've all been pushed emotionally, spiritually, and physically. God has given us the strength to do incredible things, and to chose joy even when we're covered head to toe in mud, dirt and cement. It's been exciting to see the work God is doing in us individually, as a group, and in the city of Trujillo.
Halfway through our time here, today was a much needed day of rest. We went to a local church to worship with them, and even got to sing a familiar song or two, in Spanish of course. After, we headed off to Huanchacho beach! Even though it's "winter" here in Peru, and most locals would think we were crazy, we had a great time relaxing, swimming, and surfing! (Yes mom, surfing.) " Laura D
"This week has been a different experience for me as a leader. It's been so great to see all of the students really step up and take the challenge to "give 110%" every day. Several of the interns have commented about how much they are amazed by our group's willingness to approach this trip with open hands and hearts without holding anything back. I am proud of the flexibility exhibited by all of the students and I have yet to hear a complaint. It's also great to be a part of some firsts: first trip out of the country, first mission trip, first trip to the beach (Kyra), etc. I love seeing everyone's excitement and it's great to see moments I take for granted through fresh eyes.
For me, this trip gives me comfort and confirmation that I'm doing what I was born to do: mentoring young people, loving on children and the unloved, and just serving in whatever way I can. Although the days are exhausting, they are also life-giving to me. I find myself challenged as well as I am 1 of 2 women assigned to the particular construction task we are doing: leveling the foundation for one of the buildings. I am grateful that God has given me endurance thus far and I pray that He will continue to do so. I am also amazed by how much of my high school Spanish I recall-I understand about 75-85% of what people say around me although I have some difficulty speaking it. God has given me boldness to speak what little I am able and to communicate with the pastor who is the foreman on the work site.
Thanks so much for your prayers and encouragement. I love sharing your comments with the students and many of them come in perfect timing. You are definitely a part of what we're doing!" Bethany R.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Day 4
One word. Construction! We worked very hard making bricks, pouring cement and leveling the ground! We also visited various small groups and participated with them!
Please pray for...
Kathryn L. - ear ache
Please pray for...
Kathryn L. - ear ache
"Today we had a full day of construction; it was really exhausting, but definitely worth it. Although making the bricks was strenuous, it was amazing to see how brick-making works. Jose directed us in making bricks; he was so patient no matter how much we messed up and how confused we were. His attitude inspired me to act with more patience from day to day. I was able to experience something that you can't in the U.S. and it was really humbling for me. In the U.S., Bricks are not made by mud and are made in factories.
After dinner tonight, we broke up into groups and were able to hang out with the local small groups. I do not speak Spanish, so I was sort-of intimidated by the small group I hung out with. It was awesome because a couple of the young adults spoke a little English and were able to make it easier for me to communicate with the others. During the worship, it occurred to me that it doesn't matter what language someone speaks, we all have the same GOD." - Kristi W.
"Bricks. Bricks. Bricks. A double of shift of of construction happened today. It was hard. It was heavy. And it was awesome. Later in the day, we went to our cell groups which is church for the people of Peru. We sang worship songs and it felt like I was back home again. I guess wherever you feel God, you feel home. God is home, and in Peru, I feel home everywhere. In the midst of all this construction, all this building, it was so fitting for the story of Noah to come in. Noah was put to work by God. Not just construction, but the work of God. He made an arc with a deck, roof, and a door. It was probably hard. It was probably all heavy. And it was probably awesome. But, "Noah did everything just as God commanded him." Gen 6:22. And so the water came for 150 days but it says "God remembered Noah" and they were safe. God made a covenant that day to never flood the earth again. A promise. An everlasting promise of love. "As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer, and winter, day and night, will never cease. Gen 8:22 " So here we are with the world enduring in Peru right now, living through the cold mornings of the winter ,the hot afternoons, the days and the nights. It doesn't cease and I dont want them too for God's promises are engraved on every street corner here in Trujillo. In the people in their smiles. His promises are alive and in every brick we make and they point to something far greater. And its happening now." - Mary L.
" It's only day three and I am exhausted. Today we worked construction all day. All of the guys were working with the cement, making it and then pouring it as a foundation for a new school building. At first it wasn't that bad, it was heavy but it was not killing me. Since today we were at the construction site all day it was very hard, especially in the morning. After lunch there was not that much left so we all pushed each other. Thing I liked most about working today was the way that we kept each other in line and encouraged one another. The simple things really make a difference, even when we were all tired.
After construction I felt everything was easier, but my legs were so tired. When we went back to our home base we had about an hour to take a shower and relax before dinner, something I think everyone needed. We all had to look presentable because, after dinner, we were going to break up into small groups with one of the local churches. It was an incredible experience in my opinion. In my group we introduced ourselves and everyone seemed so welcoming. Something I also noticed was that we prayed a lot. We then sang songs and played a silly game as an ice breaker. There was very little english so I could not understand much, I had a great time meeting people and trying out my spanish. Please pray for strength and courage in everything I do here." Brandon C.
Friday, July 22, 2011
Day 3
Hi Everyone,
We are doing great! Our congregation should be very proud of the work these students are doing! Great job parents!!! Today we worked hard at Alburgesa, the future children's home and vocational school. We then went to the fruit market to buy fruit to hand out the workers of the garbage dump... Here are some reactions from the day from Carolyn, Robin and Kevin...
Pray for...
Rest
Continued health and safety
Tomorrow we will work construction all day
"The garbage dump was a life changing experience for me. I went in knowing that the people were in poverty, and at first I felt sad for them. They were in desperate need of food and clean water, and I couldn't help but feel helpless. I had wanted to help all of the people at the dump, and when I ran out of fruit within the first fifteen minutes at the dump, I wasn't sure how else I could help the people living in the dump. However, as I spent more time at the dump, I realized that despite their hunger and thirst, these people were truly happy and grateful for what we were doing. After meeting with each of the people, I couldn't help but feel happy. The people living there had each given me the biggest smiles I've seen in a long time. I realized that even though I couldn't give these people everything that they needed by myself, I had helped them get through this afternoon. I also realized that besides the fact that I was born to a family in the USA and they were born to a poor family that lived in the dump, they weren't any different from me... we all need to love and be loved." - Carolyn C.
"Today we did 4 hours of construction, it was probably the dirtiest and hardest work I've done in my whole life. I came out covered head to toe in cement and dirt, but it was awesome seeing everyone working their hardest and not complaining. Right after we went to eat lunch and then to the garbage dump to give out fruit to the workers. I was not even close to be prepared for the amount of need of the people there, yet despite all that everyone still seems to be so happy and joyful to see us. No matter where we go people are constantly smiling and waving at us. At the dump I had the awesome opportunity to talk to a lady whose name was Mercedes. She worked at the dump every day with her son and husband, and she asked if we could pray that God would touch her heart. I couldn't believe that she didn't ask that God would provide her food or water. I left the garbage dump feeling helpless. Yes we helped all of those people today and gave them a couple of bananas and oranges, but tomorrow they're going to be back in that dump scavenging just to survive. I just wanted to give each of them like a bag of all the fruit they could eat. On the bus I couldn't help, but realize that no matter how hard I tried or how much resources I had I could never meet the amount of need I saw there today, but God could. He not only could meet their physical needs, but he can fulfill them more than any food or water. I love the relationships I've been building with people like Mercedes and some of the people at Inca link and the churches despite my terrible Spanish, and I can feel my heart starting to soften. I can't wait to see everything that God has in store for us this trip because it has just started yet it seems like we've done so much. We're moving so fast and have only so many chances to make a difference. We can't take any moment for granted. Please pray for our strength and rest, we're going to need it." - Kevin N.
"Yea, so today we did about 4 hrs of construction; It was very hard work, and it made me very tired very fast, but I kept thinking about what I was working for. All of those children... just seeing their smiling faces and just their energy, and innocence. I couldn't believe that I was actually building a place for these children to live in. It was the first time I was ever building something where someone was actually going to be living in it, some people were actually depending on me, this was actually important; this really mattered. it kept me going. After about 20 minutes of rolling wet cement around on wheel boroughs, I couldn't feel my arms. But nevertheless I kept going. I just had so much to motivate me. I kept thinking about what I was working for, and I knew that the harder I worked, the better lunch would taste, and OHH MAN did lunch taste good. We had mashed potatoes, vegetables and one small piece of chicken for lunch. I scooped up the mashed potatoes with my spoon and just ate it all in about 5 seconds and I just ate the chicken in one bite...but enough about that. After lunch, we went to the fruit market to go buy some fruit so we could give some to the people at the garbage dump. It's actually quite rare for the people working at the fruit market to see people like us "Gringos" if you will, so everybody looked at us wide eyed, smiling. I bought a few baby bananas and oranges, and then we went to the garbage dump. At the dump, when I got off the bus, I couldn't believe where I was... how people lived there. It was just unreal; I started handing out the fruit to people, and started conversations with them. I couldn't believe the expressions these people had on their faces....smiles! everyone was just smiling, and everyone seemed happy, even as I spoke with them, they always had an upbeat voice and were very polite. These people weren't crying out for help, but they seemed to be content with where they were. It was truly an emotional experience just seeing people living in these conditions, just getting by. So I prayed with them, that God would watch over them and provide for them their needs, and keep them healthy and safe. And I know that YOU who is reading this may have not met these people here in Trujillo, at the Garbage dumps, but please pray for these people, pray for their health and safety. Today was a very long day, but it truly was amazing. It's only been 2 days since i've been here in Peru, so I can't imagine what God has in store for me for the rest of this trip; I really think it's going to be a life changing experience." -Robin H.
We are doing great! Our congregation should be very proud of the work these students are doing! Great job parents!!! Today we worked hard at Alburgesa, the future children's home and vocational school. We then went to the fruit market to buy fruit to hand out the workers of the garbage dump... Here are some reactions from the day from Carolyn, Robin and Kevin...
Pray for...
Rest
Continued health and safety
Tomorrow we will work construction all day
"The garbage dump was a life changing experience for me. I went in knowing that the people were in poverty, and at first I felt sad for them. They were in desperate need of food and clean water, and I couldn't help but feel helpless. I had wanted to help all of the people at the dump, and when I ran out of fruit within the first fifteen minutes at the dump, I wasn't sure how else I could help the people living in the dump. However, as I spent more time at the dump, I realized that despite their hunger and thirst, these people were truly happy and grateful for what we were doing. After meeting with each of the people, I couldn't help but feel happy. The people living there had each given me the biggest smiles I've seen in a long time. I realized that even though I couldn't give these people everything that they needed by myself, I had helped them get through this afternoon. I also realized that besides the fact that I was born to a family in the USA and they were born to a poor family that lived in the dump, they weren't any different from me... we all need to love and be loved." - Carolyn C.
"Today we did 4 hours of construction, it was probably the dirtiest and hardest work I've done in my whole life. I came out covered head to toe in cement and dirt, but it was awesome seeing everyone working their hardest and not complaining. Right after we went to eat lunch and then to the garbage dump to give out fruit to the workers. I was not even close to be prepared for the amount of need of the people there, yet despite all that everyone still seems to be so happy and joyful to see us. No matter where we go people are constantly smiling and waving at us. At the dump I had the awesome opportunity to talk to a lady whose name was Mercedes. She worked at the dump every day with her son and husband, and she asked if we could pray that God would touch her heart. I couldn't believe that she didn't ask that God would provide her food or water. I left the garbage dump feeling helpless. Yes we helped all of those people today and gave them a couple of bananas and oranges, but tomorrow they're going to be back in that dump scavenging just to survive. I just wanted to give each of them like a bag of all the fruit they could eat. On the bus I couldn't help, but realize that no matter how hard I tried or how much resources I had I could never meet the amount of need I saw there today, but God could. He not only could meet their physical needs, but he can fulfill them more than any food or water. I love the relationships I've been building with people like Mercedes and some of the people at Inca link and the churches despite my terrible Spanish, and I can feel my heart starting to soften. I can't wait to see everything that God has in store for us this trip because it has just started yet it seems like we've done so much. We're moving so fast and have only so many chances to make a difference. We can't take any moment for granted. Please pray for our strength and rest, we're going to need it." - Kevin N.
"Yea, so today we did about 4 hrs of construction; It was very hard work, and it made me very tired very fast, but I kept thinking about what I was working for. All of those children... just seeing their smiling faces and just their energy, and innocence. I couldn't believe that I was actually building a place for these children to live in. It was the first time I was ever building something where someone was actually going to be living in it, some people were actually depending on me, this was actually important; this really mattered. it kept me going. After about 20 minutes of rolling wet cement around on wheel boroughs, I couldn't feel my arms. But nevertheless I kept going. I just had so much to motivate me. I kept thinking about what I was working for, and I knew that the harder I worked, the better lunch would taste, and OHH MAN did lunch taste good. We had mashed potatoes, vegetables and one small piece of chicken for lunch. I scooped up the mashed potatoes with my spoon and just ate it all in about 5 seconds and I just ate the chicken in one bite...but enough about that. After lunch, we went to the fruit market to go buy some fruit so we could give some to the people at the garbage dump. It's actually quite rare for the people working at the fruit market to see people like us "Gringos" if you will, so everybody looked at us wide eyed, smiling. I bought a few baby bananas and oranges, and then we went to the garbage dump. At the dump, when I got off the bus, I couldn't believe where I was... how people lived there. It was just unreal; I started handing out the fruit to people, and started conversations with them. I couldn't believe the expressions these people had on their faces....smiles! everyone was just smiling, and everyone seemed happy, even as I spoke with them, they always had an upbeat voice and were very polite. These people weren't crying out for help, but they seemed to be content with where they were. It was truly an emotional experience just seeing people living in these conditions, just getting by. So I prayed with them, that God would watch over them and provide for them their needs, and keep them healthy and safe. And I know that YOU who is reading this may have not met these people here in Trujillo, at the Garbage dumps, but please pray for these people, pray for their health and safety. Today was a very long day, but it truly was amazing. It's only been 2 days since i've been here in Peru, so I can't imagine what God has in store for me for the rest of this trip; I really think it's going to be a life changing experience." -Robin H.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Day 2
"You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. "
This was the devotional for tonight! We arrived safely after a long bus ride and got right to work heading to the day care for VBS. We are tired, but enthused for what God has called us here to do!
"Today was incredible. The bus ride, (we didn't really know exactly know how long it was going to be) was a long ride through the night and we had no idea what to expect when we got to Trujillo. We had breakfast once we got to Trujillo, and then were brought to lunch within the next hour. On the way we were told that we were going to do VBS with the kids, and what an experience that was! I loved the feeling at the Day Care! We dove immediately into a sea of kids which was the highlight of the day. However, with this blessing comes a possibility of being way to tired to even show a smile. Please pray for strength as we go through the next few days." - Emma C.
"As soon as I got off the bus and we were leaving Trujillo, I knew this place was a different world. Driving through the various small towns and cities I saw shack after shack made mainly of brick and clay, some with roofs and some without. After arriving in Trujillo, the first thing we did was VBS with the kids of the dump, and as soon as we walked into the child care center we were overrun with kids jumping on us, hugging us, they just needed some love. And no matter how hard or tiring our trip was, every time we saw a smile on a kids face it was all worth it. I ask that you pray for us, that as the days go on and our exhaustion grows we'll have the strength to stay flexible and keep a big smile on our faces. Grace and Peace Friends and Family and thanks for all your support." - Zach M.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Atlanta
Hi Everyone...
So far so good! Praise the Lord! Our blue shirts have gotten us applause on the plane ride here! We are enjoying the airport and getting ready for the 7 hours ahead of us!
We believe there is internet access in Trujillo, but we are unsure of the reliability.
Please keep us in prayer for safety, endurance, patience and peace as we work on the next leg!!
Grace and Peace!
So far so good! Praise the Lord! Our blue shirts have gotten us applause on the plane ride here! We are enjoying the airport and getting ready for the 7 hours ahead of us!
We believe there is internet access in Trujillo, but we are unsure of the reliability.
Please keep us in prayer for safety, endurance, patience and peace as we work on the next leg!!
Grace and Peace!
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Lock-In!!!
Get excited for the lock-in tomorrow guys!!! We're gonna be practicing for VBS, doing some team building exercises, eating, and watching a movie, and of course The FREE WASH on Saturday!!!!
Here is what you need to bring:
-Pillow
-Sleeping Bag
-Blue Trujillo, Peru shirt
-Clothing for Car Wash (Appropriate Clothing!!)
-Toiletries needed (No Showers!)
The Well
Love God. Love People. Go.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Why a Blog?
We wanted to create this blog for The Well's trip to Trujillo, Peru from July 20-30, 2011. We will be updating the blog before we go, and (hopefully!) every day while we are there.
Keep up with us while we are in Peru, by reading this!
Thank you for your prayers and support!
The Well
Love God. Love People. Go.
Keep up with us while we are in Peru, by reading this!
Thank you for your prayers and support!
The Well
Love God. Love People. Go.
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