Sunday, June 8, 2008

A Sunday To Remember (A Formal Affair)

Today was a day unlike any other, for this was the first full Sunday we’ve been here in Mexico. This day was chock full of adventures and new experiences. We were able to sleep in an extra 2 hours this morning, a privilege that was welcomed enthusiastically. At 9:15, we departed for the brickyards to attend the community church service. The plan was to attend the morning service then head to the city for lunch. Little did we know, God had something totally different in store for us.

The brickyard service was a unique and intriguing experience. After a time of worship, the puppet team performed a short skit and song. The native children, even the adults, seemed to enjoy and appreciate it. We were also asked by the pastor to do an impromptu song for the congregation. Prior to the beginning of the sermon, the children were excused to attend children’s church, and some of the girls from our group went with them.

After the service we said our goodbyes and packed into the van. That was where our plans ended and God’s began. When Gail turned the key, the engine didn’t start. Immediately, we assumed the battery was dead, but after several attempts to jumpstart the engine, we realized that was not the case. After further examination, we realized the problem was much more complicated, too complicated, in fact, to explain right now. The question was no longer, “Will we still be able to go to town?” but “How will we get back to the ranch?”

The girls were the first to be taken back to the ranch. One of the missionaries had her car at the brickyards, so all 11 of our girls (including Kim and her mom) stuffed themselves in for the short (thankfully) ride back to the ranch. All the while we boys waited at the brickyard for Monte to arrive with a fresh pair of eyes, tools and another vehicle. In a long, arduous process, we towed the van back to the ranch with Monte’s SUV. In the process we were able to use the ramp we constructed earlier in the week, once again us boys put our muscles together and pushed the van onto Monte’s porch.

After a much appreciated lunch we had a few hours of siesta. Around 5 o’clock we were pleasantly surprised to see that the Amias (a missionary family) had arrived and by 5:30 it was time for a soccer game. After the game we sat down for a delicious supper on the front porch of one of the buildings, and watched the storm clouds start to form around us. Later after supper we began our evening group meeting and prayer time. We ended the night with ice cream and another welcomed rainstorm.

Love,
David and Zach

5 comments:

Cheryl said...

Wow! What a story. I must say Thrive Youth is a very talented group of writers. Thanks for the update. We are praying for your van repair and for continued health. God has blessed you with a incredible opportunity to serve Him.

Kaley Yates said...

Well, Zach and David, that was an interesting post! I enjoy reading the guys' perspective of this whole journey. I am glad God stepped in and told you to stay with the kids. They need you all there :]

I am praying continuously for safety, rest, and the ol van.
Much love :]
Kaley.

Mrs said...

Looks like that composition class with Mrs. R has really paid off!

I know it's Monday and it's back to work. Praying for all of you, and for the van, too.

Tyler, I'll see you in one week. Come to the airport with Dad and pick me up! I love you! I get in at 11:30 pm.

DaDaHaZaReJe said...

I'm so thankful for this blog and your willingness to communicate! I love the attitude that I see peeking out from between the lines - you guys are amazing and so ready for whatever God has for you! Way to go!!!!!

We'll keep praying for that van to run, the rain to come, the health to return and your skin not to burn - I know, silly silly silly... couldn't help it.

Love and hugs, snuffles, purrs, etc. from the Zoo.

Anonymous said...

Good posts guys!! Thanks for the update. That must've been hard to not be able to go to town for lunch, but it must have been even better to see what God did in that situation. Take care ya'll!!! Continuing to pray for this great group of guys and gals!!!!!!!