MISSION TRIP- 2009
Team- Alex Mark, Team Leader, Heather Peeler, Holly Tanner, Connie Patterson, Becky Freel, Ellen Jordan, Paizley Patterson, Jessie Tanner, Arielle Buckman, Justin Reaves, Michael Christenburg, Josh Funderburk, Dustin Williams, Garrett Freel, and Myers Jordan
Day One
What a mighty, amazing, awesome, thrilling, loving, merciful Go we serve! Tuesday, May 19, 2009 revealed these characteristics and much more to 15 ambassadors from Dillon Christian School travelling to Jamaica to minister, lay concrete, work construction, and share the gospel to a boarding school for deaf children ? ages 4 to 19. Our team includes: Alex Mark ? team leader, Heather Peeler, Holly Tanner, Connie Patterson, Becky Freel, Ellen Jordan, Paizley Patterson, Jessie Tanner, Arielle Buckman, Justin Reaves, Michael Christenburg, Josh Funderburk, Dustin Williams, Garrett Freel, and Myers Jordan. Each day we will send you a journal of our journey. Please feel free to pass along to friends and prayer warriors. The need for the love of Christ is huge ? please pray for our team that we may be empty vessels ? allowing the Spirit to fill us and flow through us to them. Pray for our safety, our health, team unity, and mostly - many, many opportunities to be hands, feet, and voices proclaiming God?s love.
Tuesday May 19
6:00 a.m. ? Team members met at DCS to embark on our journey ? an unexpected thrill was that the 7 th grade class was leaving on a field trip ? they were so enthusiastic and encouraging ? the hugs and well wishes of the staff and parents going to Charleston were great. No surprise ? Robin and Jim Atkins were there beginning the photo album that will impact this team for a lifetime. Parents of team members gathered as well and Coach Bobby Williams bathed the trip in prayer.
10:00 ? We arrived at the airport in Charlotte and went through the check-in process with great ease. We even had time to gather a variety of food from the various vendors and then boarded the plane. We had several first time fliers ? Jessie - Justin ? Michael - but you would not have known ? they did great! It was a slightly turbulent ride ? so bumpy that they did not serve beverages. Flying never ceases to amaze us ? the ability to fly through the air like a bird ? gazing down at God?s handiwork! We flew over many islands, watched the water change from dark blue to crystal green, saw billowing clouds, and marveled at creation and a God so amazing to speak it into existence!
2:20 ? We landed safe in Jamaica ? and were greeted by the ?JOY? of immigration and customs! A few of our bags were opened and assessed ? but overall ? it was fairly simple. We were met by the mission leader for the week ? Kirk Plattner ? a missionary with Caribbean Christian Center for the Deaf. There are four locations in Jamaica ? and he and his family work on all of the campuses. He has 2 boys - Truitt is 2, Drew is 3 years old, and his wife is expecting #3 in July. Her name is Kerri.
Of course our team was starving ? so they took us to Island Deli for some jerk chicken ? a spicy chicken well known on the island ? it did not disappoint! As we left the deli ? we saw a rainbow in the distance ? isn?t God cool! A simple reminder of His presence ? the hope we have in Him and His unfailing promises! We then began a short drive to the center ? and it was a drive I feel confident ? our team will never forget! Jamaica still drives on the opposite side of the road than the US ? so the sensation is a little different. But the amazing part of this experience was the way they drive!!! The roads are narrow and in poor condition ? potholes everywhere ? and to add flavor to our journey ? we got behind a car that did not want to hit a single one ? so he weaved all over the road. These were roads meant for two cars alone ? but impatient drivers plowed through the middle ? a lane that did not exist (remember ? extremely narrow roads) ?cars beeping ? what an adventure ? words really cannot describe! The students were wide-eyed and laughing hysterically.
As we rode through the community ? we were humbled to see the living conditions of the locals. The area we saw consisted of very small, seemingly one room dilapidated houses with multiple people lining the porches. It was mid day and yet the people were at home. We went in and out of residential and business areas ? from poverty to better areas. The roads are winding and eventually led us to large wooden gates leading into the center which was surrounded by concrete walls. Interestingly ? these 10 foot walls were topped with embedded broken hunks of glass from drink bottles ?jagged edges up to keep anyone from climbing over.
The center is located on a hill covering 7 acres. The buildings are all similar in construction ? they are concrete and serve as dormitories, cafeteria, gym, and classrooms. There are a couple of homes for the staff, a soccer field with a primitive track around it, swing sets, benches, and a construction area. It is on a hill and in the distance it overlooks part of Montego Bay. It is a beautiful location!
Our dorm is in a 2 story building ? the 50 residents sleep on the first floor and we are on the second. They are very rustic buildings ? fabric hangs for doors and shower curtains for bathroom doors. There is no air condition, no warm water, and the bedding is rustic. This is a minor inconvenience for us ? a daily reality for the residents.
Once settled ? we met with Kirk for a general description of the week. We will be working on several projects on campus ? which will be described daily ? but basically we will focus on a concrete building that will eventually become a vocational school and additional housing.
Prior to supper ? our students did a great job mingling with the boys and girls and breaking the ice. Dustin knew the sign alphabet ? the others wrote questions and answers on a white board or notepads. The students question for every member of our team was ?Are you married or engaged?? There was lots of laughter, smiles, and joy filled interaction. Language is seldom a barrier when love is involved! I wish you could each be here to see the way these students have embraced those here in the center. God truly called and equipped them for this journey!
5:30 ? Dinner is served which was prepared by one of the staff ? a deaf lady who is so precious. We have chicken ? (the island meat) - salad, fresh fruit, and rice. After dinner our team kicks in ? Josh, Garrett, and Myers had clean-up duty.
Unfortunately, Jessie got sick ? an upset stomach ? so she left us for the night. The rest of the team met with Kirk and learned basic sign language, learned a few words they will definitely be using when they return home, planned a little more for Wednesday, and then back out to play with the children. They played soccer, basketball, and talked. Seeing the love poured from our students was overwhelming!
The students had to go to bed ? we had a final meeting. Each team member drew a name and has a member of the team they will pray for and encourage all week ? but it is a secret. Each member was given a devotion book written by Dr Paul Kooistra called Claiming the Gospel in Daily Life. Each day a different team member will lead the devotion time. Also there is a prayer chair outside where team members will take 30 minute intervals praying for the team, the students, the week, and listening for Go to speak to them.
It is incredibly hot and humid ? so by the time we got to our rooms ? the cold shower was amazing ? and the condition of the bed did not matter ? we all zonked out! But first each student has an encouraging note colored and written from our elementary classes. What a welcomed gift from home!
Several things that struck us from our brief time here:
* Part of the view in the distance is of Montego Bay and the harbor for cruise ships. There is such a small distance between the two and yet there worlds could not be farther apart. Lights, music, food in extravagant excess, warm water, luxury rooms, etc while the children and surrounding community have the bare necessities ? they will probably know that type of living. Yet these students seem so content ? they do not seemed focus on what they do not have. They clap and chant with complete joy!
* Kirk told us that most of these children have parents that are able to come get them 4 times a year ? summer break, Christmas break, and two other short breaks. He said that unfortunately most of these parents never learn to sign ? so they go home to an environment unable to communicate. Think about it ? 4 year old children and older ? without a mom to tuck them in ? hug them and love them daily ? and when they do go home ? minimal ability to converse. It is heart breaking! There are a couple of children that get to go home each night ? but most families live too far away.
*It is only the first day ? but I know that the entire team anxiously awaits the week ? what will God teach us ? how will we see His glory? Life here is simple ? fewer distractions ? I believe God has big things to show this team ? and we completely desire for Him to amaze us!
1 st day impressions from the team
?Oh my gosh ? it?s hot!? Paizley
?They must not take Driver?s Ed here!? Jessie
?My shower was a little cold and the kids were very friendly.? Josh
?The kids are very friendly and the campus has a great view of the Bay.? Justin
?I met some cool kids. I?m still trying to figure out what there were saying to me. The food was great but the shower was cold!? Dustin
?I wish I had taken a sign language class before I came!? Myers
?The views are beautiful ? no picture can do this place justice. I love it.? Arielle
?The roads are very crowded ? they cannot drive!? Michael
O taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man that trusteth in him. Psalm 34:8
Day Two
Day Two Wednesday, May 20, 2009
This has been such an amazing day! It began with a beautiful sunrise and continued to inspire us all day long!
7:00 a.m. Becky, Connie, Arielle, and Paizley fixed eggs, grits, and toast. It was super! The morning humor was the boys reenacting Josh's midnight sleepwalking escapade! He evidently thought Garrett was an intruder and yelled who are you at Garrett's bedside. Garrett said Josh I am Garrett and Josh walked back to his bed. He will never live it down.
After morning prayer the team assignments were issued and the real work began.
Dustin and Myers mixed concrete and filled a concrete wall where an air conditioner had once been. This required a team at the cement mixer there are six - 2 foot square boxes with 4 - 18 inch handles that the team shovels sand in 3 small rock in 2 and larger rock in the final one. With the heat this can be pretty intense! The concrete then is mixed and poured into wheelbarrows where other team members wheeled to the job site.
Justin, Alex, and Josh built a housing for a septic pump a task that literally took all day they made it to lift and lower with a handle very ingenious!
Holly, Josh, and Justin mowed the grass until the gas ran out remember we are on a hill so the team was quite impressed with Holly's strength!
Becky, Connie, and Heather planned the menus for the next few days.
Arielle, Garrett, Michael, Paizley, Ellen, Holly, and Jessie went into the concrete vocational building which is our primary construction site and chiseled excess concrete along the bottom of the walls, doorways, and windows - swept and shoveled the excess and hauled it to the dump. There is very little breeze and was a labor intensive hot job. They all did great!
It is incredibly hot!!!! Many pairs of scrubs had been donated to the team from willing donors and we are so thankful - they are cool and loose both necessary features. We are unbelievably nasty by the time we finish our work!
11:30 a.m. Lunch we had a variety of casseroles and fresh fruit the tomatoes are very good - so many students had tomato sandwiches. Everyone is hungry at meal time. We are drinking large amounts of tea, Gatorade, and water. The mission offers two soda pops (as they call them) per person a day. They are in small glass bottles. There is a Pepsi bottling plant in Jamaica so the choices are Pepsi no diet, Ting a grapefruit soda made from grapefruit grown on the island, and Kola Champagne an orange fruity tasting soft drink that many of the students are enjoying.
12:30 Back to work most of the teams had completed their work so new assignments were issued
Holly, Ellen, Paizley, Arielle, Heather, and Jessie shoveled rock to make the concrete flooring on the back walkway of the vocational building. It rained briefly before we began which gave some relief but the sun quickly came back out and was brutal. Garrett and Michael lifted the rock and pushed the concrete to the site. Myers and Dustin helped a local man spread and smooth the concrete. We are all learning new skills!
Justin, Josh, and Mr. Mark continued on the pump cover.
Becky, Connie, and Keri Kirk's wife went to a Mega Mart for supplies. They said it was similar in concept to a Sam's but of course more expensive. The money in Jamaica are called j's and the exchange rate is 80 j's to one American dollar so Becky's team spent 11,000 j's we will let you do the math!!! We did bring many of our condiments- just for your information Bojangles, Waffle House, McDonald's, and Zaxby's all donated their small serving packs to the team please thank them! There is good local fruit no pork sorry Mr. Reaves so the bacon is turkey. There is no sausage on the island can you imagine. But our kitchen crew has been very creative and we are eating great.
2:30 Shower time the cold water was amazing!!!!!! No complaints!!!
3:30 Craft and game time. School had dismissed so it was our time with the students. This is a deaf center but the students vary in their ability to hear. They love to communicate by writing. It was raining so we broke into 2 groups crafts and games. We made necklaces and bracelets with beads and foam shapes which thrilled the boys and girls. They also were given 2 different coloring sheets one was a picture of a boy the other a picture of the armor of God labeled so they could understand. We have never seen children so thrilled over crayons, scissors, and glue sticks. It is so humbling. They cut out the armor and glued it to the boy. Josh, Myers, Heather, Paizley, Jessie, Holly, Arielle, Ellen, and Alex all helped with both groups. They wanted one on one attention and were thrilled with signs of affirmation! So many are very young they are hungry for hugs and love.
Justin, Michael, Dustin, and Myers played soccer with many of the students they love it! Once crafts were completed everyone went outside and joined in the fun. The rain had ended and cooled things down just a little.
5:30 Supper was prepared by our crew and Marie - a lady on staff. She prepared a wonderful fish dish with a sweet and sour topping a cabbage dish with tomatoes and other veggies, rice, and fruit. Becky and Connie had made cupcakes and they were wonderful!
After dinner the team watched the sunset it is beautiful over the Montego Bay. The rain had ended and once again we had an amazing rainbow. God is so present here!
7:15 We had a team meeting. Here are some of their comments when asked What was your favorite thing you did today?
Michael cutting grass and taking a shower
Paizley making bracelets and Michael teaching me to chisel
Jessie chiseling concrete and learning to sign and after 3 pages of notes learning that the girl was only slightly impaired and could understand everything she said
Garrett pouring concrete
Alex working on projects that you saw major differences once completed
Heather interaction with the deaf children
Arielle signing and writing with the children
Myers learning Patwa (Jamaican spelling) (Patois proper spelling) the Jamaican language he learned from the local concrete worker and learning to splatter and smooth the concrete
Dustin trying to understand the Patwa
Justin working with the concrete building the pump cover
Josh making the pump cover
Holly cutting grass
Becky getting to know the local cook and learning to communicate
Connie making cupcakes and interacting with the kids
Ellen seeing how hard the DCS team worked and spending time with the students at CCCD
Team devotions were led tonight by Alex who discussed Ephesians 2:1-10 God's grace!!!!!
Also Josh covered Day 2 of our study and was very impacted by the two statements:
1. There is nothing you can do today to cause God to love you more.
2. There is nothing you can do today to cause God to love you less.
And Romans 3:21-24, Phil 3:9, II Corinthians 5:21
We discussed that no works would ever be grand enough to save us- we must have faith!! God loves us and our belief in that alone will save us. The discussion was phenomenal I am so thankful for the foundation and faith of the students on our team they truly are challenging the adults through their testimonies!
8:30 Team game time Garrett, Michael, Josh and Justin went upstairs to the gym for an intense basketball game workout but the brutal competition was in the game of spoons. This game is played by dealing everyone 4 cards then the dealer draws one at a time and passes one to the right keeping 4 cards in his hand there is one less spoon on the table than players when someone gets 4 of a kind they grab a spoon the person without one is out one spoon is removed and the game continues competitive enough until Jessie, Myers, Dustin, Arielle, and Paizley decided to put the spoons around the room and race for them. Heather, Ellen, Holly, Alex and Connie joined the fun. The first game ended with the final round between Jessie and Myers they were both so serious Jessie even dove under a table but much to her disappointment Myers came out victorious. Other rounds featured a very competitive Heather Peeler facing Jessie Arielle very surprised at a loss, Myers trying to take out his mother, and a wrestling match between Alex and Myers. Most of it is on video make sure you don't miss out!
We are so blessed to be here! What a wonderful opportunity God has allowed in our lives this is not sacrifice quite the contrary this is ministering to each of us far beyond what we are giving back!
A final thought for day two. We are surrounded by children who are either unable to hear or are hearing impaired. Yet Nehemiah 8:10 expresses their lives The joy of the Lord is your strength. They have such joy. They sing, clap, and dance with such passion for life. They may not be able to hear or understand a word we say but this center has beautifully taught them how to praise God. It is so obvious the Lord is their strength. As early as 5:30 a.m. you can hear the chants of the children outside. Looking out your window you can see them dancing around the playground. What joy so early in the morning! They may never understand a word we say but we believe they hear God! Such joy all without parents living with them, without warm running water, limited wardrobe selection, no air-condition, no cell phones, I-pods, video games or television not to mention the ability to hear can only be contentment straight from the heart of God. We can all learn from their example!
More team adventures will be sent to you tomorrow. Keep on praying!
Oh magnify the LORD with me, And let us exalt His name together. Psalm 34:3
Day Three, Thursday, May 21, 2009
7:15 a.m. Breakfast ? Becky, Connie, Myers and Garrett made French toast and turkey bacon ? Ellen cut up pineapple and Holly got the coffee brewing. It was delicious!
Kirk joined us for Morning Prayer followed by a major highlight for the week. We gathered with the students and sang and signed many praise songs. The teachers led the singing and they had beautiful voices! Then, each grade level performed either a song or drama. Starting from the really little ones ? they were led by a teacher to dance and sign songs of praise to the Lord. It was so moving. The oldest group all wore white gloves and they danced with rhythm better than most that can hear. They have a gentleman teacher who smiles and has a passion for the Lord and these students. One particular drama they did had a student dressed as Christ ? hanging on the cross ? then raising a girl from the dead ? she then praised Him until a student dressed as the devil came along and tempted her with other student demons with alcohol, weed, a male student, and the torment that ensued. Another student entered the stage with a Bible ? witnessing and praying continually until the girl broke free and returned to Christ. No words were needed. It was a powerful praise presentation and particularly special since we had been able to get to know so many of them.
Then, the work assignments for the day were made. Today the primary goal was to mix and pour concrete ? laying the floor in one room of the vocation building - a job requiring the entire team?s participation. I do not think anyone had envisioned the effort that it would involve to complete the task! Everyone joined in ? shoveling the rock and sand ? hauling the wheelbarrows and smoothing the concrete. Once again ? this was hot, hard work ? but every team member really stepped up! Jessie, Paizley, Holly, Heather, Alex, and Ellen shoveled rock ? Josh, Garrett, Dustin, and Justin hauled the wheelbarrows of cement while Myers and Michael learned to smooth the concrete. As the day went along ? everyone traded in and out of jobs ? this group truly works like a machine!
12:00 Break for lunch. Becky, Connie and Arielle had spent the morning making the most amazing lunch. We had homemade salsa, chicken quesadillas, brownies, and fresh fruit. We are so blessed with a great kitchen team.
There was no time to waste ? after lunch we had to get back to the flooring ? real arm power was required to get it smooth and Paizley led the way! Myers, Michael, Dustin, Ellen, and Jessie joined in while Garrett, Justin, Josh, Alex, Holly, and Heather chiseled excess concrete around the edges of the walls preparing rooms for the next day.
2:00 Yea! It was cold shower time! It began to rain and thunder and everyone was ready for a nap ? but our crew pushed ahead. They got cleaned up and about 3:30 began craft time. We tried painting ? it was unsuccessful ? communication can be hard and some of the young students are easily frustrated if they mess up. So we quickly gathered up the paint and switched to pipe cleaners. You must see the pictures of our teams? creativity! They made crowns, necklaces, flowers, rainbows, butterflies, etc. The thrill on the faces of the students spoke volumes.
Jessie decided to become fluent in sign. The school nurse?s daughter can speak ? although for the first 24 hours she tried to convince you she could not. Her name is Whitney and she has taught many of our team a variety of words and phrases. Jessie put on her own presentation for the team of her new language ? too cute for many of our boys ? Paizley joined in and we all had a big laugh!
The boys continued the soccer games and competitive basketball games ? they are staying in shape!
Everyone is enjoying their time in the prayer chair ? we have placed it on the 2 nd floor balcony overlooking Montego Bay. It is a wonderful spot to read our Bibles and pray.
5:30 Marie ?the staff cook prepared spaghetti and salad ? it was wonderful. She is deaf but has such a kind heart and gentle mannerisms.
After dinner we had some time with the kids playing ball, learning to sign, throwing the Frisbees, etc. We were blessed with another amazing sunset. The setting is gorgeous! There is a small mountain to our left that descends into the ocean. The sun sets right in the middle of our view and each night God paints a different picture across the skyline! Tonight, as we were mesmerized by the beauty ? Myers said, ?remember the saying that earth is as close to Heaven as a nonbeliever will ever get. But look at the beauty around us ? the saying also says that earth ? including this setting - is as close to Hell as we will experience ? Heaven is going to be so much more amazing than this.? That thought overwhelms me.
7:30 After playtime, we had our team meeting. Earlier, the school director had told us we were the 333 rd team. Alex read Jeremiah 33:3 and everyone agreed that it should be the team verse. ?Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.? God is certainly doing that! Alex charged the group to stay up with their daily quiet times. He said ? If we come and work ourselves to exhaustion ? but neglect the Gospel ? we have missed the point! What a great remembrance for each of us daily!
Garrett and Dustin led our devotion time. Dustin covered day three where it discusses that ?In Christ? ? The Address of Grace. He read Ephesians 1:3-14 and discussed that because we are ?in Christ? we can stand with confidence before God knowing that we are forgiven and have hope. Dustin really emphasized that we should treasure the true freedom we have in Christ. Garrett reviewed day 4 about Surrender- The Victory of Grace. He talked about most people struggling with being the God of their own lives. He told the story of the pro basketball player David Robinson having all the wealth imaginable, cars, homes, etc and yet was miserable until he found Christ. We must all acknowledge that the cross of Jesus Christ is all the believer has and it is all that he needs. It is so special to listen to the comments of those leading the devotion time as well as the additional comments. God is speaking to these team members ? and it is evident in their words and on their faces!
Today?s favorite moments:
Michael ? taking a shower and lunch!
Myers ? all of it!
Justin ? helping with the concrete
Dustin ? talking to the kids
Garrett ? the concrete and playing basketball
Josh ? the morning presentation
Connie ? (she has taken lots of video footage) ? sharing the videos with the children
Holly ? finishing the concrete in one room ?seeing the finished floor
Ellen ? the morning presentation
Becky ? the precision of the dancing and the dramas
Jessie ? learning to sign
Paizley ? learning to sign
Arielle ? making brownies and licking the bowl
Heather ? the concrete making process
9:00 Several team members played more basketball with the students when we were finished. Jessie and Paizley decided to let some girls braid their hair ? big mistake. They are thankful to have any hair left. Our team?s dormitories are separated on 2 different ends of the building ? but with all the windows, the girls can hear the guys very well. Michael and Dustin decided to sing a duet for us while in their showers ? the song tonight was ?The Wheels on the Bus.? They have great voices and ended our night with lots of laughter!!!
One final thought - today began a 4 day holiday for the students ? little by little parents came to pick up their children ? many were packed expecting a ride that never showed up. There are still about ? of the students here ? all ages. The 4 year old is still here. It has really broken our hearts. This center does a wonderful job ? yet these children are desperate for love, hugs, and affirmation. Please pray for these children ? and those like them all around the world. Pray for missionaries ? Kirk and Kerri and those who have sacrificed like they are. The students love them and they love them right back. Pray for hearts to be opened and ready for missions. CCCD?s mission statement is Go, Connect, Engage. What a great challenge for each of us!
Keep on praying! We are so thankful for your partnership with us!
Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.? Jeremiah 33:3
Day Four Friday, May 22, 2009
What a night! The dogs barked off and on for over an hour! There are three dogs on campus. They follow us everywhere we go and act as protectors. They have really been sweet ? but last night ? ugggh! As we left the dorms complaining about the interruption of our sleep, we saw the children ? all ages ? washing their clothes and sheets in the concrete sinks and hanging them out to dry. Connie said so appropriately ? that she was humbled ? she said she often complains about just throwing her clothes into a washing machine. We have so many blessings ? and often take them for granted ? this has opened our eyes to that reality!
7:30 Becky, Connie, Myers, and Jessie made delicious pancakes and sausage. We are eating way to well this week! Holly once again got the coffee going and Ellen cut up pineapple, watermelon, and a mango.
Today we are working on pouring concrete in one more room and the outside deck. Today was the hottest day we have had. The entire team joined in the shoveling of rock and sand ? hauling cement, pouring, and smoothing. It took a couple of hours ? then we had to clean 2 more rooms by chiseling excess concrete and hauling out trash. The local worker gave Michael and Justin the job of chiseling a more difficult area up in the rafters ? you could see their legs hanging down (perfectly safe, moms). It has been great to see everyone?s willingness to do whatever asked! Dustin, Justin, Alex, and Arielle had to dig dirt out by a wall and pour concrete in it so the water could run down easily. By 12:30 ? we were exhausted! But seeing the finished results was fun. Fun - until one of our friendly dogs ran across the wet cement and repair work had to be done!
12:30 ? The mission group brought in ?tasty patties? from a local restaurant. This popular meal is made with an orange-colored pie crust filled with a ground beef or cooked vegetables. Most of the team really enjoyed them. They also brought in sweet rolls. After the morning labor, they were great!
After lunch ? we spent some time with the children. Then a great cold shower! Becky, Heather, Holly, Ellen, Arielle, Paizley, Josh, Justin, Myers, Dustin, and Michael went to the Mega Mart to check out a local grocery store. It was fun looking at the prices and the foods sold. They bought slushies and ice cream - the combination of cold food and air condition ? even if it only lasted 30 minutes ? was great!
After we returned, we played with sidewalk chalk and balloons with the children. We had been told not to use water balloons to conserve water ? but once the deaf students were given the balloons ? they ran inside and began filling them. Josh was their favorite target. All of the students wanted to soak him. They succeeded. He then soaked Connie who was videotaping ? her scream is recorded! Myers blew up the long skinny balloons and made dogs, swords, and flowers. Arielle drew a mermaid picture and others drew flowers. The children continue to get closer to our students. Our team is already talking about next year and imagining how well the rising senior class will do! These students will certainly recommend them all coming!
5:45 Marie had dinner ready. Tonight we ate potato salad, steamed green beans, ribs, and fresh fruit. It was great. Becky had made a cake ? so the entire meal was super.
After dinner we had our devotion time. Paizley led the study on Faith ? The response to Grace. Using Hebrews 11 as a reference ? she read many parts that spoke to her. The devotion book said ? ?a heart captured by the love of God will respond in faith; faith that believes that God is, that all He says is true, that all He does is right, and that all He promises will become a reality.? So many aspects of this trip have required great faith ? God continues to speak to each of the team members. We did not have time for individual comments tonight because we had special plans with the students.
After the devotion ? we went upstairs to watch ?Facing the Giants?. Alex brought the movie and played it through his computer onto a screen. Remembering they are deaf ? we watched it with subtitles ? the entire movie ? experiencing for ourselves a little bit of what their world is like. They laughed and enjoyed the story. It continues to remind us of all that we take for granted in a day. Currently, as I type ? I hear crickets chirping in the background ? Josh is talking to Garrett on the guys? side, and the ladies are recounting the day. We are all so thankful for the blessing of hearing and speaking. We are all so thankful God led us to Jamaica. He is revealing to us our need to listen to Him ? our need to speak to Him and our need to speak of Him. We are growing more passionate in our desire to spread His love. Please continue to pray for our team, the students here, and future mission teams from DCS. We love you all!
But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.? Hebrews 11:6
Day Five- Saturday, May 23, 2009
Each day, this journal has been a collaborative work of the team and was put into an email by Mrs. Ellen Jordan. Based on the responsive I have received from the DCS Family, I see how much you have enjoyed reading them. Today, I have decided to write the journal myself because I feel there are certain things that I must say about our team that they wouldn?t say themselves.
First, I am convinced that us being here in Jamaica has us found in the center of God?s perfect will. All week, He has made straight paths for us. Every time we have made plans, He changed them because He has had something better for us. Today was a great example of that: we were planning to go to YS Falls (a local waterfall and zip line), but due to the rain that we have been having (and there has been plenty), YS was closed. I went on the internet to do some research about what we could do, and came across a very highly rated charter boat company. We called, and in the Lord?s providence they knew the principal of the school where we are working. She was able to get us a great deal so that our whole team was able to enjoy an amazing day on the water. To sum that time up:
-We left at 10AM this morning from Montego Bay Yacht Club (a sharp contrast from the mission house). Our boat was a 39? Sport Fisher with a great crew. The Lord absolutely spoiled us today, as we spent the first two hours fishing for tarpon and tuna. After that, we went to a reef and were able to snorkel for an hour and a half.
-In order not to sound lavish, I won?t mention that fact that they served us lunch and gave us foot massages. Yes, I?m serious. And yes, it was very affordable! What a day!
Second, I am convinced that God uses anyone whom He chooses. Our team, who has had neither previous construction training nor previous sign language training, has accomplished so much! We have prepared, mixed concrete, and poured for two rooms and two porches. There have also been countless other jobs that we have been able to accomplish around our campus.
Even without the sign language training which would have been helpful, God has allowed our students to communicate and build effective relationships for His sake. It has been amazing to watch Dustin share pictures with the students, or Arielle, Jessie, and Paizley let students teach them to sign, or Josh, Michael, Justin, Myers, and Garrett play sports with the students. Our students have been incredible.
Third, I am convinced that God can do exceeding abundantly beyond all that we could ask or think at DCS. Tonight, if you would have been with us for an hour after dinner, you could have seen:
-Dustin sharing the Gospel with the night watchman who was on duty.
-Michael and Justin praying together.
-Garrett and Myers doing a quiet time together and praying.
-Paizley and Jessie teaching the students here how to do gymnastics.
-Chaperones discussing their devotionals.
-Mrs. Peeler and Arielle discussing what they have been learning.
-Josh and I doing a quiet time together.
This is the kind of thing that God could be doing every day, and now that I know what it looks like to see this glimpse of revival, I will pray more than ever for it.
Friends, all of this has led me to the following conclusion:
We have a desperate need for God to do a work here in our country. We have to face the facts: there are many things in our culture that are in bad shape. As a community and a body, we have to help create a culture of young men and young women who desire a better world for themselves and for others. It starts with things like this: forging a partnership between parents and faculty that creates opportunities for students to ?take up their cross daily.? We need to have a vision for what our students can do, how to equip them to do it, and offer multiple opportunities for them to be sent.
Without the support of the DCS family, this trip would not have happened. Your prayers and donations were such an amazing ministry to us! Please pray for this new aspect of growth here at DCS, as we do have a vision for much more mission work in the future. Mission work will take a true investment from our school, our students, and our families?but after what I have seen on this trip, WE CAN?T AFFORD NOT TO!
In Christ,
Alex Mark
Sunday, May 24, 2009
We have been here six days ? as time passes on ? the deaf world becomes more real ? we have learned primitive ways to communicate ? we all wish we were fluent in sign language ? we desperately want to just break the silence and have a real conversation with these students. It is so hard for the team to imagine life without music, words, and sound ? the vibrancy that is added to our world because we can hear. It is indeed a humbling experience ? one that I feel will change this team?s life forever.
We began our morning writing how this week has impacted our lives. No one discussed their response ? they just wrote it down. Here are some of the team members? comments ? I put them in alphabetical order:
Alex ? ?The Lord has used this trip to grow me in several ways: I have learned that when my plans fail, God has something better. Second, I?ve seen what He can do through high school students who are ready to be used. Last, I have seen that without a focus on the Gospel, our ?best deeds are like dirty rags before the king.?
Arielle ? ?This trip has killed my arrogance. I?m much less a princess now. Spiritually, I am amazed at how happy the deaf children here are even though their future is limited. One thing I?ve learned this week is ? deaf children can hear just fine, maybe better than people who are blessed with the ability to hear.?
Connie ? ?This trip has impacted me spiritually by bringing me closer to God through the prayer chair, Bible Study, and just spending time talking with God. The trip has also allowed me to get to know our students better and believe me, they are truly amazing! To see our children humble themselves and let all inhibitions disappear as they interacted and played with these deaf kids was just enlightening. We were meant to be here at this time in this place.?
Holly ? ?This week has been the most humbling week of my life. I appreciate every moment of my life. We take so much for granted in our normal lives at home. I?m also very proud of the Senior Class of DCS.?
Dustin ? ?This week has taught me to be a better communicator. It has also shown me more how universal God?s love is.?
Jessie ? ?This week has taught me a lot of things. A few days with kids here at CCCD, I?ve learned a good bit of sign language. They?re so excited to teach me and very patient. I?ve learned there?s more than one way to communicate ? hugs and smiles can say much?..more than words. I?ve learned spiritually that you have to put things in God?s plans and let Him have complete control. Whether it?s a mission trip being moved to another country or even different plans on our day off this week. God has made this trip absolutely wonderful.?
Josh ? ?This trip has been a very humbling experience and has taken much dedication. As the days go by, I realize more and more how lucky and blessed I am. My relationship with the Lord has changed greatly as well. I grow closer to Him each day as I continue my devotions and discuss them with my teammates and chaperones. I look forward to seeing how my teammates and my life will change as we return back to our normal lives.?
Justin ? ?The trip has been more than I could ever expect. It has been a humbling experience, seeing how the kids live. No hot showers and no air-conditioning, but I never see them complain. This trip has definitely been a humbling experience.?
Michael ? ?This trip has made me more humble in that now I see that everyone is the same no matter where you live or what you have. I have learned to respect their way of life as I do my own.?
Myers ? ?The joy that these children demonstrate in their lives has had a tremendous impact on me. The kids have rough pasts and uncertain futures, yet they display a joy that I could only dream of possessing. If anything, this trip has shown me how blessed I truly am, and how grateful I should be for my many blessings.?
Paizley ? ?I love having this last trip with my classmates, it was one last memory before graduation and I?m very appreciative. The moms have worked so hard and we wouldn?t have survived without them. We?re had so much fun and made so many memories!?
8:30 After a quick cereal breakfast ? we loaded into Mrs. Russell?s small bus. She is the director of the camp ? she was called by her church to this position several years ago. She was a tour bus driver prior to that ? she owned her bus and now uses it to transport teams ? isn?t God amazing how He puts things together!!! We went with Kirk, Kerri, Drew, Truitt, and 2 deaf students to Mrs. Russell?s church ? Rosemount Missionary Church. It is a small but very nice church with slat windows on both side walls with huge ceiling fans overhead. The breeze was nice ? so we were very comfortable. It was Children?s Day ? so many of the early songs, Scripture readings, and prayers were led by the children. It was different from our services ? first ? it lasted 2 ? hours ? it really did! The music was great ? they had guitars, tambourines, piano, and drums and many of the songs we knew ? some were praise and some were out of their hymnal. As we clapped and rocked to one song ? I thought of the deaf children back at the school and the silence of their world? the energy in the church was great ? and all I could imagine was that one day the deaf children will be in Heaven ? dancing, singing, and HEARING the voice of Jesus ? it gave me the shivers!
The first hour of the service was very relaxed ? over 15 minutes of announcements ? they even sang Happy Birthday to members. Then the pastor began to preach from Jeremiah 1:1-10. He spoke on our need to embrace young people as a part of the plan of God. After an excellent sermon on the passage, he charged the congregation for the need to do three things in order to see transformation and revival:
1) Affirm the next generation ? let them know they are fearfully and wonderfully made
2) Encourage the next generations talents ? encourage the gifts you see in them
3) Empower them ? give them opportunity to help them understand their place among us and that they have a contribution to make
He concluded by saying that we need to stay in the background ? not leave them - but give them space in order to grow and mature ? but being available to affirm, encourage, and empower. He said that if they fail and are not equipped to live a life for the Lord ? then we fail. The service ended with a very lengthy prayer ? after 2 hours ? I am afraid a few of our team nodded off ? but I will not say who J
12:30 ? We left church and went to downtown Montego Bay for lunch at Margaritaville. We were able to eat lunch on the third floor outside deck and everyone enjoyed! After lunch ? the students were able to go to a local vendor and get a few souvenirs ? then back to Margaritaville where there was a three story high slide into the water. Oh my goodness! It was the fastest slide I have ever been down in my life and then you zoom into the water! In the water were 2 huge water trampolines with a 20 foot long round tube between them - tied on each end joining the 2 trampolines together. The challenge was to run off one trampoline ? across the tube (very slippery) and make it to the other trampoline. Of course our students rose to the challenge and for 2 hours put on a show similar to Wipeout!!!! We laughed until we could not breathe! All of the students participated and Alex and Ellen even gave it many ? unsuccessful tries. But Dustin prevailed ? he made it 7 or 8 times. Josh, Garrett, Myers, Paizley, Arielle, Jessie, and Justin all joined in the fun banging their heads ? bouncing all around ? there were many close attempts! At the very end - Michael was victorious! Myers got all the way across once at the end? but fell right at the 2 nd trampoline ? he caught the side of the it and pulled himself up before dropping ? which he is counting as a success. Garrett, Josh, and Justin all got just within reach - Connie has the whole embarrassing thing on video ? this one you will just have to watch. 2 hours of abuse and laughter ? or insanity ? which is defined as trying the same thing over and over ? expecting a different result. To add to the fun ? it was pouring rain most of the time. These students are the best sports ? they never complain ? it seems when things have gone awry ? they have found ways to make it more fun!
5:00 ? Mrs. Russell picked the group up and we came back o CCCD. Marie had a wonderful dinner with jerk chicken, rice and beans, salad, and banana bread.
7:00 ? After showers which were desperately need because the saltwater leaves you feeling so sticky ? we tried to watch the movie Bolt with the children. Unfortunately the power kept turning on and off which meant we had to keep restarting the projector, but the little children still had fun ? we watched about ? of the movie. We popped popcorn ? not microwave ? the real thing in a large pot with oil and seeds! Remember ? this was a no volume movie ? closed caption ? they had never seen it before so they giggled and had a great time.
8:30 ? Several of our team stayed up for a game of basketball ? Michael was in his favorite spot ? the wooden rocker on the second floor balcony that overlooks Montego Bay. The atmosphere is so relaxed here ? especially at night. We had partners tonight for Bible study discussion ? a great time to really open up and talk.
Tomorrow will be our final work day ? pray for us! It will be Labor Day in Jamaica. CCCD has asked parents to come and help work around campus doing a large variety of jobs. We will be assisting ? please pray that we can minister to these parents and have opportunity to share the Gospel.
It is so intensely hot ? the rain has actually been a blessing and kept it cooler than it could be. The humidity is more extreme than describable ? Becky said today she felt she could cut it with a knife. 5 minutes after you take a shower ? you are sweating again. I truly cannot imagine living here.
Several DCS classes wrote and colored encouragement cards and sent them with us. Every night before we go to bed ? a new one shows up on our pillow. The words of the children have been so meaningful ? ?Stay safe? ?Spread the Word? ?We are praying for you.?
We are blessed to have you at home praying, encouraging, and supporting us. This was definitely a God ordained appointment. We have fallen in love with this ministry, the children and the staff. We serve a mighty, and awesome God ? He deserves all of the glory!
As each one has received a gift, minister it tone another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 4:10-11
Monday, May 25, 2009
As you read in many of the comments yesterday ? this team has been so humbled by this experience ? and today only multiplied that.
Sunrise was beautiful ? it is so quiet here in the mornings ? and sitting on the top porch overlooking the mountains rolling down into the Bay is such a wonderful way to have a quiet time. God has shown Himself over and over again to our team ? here, you truly realize the blessing of a slower pace and a raised consciousness of seeking Him for every need!
8:00 ? Becky and the breakfast team made a wonderful final breakfast (since tomorrow will be on the go) ? we had eggs, grits, French toast, and fresh fruit. We are all going to miss her when we get home! After we finished ? Kirk came in and issued assignments. It is Labor Day and they take the name very seriously. The teams were:
Window washing team with Arielle, Josh, Michael, Jessie and Heather ? they started out strong ? but as you can imagine ? it turned into a water and vinegar fight ? Garrett decided to change over and joined in the water fight ? this must have felt great because today is brutally hot!
Kitchen cleaning team ? Garrett, Connie, and Becky ? they mopped and scrubbed our team area.
Yard mowing ? Myers ? he mowed the entire wet soccer field with a push lawn mower that has loose screws so the wheels wobble.
Garden preparation ? Alex, Justin, Holly, Paizley, Dustin, and Glenford ? Glenford wants to plant a garden so they helped clean an area full of glass and trash, chopped up the ground and prepared it for tomato plants.
Painting ? Ellen put a second coat of paint around an air-condition unit and Michael did touch up work.
As we finished our jobs ? we went to a lower field and raked, hauled trash, and sticks ? there were many small lizards ? so Michael climbed a tree and got a better look.
Glenford is the maintenance man that is full time ? His wife lost her baby earlier this week ? a real heart-breaker. He is such a sweet, gentle man. I asked Kirk today how he lost his hearing. When he was 8 ? his father got violently angry with him and threw him brutally down ? knocking him unconscious and causing him to lose his hearing. This is such a horrible and humbling story ? we are so blessed in our homes and with our families.
12:30 Becky and the kitchen crew made spaghetti and salad ? it was wonderful ? we have run out of ice and everything closes on Labor Day, so we had warm water with it. We are really looking forward to a few American conveniences tomorrow!
1:30 ? We loaded up in the two vans to go to an Infirmary ? which is the name for a nursing home village. Before we left ? Kirk warned us about the condition of the homes, the people and the surrounding area. Many members of the team were a little apprehensive. He said that he is always taken aback when he visits ? he said that as Christians ? it is easy to be moved by an experience and then let life cause dust to settle on our hearts ? he said we all need to have experiences that blow the dust off and move us back to a place of love! We certainly did that today. As we drove from the deaf center to the Infirmary ? the living conditions of those living in Montego Bay are horrific. Mrs. Russell told us that 80% of the wealth is controlled by 21 families! There is a small middle class ? but the largest group is the lower class. Homes are tiny and in great need of repair. There is health care available for the poor ? and they are currently trying to put in a food stamp program for mothers and small children. The streets are full of vendors ? selling typical tourist items. The roads are in terrible condition ?full of potholes. As we drove up the hill to the infirmary ?the conditions looked like a remote village from National Geographic. As we exited the van, we saw a man with one leg hobbling with one crutch up the side of the mountain to his home. The infirmary was made up of several small houses with multiple residents living in each. The women were at the bottom of the hill and the men at the top. We broke into small groups and began visiting ? the first house we walked in had beds side by side ? with barely enough room to walk between. There were seven women living in this one room house. They were all in weakened condition with various ailments. They lit up as we came in and those that were able talked and made prayer requests. We prayed and handed out painted crosses ? they were thrilled. As we walked toward the next house, a man said, ?I know you? to Alex. He was our waiter from the day before. Jamaicans feel that Labor Day represents the opportunity to labor in love and they commit the day to service needs around their community. The entire staff from Margaritaville comes to the Infirmary once a month to make special food and visit. On Labor Day, they dedicate the entire day to working on projects around the Infirmary. They had painted the exterior of one of the houses and retiled the bathroom. They were cleaning all of the houses with Clorox and both Kirk and Alex said that we were fortunate to come after the cleaning. The next house we entered had more beds than the first ? and these ladies seemed to be in worse condition. But one lady ? on the porch ? dressed in a silky well worn church dress ? was all smiles ? she began thanking us for coming and praising God for how good He is. She sang us a song of praise and then prayed with us. Unspeakable joy! I wish I thought I could possess it under those circumstances. We continue to be humbled. Becky sang to the patients she visited and Jessie wrote notes. The boys visited with the male patients ? they said the rooms really smelled. The conditions were very poor and the patients were thin and many motionless. The boys spoke to some of the patients and then went and visited others that were sitting on the porch. They handed out crosses and the patients eagerly accepted them. It was humbling. Arielle said she was glad God chose to let her be born in America ? a sentiment I am sure the entire team shares.
We returned to campus ? the ride home was quiet. As we went down the various streets there were people working on projects all over town. Mrs. Russell said that they were all volunteers ? helping in areas of need. We returned to campus and had time for showers and packing.
5:30 ? Mrs. Russell prepared a true Jamaican meal of rice, saltfish and aki, stew beef, dumplings, fried bread fruit, salad, banana fritters, and tropical fruit. She was a caterer before she was a bus driving tour guide ? God equips people in the most amazing ways. The food was so good.
The dinner ended with Myers challenging Alex to eating a scotch bonnet pepper. Alex accepted the challenge with them both eating a bite ? the cheek bones lit fire engine red. Not to be the only two ? they convinced Justin to take a bite ? he was not going to be called a wimp ? so he bit ? then lit up. As tears were still filling his eyes, they then challenged Josh ? hesitantly he accepted ? and the laughter erupted! Alex and Justin were eating bread slices and drinking milk and Josh had his whole head under the kitchen faucet ? once he finally felt a slight relief ? Josh raised his head from the sink and wiped his eyes and got the juice from the pepper in them- and the dancing began.
After clean-up ? they asked Mrs. Russell for 2 more ? guys just never learn. This time they convinced Jessie, Arielle, Dustin, Kirk, and Paizley to join a challenge. Jessie was quick to say she could do anything the boys could, and after this week I believe it! The challenge was to completely eat your slice of pepper and see who could go the longest without drinking. Myers, Josh, Alex, and Justin geared up for their second ? and the rest had no idea what was in store for them. I have never seen such gagging, jumping up and down, milk guzzling, and pain inflicted facial expressions. Afterwards ? they were trying every remedy possible to relieve the pain ? bread, peanut butter, sugar, and even maple syrup!
Mrs. Russell watched and laughed. She said that they eat a lot of pepper ? but in food ? not whole ? she said that is just plain weird! She said if that bothered you ? please avoid a domination pepper ? ask the students what she said happened after you eat those!
The team finally settled down around 8 and had a debriefing session. Mrs. Russell asked if the week met their expectations ? and they all agreed it far exceeded their imaginations. Michael is still contemplating moving here.
She then gave some details about CCCD. It began from a ministry based from Norfolk in 1994 ? The lead man was Mr. Clark - he came to Jamaica and asked the Kerr-Jarretts, a family that owned the land that CCCD is on if they would be willing to donate 7 acres ? they were going to build an indigent school ? but agreed to Mr. Clark?s plan - the first team was from Baltimore ? they have sent a team every year since ? there are 4 campuses - Montego Bay has 57 students - they send many of their graduates to the Knockpatrick campus for vocational training. The Montego Bay staff consists of 20 people including a houseparent, driver, cooks, ground keeper, and teachers. There are 7 classes, grades 1-9. Currently there is no grade 2 or 4.
The students range from ages 4-12 ? they do not take children older than 12 ? but they can stay until they finish school ? around 17 or 18. Disabled children would normally often be shoved to the side in their homes and treated poorly ? many people feel a deaf child is a curse. They are often abused by parents, family members or strangers ? there are now child agencies advocating for them and it is not as bad as before. There are 30 deaf schools on island.
CCCD is not funded by government and times are currently rough with the recession ? the staff here is very anxious. They have already had to take a 20% cut in salary. Parents are suppose to pay a small fee ? some cannot ? and that becomes problematic. They do have a sponsor program ? but not all children are sponsored ? they try to get 25 dollars a month per child with 10 people sponsoring one child.
She then taught the students many words in the Jamaican language called Patois. It was pretty neat, for example the ?th? is replaced with a ?d? sound ? there are special words in the Patois vocabulary that can express things English words cannot, and we had a great time learning those.
This has been an amazing day. Our time is drawing to a close ? but this feels like a beginning. God truly ordained our coming here. Lives and hearts have been changed. There are mixed emotions among the team. It was great to take the final cold shower ? but sad to think the experience was drawing to a close. It is great to think about a cold drink ? but sad to eat a final meal with Drew and Truitt. We can?t wait to sleep in a comfortable bed ? but truly hope God will allow us to come back again. We are excited about seeing family members ? but sad to leave the brothers and sisters in Christ we have met this week. The list goes on and on. We want to thank all of the prayer partners and support givers that made this trip possible. You were all with us all week ? you are part of our team. Please pray for our safety on Tuesday travelling home. We will leave here at 8 tomorrow morning ? fly out at 11 ? land in Charlotte at 2:55 and be home around 6.
For the leaders on the trip we have had the extreme pleasure of serving alongside nine amazing students ? they have been a blessing. We have watched them grow, persevere, and truly be changed! Praise God!
But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear. 1 Peter 3:15
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Our final morning in Jamaica was beautiful. As I sat in the Prayer Chair for the final time I felt God speak to my heart ? ?Be still and know that I am God.? Psalm 46:10. It was special to reflect on the precious week He blessed us with!
After a quick breakfast we had a team meeting. Each member revealed their prayer partner and a highlight from the week. Answers ranged from the children, the Infirmary visit, and the hot pepper challenge to watching the DCS students grow.
Alex affirmed the students on what a great job they had done through physical labor, the love they shared with the children, and their time invested in the Bible Study and prayer. He encouraged them when they got home to truly share their experience with others. Kirk added a warning against complacency. It is easy when you get home he said to become distracted and lose some of the fervor you are feeling now. There is so much work to be done in spreading the Gospel.
We said our good-byes to Kirk?s family and the deaf children. It is so hard to leave the students ? and it is really hard not to take them with us! Some of our students exchanged addresses ? I know they will write!
Our ride to the airport and check-in went great! No hassles! As we took off and had one final glance at the island ? I could not help but smile. I know that if God opens the doors, our school will return. The children and staff are our family! Mrs. Russell gave me a huge supply list to bring back on our next visit ? I hope classes at DCS will choose to collect items, write letters and possibly support a child at CCCD or future team member.
The children are certainly content at CCCD. Their physical, spiritual, and emotional needs are being met ? the staff truly loves them. One student died a year ago while at home on a break because no one could sign and did not realize she was in distress. Mrs. Russell said it took special counseling to get through the grief. They are a family at CCCD. In addition, the students receive love their from locals, teams that come like ours, and some have family support. But even with all that love - I can only imagine how desperately they long to hear clearly.
I know that God has revealed many things to all of the team this week ? one of these revelations would certainly be to never turn a deaf ear to God or His word. We have the blessing of hearing and so many ways to listen and be encouraged in our faith ? through music, pastors, teachers, friends, and certainly prayer! I feel strongly that all I have should be used to give God glory. That certainly includes my ability to hear. I should strive and long to hear each day the fresh word He promises me ? Daily Manna ? that I should savor and allow to nourish and strengthen me. Each day He gives me the ability to hear ? I should use it for His glory. This is such a humbling thought to me because I know I have failed in this area ? far too many times.
I want to be on mission Daily for Jesus. Not all calls are to Jamaica, Honduras, or Africa. Many are right in our neighborhoods, homes, school, and community. The way the Jamaicans responded to Labor Day and ?laboring in love? was so moving. We too have that opportunity and ability.
As our school broadens its challenge to each grade to select a mission project next year ? please be in prayer. This team has felt the power from your prayers. We also felt the hedge of protection around us from the evil one. Satan threw many fiery darts ? but your prayers and our shields of faith repelled them. Thank you for partnering with us through prayer.
We want to thank all of the people that gave financial support with such generosity for this team. Your unselfish ?gift of love? taught our team to trust in God and His provision and the need to do the same for others! You were our fuel and words will never, ever, be adequate enough to express our gratitude. I thought of the song ?Thank You? coming home today ? the chorus is ?Thank you for giving to the Lord. I am a life that was changed. Thank you for giving to the Lord. I am so glad you gave.? This would be the sentiment from so many after this week both on our team and those we touched.
We would also like to thank the Board and Mr. Davis for their vision and support. It is obvious that each of you were called ?For such a time as this? to progress our school not only academically but spiritually as well.
To the DCS staff ? thank you for your encouraging words and willingness to give early exams. Thank you to the classes that wrote cheerful letters ? you will never know how much it meant each night to receive a beautifully colored card with a word of love from home.
The team would certainly be remiss if we did not thank Alex and Stephanie Mark for their vision and sacrifice of time to forge through the many details involved in the planning and execution of this trip. They bought an packed all the dry food, planned and organized the crafts, helped with passports, held parent meetings, booked the tickets, communicated with CCCD, etc. etc. etc. Satan tried hard to prevent this trip from coming to fruition ? but God gave a passion and empowered Alex to persevere. We have learned from Alex that when you feel truly called by God to a task and He has give you His assurance that it is His will and timing ? that submission and perseverance will have great reward ? certainly eternally ? but we all experienced it physically!
Last ? but definitely the greatest thanks and praises we raise to our Heavenly Father without whom we would live hopeless, desperate lives! The unconditional love we receive each moment from Him is beyond our comprehension. The grace we have received through salvation is unfathomable. And praise be to Him that His Word is filled with the promise of Hope, Salvation, Encouragement, Mercy, Love, and Assurances ? and when we open it and allow His Spirit to reveal all He has in store for those who put their faith in Him ? how blessed we are! As we drove into Dillon ? we saw a rainbow ? we saw one almost every day in Jamaica ? and God in His goodness gave us one in Dillon ? a reminder that the same God we served and felt in Jamaica ? is with us at home as well ? Praise! May we all strive to listen as He speaks ? hear what He says ? and follow CCCD?s motto ? Go, Connect, Engage!
We love each of you!
2009 DCS Mission Team