Broken Hallelujahs

{Note: We were a bit exhausted by the time we made it back home... more pictures from today and tonight to be posted tomorrow! :) Much love!}

I’m not completely sure how to explain or convey the events of today. I will do my very best to try!

We started out our day with a devotional from Larry and Phyllis. They spoke on John 15:1-8:

[1] I am the true vine, and my father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful…[5] I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. –John 15:1,5

Larry explained that we can do nothing without God. We have to always look to him for strength, provision, guidance. We have to determine if we’ll be the “dead limb” or the limb that produces fruit. Which do you choose for your life? Phyllis closed with a thoughtful prayer.

After breakfast, the majority of the team separated for some alone time of reading, journaling, rest, and devotion. It was much needed recharging to fuel us through the rest of the week’s schedule. (As I’m sure you know) When you are serving God (whether busy at home with typical schedules and routines, or busy here with mission projects and outreach) it is imperative that you spend time with God. That was a huge part of today—devoted time connecting with God and recharging. 

Afterward, several members of the team participated in the Nicaragua Temple Challenge. Maddy was an amazing trainer! She started everyone out with a few laps around the gymnasium. An ab workout and a three-on-three basketball game followed!

Then, it was time for lunch and a meeting with Pastor Rudolfo. Pastor Rudolfo took time to explain the progress his church has experienced over the past year. He also mentioned future ministry projects he hopes to see in the coming year. Listening to Pastor Rudolfo reminds me of the beginnings of our own church at Lubeck Community Baptist Church. Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yire is a church plant, as well, and they are growing, thriving, and passionate about serving God as a family in the Body of Christ in Nicaragua. We look for amazing things to happen in 2014!

Next, it was time for the Wednesday evening service. Tonight Pastor Mark Houser delivered the sermon. I wish I could use words to explain the intensity of the night, the prayers that took place, the worship that rocked San Marcos, and the people that accepted Christ into their lives. Neither words nor pictures could truly do justice to the night of worship that took place at Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yire. It seemed to me that, at one point or another, everyone in attendance went up front to accept prayer, to pray for another, or to accept Christ into their hearts. It was truly moving to see so many moved by God in one evening. But, numbers aren’t the most important part of worship. Each person has a story and God cares deeply about each story. One story in particular belongs to Nora (a Deaconess in the church) and her son. Her son is the same young man that Pastor Mark Wood and Sherry Wood asked to come to church during their home visit (mentioned in the “home visit” blog). The young man did attend church tonight…and it was absolutely meant to be. He walked up front toward the end of the service to accept Christ into his life. It was a beautiful and emotional moment that came after a final word by Pastor Mark Wood. He stayed up front praying, crying, and experiencing a full embrace with Pastor Rudolfo, his mother, Nora, and Pastor Mark Wood. What a great night. God is good.

As I said, words can’t fully explain what an amazing evening we had at Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yire. As always, we absolutely love our 28 and our family of families in Lubeck and Oak Hill. We love you all and your prayers shook up San Marcos tonight!

God bless you all!