The question came up more than once..."Do you like having teams come to Colombia?" The answer was and is a firm YES! Despite the preparation logistics and the more intense schedule and the concern for everything working out "right", it is a joy to have old and new friends come alongside us and serve in different ministries.
Having 16 more sets of hands and smiles and hugs to go around is a blessing. Having creative programs, individual interaction, hands-on activities and specialized attention given to children and teens who are starving for input that makes them feel valued was a treat. Physical resources like paint, food, transportation to activities, crafts and Bibles were also things to be thankful for. Encouragement for leaders of ministries that are short on staff, resources, energy and ideas was a priceless gift. Knowing that others are coming alongside ongoing ministries that Maranatha International Foundation or El Camino Academy already are investing in was a huge support.
But besides all that enthusiastic and caring team members gave to the different individuals in the ministries, that is not the only reason that I enjoy having teams come to work side-by-side with us. As new foods are tried, new sights digested, new ideas considered, and new experiences processed, God is evidently doing a growing process in each visitor. I love seeing those that come learn to love Colombia and to care about the needs here. What a privilege to know that others will be praying, sharing, and looking for human and physical resources to invest here. Knowing that we can be a part in God's process of challenging and stretching others to be more radically involved in HIS world-wide plan for sharing his love and his message of reconciliation is a priceless privilege.
Connecting with the larger body of Christ and feeling loved, understood, encouraged, and challenged is part of the benefit for us to have teams join us for short periods. Sincere questions and encouraging comments are ways we are blessed as others truly seek to understand our world. Our family was personally blessed by your generosity and friendship.
THANK YOU Glen Ellyn Bible Church community for sending another wonderful team.
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