Day 4: Everything Coming Together

Today was a windy day. I can't help but to think of the wind as a metaphor for God's power. The wind moves when it pleases, seemingly random, but still able to put everything into place. God put our team in the right place, at the right time, with the right people, and lives were literally changed today.

Bill Explaining how to use the Filter.

We were able to give the final health and hygiene lessons to the adults, as well as explain how the filter works, how to backwash it, and how to care for it. As previously mentioned if this is done properly this filter can last up to 20 years. The options for these people to get water are either buy it from the store, go daily from 3-5pm for government provided water at an outdoor location,-bear in mind not many people have cars so they would need to carry this water back themselves- or take their chances with the spicket water, which is non-potable. This filter is going to fundamentally transform the quality of life for these people. The gratitude could be seen in their eyes, in their hugs,  and in their heartfelt thank-you's. Hope seemed almost tangible, spreading from their hearts into ours. They now have hope for a better future, we have given that to them. You simply cannot put a price tag on that; hope is invaluable.

As much as we were doing for the people of Juarez, they were doing something for us. All of the members of Santo Biblia were praying for Brenda, Mark's Wife, as she was having gallbladder surgery yesterday. Mark had reservations about coming on the trip due to this, but decided to come anyway, knowing the mission was important. We are happy to announce that Brenda is ok and got out of surgery with no complications. God is good!

The children's team taught the children about nutrition, brushing one's teeth, parasites, and a Bible lesson about being a good example to others by using the story of Jesus washing the disciples feet. We learned later from the children that they had not heard this story before. We were even able to teach them a few English words at the end, which they really seemed to enjoy!

Jeff Helping with Assessment Forms

We also got the treat of working with another missionary who lives in Juarez, who just happened to be in the area, named Jeff who stopped by and helped with the translation. He also gave us a lot of inside info about the city of Juarez. He was also originally from the Grand Rapids area!

One of the amazing things that transcends culture is sharing the love of Christ. This was our last day in this village and we hugged everyone goodbye for now, but also knowing one way or another we will meet again. Its amazing to see God's love transcend language and culture!

When all the filters were distributed, Alonzo took us  to a local Market in Juarez, and we walked around town for about an hour with him as our guide. Many people in our group bought Vanilla from the market, which came in huge bottles and will probably last forever.

We came home through the border crossing in El Paso this time, and the last little treat of the day was we were joined at dinner by Bob, a veteran and driver from Orphan Grain Train that stopped over here for the night.

Pastor Ben and Alonzo

The team, as a unit, also grew today; we all got to see God's work fall into place. All of the stresses and unknowns proved no match for our mighty God, who moved the wind, moved us, to serve and have the people who needed it be served.

Our team by the Juarez Sign-Plus two Locals!