Day Six - From Rebar to Recess to Rocks

I was truly looking forward to returning to Mexico where I had traveled a lot as a teen. I was a bit apprehensive about my physical contributions to this mission trip, but knew that my limited knowledge of the language would be of some help. I wandered around the construction site the first day wishing that I had been blessed with stronger back genes. I tried straightening nails for reusing, but soon had a giant blood blister on my left index finger. I was afraid to try shoveling gravel, in fear that a sprain would render me totally useless for the week. The next day was a bit better as I discovered rebar-tying. Just as I was getting into a rhythm, a request was made for babysitters for the children of the pastors here. My heart was not in this at first, but I soon became very attached to these beautiful and exuberant children. The translating part of my brain was fried and I was physically beat after three hours, but I was happy to have done my part. I really wanted to return to the group effort the next day, but struggled with where God wanted to use me. I awoke early with time to pray and read my Bible...it fell open to Romans 12:1 "Offer yourselves as a living sacrifice to God, dedicated to His service and pleasing to Him. This is the true worship that you should offer." So, trying to be in His will and not mine, I embraced the idea of a full morning again with the children. The amazing part was that there were no children out early and I was blessed with another hour of more rebar and then even tried an hour of shoveling gravel which left me with sore muscles,but the joy of teamwork. Then I found the children and we had a great time of coloring and playing ball. What I have taken away from this experience is that, when we are willing to be used by God in God's way, he supplies us with even greater satisfaction and more joyful experiences than we can ever imagine.
A special thanks to all of you who have been in prayer and supported us from afar. We feel your love and your prayers and pass these along to all we meet, Nancy