Tuesday, June 28, 2016

Joyful Tuesday!

Monday evening Peter led us all in an inspirational hymn sing, as he accompanied us on his guitar, and once again we explored scripture together under Carmen’s capable leadership.  The discussion topic, the Light of Christ and what that means to all of us seemed especially appropriate, considering that we are striving to follow that Light, and to become so filled with His illumination that the Source of the love we show to those we are serving can never be mistaken.
   I neglected to mention in Monday’s “report” that we were joined by a friendly group from Baltimore, who helped with the painting of door and window casings and baseboards at the home of Michelle.  The Baltimore folks joined our drywall crew today, as Greg taught AJ, Dralynn and Pete the finer points of mudding and sanding drywall.  Our young adults proved to be willing and hardworking students, as their dusty faces and clothing attested.  Ashley, Hannah, Katie and Jimmy spent the day in Michelle’s bathrooms attempting to salvage and repair the tile originally installed by her father, under the capable, and constantly teasing, direction of Carmen and Bob.  For Michelle, that tile represents a family legacy, and for that reason the tiling crew has been willing to struggle with a difficult and time consuming job.  The excitement at seeing her home’s transformation is palpable anytime we are in her presence.
   Hedy’s home was the focus of the rest of the mission trippers.  Our project was continuing the extension of her home’s lower deck.  “Measure twice and cut once” has been our mainstay.  Peter continues to serve as our “fearless leader,” ably assisted by Elvis and Allan.  They’ve managed the technical aspects of the project, while Tori, Sharon, Kyle and Cheryl have “mastered” the grunt work.  We’ve become experts at gravel removable, and Tori wields a mean screwdriver.  Hedy expresses her deep appreciation by spoiling us with special treats, which are our secret-shhhh!

   Tonight, at devotions, the joy in the hearts of everyone spilled over in laughter, teasing and the revealing of our true selves to one another.  It’s difficult to believe that only three days ago, many of us were total strangers.  God has gifted us, not only with the opportunity to share his love with the suffering of Bayville, but also, joyfully, with one another.  We are so very blessed.  Praise His Name!
 Carmen working on ceramic tile.

Greg, Pete, and two girls from the Maryland team finishing drywall

People from the Maryland team finishing drywall.

Greg finishing drywall.

Bob cutting ceramic tile.

Allan, Sharon, Julia (Maryland team), Kyle, and Elvis eating lunch with Hedy (the homeowner).

Kyle, Allan, Elvis,and Sharon prepping the ground for a walkway.

Kyle watching Sharon and Cheryl riding double.

Homeowner Hedy.

Tori and Cheryl laying decking.

Sharon getting "board."

Elvis in the weeds.

Team Picture (except for photographer AJ)

2 comments:

  1. Pictures help us remember what the mind forgets as we as servants do because we are what Christ is in us.THANK YOU AJ for your willingness to capture meaningful aspects of our week. 6 amazing teenagers, one college student, a father and son, a mother and daughter, a married couple, a youth pastor, a pastor, two social workers, and various extremely talented men who guided our chores, humor, love, sharing, caring, helpfulness; words spoken and unspoken, hugs, tears, TEAMWORK, friendships made that will never be forgotten, GOD in the midst of it ALL. I am blessed

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