The only word I can think of to describe the last few days is full. Not just in the sense that we have been very busy or eaten a lot of good Haitian food, but that it has been full of espwa (hope). Yesterday morning, we participated in a Christmas party for the children at Maison. It was full of treats for the kids like candy canes, crafts, pizza, cake and presents. It was so amazing watching their sweet faces light up over such simple treats.
Then, we had to leave the party early because I was speaking at Pierre's church. The church invited women from 40 different churches around the PAP area to attend. There were over 30 women there. Pierre said they had to serve food so the women would show up. Funny, how that works in America too, and most likely, they are not literally starving. They served a sandwich (not sure what kind or what it was, but we ate it with a smile) and a drink. I was told there was a group of women there from the mountains, which is rather difficult and often times dangerous for them to travel. It was an amazing experience. Pierre also told me that no one has ever come to their church or area to speak just to women. It was the first time these ladies had ever heard a message directly to them as women. They learned that they were special as a woman, that God loved them, and had a purpose for them. Next year, we are already planning a 2 day Woman's Retreat with these women.
Yesterday evening and the majority of today, we spent it with the children of Zan Fan la Kay. They were extremely generous to us, giving us lots of Coke (coca) and presents. We had the privilege and honor of being apart of their Christmas party as well. There are about 52 kids, and they each received an MP3 player. It was so fun watching those kids walk around and dance to the music. They were so happy.
As Brian mentioned in his blog, I also had the privilege to speak to the Nannies this afternoon. I have decided that I love speaking to Haitian women because I get a lot of head nods, and loud Amen's which fire me up. I am so humbled by how God moved so quickly in their hearts. During our 8 p.m. devotion the Nannies said they learned so much, and they now know that God values them as a woman. I believe there is espwa (hope) for the women in Haiti who have lived far too long under oppression and condemnation.
The evening ended well with a great trip to Epidor with our family, Pierre's family and Wilson. I have posted a few pictures for you to see.
The Guenther Family
The Guenther Family
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Brian's Perspective - Day Four
Christy will give you a better understanding of how the schedule went for us today, and you'll see that it didn't go at all like we had planned. I have so much work to complete before we are able to leave tomorrow, that I'm afraid that it will not get completed.
Spending the day Zan Fan la Kay (zahn fahn lah kai - House of children) was so emotional for me. I held back tears most of the day while learning more and more about these boys, and the conditions they have been rescued from. These children are not up for adoption. They are being raised to stay in Haiti, and prayerfully make a difference as they grow up. There is good work being done through this home and through Grangou (grain-goo - Hungry) http://grangou.org/, the non-profit that funds the home. There were infants, all the way up to young adults living and working there. The smell was horrible and the boys only had what they had on their backs. Today's Christmas party was humbling and convicting to say the least.
As we headed home, Pierre received a call from the orphanage. Apparently, the women had been waiting to hear Christy speak since 4:00. As we were turning into the driveway at 4:35, Pierre said, "Oh, I forgot. That thing that I said you would talk to the women about...they are waiting for us!" Christy had to rush in, use the only clean restroom we had seen all day, throw on a skirt and speak. She did the most amazing job! The Spirit truly spoke through her, and there were many AMENS and HALLELUJAHS coming from the ladies. These women have never been told by someone teaching from the Bible that they are important in God's eyes. These women have never been told that God created them beautiful. Lives were changed today! I am so proud of Christy. What amazes me most is that the messages that she has written for 3-6 grade girls are applicable to the oldest of women here. Man, it's amazing how God works.
Tonight, Wilson is sleeping with us in the tent. He knows we are leaving tomorrow, and it's going to be very hard for all of us to say good-bye. He wouldn't go to his room tonight, so Madame Klinide made him a bed in our tent. He and Caleb stayed up late playing games and laughing. I can't hardly wait until he can come home with us. I have a boy snoring on either side of me, at this very moment.
We were told tonight by the nannies what a blessing it has been for them that we have come. It's hard to make them understand that we are equally blessed, if not more than they! To God be the glory!
Spending the day Zan Fan la Kay (zahn fahn lah kai - House of children) was so emotional for me. I held back tears most of the day while learning more and more about these boys, and the conditions they have been rescued from. These children are not up for adoption. They are being raised to stay in Haiti, and prayerfully make a difference as they grow up. There is good work being done through this home and through Grangou (grain-goo - Hungry) http://grangou.org/, the non-profit that funds the home. There were infants, all the way up to young adults living and working there. The smell was horrible and the boys only had what they had on their backs. Today's Christmas party was humbling and convicting to say the least.
As we headed home, Pierre received a call from the orphanage. Apparently, the women had been waiting to hear Christy speak since 4:00. As we were turning into the driveway at 4:35, Pierre said, "Oh, I forgot. That thing that I said you would talk to the women about...they are waiting for us!" Christy had to rush in, use the only clean restroom we had seen all day, throw on a skirt and speak. She did the most amazing job! The Spirit truly spoke through her, and there were many AMENS and HALLELUJAHS coming from the ladies. These women have never been told by someone teaching from the Bible that they are important in God's eyes. These women have never been told that God created them beautiful. Lives were changed today! I am so proud of Christy. What amazes me most is that the messages that she has written for 3-6 grade girls are applicable to the oldest of women here. Man, it's amazing how God works.
Tonight, Wilson is sleeping with us in the tent. He knows we are leaving tomorrow, and it's going to be very hard for all of us to say good-bye. He wouldn't go to his room tonight, so Madame Klinide made him a bed in our tent. He and Caleb stayed up late playing games and laughing. I can't hardly wait until he can come home with us. I have a boy snoring on either side of me, at this very moment.
We were told tonight by the nannies what a blessing it has been for them that we have come. It's hard to make them understand that we are equally blessed, if not more than they! To God be the glory!
The last day in Haiti by Caleb
I am sad that I will leave tomorrow. Here is my day. For breakfast, I had oatmeal. For lunch we had rice. To make a long story short I had 3 huge Cokes Jimmy gave me!! My bracelet they gave me broke at Zan Fan la Kay. Jimmy runs Zan Fan la Kay. Last night I slept perfectly. Tonight, I will sleap nicely! Dinner was Epi'dor. I had a burger that I did not like, so I gave it to my dad. I had fries with my meal so I ate them. I miss the U.S.A. I will land in Texas at about 12:01 a.m. tomorrow.
Caleb
Caleb
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Day 3 by Caleb
Ok it is my first time blogging so hang on. Since the first day, I love Haiti. I was the first one to wake up, but the last one to brush my teeth. Today was a very nice day. For breakfast I ate spaghetti. At lunch, we had a Christmas party for the kids. We learned the candy cane story. We ate cake and pizza. A while later we went to Pierre's church and my mom spoke there. Close to the end of church, I had a very spicy sandwich. Then, we drove to Zan Fan la Kay. There we got a big coke. They gave me a necklace and a bracelet the boys made. We got home at 9:00 p.m. I my not go to sleep. At night sometimes we get cold! I will blog tomorrow.
Caleb
Caleb
Monday, December 20, 2010
How Great is our God
What a great day at the orphanage! This song pretty much sums it up. The morning started off with an Advent Devotional which was followed by reciting scripture and singing. I was so impressed with their songs and scripture memory. I was even more impressed with the dedication of Maison's staff including Pierre, the Orphanage Director and Angie, the American Missionary to teaching these sweet children the love of Jesus.
Caleb and I spent the majority of the day making chlorine water for the orphanage. We got water from the well and mixed in 1 1/3 cup of salt. Then, we hooked up a battery to a spout and filtered the water through to make chlorine water. This will provide the orphanage safe and clean water.
I also painted all the girls fingernails. Not sure who had more fun, me or the girls.
Brian began working on a project today. The people of Haiti do not have an opportunity to get water unless you pay for it. Often times, they have to fight for water on the streets. The orphanage never ceases to amaze me because they asked Brian to put up a door from the orphanages side of the well, so the people on the streets can use the well water. What a lesson on giving. The orphanage has been blessed with water, so what do they do, give it away.
It was a good day here in Haiti, hanging out and loving on kids. Tomorrow will be a big day. I will be speaking to a group of women from different churches around PAP. Please pray for God to do great things in the lives of these Haitian women, and the Lord will give me the words to say. Also, tomorrow we will have a Christmas party for the children here at the orphanage.
Greater things have yet to come...
Christy
Caleb and I spent the majority of the day making chlorine water for the orphanage. We got water from the well and mixed in 1 1/3 cup of salt. Then, we hooked up a battery to a spout and filtered the water through to make chlorine water. This will provide the orphanage safe and clean water.
I also painted all the girls fingernails. Not sure who had more fun, me or the girls.
Brian began working on a project today. The people of Haiti do not have an opportunity to get water unless you pay for it. Often times, they have to fight for water on the streets. The orphanage never ceases to amaze me because they asked Brian to put up a door from the orphanages side of the well, so the people on the streets can use the well water. What a lesson on giving. The orphanage has been blessed with water, so what do they do, give it away.
It was a good day here in Haiti, hanging out and loving on kids. Tomorrow will be a big day. I will be speaking to a group of women from different churches around PAP. Please pray for God to do great things in the lives of these Haitian women, and the Lord will give me the words to say. Also, tomorrow we will have a Christmas party for the children here at the orphanage.
Greater things have yet to come...
Christy
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Commitment- What would your Church Do?
The morning started out with beautiful sounds of Nannies worshiping Jesus at 5 am. Then, we had church from 6:30-11:30 am. The people at the church were very welcoming to this blanc (white) family. Brian did a great preaching the Gospel message.
During church, two sweet little girls that were sitting behind us handed Caleb a bon bon, which is like a Blow Pop to eat. Caleb and I were struck by their generosity. My first though was, "How much did this cost you? You are willing to give up your bon bon for my son?" Caleb loved his bon bon! He had green teeth, tongue and lips to prove it too.
After church, we had a few stops to make before heading back to the orphanage. One stop Brian and Pierre prayed over the Pastor at Pierre's church for healing from a bad shoulder.
The evening ended with another church service and Communion at 4:00 pm at the orphanage. Brian did an excellent job preaching this service, not just because he had more time to prepare, but he brought a message of faith and hope to hurting group of men and women.
At some point this morning during our 5 hour church service, the electricity went out. Now, keep in mind, the only thing that needed electricity was one microphone and keyboard. When, the electricity went out, the church didn't respond. It was like nothing had happened. They kept on singing, praying, waving their hands and worshiping Jesus.
I wonder, what would happen at your church? What if a service in America lasted 5 hours? How many of those people would actually come back the following week? How many people would have gotten up and left because they had to beat the lunch crowd at Lubby's?
How many church members do think would show up if your church met under a metal roof with no walls. Yes, that means no AC or heat either. Are we committed enough to worshiping with our fellow believers under conditions that are not ideal, or are we too comfortable where we are?
How would your congregation respond if the electricity suddenly went out. Could there even be a service? What about the guitars, mics or keyboards? What we would do if the words were not on the screen? Would we even know the words? What would your Pastor do without his Power Point presentation or video? Would he be able to even preach a message with nothing but his voice and Bible?
What would your church do?
As I type this, 8 pm, I hear another prayer service going on by the Nannies. Yes, that is right, another service today! Which leaves me wondering: How committed are you? How committed am I? How many times a day do we worship our Risen Savior like He is our only dependence?
Christy
See the videos from Pierre's church and the orphanage service.
During church, two sweet little girls that were sitting behind us handed Caleb a bon bon, which is like a Blow Pop to eat. Caleb and I were struck by their generosity. My first though was, "How much did this cost you? You are willing to give up your bon bon for my son?" Caleb loved his bon bon! He had green teeth, tongue and lips to prove it too.
After church, we had a few stops to make before heading back to the orphanage. One stop Brian and Pierre prayed over the Pastor at Pierre's church for healing from a bad shoulder.
The evening ended with another church service and Communion at 4:00 pm at the orphanage. Brian did an excellent job preaching this service, not just because he had more time to prepare, but he brought a message of faith and hope to hurting group of men and women.
At some point this morning during our 5 hour church service, the electricity went out. Now, keep in mind, the only thing that needed electricity was one microphone and keyboard. When, the electricity went out, the church didn't respond. It was like nothing had happened. They kept on singing, praying, waving their hands and worshiping Jesus.
I wonder, what would happen at your church? What if a service in America lasted 5 hours? How many of those people would actually come back the following week? How many people would have gotten up and left because they had to beat the lunch crowd at Lubby's?
How many church members do think would show up if your church met under a metal roof with no walls. Yes, that means no AC or heat either. Are we committed enough to worshiping with our fellow believers under conditions that are not ideal, or are we too comfortable where we are?
How would your congregation respond if the electricity suddenly went out. Could there even be a service? What about the guitars, mics or keyboards? What we would do if the words were not on the screen? Would we even know the words? What would your Pastor do without his Power Point presentation or video? Would he be able to even preach a message with nothing but his voice and Bible?
What would your church do?
As I type this, 8 pm, I hear another prayer service going on by the Nannies. Yes, that is right, another service today! Which leaves me wondering: How committed are you? How committed am I? How many times a day do we worship our Risen Savior like He is our only dependence?
Christy
See the videos from Pierre's church and the orphanage service.
In Haiti Once Again
In order to make our 6:00 am flight, we were up and heading to the Houston airport around 3:00 am. After spending all of yesterday traveling, we arrived in Port Au Prince, Haiti around 5:30. The flight was supposed to land at 4:50, but after multiple delays we landed late. To make matters worse, once we arrived, the airplane could not be opened, and the jetway cold not make it to the airplane. We were forced to wait some more, then exit out the rear of the plane, down some rickety stairs and onto the bus. Caleb was a trooper the entire way, mostly nervous and excited. In Haiti, there are no television terminals to alert those who are waiting that the flights are delayed. Poor Pierre had to stand outside all that extra time, wondering where we were.
We were taken straight to the orphanage where a dinner of spaghetti and hot sauce was waiting. Wilson, the boy whom we are seeking to adopt, was made ready to meet and greet us upon our arrival. He was dressed in a very nice polo, cargo shorts, and had obviously just taken a bath. He joined us for dinner, some family time, and prayer and worship before we retired to the tent for a short sleep. It was around 10:30 before we went down and we were up at 5:30 this morning.
We had to leave by 6:00 in order to get the church for the 6:30 service. Yes, I said 6:30. This service lasts until 11:30. When I arrived yesterday, I was told that I would preach at the evening service. I thought that I would have time to prepare and finish up my notes between the morning and evening services. However, halfway through the service this morning, I was asked, "Do you think you could preach a message this morning?" Going strictly from my heart, I got up to preach. No notes, no preparation, just preaching. This was the first time that I have ever preached with an interpreter, and it's something that I need to get more comfortable with. The people were gracious, and then we headed out for door to door evangelism. Our team prayed with 4 people to receive Christ, and the other teams prayed with about 5 people. This was an interesting and exciting experience. Because of traffic, it took us about an hour to get back to the orphanage, but we finally made it in time to enjoy fried chicken with rice and bean sauce. Now it's time to rest and prepare for the evening service. Pray for Christy as she prepares to speak to the women of the church on Tuesday...stay tuned.
We were taken straight to the orphanage where a dinner of spaghetti and hot sauce was waiting. Wilson, the boy whom we are seeking to adopt, was made ready to meet and greet us upon our arrival. He was dressed in a very nice polo, cargo shorts, and had obviously just taken a bath. He joined us for dinner, some family time, and prayer and worship before we retired to the tent for a short sleep. It was around 10:30 before we went down and we were up at 5:30 this morning.
We had to leave by 6:00 in order to get the church for the 6:30 service. Yes, I said 6:30. This service lasts until 11:30. When I arrived yesterday, I was told that I would preach at the evening service. I thought that I would have time to prepare and finish up my notes between the morning and evening services. However, halfway through the service this morning, I was asked, "Do you think you could preach a message this morning?" Going strictly from my heart, I got up to preach. No notes, no preparation, just preaching. This was the first time that I have ever preached with an interpreter, and it's something that I need to get more comfortable with. The people were gracious, and then we headed out for door to door evangelism. Our team prayed with 4 people to receive Christ, and the other teams prayed with about 5 people. This was an interesting and exciting experience. Because of traffic, it took us about an hour to get back to the orphanage, but we finally made it in time to enjoy fried chicken with rice and bean sauce. Now it's time to rest and prepare for the evening service. Pray for Christy as she prepares to speak to the women of the church on Tuesday...stay tuned.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Hearts Desire
We have been longing to go back to Haiti. Our desire is to continue the work that God started in us while we were there. Not only will we be working with the orphanage, but we have been asked to help in different areas around PAP. I (Christy) will be working with women and pastor's wives from several churches around PAP. I am working on having a one day woman's event teaching about God's love and Woman's ministry. Brian will be working with local pastors and possibly youth as well.
We are also in the beginning stages of adopting from Haiti. We have fallen in love with a little boy, who we can't wait to see. There is a lot of work to be done in Haiti, and Maison des Enfants de Dieu.
We are also in the beginning stages of adopting from Haiti. We have fallen in love with a little boy, who we can't wait to see. There is a lot of work to be done in Haiti, and Maison des Enfants de Dieu.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Friday, July 23, 2010
Leaving a Piece of My Heart in Haiti
Well, I can't believe this is my last blog from Haiti. I can definitely say that I will be blogging again from Haiti, hopefully very soon. It has been a long couple of days at the orphanage. We have been working very hard on projects around the orphanage. The guys put a new roof on the room that holds the generator. A few of the ladies were working on a massive organization project in the supply room, which the guys built shelves for all the labeled supplies. A couple of us were painting tables and benches for the children and nannies. Oh, and we got a new baby!!!! He is so precious.
I spent the morning doing laundry with the laundry ladies, and finally after two weeks of working with these ladies, I got promoted. I was finally allowed to do something other than ring the clothes out. These women take their laundry seriously! They have an incredible system that I have yet to figure out. Their clothes smell so clean and look so nice.
This afternoon, I needed to throw something away so I asked what do I do with this trash bag. At home, I would have walked it outside to the trash can, and it would sit there until trash day. Obviously, there is no trash day in Haiti, well maybe I should say everyday is trash day in Haiti because everybody throws their trash in the street. Someone told me to throw is over the wall. So, I went up the second floor, and I couldn't do it. I couldn't just throw it over. It felt weird. Then, I looked down and saw two boys digging through the trash trying to find food. They were just outside the orphanage's security wall. I watched them in disbelief for a minute or two until we made eye contact. Then the boys pointed as if they were hungry, but this was different from the other boys who run up to the tap tap asking for a dollar. At that moment, I knew I had to do something. One of the nannies made two plates of food. The security guard and a few others went with me to find the boys. We brought them inside the walls to feed them, and we gave them shoes. We learned that they were 13 and 14 years old, and they were brothers. They said there dad abandoned them, and their mom has no money. They live in a tent on the street a long ways away. They said they knew the orphanage was there and they would throw stuff out, so they were looking for something to either eat, or sell to get money to buy food.
It really broke my heart. I began thinking two things: Matthew 25: 31-46 (Read it). I also thought about how the kids in this orphanage are very blessed. They have a secure place to lay their heads at night. They know they will wake up and have food on a table. They have clothes, shoes, and are bathed twice a day. There are children all over Haiti just like the two boys I met today. They do not have food, shoes or security. They don't know when they wake up in the morning if they will have food to eat.
Tomorrow when I get on the plane, I will be leaving a piece of my heart here. I know there is so much work that needs to be done here, but I also know that the spirit of God is beginning to unleash His power over this place.
Please continue to pray for the orphanage and the people of Haiti. Also, pray for our team as we re-enter after having our lives wrecked by the things we have seen and experienced here. Please pray for safety as we travel. Our flight leaves around 5:30 p.m. Goodnight from PAP, Haiti.
I spent the morning doing laundry with the laundry ladies, and finally after two weeks of working with these ladies, I got promoted. I was finally allowed to do something other than ring the clothes out. These women take their laundry seriously! They have an incredible system that I have yet to figure out. Their clothes smell so clean and look so nice.
This afternoon, I needed to throw something away so I asked what do I do with this trash bag. At home, I would have walked it outside to the trash can, and it would sit there until trash day. Obviously, there is no trash day in Haiti, well maybe I should say everyday is trash day in Haiti because everybody throws their trash in the street. Someone told me to throw is over the wall. So, I went up the second floor, and I couldn't do it. I couldn't just throw it over. It felt weird. Then, I looked down and saw two boys digging through the trash trying to find food. They were just outside the orphanage's security wall. I watched them in disbelief for a minute or two until we made eye contact. Then the boys pointed as if they were hungry, but this was different from the other boys who run up to the tap tap asking for a dollar. At that moment, I knew I had to do something. One of the nannies made two plates of food. The security guard and a few others went with me to find the boys. We brought them inside the walls to feed them, and we gave them shoes. We learned that they were 13 and 14 years old, and they were brothers. They said there dad abandoned them, and their mom has no money. They live in a tent on the street a long ways away. They said they knew the orphanage was there and they would throw stuff out, so they were looking for something to either eat, or sell to get money to buy food.
It really broke my heart. I began thinking two things: Matthew 25: 31-46 (Read it). I also thought about how the kids in this orphanage are very blessed. They have a secure place to lay their heads at night. They know they will wake up and have food on a table. They have clothes, shoes, and are bathed twice a day. There are children all over Haiti just like the two boys I met today. They do not have food, shoes or security. They don't know when they wake up in the morning if they will have food to eat.
Tomorrow when I get on the plane, I will be leaving a piece of my heart here. I know there is so much work that needs to be done here, but I also know that the spirit of God is beginning to unleash His power over this place.
Please continue to pray for the orphanage and the people of Haiti. Also, pray for our team as we re-enter after having our lives wrecked by the things we have seen and experienced here. Please pray for safety as we travel. Our flight leaves around 5:30 p.m. Goodnight from PAP, Haiti.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
A Lesson in Community
Yesterday, we traveled just two blocks from our hotel to visit a tent city called Pe's Village. The village is led by a man they call Pe. Pe is a God fearing and honest man who distributes all the supplies they receive fairly. There are 100 people living inside this village that is only about a block long, if that. The village is just one row of houses made out of tarps and sheets. We learned that for only $100 you can feed the village for an entire month. They are teaching the children how to paint and make wall art to earn money. It was very surreal to actually experience a tent city with all 5 senses. The people were welcoming, loving and grateful for the small amount of food that we brought. We sang a few songs over them and prayed for them before we left. As were standing in the village, I finally grasped the full meaning of community. For years, we have been trying to grasp the full meaning of living in a community. Yesterday, I understood it. Pe's village is a living and true example of community. They are literally doing life with each other.
The remainder of the day was spent at the orphanage loving on kids and finishing the numerous construction projects.
Please continue to pray for us. Energy is level is better today, but it is only 7:00 a.m. Thanks for all the prayers and support.
The remainder of the day was spent at the orphanage loving on kids and finishing the numerous construction projects.
Please continue to pray for us. Energy is level is better today, but it is only 7:00 a.m. Thanks for all the prayers and support.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
God Knows Were Here
I am so sorry that it has been a while since the last post. There is so much to report, it is hard to put it into words. Yesterday, half of our team left . Honestly, it feels like my right arm is missing. It was such an honor and privilege to serve with them here in Haiti. We miss them terribly.
I think today has been one of the most powerful days for me in Haiti. We spent the morning working at the orphanage. The boys were working on the never ending construction list which included shelves for the storage room, and cabinets for the ladies in the kitchen area. The ladies spent the morning taking pictures of each child individually and sibling pictures. It was a special moment for the kids because they were bathed and dressed in their best clothes for a brief moment to feel special. Some eyes looked deep in the camera with a grin to melt your heart, while other eyes were filled with pain and fear.
At 11 a.m., we left the orphanage to travel to a remote and "rougher" area of PAP to visit another orphanage. Our orphanage director, said this orphanage had been on his heart for about week, and he felt we needed to take them some food. So, before we left all the food was inventoried to see what could be taken to this other orphanage. The traffic was horrific on the way to the orphanage, it was the worst we have seen since we have been here. It took over an hour and half to travel what should have taken about twenty minutes. Of course, there was no AC, let's just say it was a rough trip. We had a hard time finding the orphanage, and had to turn around several times. Thanks to one of our security guys, we finally found it.
As we drove up to the orphanage, all I saw was a few tents. When he said we were here, I was shocked. It didn't look any different from a small tent city that I see every time I open my hotel door. When I say they have nothing, I really mean it. They had nothing. "This is the orphanage," raced through my mind.
Then, we were greeted by the sweetest most beautiful faces. We gathered under a tarp to hear a word from the lady overseeing the orphanage. She is a Haitian woman who heard a call from God to start an orphanage. She told God that she had no money or resources to start it, but God told her to do it anyway. She said these words that will forever change my life, "God knows we are here." God knew that she needed food to feed the 100 children in her orphanage, and God knew exactly where the food needed to be dropped off. All God needed from us, obedience to deliver the food.
God knows that I am. God knows that you are here. We have two challenges in knowing this truth: 1.) God knows we are here, so our job is to trust Him. He will provide exactly what we need when we need it, and in His timing. 2.) God knows we are here, and that may mean that He is calling us to be His hands and feet by being obedient to a calling.
Under the tent, the kids had a church service. There was singing, preaching and praising all led by the children. Tears ran down my face as I was watching these children worship Jesus. Then, our group sang Hosanna, Mighty to Save, and You're the God of this City over the children and workers. Our team gathered over each child and worker and prayed for them. God's presence was under that tarp today. Then, the kids sang us out as we left with the world longest song, but it was so sweet. I can not wait to share the video from today!
My initial reaction from the day was, "Why are we taking this other orphanage food, when food is so scare here." Our orphanage (Maison de Enfants) has a kingdom agenda. They see beyond themselves. They know that God is going to provide for them. In fact, on the agenda for tomorrow morning is to visit a tent city, to pass out food and hygiene kits. They have taught us a huge lesson, God is the supplier of all things.
During breakfast at the hotel a question was posed from a stranger at a near by table, "What are you going to do with the things you see and hear today?" There is one more thing the lady said today under the tarp that struck me, "Don't forget I'm here." How can I forget after the things I saw and heard today? It was life changing and challenging. Let me rephrase that, "Lord, please don't ever let me forget the things I saw and heard today!"
I think today has been one of the most powerful days for me in Haiti. We spent the morning working at the orphanage. The boys were working on the never ending construction list which included shelves for the storage room, and cabinets for the ladies in the kitchen area. The ladies spent the morning taking pictures of each child individually and sibling pictures. It was a special moment for the kids because they were bathed and dressed in their best clothes for a brief moment to feel special. Some eyes looked deep in the camera with a grin to melt your heart, while other eyes were filled with pain and fear.
At 11 a.m., we left the orphanage to travel to a remote and "rougher" area of PAP to visit another orphanage. Our orphanage director, said this orphanage had been on his heart for about week, and he felt we needed to take them some food. So, before we left all the food was inventoried to see what could be taken to this other orphanage. The traffic was horrific on the way to the orphanage, it was the worst we have seen since we have been here. It took over an hour and half to travel what should have taken about twenty minutes. Of course, there was no AC, let's just say it was a rough trip. We had a hard time finding the orphanage, and had to turn around several times. Thanks to one of our security guys, we finally found it.
As we drove up to the orphanage, all I saw was a few tents. When he said we were here, I was shocked. It didn't look any different from a small tent city that I see every time I open my hotel door. When I say they have nothing, I really mean it. They had nothing. "This is the orphanage," raced through my mind.
Then, we were greeted by the sweetest most beautiful faces. We gathered under a tarp to hear a word from the lady overseeing the orphanage. She is a Haitian woman who heard a call from God to start an orphanage. She told God that she had no money or resources to start it, but God told her to do it anyway. She said these words that will forever change my life, "God knows we are here." God knew that she needed food to feed the 100 children in her orphanage, and God knew exactly where the food needed to be dropped off. All God needed from us, obedience to deliver the food.
God knows that I am. God knows that you are here. We have two challenges in knowing this truth: 1.) God knows we are here, so our job is to trust Him. He will provide exactly what we need when we need it, and in His timing. 2.) God knows we are here, and that may mean that He is calling us to be His hands and feet by being obedient to a calling.
Under the tent, the kids had a church service. There was singing, preaching and praising all led by the children. Tears ran down my face as I was watching these children worship Jesus. Then, our group sang Hosanna, Mighty to Save, and You're the God of this City over the children and workers. Our team gathered over each child and worker and prayed for them. God's presence was under that tarp today. Then, the kids sang us out as we left with the world longest song, but it was so sweet. I can not wait to share the video from today!
My initial reaction from the day was, "Why are we taking this other orphanage food, when food is so scare here." Our orphanage (Maison de Enfants) has a kingdom agenda. They see beyond themselves. They know that God is going to provide for them. In fact, on the agenda for tomorrow morning is to visit a tent city, to pass out food and hygiene kits. They have taught us a huge lesson, God is the supplier of all things.
During breakfast at the hotel a question was posed from a stranger at a near by table, "What are you going to do with the things you see and hear today?" There is one more thing the lady said today under the tarp that struck me, "Don't forget I'm here." How can I forget after the things I saw and heard today? It was life changing and challenging. Let me rephrase that, "Lord, please don't ever let me forget the things I saw and heard today!"
Monday, July 19, 2010
Fearfully and Wonderfully Made
You know you are in Haiti when...
You freak out and think you are running late when you wake up, but then you realize it is only 4:30 a.m.
You know what time it is by the air conditioning. We only have ac from 6-6.
You tell your husband, "Babe, you smell good today." His response, "It's bug spray."
You yell from the tap tap in a cute high pitched voice, "Naked baby!"
You have to visit the restroom, and you have to take your security guard with you!
Your favorite phrase is, "This is Haiti...," and it becomes your standard response to anything.
Cipro is your new best friend.
You look into a face of child, and it melts your heart.
Yesterday was a full day in every sense. The day began by leaving the hotel at 6 a.m. Church started at 6:30, and lasted til about 10:30. It was a great experience to worship with believers with such hope and peace, and even though we didn't understand a word, you felt the presence of God. On a side note, River Stoners can not escape the book of Luke. I think God is trying to tell us something. We have been studying the book of Luke for about 2 years. Yesterday, River Stone completed the 14th chapter of Luke. At the church in PAP, the message was about the prodigal son in Luke 15.
The remainder of the day was spent at the orphanage. The joy of my day came when a sweet girl who has been at the orphanage only 2 weeks smiled for the first time.
The afternoon was spent leading the kids in every kid song you imagine with hand motions, and watching their eyes and body dance with joy.
Yesterday, I felt the Lord was calling me to pray Psalm 139 over every child I either held or made eye contact with. I would look deep into each and every child in the orphanage and know that they were created by God for a reason and a purpose. He has a plan for each and everyone of them, and He has plan for us to be apart of what God is doing here in Haiti.
You know you are in Haiti when... You leave and a part of your heart stays here.
You freak out and think you are running late when you wake up, but then you realize it is only 4:30 a.m.
You know what time it is by the air conditioning. We only have ac from 6-6.
You tell your husband, "Babe, you smell good today." His response, "It's bug spray."
You yell from the tap tap in a cute high pitched voice, "Naked baby!"
You have to visit the restroom, and you have to take your security guard with you!
Your favorite phrase is, "This is Haiti...," and it becomes your standard response to anything.
Cipro is your new best friend.
You look into a face of child, and it melts your heart.
Yesterday was a full day in every sense. The day began by leaving the hotel at 6 a.m. Church started at 6:30, and lasted til about 10:30. It was a great experience to worship with believers with such hope and peace, and even though we didn't understand a word, you felt the presence of God. On a side note, River Stoners can not escape the book of Luke. I think God is trying to tell us something. We have been studying the book of Luke for about 2 years. Yesterday, River Stone completed the 14th chapter of Luke. At the church in PAP, the message was about the prodigal son in Luke 15.
The remainder of the day was spent at the orphanage. The joy of my day came when a sweet girl who has been at the orphanage only 2 weeks smiled for the first time.
The afternoon was spent leading the kids in every kid song you imagine with hand motions, and watching their eyes and body dance with joy.
Yesterday, I felt the Lord was calling me to pray Psalm 139 over every child I either held or made eye contact with. I would look deep into each and every child in the orphanage and know that they were created by God for a reason and a purpose. He has a plan for each and everyone of them, and He has plan for us to be apart of what God is doing here in Haiti.
You know you are in Haiti when... You leave and a part of your heart stays here.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Your the God of this City
This blog is going to be short and sweet. The team is currently gathered for another delicious breakfast before we head out for an hour tap tap ride to the Baptist Mission. We are going to view another scene just outside PAP.
The last two days have been a whirlwind. On Thursday, we stayed at the orphanage the entire day. I however, was very sick in the office. The guys were building tables, chairs, and working on a tent so the children could have an additional classroom space outside.
Yesterday, we traveled about an hour outside the city to visit the new land. The director of the orphanage, Pierre, shared his vision for the future. The vision filled my heart with hope and joy for the next generation in Haiti. His vision is Kingdom! The song Your the God of the City, came to mind immediately. After he shared his vision, the group spread out across the land and prayed. We picked up dirt in our hand and as the dirt left our fingers, we prayed that God would bless this land for His kingdom. There are some Voodoo priests in the area, so I felt led by the Lord to walk the land and shout the "The blood of Jesus." Mary Clair and Brian led the team in worship as we were walking. The song, Savior, He can move the mountains, was played as we were looking at the beautiful mountains surrounding the property. He is mighty to save these children, and the people of Haiti.
The remainder of the afternoon was spent at the orphanage. The guys were able to build shelves and cabinets for the ladies in the kitchen. We passed out toothpaste, soap and shampoo to the nighttime nannies, and you would have thought it was Christmas. They were very grateful for the supplies. We also met Madam Gaston, who is the lady we brought the knee brace for, she was dancing with joy for the new brace.
Please continue to pray for our team.
The last two days have been a whirlwind. On Thursday, we stayed at the orphanage the entire day. I however, was very sick in the office. The guys were building tables, chairs, and working on a tent so the children could have an additional classroom space outside.
Yesterday, we traveled about an hour outside the city to visit the new land. The director of the orphanage, Pierre, shared his vision for the future. The vision filled my heart with hope and joy for the next generation in Haiti. His vision is Kingdom! The song Your the God of the City, came to mind immediately. After he shared his vision, the group spread out across the land and prayed. We picked up dirt in our hand and as the dirt left our fingers, we prayed that God would bless this land for His kingdom. There are some Voodoo priests in the area, so I felt led by the Lord to walk the land and shout the "The blood of Jesus." Mary Clair and Brian led the team in worship as we were walking. The song, Savior, He can move the mountains, was played as we were looking at the beautiful mountains surrounding the property. He is mighty to save these children, and the people of Haiti.
The remainder of the afternoon was spent at the orphanage. The guys were able to build shelves and cabinets for the ladies in the kitchen. We passed out toothpaste, soap and shampoo to the nighttime nannies, and you would have thought it was Christmas. They were very grateful for the supplies. We also met Madam Gaston, who is the lady we brought the knee brace for, she was dancing with joy for the new brace.
Please continue to pray for our team.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Heart Breaking
Today has been another great day in Haiti. We started the morning with a tour of downtown, the palace and the poorest area, Cite Soleil in PAP. It was completely heart breaking. There are no words to describe the scenes or smells we experienced as we were driving. This area is where a lot of kids from the orphanage come from. We also stopped outside the palace to see the damage. It was unbelievable. I will say, that it was surreal to walk down the streets with armed security packin heat.
We spent the remainder of the day at the orphanage. We just jumped in and helped in different areas. It was very hot here today. Also, today they received a shipment that they have been waiting for since the earthquake. The guys were able to unload it.
For supper, we were went to a Haitian restaurant. We pulled up and a man was standing at the entrance with a machine gun, and there was another guard inside. We also had 3 security guys in our van.
Today was a great day. The team is doing great and holding up. We have been meeting in the evenings processing the day. Keep praying!
We spent the remainder of the day at the orphanage. We just jumped in and helped in different areas. It was very hot here today. Also, today they received a shipment that they have been waiting for since the earthquake. The guys were able to unload it.
For supper, we were went to a Haitian restaurant. We pulled up and a man was standing at the entrance with a machine gun, and there was another guard inside. We also had 3 security guys in our van.
Today was a great day. The team is doing great and holding up. We have been meeting in the evenings processing the day. Keep praying!
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Hope for Haiti
Today, was a full day at the orphanage. The Nannies and staff are amazing. The kids are well cared for and loved. We worked very hard today. This morning Mary Clair, Lisa and I helped bathe the toddlers. Mary spent the morning working with some of the Nannies. Brian, Ian and Ryan spent the entire day doing construction projects which included a trip to Eco Depot. Which was a very interesting trip because it was pouring and there is no drainage system. We spent time today helping with the laundry, which we were taught how to wash them by hand properly. I think the women wash their clothes by hand better than my washing machine at home does. We also helped in baby room holding babies and feeding them. A few our team members spent time with the school teachers during their school time. Mary, a play therapist, set up 3 stations today for the kids to play. She brought a number of items for the kids to play with including a baby doll, play-dough, bubbles, colors, etc... Mary, Mary Clair, and I each took a station. It was such an interesting and neat experience to watch the kids play with toys. I was so amazed how the children played and reacted to the situation. I had one girl who just sat there and wouldn't play. I had to put toys in her lap in order for her to play. Later in the afternoon, that same girl came back and was like a different child. She was very interactive and excited about the toys.
The orphanage received a new baby girl today! She is about a month old, and very tiny.
If you asked me what stood out to me today I would say two things:
1. Noon time worship. Everyday at noon, the orphanage busts out in worship. I sat outside the baby room with tears as these women and men were teaching me how to worship. They were literally shouting the blood of Jesus over the kids and rooms. They were praying, dancing, shouting and singing praises to Jesus. They were raising their hands and giving Jesus all the glory. What an amazing power that was felt at that moment.
2. There was a Nanny in the toddler room, which is where I spent a majority of my time this morning, who asked me if I knew who Jesus was. She asked me if Jesus was my Savior and friend. I said yes! Then I realized that on every other trip I had been on, I was supposed to be the one asking that question, yet here in Haiti where 2 armed security guards were just feet away from me, and destruction is seen on every corner, she asked me if I knew who Jesus was.
So, there is Hope for Haiti. His name is Jesus. And Jesus is alive, active and present in this orphanage. This group of men and women are making a difference in the lives of 70 children who today and everyday that they are in the orphanage will be prayed over, and hear the name of Jesus. Even though we don't speak the same language, we serve the same Jesus. As we were doing laundry today two different languages were singing, "Nothing but the Blood of Jesus," to the same Lord, and we know He heard us both. This was a glimpse of Heaven.
Tomorrow we are headed off to look at the city. They are going to show us where some of the children come from, and look at the damage from the earthquake. As always, we will be taking security with us, but please pray for safety and protection. It is very hot here, so please pray for our health and strength.
The orphanage received a new baby girl today! She is about a month old, and very tiny.
If you asked me what stood out to me today I would say two things:
1. Noon time worship. Everyday at noon, the orphanage busts out in worship. I sat outside the baby room with tears as these women and men were teaching me how to worship. They were literally shouting the blood of Jesus over the kids and rooms. They were praying, dancing, shouting and singing praises to Jesus. They were raising their hands and giving Jesus all the glory. What an amazing power that was felt at that moment.
2. There was a Nanny in the toddler room, which is where I spent a majority of my time this morning, who asked me if I knew who Jesus was. She asked me if Jesus was my Savior and friend. I said yes! Then I realized that on every other trip I had been on, I was supposed to be the one asking that question, yet here in Haiti where 2 armed security guards were just feet away from me, and destruction is seen on every corner, she asked me if I knew who Jesus was.
So, there is Hope for Haiti. His name is Jesus. And Jesus is alive, active and present in this orphanage. This group of men and women are making a difference in the lives of 70 children who today and everyday that they are in the orphanage will be prayed over, and hear the name of Jesus. Even though we don't speak the same language, we serve the same Jesus. As we were doing laundry today two different languages were singing, "Nothing but the Blood of Jesus," to the same Lord, and we know He heard us both. This was a glimpse of Heaven.
Tomorrow we are headed off to look at the city. They are going to show us where some of the children come from, and look at the damage from the earthquake. As always, we will be taking security with us, but please pray for safety and protection. It is very hot here, so please pray for our health and strength.
Good Morning From Haiti
Good morning from Port A Prince, Haiti. I never dreamed that one day I would wake up and open a hotel door and my view would be a tent city. Well, we arrived safely in Port A Prince yesterday afternoon around 1:30. It was a very long day! We woke up at 2:00 a.m., and left for the airport at 2:30. Our first flight was at 6:00 a.m., and our second flight was at 12:30 p.m (eastern). We arrived in Port A Prince around 1:30. We are in the same time zone as Texas. The process exiting the plane was interesting, but not too bad. Customs was a breeze (not literally) and fighting for our luggage was hot, but we successfully have all of our luggage. I am glad that I was fully prepared for exciting the airport.
Our hotel is about a 5-10 minute drive from the airport. The motto for driving in PAP, is every man for himself. The roads are full of vehicles with streets that are clogged with trash, piles of rocks and no rules. People just honk and drive.
Our hotel is great. It is very safe. They have armed security and a gate to keep us safe. We only have air condition from 6-6. It is very, very, hot with extreme humidity.
Yesterday, we were able to spend a few hours at the orphanage. It was amazing! The kids are in great hands. Currently there are 69 kids in the orphanage. Before the earthquake, there were over 100. There were able to get humanitarian visas for most of the children, which left around 20 children.
Today, we will spend all day at the orphanage. We are eating breakfast now and about to head out! Please continue to pray for safety and that God will use us today in a huge way.
Blessings from Haiti!
More to come....
Our hotel is about a 5-10 minute drive from the airport. The motto for driving in PAP, is every man for himself. The roads are full of vehicles with streets that are clogged with trash, piles of rocks and no rules. People just honk and drive.
Our hotel is great. It is very safe. They have armed security and a gate to keep us safe. We only have air condition from 6-6. It is very, very, hot with extreme humidity.
Yesterday, we were able to spend a few hours at the orphanage. It was amazing! The kids are in great hands. Currently there are 69 kids in the orphanage. Before the earthquake, there were over 100. There were able to get humanitarian visas for most of the children, which left around 20 children.
Today, we will spend all day at the orphanage. We are eating breakfast now and about to head out! Please continue to pray for safety and that God will use us today in a huge way.
Blessings from Haiti!
More to come....
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Move Me Aside
I can't believe after a year of dreaming of this day, it is finally here! It feels really good, to finally sit down and gather my thoughts after a very busy week with very little sleep. After 5 successful trips to Columbia and REI, managing to return every item on our original receipt except a few items, we are packed! OK, confession- almost packed, we still have a few hours until we leave. We have managed to each pack a small suitcase for 14 days with one giant duffel bag with supplies for the orphanage. You can't really "mail" items to Haiti with ease so, we are taking a care package for a volunteer, along with a number of supplies for the children and Nannies including: toys, crayons, coloring books, soap, medicine, flip flops, knee brace, shampoo, toothbrushes and toothpaste, and much more. I can't help but think, the items we are taking to the orphanage are necessities that we too often take for granted. I have been to Wal-Mart, Target, Walgreen's, and the Outlet Mall multiple times to prepare for this trip, and didn't think twice about how many trips I made. I know that this trip will be life changing.
The kids left yesterday, and they are very excited about getting "spoiled" from grandparents. They are so excited about all the things planned for them. Caleb will be attending a music camp at the church I grew up attending. On Friday, we had Guenther Family Fun Day. We spent the majority of the day just having fun, which included Krispy Kreme for dinner. During lunch at Gatti Town, Adalynn asked to use her game card to take a picture of the two of us in the photo booth. She literally walked around the house with the picture in her hand for two days. When it was time for her to leave, she made sure she had that picture in her suitcase. That really touched my heart.
With all these thoughts racing through my head from bags to pictures, there is one phrase that is ringing loud, "Move Me Aside." See Adalynn was carrying a picture of me, and that person in the picture (me) can get in the way of what God wants to do on this trip unless I move aside, and allow God to move. It would be easy to go on a trip like this with my own agenda. I can worry about safety, travel, money, kids, or what I will see, hear and smell in Haiti. All that doesn't matter! Father, move me aside!
The kids left yesterday, and they are very excited about getting "spoiled" from grandparents. They are so excited about all the things planned for them. Caleb will be attending a music camp at the church I grew up attending. On Friday, we had Guenther Family Fun Day. We spent the majority of the day just having fun, which included Krispy Kreme for dinner. During lunch at Gatti Town, Adalynn asked to use her game card to take a picture of the two of us in the photo booth. She literally walked around the house with the picture in her hand for two days. When it was time for her to leave, she made sure she had that picture in her suitcase. That really touched my heart.
With all these thoughts racing through my head from bags to pictures, there is one phrase that is ringing loud, "Move Me Aside." See Adalynn was carrying a picture of me, and that person in the picture (me) can get in the way of what God wants to do on this trip unless I move aside, and allow God to move. It would be easy to go on a trip like this with my own agenda. I can worry about safety, travel, money, kids, or what I will see, hear and smell in Haiti. All that doesn't matter! Father, move me aside!
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Haiti Bound
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