Chalk Art, Balloons, and Hockenstock - 3/5/08

Wednesday was started with a delicious Terra Andina Hotel breakfast before the team headed out for a day of ministry. We climbed greatfully onto the bus glad to be out of the rain. As we drove away we could hear the horns of the impatient taxi’s in line behind us. Riding through the crowed streets I was reminded of how blessed we are in America.When we arrived at a nearby school the children crowed out in the main court yard to meet us. We began talking them in are limited vocabulary right away. While we set up the chalk board the children milled about eager to see what was coming next. Amy began the drawing as other members of the team helped settle the kids down. The chalk art was an amazing drawing of some sheep and the good Shepard. While Amy completed the draw Ben shared some interesting facts and a story.We then made a bunch of dog and sword balloons to pass out to the school children. They were very delighted with these and the only problem was that Daniel and I had to keep remaking the balloons that “ came undone.” But it was a lot of fun and we headed back to the hotel with a feeling of satisfaction. Once back at the hotel most of the team enjoyed a much needed nap before stepping out to minister again.As the bus pulled up to the church we hopped out, grabbed the suit cases, and bounded up the long flight of stairs. At the top we sat down and tried to catch our breath before moving on. When the kids started arriving several of us team guys played soccer to keep them occupied. The team members calmed down the children and the program began. Daniel, Ben, Lacy, and Gloriel acted out the parts of the Hockenstock play while Elizabeth was the teacher. The kids really enjoyed it and seemed to understand the meaning. After the children had all completed the round through the crafts, story, and game teams we fed them a snack and then did large group again.I have really liked the Peruvian culture so far except for the waiting part. It is very different here and Cusco is so much more beautiful than Lima. There are blue looking mountains all around and even a few snow capped ones in view. The people are so open to the gospel and Charlie has been handing out a lot of tracks. God is teaching me new ways to trust him and there is always more around the next corner.Josiah, for the TeamJosiah serving the snacksThe Hockenstock StoryCelina teaching the kids in her groupNathaniel playing with the kids at schoolAmy and Ben doing the chalk talkJacob handing out balloons to the kids