Colombia Day 6 - Tell the World Jesus Loves Them!

How amazing it is to be used by the Lord! God has truly blessed us with a team that works well as a part of the body of Christ. Today was our first day at the orphanage. It started off with desayuno (breakfast) of changua, basically a soup consisting of milk with onions and a broiled egg (quite delicious). After a quick tour of the orphanage we began our program with three different groups in rotation.The children were very enthusiastic and remembered one of the songs from previous years. It was so sweet to see the children immediately warm up to the team and the pure excitement that was so evidently displayed on their faces. We started out in a large group with songs, verse memory, and story time. After that, the older ones split off to be taught basic first aid, while the younger ones went into a rotation of craft and game times followed by another lesson/story time. Each activity focused the children in on themes of the promises of God.Today we delved into the promises of salvation and victory over sin. Throughout the day it was precious to hear the children answer review questions about what it means to be a Christian and how to use Scripture to have victory over sin. We are praying fervently for the Lord to work in their hearts and lives.Some fun memories from the day were tug-of-war, which the children especially enjoyed when team members jumped in to help the team that appeared to be losing; using every broom stick and pillow on site in order to teach splinting (you have to use what you have); and to cap off the day we ended with a Bucky skit (which gave a practical example that reinforced the lessons, while at the same time allowing for pure fun for both the children and leaders to end the day with). The team closed our night with singing, prayer, and devotions.Although the team was super tired by the end of the day, we all agree that it was a truly great day of service to the Lord and look forward to what the rest of the week will hold. God is teaching much through this experience and we are so thankful for the great opportunity to be here! This verse comes to mind tonight: "Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world." James 1:27- Melissa for the Team