[08.03 - Saturday] Reflections on God's Orchestration

It's been challenging. It's been profitable. It's been real.God clearly orchestrated this trip, and during this final day in Chiapas we're all the more grateful that He allowed us to be a part of it. Here where our senses are on hyper-alert, and distractions are few, our recognition of His guidance and grace are magnified (e.g. yesterday it rained on 4 sides of the orphanage schoolhouse while we were painting the exterior, but the structure itself remained dry).This morning we got an early start with projects at Terrells -- painting, sewing curtains, moving furniture, and doing touch-ups. Then, since we finished our work ahead of schedule, we walked to the market and split into small groups to find lunch and make final purchases. We wish we could bring home a sampling of the market's sights, sounds, and smells. Walmart and Costco are decidedly dull.Once home we cleaned and packed in preparation for the coming 4am alarms, and then the farewell process commenced. Journals were signed and email addresses exchanged. Team devotions were rich with reflections on God's faithfulness. Per GE tradition, bedtime didn't come until the wee hours.Our evening theme was gratefulness to the Lord and to those who made this trip happen:

• To Terrells, for their gracious hospitality, hours of logistical preparations, and testimony of full-time dedication to God's work.
• To Tim, for his visionary leadership, effectual mentorship, and intentionality about keeping us focused on Christ both individually and corporately.
• To Amy, for her unassuming assistant leadership, tireless organizational work, and contagious passion for missions.
• To Bonnie, for use of her apartment, faithful work in clinic, and heart for sharing Jesus daily.
• To Gabby, for her incredible translation work, time as our town tour guide, and enthusiasm for serving our Lord.
• To Alex, for his assistance with translation, help with the heavy lifting, and joyful service to God.
• And finally, to our parents, for your crucial guidance, support, and prayers. We couldn't be here otherwise. Thank you.

- Elizabeth C.