Ecuador - July 23 || Ashley

Today was the first day at Luz y Libertad, a school filled with energetic, rambunctious, and joyful children! However, there were some challenges before me since my voice was in rough shape due to all the yelling throughout the week. In the morning we told the story of Louis Zamperini to a group of 8 and 9 year olds, and demonstrated the beauty of God’s forgiveness through his testimony. In the evening we preached the Gospel through a fun game that gave an illustration of Christ being the bridge between us and God.  Although it was challenging to love and be patient with some of the troublemakers, the lesson about forgiveness and love truly convicted me to see them with a different perspective. These kids weren’t just little brats, but they are the children of God whom He loves dearly. These are children that desperately craved love and attention, and I should allow God’s love to overflow from my heart onto them. It was also a humbling experience with my voice, because I had to rely more on my team members and trust in them. Through each and every experience, God is faithful and He is good! Today has taught me so many things, and it is amazing to see what each day teaches me! ~Ashley