The theme for vacation bible school is: LOVE
L = Loyalty ~ John 3:16
O = Obedience ~ Luke 22:42
V = Victory ~ I John 5:4
E = Everlasting ~ John 14:16
This theme is a reminder that no matter how many obstacles or how much hatred that one is faced with, it is important to continue to love your neighbor and one another.
Canterbury Village is one of the most poverty stricken places in Jamaica. The homes here operate from the bare necessities. There are no air conditioners to keep cool in 90 + degree weather. There are no washers and dryers. Clothes are washed by hand and are hung up on a clothes line. There is an attempt to contain trash, but in most places people just toss it where it's most convenient for them. Then from time to time the trash is burned in a nearby vacant lot. Living quarters are purposely close and tight with narrow walk ways lined with zig zag metal in order to provide safety within the village.
Even though poverty is very high here, all of the older kids that attend vacation bible school have a cell phone and/or a tablet. The kids are on Facebook, Snapchat, Twitter and play Pokemon go. They know the latest pop songs and some are dressed in the most popular name brand clothes.
As much as I believed that I was coming on this trip to be a blessing to others and to spread the good news of God's grace. It is I, in fact, who have been blessed beyond belief. The people are friendly, the kids are super sweet and often remind me of the children that I work with in St. Paul. The food is superb! What more could I ask for. 😊 I am very much dreading our closely approaching final day (Thursday) 😢.
If it's the Lord's will, here's to the beginning of many more mission trips in the future.
Live~Laugh~Love
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