What an exciting weekend it has been! On Thursday, the team continued leveling the floor for the boys dormitory, tying steel for the outdoor patio, as well as digging out a pit for a nearby septic tank. The hard work continued Friday morning as they mixed, poured, and smoothed the concrete for the patio.You could definitely tell by the end of that work block that they lived up to Teen Missions past “Get Dirty for God” slogan. Later that same day, the team had the opportunity to share their Gospel presentation at the most remote Sunday School location TMI has in the Philippines. After a 40 minute van ride on twisty mountain roads, and another steep half hour hike on foot, they finally arrived. Sweaty, but with big smiles on their faces! The kids LOVED singing the fun songs, and danced right along with the choreography for the teams’ puppet shows. Malachi and Rebecca did a fantastic job of narrating the “Lost Sheep” and “David and Goliath” skits, and Mr. Josiah followed up by explaining the Gospel message through the colors of the “Word-less Books. Before they left, the team was able to pass out bread and candy to the children, and even received two bundles of bananas as a gift from the people of the village for their willingness to come and share. To close out the day, the team had a fun night of games and fellowship with the staff and students here at the TMI base, as well as a time of prayer. Saturday, the team enjoyed a well earned break from the worksite, and got to go zip-lining through the lush mountains of Mindanao! It’s safe to say that everyone was in awe of God’s artistry through the breathtaking view of this beautiful island. After lunch and shopping at the mall on the way home, the adventure continued as the team tried one of the Philippine’s famous signature foods, Balut. For those who may not know, Balut is 17 day old fertilized duck egg that is typically boiled and eaten with vinegar and salt. Following a brief demonstration from one of the staff on how to eat it, majority of the team embraced the local culture and braved this small, yet stinky, unknown. In fact, some even went back for more! The weekend concluded on Sunday, with the privilege of sharing at another local church. After a lively worship service, the team gave their presentation, Charity shared her testimony, and later, Mr. Brant gave the message. Following the service, a Filipino “snack” was prepared which consisted of full plates of rice, garlic chicken, sides, soda and coconut water, and even a dessert! While the team chuckled at their definition of a snack, one thing is for sure, the hospitality of the Filipino people is no joke. They have gone above and beyond to welcome and bless this team everywhere they’ve gone, and have truly shown what it means to give cheerfully. What an incredible lesson to take home with us and a proof that even with all the hard work, and long days, you can never out give our generous God!
If this is only from one weekend, we can’t wait to see what the Lord will continue to do in the following weeks! More updates to come!!
Where do I begin? The opportunity to lead this amazing group of teenagers is such a privilege and a blessing. The team unity and the way each have grown and blossomed through this summer is a gift from the Lord. Beginning at Boot Camp, through the long flights, and layovers, hot work days, traveling for ministry, and sharing at churches they have been so encouraging to lead. My heart overflows from watching them pass out tracts at the airport, sharing their faith with strangers, and doing their presentations numerous times all while being exhausted. To the parents- thank you for entrusting us with your most treasured possessions. It isn’t something we take lightly. I know that while it took faith on your team member to come, it took so much more faith from you. Thank you for allowing the Lord to grow and use your child this summer. Please know when each of them return home to you in a few weeks a piece of my heart will be coming back with them. - Mr. Brant L.
What an amazing experience this trip has been so far. The Lord has blessed us with an incredible team with a huge heart for the Lord. It’s a gift to be one of their leaders! The team has had many opportunities to share the Gospel through presentations or talking one-on-one, and it’s been a joy to witness their boldness and enthusiasm. We are really enjoying our time here in the Philippines, and I know we will have a hard time going our separate ways at the end of the trip. We’ve become a family, and I’m so thankful to be a part of it all! Thank you for entrusting your children to us this summer. They will have so many stories to share with you when they get home! -Mrs. Mary
God is good, all the time! We praise the Lord for the protection, provision, and strength He supplies each and every day, and give thanks for the great honor of being ambassadors of Him! To say that assistant leading this team has been a blessing is a great understatement. I am so proud of each team member and fellow leader for their dedication to serve the Lord, and humbled by their conviction and boldness to share Christ at every opportunity. God has truly given us the best group of young people, and it’s been so exciting to see them grow in their walks with Christ and step into the various talents God has blessed them with. Praise the Lord for the spiritual growth, evangelistic outreaches, relationships built, and work projects accomplished- He is doing marvelous things, and this is only the beginning! - Faith P.
