Madagascar Zoomin Like NASCAR

The leader said the following:

“If these shoes could talk, they’d have some stories to tell…

Stories of beauty and ashes, sickness and healing, laughter and mourning, protection and danger, light and dark.

But the biggest, loudest story they tell is of God’s faithfulness.”

I was reminded of this sentiment when I was sitting just watching our team today. I was looking at the row of boots against the wall and just reflecting on the time we’ve had thus far. Through it all, God has shown His Faithfulness over and over again.

Monday, July 14

A full workday took place. The team continued and finished the concrete pour. They got things ready for blocklaying by getting some premixed piles done for the mortar. In the latter part of the afternoon, we worked on our presentations for the Sunday School that we would go to on Tuesday. The team capped off the night by going to the TMI Madagascar chapel where they got to worship again with the staff and students.

Tuesday, July 15

We ventured out to another Sunday School. It was about a one and a half hour drive there and back for a total of three hours. The message that is consistently preached within the team is that “whatever the travel is, it’s worth it”. Some of the kids that we are seeing, might not ever get to experience a Teen Missions team like this again. There was a powerful testimony that was shared with me regarding foreigners coming to the area. I was told that the majority of the time that the village sees foreigners, it means that they are being used in trafficking operations. It broke my heart to hear that, but it also gave me such an amazing appreciation for this team. To see young people that have a heart for the things of God and for His people. Words can’t describe it.

Wednesday, July 16

Today, as I’m writing this, the team is beginning to lay blocks on the building’s footer. There is a lot of hauling of sand and cement bags. Your young people might come back, looking like bodybuilders when they’re done. These cement bags are about 50 Kg (110 lbs) and there’s a lot of mixing taking place. It’s been fun to cheer them on and see them accomplish all that God has for them.

Testimonies from the Team:

Mom and dad,
I love Madagascar, the people Sunday schools and the beach! I’ve been doing good. Our project is going good. I think we’re about ready to eat bricks. Say hi to the boys for me and work with Sandy. My favorite part has been the kids out at the Sunday school. Well, bye. Love you! -Alayna N.

Hello Everyone!
The project in Madagascar has been going really well. We’ve gotten to see so many Sunday Schools and have been enjoying seeing the beautiful country. It’s been wonderful to see God working through the people here. Pray for us as we continue working on the construction project and as we evangelize to the Malagasy people. Shoutout to Mrs. LeeAnn Harner and Mrs. Liliya Brainard! -Ryan M.

Salama!
We are really enjoying Madagascar as a team. The Malagasy people are really great. We started to lay blocks for the staff housing that we are working on. It’s really fun to see the different ways that different cultures work and do things. Madagascar is one of my new favorite countries. Shoutout to Mrs. Jessica Thomasec, Mrs. Karena Bost, and of course to the best of all, Mrs. Annette Goodwin! (P.S: Mom, did Sam get the buckle? Please respond in the comments) -Joshua G.

Hello everybody,
Madagascar has been really great. It’s been a ton of fun playing basketball with all the Teen Missions Madagascar staff and students. We have gotten so much done on the work site as a team. Shoutout to all the Jennifer Moms out there! Mrs. Jennifer Wilkins and Mrs. Jennifer Gilbert! -Dawson M.

Prayer Requests:

• Pray for continual health and safety for the team
• Pray for the team as we prepare for our last Sunday church presentation
• Pray that we are able to continue maximizing the moments the Lord has given us as a team and with the Malagasy people
• Pray that many would come to know Jesus personally

Blessings!

A Madagascar Leader