Wish You Were Here!

First, please pray for the Medical team as they arrive home this morning around 10am to Conway. They did a fantastic work and have helped to change lives not just for the immediate but for eternity.

It is so amazing to see how God takes our humble willingness; couples it with the very talents and abilities He has given us, and then uses it to touch lives. Our first day of ministry with the VBS team was amazing. I wish you were here to see the team in action. You would be so proud of them and their commitment.

Mike Leach has seemed to found his calling. I don't know if I have ever seen a man quite like him. He shows the love of Jesus and the kids are rallying to him like the Piper. He has been a true inspiration to the team.

John Gathright won the "basketball" award yesterday as every little boy wanted to play him in basketball. He is so good with the kids and they really respond to him. It is funny to watch as this is his first time in Brazil, he speaks slower and louder to the kids. ha ha But he is leading by example and doing a awesome job.

Janet Gathright is a true blessing to have on the team because she is so comfortable and makes friends easily. She not only makes the Brazilians feel at peace but she is a real comfort for our team members. Nothing gets her down. She handles every change or opportunity with a smile and a "go get'm" attitude.

Alan Hahn is our seasoned vet and it is amazing to see how God uses him. Not sure if he makes me laugh more or if he laughs at me more but together we have a lot of fun telling people about Jesus. He is such an encourager and God has given him the ability to see the heart of the matter. I love that little guy!

Daniel Sims had much to live up to since both his older brother (John) and older sister (Rachel) came and was loved by everyone. But no fear, he is showing much maturity for his age. He is so good with the kids. Daniel has a very tender heart and is so talented. (He is a much better guitar player than John!!!!!)

Clark Wooten is such a good friend and keeps us laughing. He speaks a little spanish a little portuguese and mixes it with English. A little something we are calling "Enspanoguese"! The kids love clark too. He is so funny because when he speaks a little portuguese they begin rattling off sentence after sentence in portuguese to him and he just smiles and nods his head.

Drew Spurgers has not only been a technical help to get the computer stuff up and running and getting the photos to Cory for the blogspot, he has been a true leader. It is fun to see the young man God is growing him to be. He is such an encourager and always has a servants heart. He must of had an awesome student pastor when he was younger!!

Jennifer Callaway has been a sweet heart and has really surprised me. She has blossomed here. The kids love her, she is so caring and respectful and is the only younger female on the team. She can light up the place with her smile and the young girls think she is "the best." She is not bashful and had a great day with her team going door-to-door passing out Bibles after our VBS.

Jill Imboden is our rock and leader of the VBS. She is comfortable with her role and knows the Brazilian people and culture. She handles the daily changes that occur with ease and helps the team feel relaxed. One of her greatest strenghts is that she always reminds us of the real purpose and the ultimate goal. She also helps everyone else know when to take Cory seriously!

And Cory, one of my closest friends and the guy who can make anything happen. He is the brain power and engine behind the blog and we rely on him alot. He is, as always, great with the kids and has an ability to find the kids and adults who seem shunned and has a great ability to make them feel loved.

Last night at Bible study before bed time it was neat as everyone shared. God is truly doing a work not only through us to reach others but He is also working in our lives. It is humbling to be a part of such a loving and unified family.

Pray for us.
paul