Bendición de Dios (God's blessings)

Today we made our first trip into Lake Amatitlan to Vilma and Antonio’s home, along with their six children. Their home was destroyed by a combination of the hurricane and the erupting volcano…we were told this story by William, the oldest son. He told us about how the waters came down and washed out his home and all their belongings. Amongst all this devastation, the family remained so joyful and thankful for each other and Christian Horizon’s help. Each and every one of them were such a blessing to our team-reminding us how much we have and how little we actually need.

By the end of the morning, we put up the first two walls. The brick foundation was laid prior to our arrival-preventing such destruction from occurring again. Us girls were so proud of ourselves…we have mastered the skill of the hammer! Dave managed to not make fun of us, while instructing us how to use the tools. Rudy announced at the beginning of the day that this was “Guatemala’s version of Extreme Makeover!”

Today we were able to meet and hold Vilma’s youngest daughter, Ashley. She is severely disabled; deaf, blind and unable to walk. She also suffers from seizures-we witnessed many throughout the day. Our hearts broke for her, but she is so blessed and surrounded by a family that clearly loves and adores her.

The afternoon brought our second day of VBS. We were told that a bus would arrive full of twenty children. To our surprise, a small truck with the kids packed into the back of the pick up arrived! We sang songs, did crafts, played games and taught the children English words and colours. The message today from Ephesians 6:16 was on “the shield of faith”. Slowly our Spanish is improving and we are able to communicate with the children…. “Hasta Manana” (until tomorrow!)

Buddies

The very start of Vilma and Antonio's home

Craft time at VBS

God's greatest blessing

"The Power of One"

This is what fell from the sky after the volcano erupted

Michelle and Ashely

Dave giving Carrie a few pointers on using a hammer