Wow, What a whirlwind! Not having ever really experienced “Youth Group” I had no idea what I was getting into when a group of 20 students came from Florida to work with the DR team for a week. Crazy relationships, loud kids and giggly girls were what I was expecting. And to some point I was right. But so much more was the intensity of love for each other and the desire to push one another towards Gods greatness that all other “irritations” were absolutely void. I have had one of the greatest blessings ever given to leadership by these people and that was an open honest heart desiring to be discipled and edified.
Here is a specific story that blessed me more than anything else. Krista, a girl living in my house, went with me and some others one day to visit a lady on the outskirts of the Cienega de Mogollon. Through my translation and her bubbly personality within five minutes we were out looking at the woman’s live stock, or one gigantic pig (in Spanish puerqo). In this country pigs are for eating not petting or loving. They are gross. But cute Krista went down on one knee to love this pig. Suddenly she looks up at me, jumps to her feet, points to the pig and yells Te Amo! For none Spanish speakers this means, I love you! After a minute she looked at me and in a very sincere cute way asked why the woman had not responded with the pig’s name. That day Krista learned the difference between Te Amo! and Como te llamas? (what is your name)!
I learned a lot with this group and waking up in an empty house this morning was hard. I am already missing them. At this point I would like to do a shout out to groups or individuals on the team!
Jessica: Keep your head up, memorize your verses. Jesus is coming back and at the end you want to say you glorified Him with all you had.
Phil: Besa Me Traseros!
Jason and Martina: This group could not have been blessed with better leaders.
Krista: Bacon? No I love you lots. Keep your eager heart teachable and prepare yourself, awesome things are just around the corner.
Mark and Lauren: If you are both not “leading the ministry” in five years I will be shocked. I love you both very much.
Nate: You are not guaranteed tomorrow. Thank you for making every day worth it.
Joanne: I was wondering if you would adopt me! An inspiration and a heart of gold you inspired and healed where no one else could. Colmado lady is asking for you daily.
To all others who I did not get a chance to individually say anything: I love you all very much and you have blessed my heart, ministry and life more than you know. Hope to see you very very soon. Much love Emily!
