Finally at the Ranch!

I wrote this last night, but wasn't able to connect to the internet until this morning.  Sorry it's late!

Most of our mornings began earlier than expected with the squeals from Geckos (who knew they did that?) and roosters, but thankfully there was hot coffee waiting as we arrived at breakfast!  Before we left Juticalpa this morning, we walked through the narrow streets lined with colorful buildings, produce stands, and smiling children. 

We arrived at Rancho el Paraiso in Olancho in time for lunch.  It is a very rural area, scattered with a few houses along the curvy, unpaved roads. Our group’s dorm has a porch off the back, lined with hammocks, and overlooks a field with horses.  We spent the evening relaxing on the porch, playing cards and chatting.  After dinner we joined one of the other groups staying at the Ranch (from Augusta, GA) for a few songs of worship and communion.

All of the time we’ve spent traveling in the past 2 days has provided a perfect opportunity for each of us to get to know each other better.  Our group is made up with some incredible people with such generous hearts.  There is no doubt that God strategically placed our group together!

In preparation for beginning work in the villages tomorrow, we are praying that God opens our hearts --to the people and what we will experience.  Although we have tasks that need to be completed, our main focus is the people – loving them and building relationships with them. 

Tonight I am praying through the scriptures of Ephesians in preparation for tomorrow:

Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given to me so that I will fearlessly make know the mystery of the gospel. [Ephesians 6:19]  

Be kind and compassionate to one another… be imitators of Christ and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us… [Ephesians 4:32-5:2] 

Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. [Ephesians 6:10]

Make the most of every opportunity. [Ephesians 5:16]