We´re Back

It seemed like a whirlwind retreat filled with incredible fellowship, cold showers, pretty good food, humidity, fun worship and hard, uncomfortable beds. We were at a new retreat facility this year that had both sand and concrete soccer fields, a volleyball court, more space and better kitchen facilities with cooks. The time with our Brazilian brothers and sisters was uplifting and it was amazing to stand back and see all the tears flowing as we left. Two days of bonding led to a long time leaving with pictures and hugging, crying and laughing. Wow. It is an incredible experience I wish everyone could get at least one time. The love that was in the camp was overwhelming. Roger, Jeff and Everett all had lessons during the adult study times and Grant, Kyle, Preston and Jacob had lessons with the youth. Several of the ladies spent time with the little kids during these session teaching and doing crafts. Our brothers from here also had lessons prepared that were well done. I only wish I had a way to post the pictures and videos that have been captured during the past 5 days to share a glimpse of the joy we have had.

We all owe a huge thank you to the church in Decatur for helping make this happen. Lives have been richly blessed because of your love. I think our comfort level this trip was much greater which allowed us to truly encourage the brethren here more than our first trip. Praise God for His goodness.

As my good friend Everett says, two more sleeps on foreign soil and then we start our journey home. Eating tonight, I heard several comments about being ready to get home and see fathers and mothers, spouses and children. We are tired but fulfilled in what we have done.

Tomorrow we will travel to the market for some shopping then go to eat at Maggs, a restaurant owned by one of the brothers in Aracaju. In the afternoon, weather permitting, some of us will go to the beach while others hang around, pack and maybe grab a nap. Tomorrow evening, we will all head to the beach area for a good dinner and then its time to get ready to travel.

While our work is done here, we still solicit your prayers for safe and timely travel to return home to you.