We survived the 3-hour hike! Everyone had an awesome attitude and was willing to step up and help others carry things as needed. In the morning, we got a little nervous about how we were going to carry everything (backpacks, carry-on bags, food, etc.) up the mountain when only one Kogi man showed up at our place, but sure enough, God brought us a donkey, two other Kogi men, and then another man with a second donkey! We are so thankful for the ways God has been taking care of us and reminding us that He’s got it all under control.
While we had planned on doing a kids program today, the Kogis told us that today was a rest day. It was much needed after that hike! We were able to talk with the pastor of the church, hear his testimony, and hear the story of how the gospel reached these Kogis and how God allowed them to start this community. It was super inspiring!
While leaders talked over logistics, the students got to explore parts of the community close to where we are staying, at the church. They ended up meeting a man who was willing to share his testimony, and even prayed for him. We have been so proud of the students for being excited about getting to know the members of this community and ask them questions. I know our experiences from today are just a small taste of all that God has planned for us while we are here!
Saturday we will have our first kids’ and youth programs. Pray for us as we teach Spanish, play games, teach Bible, and do crafts with them. There might also be the opportunity to start putting the concrete we invested in on the last dirt floor at the Christian school in the community. Pray for those logistics. One of our goals for being here is to better equip the school to carry out its mission. This school teaches Christian kids in the community, but also non-Christian kids from the area. Pray that God would use this school to plant seeds, and that kids would encounter the love of Jesus there. In addition, keep praying for health! Besides a headache, we have been quite healthy!
