A Paradise Sabbath

Hi Everyone,

Well, our first full day in Belize was absolutely amazing! We had planned to have a day of no work to allow the team to adjust to the new temperature and surroundings.  It was a wonderful day, and full of amazing moments!  We had breakfast together with the team (hot & sticky cinnamon rolls) and then we had a couple hours to relax before church.  This was a great time for people to nap, take walks and chat as we adjusted to life in 27+C weather. 

Church took place at the school where we will be working at tomorrow.  It was a room filled with children and about 6 adults.  It turns out that most of the adults were attending synod in Belize City, so it was the most youthful congregation imaginable :)  The children's choir led all of the worship and Mike gave a 5 minute testimony and talk.  It was really wonderful to meet some of the children that we will be working with for the week.

After church we arrived back to the mission house for a quick lunch of nachos & cheese.  Then we were off to the Blue Hole National Park.  In one afternoon, we hiked in an enormous rain-forest, explored a huge cave that was absolutely amazing, and swam in a turquoise pool of cool, clean water.  One of these activities would have amazed us, but to do all three in the same day, has given us reason to praise God at the splendor of his creation.  We were also touched by the hospitality of our hosts (Carmen & Faye), who not only arranged the trip, but also came along with us as tour guides and friends on the journey. 

After this outdoor experience, we rested and planned  our morning devotions for the week.  Each person is working with a partner to provide a morning devotion for the rest of the team.  That way, each day will start with our focus on God.

After supper, we had an amazing display of chain lightening off over the hills that connect Belize to Guatemala.  It was like we were watching heavenly fireworks :) 

The evening was filled with planning for tomorrow's activities with the children. We focused on putting the final touches on our VBS program that we are running at the learning center in the nearby village.  All of the team members feel extremely blessed by the richness of the day.  We are looking forward to starting the projects tomorrow that we have been planning for all winter.

We continue to see God answer prayer in the simple things of our day:

1. One team member's missing glasses were found
2. A safe and spectacular trip to see some of the beauty here in Belize
3. The team is continuing to stretch and grow in our faith as we spend time in prayer & worship together

We ask for your continued prayer for:

1. Good health, both physically, mentally and spiritually
2. Unity - that we would continue to grow closer as a team
3. For discerning hearts - as always!

Thank you so much for your support in this journey!!

Blessings,

Anna Caines