Day 5 in Haiti, Day 2 of VBS. Today we started in the courtyard with singing and a great message from the Word from the one, the only John Voigt. John challenged those who were listening that God is aware of their physical needs, but there is a need that is greater – our spiritual need to be reconciled with our Creator.
Do not labor for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you. For on him God the Father has set his seal.” Then they said to him, “What must we do, to be doing the works of God?” Jesus answered them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent.” (John 6:27-29 ESV)
It is not a matter of our works or by attempting to obey Gods rules perfectly. Sure, obedience is important- but that isn’t what saves us. Jesus was sent by God the Father (v29) and he did the perfect work by taking all the sin on himself. Our part is to believe, and by believing we are made new. We then live out our new identity in faith and by the grace of God.
We pray that those who heard this word today believe in whom God has sent.
We also managed to get another pot of rice and beans today so we were able to feed more people!
Definitely a highlight of the trip is the ESL classes. It is a great experience to sit with 3 kids or so and teach them English words. Today we did “opposites.” (Up/down, weak/strong…). So much fun – and they want to learn!
Another highlight is when we gather together nightly after dinner to sing and hear from the word, and hear some reflections from the day. I’m looking forward to that later! (But sure am craving some serious American food!)
Mike Ruel 