Ryan Johnston began the morning by challenging the team members to remember that we have one purpose in life–The Great Commission.  I can honestly say that Faith Baptist is a church filled with people who do not simply talk about missions but are involved in missions.  They continue to spread the gospel in their community, state, nation, and world.  I believe God is continuing to pour His blessings on Faith Baptist because of their passion to see people come to Christ.  They are passionate about Jesus!

The people of Faith Baptist presented GRACE ministries with a gorgeous banner.  It will hang in the mission house as a reminder of the one reason we serve the people of Guatemala–JESUS!  Their banner ministry worked extremely hard on the banner and we are truly grateful.

The teams finished a total of 15 houses this week.  The men and women worked hard, even in the rain, to complete all of the houses.  Fifteen families are thankful for the gringos who spent their time, finances, and ability to provide a “better” house for them.  My dad would say that Tennessee people don’t even know which end of the hammer to hold!  Regardless, the houses are finished even if they did spend the entire looking for the “board stretcher”.

Thankfully the rains held off this afternoon for some of the team to dedicate houses.  They blessed the families with clothes, food, and Bibles.  Our prayer is that the people realize an earthly home is temporary, but the unseen things are eternal.

The team hosted a VBS for the children in the village.  They had a great time playing with the children, making crafts, and sharing about Christ.  It was definitely a rewarding time for the children and team members.

“This mission trip has reminded me that it is the love of God that changes people, and it is by his grace that He uses people to show His love to others.” – Krystal Durfee

“God continues to be faithful!” -Robby Crafton

“This week has helped to remind me just how blessed and how much we have in America.  It has shown me just how much others are in need of and how God can use us to help fulfill their needs.  I feel that I have received more blessings than I gave.” -Brian Norton

“For where your treasure is, your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:21-Jenny Carter (adopted 2 Guatemalan girls)

Thank you Faith Baptist for serving the Lord in Guatemala!

-Deidra

Pam and Alisha arrived without any trouble this afternoon.  Miss Luisa is all smiles as she now has extra help and three washing machines!  We are extremely excited about helping Miss Luisa and serving the various teams throughout the summer.

Faith Baptist of Bartlett put in a long, hard day of work.  The team continued to complete houses with cement and prepare the remaining houses for cement.  They will finish the houses in the morning and participate in house dedications in the afternoon.  The pastors who work with GRACE Ministries always do an excellent job presenting the Gospel to each family who receives a house.  Please pray that the lost will come to know Christ and God will receive all of the glory for the houses!

Some of the group went back to Amor Del Nino to hold the final day of Vacation Bible School for the children.  Juan Marcos has complimented the group for the outstanding job they have done during VBS.  I am certain that it has been a week that the children will never forget!

Thank you for continuing to pray!

Deidra