The Cave

We got to sleep in and go to town this morning. (Thursday) It was a welcome relief. At about 10:30 we loaded the bus to go to Blue Creek where there is a cave that you can swim through. It was to be a quick trip as we had to make it back to the church for VBS by 5:00. We hiked into the cave which took about 20 min. Everything was so beautiful. We saw some beautiful birds and butterflies as we hiked. We had experienced an horrific downpour earlier in the morning so things were a bit muddy but it did not detour us. Once we made it to the mouth of the cave the kids really got excited. The water was cool and very inviting. The kids piled in. Once everyone made it to the mouth of the cave, we began our swim to a waterfall which was about one mile into the cave. Everyone buddied up so we could keep track of each other and off we went with head lamps glowing. Excitement echoed as we swam. As we drew closer to the waterfall, the flow of the water became became very loud. The last of the swimmers arrived. Everyone who wanted to, swam under the waterfall. It was really cool! Then we broke out into song. Later we found that one of the members of another group in the cave was moved to tears as we sang. The Holy Spirit prompts hearts all the time. We are a witness for Jesus in everything we say and do. I am thrilled that we have an army of youth ready to represent Christ so willingly. Praise God!

After our swim, we piled into the bus and made our way to the church for the meetings. We arrived to find Kevin Carpenter and some local workers working on getting the fans installed in the church. It looked wonderful! It was Rachael Boggess's turn to present VBS. She did a wonderful job. I neglected her and did not spend the time with her in preparation and yet she did a fine job. Sydney Larsen and Kayla Henning worked efficiently to get the story up in felts as Rachael unfolded the details. We again had over 100 kids. All our Sonora kids got into helping as we sang songs and relayed the story of Jesus' birth. Outside before the meetings, Drew Macomber was able to show the kids what a skateboard is. They had never seen anything like it! Drew showed them a few of his tricks, and then let them try themselves. There was a lot of falling and twice as much laughter.

Tina DeMerritt presented the truth about baptism this evening. She was very composed and worked well with the translator. She has a special ability to project her voice and everyone could hear clearly what needed to be said and heard. Great job Tina! We are seeing a few more people each night and would love to know that you are keeping us in your prayers. Thank you so much!