Off to Chaveneau

Today we plan to go to Chaveneau.  Ron is planning to drive with Pastor Duval in the truck we are working to purchase (we have about 1/2 the funds so far).  It will be filled with supplies for the 2 weeks we are out there- all our suitcases, water, food, donations, etc...  The rest of us (Jordan/Michelle/Steve/Auston/Daniel (a translator)/Michael and myself) will take the bus.  This will be an experience- those vehicles going to Les Cayes get PACKED with people and supplies.  Ron and Pastor Duval will get to the school in Chaveneau and then they will unload the supplies and head back to Les Cayes (they have to go through the city to get to the school) to pick us up.  The public transportation only goes that far. 

It is a lot of "planning" so we will pray that God gives us traveling mercies and He directs the timing and keeps us safe as we embark on this adventure.  We are all excited and looking forward to the trip.  Pray with us that we stay focused on Him as we travel and that He gives us opportunites even as we go to bless those we meet. 

Last night was a perfect example of "it is a good plan, but not necessarily God's plan" which is something you will hear me say often in Haiti.  We PLANNED to go to a crusade where a Nigerian pastor was speaking but we were just relaxing around the house and it never seemed to happen.  Some of us were feeling the effects of sitting for a few days (yes, we had gone out walking in the community yesterday, but so far we have not been very productive) and were anxious to get out and about.  So, I was a little "stir crazy".  BUT then as I was sitting Auston asked if he could use my camera.  I told him "yes" and watched as he went to the edge of the balcony and peered down.  As I went to see what the "photo op" was I saw Steve sitting on the ground with KIDS all around him.  He was sharing English with them and they were sitting attentively.  He came upstairs and got stuff to make crafts with them and that soon turned into a dance party/fun time of hand games, piggy back rides, etc. with all the team down there loving on the kids of the neighborhood. 

God spoke to me in those moments and said, "Crystal- this IS ministry.  They are having fun and they are sharing MY love with the children of Haiti"  Thank you Lord for giving us the chance to be here and to love these children and this community.  (and it's not just the children- there was an older gentleman sitting there watching the action and his smile was huge!)

Can't wait to get to Chaveneau and build relationships with those people too.  :) :)