…join hands…build homes…change lives… Final Reflection from El Salvador

This post is being submitted by team member Susan Burrer.

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Susan and Pastor Craig tying rebar.

As our teams end the Build, visually, we can see the progress of house No. 1, rising from the earthened footers to the rows of chespa-filled block and rebar walls, and house No. 2 with all the cement walls sanded and painted with sealer/primer.

Yet, it is what we cannot see that really matters. We cannot possibly know the long-term impact we have on these families…and they on us. We hear their genuine thanks and feel their gratitude in their hugs for a seemingly humble little place they can now call home…so physically life changing for them…but it is so much more. There are no words, really…we each go away with ‘something’ unexplainable in our hearts that was not there when we came to El Salvador.

May we each find a way to continue to pass on our blessings in whatever or wherever it is that God is calling us, and may we respond with “Here I Am Lord,” like the song says…

Blessings,

2014 El Salvador Mission Team


Basic Needs For Every Child of God – El Salvador 2014

_DSC1085This post is being submitted by team member Mark “Marco” Kamphius.

My personal reflection relates to the culture that separates us and unites us – between our country and the country of El Salvador. There are many differences and diversities between us, but many that are the same.

The scripture reading of the Good Samaritan (Luke 20:39-37) was our devotional topic on Wednesday evening. We reflected upon how we as Americans can be Good Samaritans to our neighbors in El Salvador.

As I study and experience the differences I realize there are many similarities. We grow from the grace bestowed onto us as Christians. The need to love and show compassion. These are basic needs that are shared by the two cultures. My desire here and at home is to show more compassion, love and amazing grace. Simply less material needs and wants and more love.

Thank you, mucho gracias Lord Jesus!

Marco