May 6

Thursday morning began with breakfast at 7:30. We began preparing the VBS for all of the school children which we thought would begin at 9:00 AM. However, once we were setup outside the school, we learned from the teachers that the kids would be in school until 10:30 AM. As a result we had more time to prepare for the lesson and the games. Some of us had the opportunity to help Brenda, Theresa, Marcy, Aaron, and Jessica in the medical clinic. The adults had the option of taking a vision test and being fitted with eye glasses as necessary. Many were pleasantly surprised when they could see with greater clarity. The medical clinic was a huge success. Many children and adults were treated and given basic vitamins, medicines, and tooth care. Others from our team had the opportunity to share the gospel with a group of school children that walked seven miles to take part in the clinic and VBS. Many had never heard of Jesus. As a result many kids gave their life to Christ. After a brief lunch we were able to start the bible school for the day. We began by acting out the story of Jesus and the coin found in the fishes mouth. We followed this with games and stations where the kids could color, recite a bible verse, have a gummy bear eating contest, and hear more about the Bible. Toward the end of the day Aaron and Jessica took the truck to return the kids from the next village back to their homes. This saved them from walking another seven miles. Supper included roasting hot dogs outside over the fire. At 7 PM the Jesus film was shown in the church. The entire congregation was focused on this powerful film for 2 hours. Bruce gave a message after the film and several children chose to accept Christ. Bruce shared with us later that the church leaders had been praying for help in reaching their children. What an answer to prayer. We said a final farewell to the members of the church. The evening concluded with our final time of stretch and bless. We shared what was the most powerful event of the week and what lessons we would take home. Many people mentioned how blessed we were to work with the children, the reminder shared of how blessed we are with physical items (fresh water, toilets, cars, etc.), and the blessing of sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with the Bolivian people. This was a very long day, time to turn in and prepare to head for home tomorrow! -          Jason