February 7, 2012

Team Ralph (minus me) left early this morning after we parted ways (only physically) last night. I can not express the gratitude that I have for them. The work that they did over the last few days has been wonderful and I know that they have forged many relationships w/ the people of Les Cayes and Torbeck that will not soon be forgotten. The team was/is very supportive of me as I left and we enjoyed a great fellowship/devotion before my departure. I am especially proud of my father. The strength and courage that he has shown this week is inspirational. Not only has he been able to “survive” Haiti and do it in God’s glory (as construction boss, with the kids of Torbeck and our Haitian co-workers) he was able to let me walk into the dark of night fairly easy. As I go w/ full confidence in the presence and ordination of God, I pray that my courage, inspired by the hope that is in Christ Jesus, may be an example for others to endure, persevere and further glorify the earthly kingdom of God. 

Yesterday was the beginning of class. I thoroughly enjoyed the introduction to these promising young men & women. Each class will pose its very own challenges; but, with the confidence of God’s presence, and a lot of patience, they and I will prevail. I look forward to teaching them as well as learning from them. I look forward to building a lasting relationship w/ those that I can. What a great start it has been!

I would like to close this entry w/ how I begin my day (w/ the Solo devotional that I received from the UMM) & how I close most most of my days (besides the ones that end w/ me passed out on the bed from exhaustion.) I pray for the continued safety in travel for Team Ralph as well as Team Snyder ( they have by now arrived in Haiti). I pray for LeRoy and Grace for their recoveries from surgery. I pray for their spouses as well. That this time may be used for prayer and strengthening in the relationships that they have w/ one another and their trust in God. I pray for Terri Lupo & her mission at Hursey. I pray for my Young Adult group. That they may grow in numbers and in their faith. I pray for these students, my hosts at AUC, Pastor Ablamy and his wife Danette and so many others. I lift up these names, these people, to you God, so that they may receive your love, your mercy, and affection. I pray this in the name that every knee shall bow and every tongue confess, that Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior. For it is in His name I give you praise! AMEN!

Sean