Renewed, Refreshed and Rejoicing

We have finished our second day in Puembo, Ecuador with a renewed and refreshed desire to minister to the people in this community. We began our morning once again with a wonderful breakfast together. I don't think we could say enough about the delicious meals we have been eating. I know its a mission trip but the food that has been prepared has been great. Nevertheless, the dental ministry began at 9 a.m. Upon arrival the lobby was filled with patients in need of dental work primarily extractions and fillings. Dr. Brian Benning and Maryann Tepley (I was reminded of her last name) begin working with patients non-stop only breaking for lunch. Some have been easy and others difficult. Due to the need of some patients only three pepole were seen in the morning session. However, the afternoon session was more productive so that by the end of the day over 15 people seen. Moreover, as the patients wait to see Dr. Benning, we have taken this opportunity to share the gospel with them by presenting them with a gospel tract. Also, this afternoon a local pastor who is helping us this week took the time to go more in depth about the gospel with a few of the people waiting. Our VBS time this afternoon did not turn out as we had thought. We were anticipating on having many more children but only about thirty showed up to once again play games, hear a story and get to do some coloring. Nevertheless, it was still a great opportunity to minister and serve the children that came. They truly enjoy the attention and time that is given to them during the time of VBS. We have seen a few accept Christ at the conclusion of our Bible story. At the end of the day we all felt tired and exhausted but at the same time renewed, refreshed, and rejoicing because of the opportunity and time we are having in ministering to people who are in great need of experiencing the love and grace of Jesus Christ. We thank you so much for all your prayers because we understand without them it would be impossible for us to continue ministering. Therefore, know that your prayers for us today were greatly needed and greatly appreciated. From left to right the first picture is Kayla Harrison sharing the story of Daniel in the lion's den with the children. She did a great job. The second picture is Tracy Dakil and David (one of the translators) taking the opportunity to share the gospel with some of the youth who stopped by the play basketball. The third and fifth pictures show Dr. Benning, Maryann, and Tracy addressing some of the dental needs encountered on tuesday. The final picture shows the children preparing to play one of the several games that was played in the colisieum. We would continue to ask for your prayers not only for us but also that God would continue to provide us the opportunity to share the gospel at the dental ministry, VBS, and the evening Bible study (we have been having trouble getting it started).