Seeing God's people doing His work!!!

It has been a lot of ups and downs for Deb and I since we arrived here in Haiti a little over a week ago. A lot more ups than downs but there have been some moments of questioning. It is one thing to come here for a week or two or even three, but it is a different feeling all together knowing that this is your home now. It is also very different and sometimes even very difficult seeing your children here. Knowing that you can only do so much to protect them from what they may encounter by living here.

Today we loaded up the family and headed out to make some visits. We first went to an orphanage that cares for eight HIV positive orphaned children. What a blessing it was to see God's people responding and doing His work. Taking care of these kids day in and day out must be challenging but they do it in an act of obedience and that is reason enough for them.

Then we stopped at a friends of ours that is currently staying in a tent city right outside of Port-au-Prince. He has a wife and a small child with one on the way that is due in Nov. They were so happy to see us and invited us into their tent made of tarps and large sticks. As we repeatedly wiped our faces as the sweat came pouring, Colton turned to me and said "Dad how can they sleep in here" I looked over at Deb and saw that look in her eye and said back to him "I don't know buddy, but don't worry I have a feeling they won't be here much longer.

Then off to Freedom House Orphanage for some fun. Brooke and Kylie made 13 new friends and got to swing on their play set and Colton got 13 kisses as the girls all greeted him in Haitian style. It was comforting to see the girls and Colton embrace this as they have so far. They have given up so much, their home, their schools, their friends, their extended family, and now even their beloved dog Tundra. There has been no complaints or even tears for that matter. Just a heart to learn, love, serve and be a part of this. I'm so proud of all three of them.

We ended the day with Colton and I taking two of our guest to the boys orphanage for a little soccer. I felt bad for them getting schooled by our eight, nine and ten year olds. Deb and the girls stayed back with the Good Sam girls for an afternoon filled with soccer, musical chairs and a very spirited game of spoons.

For those wondering about some answers to some questions you maybe afraid to ask, here are a few. Are we scared at times? yes Do we question at times? yes. Do we sometimes wonder if this is the best thing for our kids? yes. Do we get frustrated? yes Is God with us and is constantly reminding us that He is here with us and will comfort us when we need Him. YES

Bondye Beni, (God Bless)

Jeff