It turned out to be an exciting day, although it had some disappointments. We had planned to go to Loma Larga, a community across the river from La Palma, to visit the school and hand out school supplies to the children there. In the morning, we learned that the school teacher had problems and the school was closed. Loma Larga is a mission point for Jose, so we decided to go anyway. Jose was unable to go, but Lori and Monte had been there before and would guide us.
First, you walk down a steeeeep slope to the river! Then you cross an old suspension bridge, and the group enjoyed that part. Then you climb the hill to the village. This is a poor village, as evidenced by the houses along the trail. Few people are home. Lori speaks to those who are home and invites them to church--and for the children there is a special invitation to attend the VBS classes going on in the mornings and afternoons.
We went to the gate of the school so the group could see how small it was, and how remote it was.
As we started back Lori called out to a lady in one of the yards. Hola! Como Esta? Would you like a Bible study with us? At that, the lady smiled and said she really would, but she wanted her family to participate. At her call, kids came from various locations, and a man came out protesting about something. The lady told him to get out here--"this is the holy Word of God". They started bringing out chairs and stools for our rather large group. We told them that was not necessary, but they brought several anyway.
Monte led some songs in Spanish and they joined in. Daniel opened his Bible and presented a lesson in their language. Edwin offered a prayer in their language. This all took place out in an open field as a result of a 'cold call' or door knocking! Lori told them where the church building is located and when times were for classes and worship, and encouraged them to come. As we left, each of them shook hands and thanked us for coming.
The power is in the Word. It was a fun and profitable trip for our team.