Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Sometimes you come down here and the unexpected happens...one of our team members - Tony Comes accepted Christ today! God was working him over pretty good -ha

He laughed...I told him i was going to post this and he said anyone that knows him wouldn't believe it anyway:)

We hit the jungle today amidst the coolest rainbow we had ever seen, we broke into two groups with translators and walked around to different huts to share Christ. Fred was a monster. He just walked by people and they gave their lives to Jesus -ha

Fred led 7 boys to Christ in one sitting, what an experience...to hear these boys say the prayer out loud...we gave them a few soccer balls...now that made them happy! Mark came with something like 40 soccer balls...he cleaned Wal-Mart out, then went to people he knew to buy a ball for $5...he took their picture and taped it to the ball they sponsered...so all these balls have pictures on them of people back home who sponsered them...how cool is that??!

We spent the afternoon witnessing and praying for some that are sick...these peoples homes are unbelievable. Outdoor kitchens (if you can call it that)...one hut today used a car battery to run the only light in the house. You could unplug that and then plug in a tiny TV...only one at a time though! I have 6 TV's at home with cable...makes you thankful...that's for sure. We are currently at a missionaries house...really nice, open and spacious. This group that came on this trip is incredible. Everyone is really having the time of their lives...if you're observing this blog, you've possibly never been on a short term mission trip. I won't lay a guilt trip down since I'm here right now...but I will tell you it's something to think about. You aren't changing the world - but these people sure do need it. We are so blessed, hopefully we're all using it for something...somewhere. If not, come on down:)

Well, I'm getting back to the party...we are breaking out the American food tonight!

I'd love to hear from you...ask questions, you don't even have to sign your real name:) Other team members will be posting periodically - I'll check this a few times a day.

Buenos Noches!!!!

Oh, please forgive any typos...it's too hot to type!

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

The big word down here is HOLA!!! In fact that is about the only Spanish I know (sad). You come on these trips sometimes (my 2nd-W. Virgina summer of 05) and you are not sure why. (Kyle challenged the team to figure that out by Fri.-homework) I think for me it was to have God change my heart in ways that I would never expect. Figured it would take a couple of days down here to do it. WRONG!!!

We went to visit 3 families where they (and some of their kids) were infected with the HIV virus. (Carla. Dominique and Sonya) These people literally have nothing. Their living conditions make us all look like we are kings compared to what we have back in the US.

Two of the families had Christ in their lives and one did not. Those that did had hope, the other lady Carla was like a dead woman walking.

Sonyas son Brian, who was also infected with HIV, had the most joyful laugh I have EVER heard. He knows his situation, has nothing, and still laughs so hard, so big, that it makes you want to cry. That is true JOY!!!

At the end of this day, Gail from our team sponsored Sonyas daighter Vickie, in what had to be one of the most emotionally endings I have seen. Our hearts were changed in this four hour experience for the rest of our lives. Thank you God for wrecking me. I NEEDED that! I PRAYED for that!!!

Yesterday I had the privilege of leading on of our team members to Christ (Tony). It has been a couple of years since I had done this. I cant tell you how blessed you feel when you do this. (It is almost better than when you first found Christ in your life... :-)

We were out talking to others about the love of Christ later that afternoon. Several people accepted Christ. It is easy, you just have to talk to people, to love them, to want them to have the free gift of salvation. (We are called to do this after all as followers of Christ...)

These people down here who have nothing, many have found ALL they need in Christ. Can those of us who have so much from back in the states say the same? (I hope so...)

THANK YOU GOD FOR ANSWERING MY PRAYERS SO QUICKLY AND CHANGING MY HEART FOREVER!!!

(Gotta go, Kyle is pacing around and I am keeping him away from his email deal... ;-)

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Greetings from Honduras!
This Spanish keyboard has got my number, so please forgive the lack of puncuation... I feel so blessed to be on this trip, serving and witnessing to these beautiful people. Being on the CedarCreek staff for years, I have listened to people like Hooty describe these trips and I have always been hesitant to go too. All I can say is that regret not going sooner. Yes the work is hard, its hot and wet, but the reward is well worth it. If you are on fence, wondering if a mission trip is right for you, stop thinking... start praying and sign up as soon as you can for the next missions trip. You can thank me later. That is all for now. Time to take my morning walk in the rain forest.
-Brandon

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Hello to all back home! We are doing some awesome things here in Honduras... I admit that I came here to help others - but shortly after meeting some of the people realize that I am the one being blessed. We are sweating our heads off with the physical labor...the real joy is sharing Gods love with everyone, especially the children.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

I'm glad you guys are having a great time! I wish I could go on a mission trip, it seems like a wondeful expeirence. A couple of my friends from my old school went on a mission trip somewhere in Africa I believe, they said it was very cool. So what kinds of animals are you guys seeing, any poisionus snakes?

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Wow...thats all I can say. We are blessed with such a wonderfull team down here. The thing I realize the most is that we don{t need THINGS to make us happy. Today when we were taking a break from the back breaking job of moving block i was watching this little Honduran girl about 4 years old dance in the sunlight in here well worn and dirty dress. She was smiling and giggling as she danced bare footed in the mud. What a sight....I hope to learn to dance as she did.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

I can see everything you all are describing and can't help but imagine God smiling as He watches each divine "appointment" He had planned for you. What joy it must bring Him to see His children loving and serving eachother across so many barriers - barriers we've made that He never sees. May God bless each and every one of you for obeying His call and living out your faith in such a tangible and beautiful way.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

lets just put it this way...i killed a poisonous coral snake today, killed some fire ants with poison, went to a prison, and it was the best day i have ever had on a missions trip. this trip is just getting better!!! im off to dinner...thanks for all the prayers, we are having so much fun!!

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

...just make sure brandon gets back safe, i miss him already...

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

My wife would really love to serve on one of these mission trips, I know it would be absolutely amazing for her! But, I'm one of those standing on the fence, yes, it would be great, how do we manage it, etc, etc, etc... CedarCreek has been and continues to be such a great blessing in our lives, it's good to be a part of such a family. Anyway, I'm getting off subject... Enjoy the fire ants, may God bless you all for your love and hard work in His name.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Everyday at the job site there are a group of girls watching us work, watching us sweat, and waiting for the hugs, and of course candy.

Today was a little different, we got to experience something more with them.... it was absolutely beautiful.

I was talking to Katey ( a 14 year old who came with us) and we were discussing how these girls watch us work, but we know they are just dying to play and be children. We wanted to show them the love and joy of Christ in the best way we could. The only struggle we had was that neither of us could speak a lick of Spanish.

Therefore we asked Jose our translator if he could ask them if they knew any hand clapping games and soon there after we were laughing and smiling with 7 little children playing catch and just having the time of our lives.

Even though we live in different cultures, and speak different languages- God brought us together in a way that made the heavens smile and I knew they could feel God's love through that small encounter.

What a beautiful day...Cant wait for tomorrow

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

greetings from honduras. what can i say that will make you understand that there are just no words for an experience like this! this is freedom in every sense of the word to lose yourself in someone else to help them realize their need for christ. to see someone so grateful and not have a thing to show for it is just mind boggling! what an awesome God we serve and what a wonderful opportunity this has been, i hope everyone that has ever thought about going on a mission trip decides to "just do it"!

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

we went to dinner with Giovanni, the pastor here in Choluteca tonight...I had the best steak I've had in years!!! We went to the church tonight to hang out with the leaders of the church here...some of the guys got the chance to get up and speak...wow, that was cool. To hear the hearts of guys that I didn't even know 5 days ago, God never stops surprising me. The men and women on this trip are just killing me...these people are whack. We are having more fun than we should be allowed to have! Tomorrow we head to a malnutrition clinic...that's always a tough one, kids are dying because their moms don't know how to feed them. We will visit an aids orphanage tomorrow afternoon and share Christ with them. I can't wait to get back to the States and my family, friends and normalcy...but this week is slipping by and I don't want it to. If you are reading this and you are on the team heading back here in a few short months...get ready!!!! These people in Choluteca have some serious vision and faith in God. It's going to change your life...OK, back to the Red Sox game...even in Honduras.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

This trip is off the wall. You have to get down here and watch how yor heart changes. (In charge of the morning devotional, so I better get it together. Subject: Whats Love Got to Do With It?)

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Way to go guys! It truly has been heart warming to read about your adventures. I want to send a shout out to our Whitehouse contingent...Gale, Fred, and Mark!! Can't wait to hear more stories of how God is using you and teaching you! We are praying for you. Love you guys!

JD

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

oh boy...charlie titled his devotional, this guy's not kidding around...i hope he doesn't bust out the Tina Turner. we'll see how this goes...ha.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

I will be in Choluteca on the next trip down if February. Please know that you have many people praying for you and the work God has you doing. Please say hi to Jyl and Sandy and let them know I want every detail - I'm so excited, I wish I could leave right now. God Bless all of you there and pass on a couple of hugs for me.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

God Bless all of you. I am so excited to be going to Honduras in a couple of months and your enthusiasim blows me away. God is working miracles. I have to admit that I'm really obsessed with being organized and I research everything but I can't wait to hear more about your experience. I'm leaving my comfort zone and walking across the room.....If you haven't read Bill Hybels book "Walk Across the Room" - it's a must read. I'm so grateful to all of you for leaving your comfort zones. God Rocks!!!!

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

We are currently eating lunch, I quickly finished mine so I could blog for the first time on this trip. I just haven't found time until now. This trip has truly been amazing and the team is filled with awesome personalities and people that love God and just want to serve others. I am learning so much from each member. Just a quick note on this morning we were able to visit the tortilla factory, the malnutrition clinic and the day care today. It was awesome to see the difference that is being made in the lives of the Hondurans because of these places. The leadership down here has a specific mission and a God given vision that I am happy to support physically and financially. They are making an eternal impact for the kingdom of God. Alright, we have to go put a tarp on a lady's house. She lives on the border of Honduras and Nicaragua. I am sure we will get the opportunity to evangelize there as well (always an awesome experience).

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Oh, is Giovanni the pastor the came to Cedar Creek that one time? That's wonderful you guys are helping people and having a good time. I know that God is very proud of all of you. I'll keep you all in my prayers!
God Bless,
Kelly

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

When do you guys come back?????

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

...yeah, that's right...a tarp, she has no roof.
we had the opportunity to visit some incredible people this morning...one house in particular stands out...there was a boy...well - 35 year old man trapped in the body of a 10 year old. nicholas. he has never been out of bed...his legs were so tiny, his arms locked in one position for life. all he had to look at in his room was a picture on the wall. that's it, a picture. danielle prayed with him as everyone cried. i had the chance to stay behind as everyone left, i knelt next to nicholas' bed and held that tiny crippled little arm. i prayed silently...then God pointed something out to me, I feel sorry for ME! nicholas knew jesus, he just didn't know how to walk. so what? he'll get that chance soon enough...i can't wait to see nicholas in heaven, running by me on his way to his mansion as i wave from my hut:) who cares. nicholas doesn't. he smiled like crazy with what little teeth he has. he moaned something while i sat there silently praying, who knows...maybe he felt bad for the gringo in the bright orange t-shirt sitting next to him who looked so depressed...he's got what he needs, given by God, and that's good enough for nicholas...after all, i have the feeling he knows jesus better than i do. he certainly looks at jesus more...that's the picture on the wall in his tiny little room. jesus. good call nicholas...you'll never see this blog but who cares:) you see the only thing that matters...and i'm jealous. good stuff down here...we're off to tarp a roof somewhere for someone that needs it. wish us luck -ha

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Wow, that's amazing. That makes me appreciate everything I have a lot more. Seeing and hearing about people like that takes away my feeling of wanting stuff. This Nicholos, he has it way worse they a lot of people. And he doesn't complain, wow. I guess I can just be so bitter and selfish, and all day today, until now, I was upset that I wasn't going to be able to remodel my room like we are the rest of the house. I guess I just need to stop thinking of myself.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

welcome back to 'as the world turns:honduras'. this afternoon we ended up at the border of honduras and nicaragua. wow, that was some serious poverty. we got the priveledge to pass out clothes that others at the creek have provided. our bus rolled into this place and people came out of the woodwork. ive never seen people just appear out of mid air before. i remember my dad telling me stories of when he was stationed in the Philippines...this is how i pictured it! fred (ex marine) and i were in charge of fashion consulting. clothes had to match, this had to be done right:) anyway, here's the real story...our bus driver this week is Luis. we is the sweetest guy i have ever met. we found out that some of his relatives lived nearby where we happened to be. we also found out they are VERY poor...so a few of us wanted to go see them on the way home. we stopped by this tiny house 5 feet from a busy road and all these people came out! they all lived there...we wanted to help these people because we think the world of Luis...it's nice to make it personal. Long story short, turns out his relative rides a cargo bike for people going across the border bridge. he works for someone else that cheats him a lot. a few of us threw in money and bought him his own cargo bike so he can provide for his family...then we shared the gospel with them and took off...almost hitting a pig in the road...

i don't tell you this to feel better about ourselves, i tell you this because it made our day to see Luis' face when it all shook down. that's good stuff. we're off to Giovanni's house for dinner tonight...2 days left, i won't miss the heat (by the way, it's winter here) but i sure will miss this team and the people here. Now the pressure is on for Saturday...i'm preaching at the church here, at the same time Ohio State is on. Not good. it might go something like this..."God loves you" (tires squealing) -ha

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

We have to thank Neil for bringing his laptop, otherwise we wouldn't be blogging tonight. Why? Because Kyle BROKE the hotel computer. Nothing worse than a locked DOS screen showing in Spanish. Not good.
Ben and I stood on the border of Honduras and Nicaragua today and observed people crossing the river on donkeys. Pretty sure they were running some form of contraband. Just another day on our mission trip:-)

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

ha! nice work. recommend a mac to the hotel manager... ;-)

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

stupid pc's...i think i heard it cry at one point...i cant be certain but i thought i smelled smoke. anyway, we just got back from Giovannis tonight...we had dinner there with another group from Washington DC, so that was a lot of fun. full moon tonight, 75 degrees, palm trees and a slight breeze. we're just going to hang out on the balcony here and take it all in. our spanglish is really getting out of hand, we're making up words now...you know, just adding an 'e' at the end and thinking it's ok. i'm out.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

This Country has taught me more in one week than I've learned in a lifetime. We came to serve and we walk away knowing what our Savior can truly do. He is the only hope for a people that have nothing from generation to generation. They do not seem to long for success or have their dreams fulfilled - they just exist with hopes of seeing the next day. God has blessed us with living in America and I am very Thankful but He loves these people just as much...
This is confirmation that He indeed is all we need for it they can cling to one thing it is a better future - a future with our King. I will always cherish this experience and hold the sights and touches of the people of Honduras in my heart as a reminder that we have a victory in Jesus. By the way our leader (Kyle G.) rocks!

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Hey Hey! I have decided to stay here in Honduras and live amongst the people. I shall call myself Jose and spend my days drinking the worlds most dense fruit juice and eating Taco Bellish meals for the rest of my life. (I think they are slipping something into our fruit drinks...we're starting to lose it) seriously, these drinks are not the standard run of the mill American fruit drinks. I feel like someone shoved a pear in my mouth and punched me. Anyway, enough about that...I am staying back at the hotel this morning as the team bravely heads to the job site to continue our rampage of destruction style construction. I have to prepare this message for church down here tomorrow...preaching with an interpretor is very difficult because you feel you have to get it just right! I'm speaking for 45 minutes...that means 45 minutes of bullet points that better be good. And since that isn't going to happen, I might just resort to magic tricks half way through...that always impresses the natives - the old coin behind the ear trick. We're heading for a vacation this afternoon, some park type of place up in the mountains. They had promised me a waterfall earlier in the week, now last night they said there was no waterfall at this place. I got on them pretty hard about it...there better be unicorns, rainbows or at least leprechauns running around. I will accept nothing less. I officially got voted 'coolest pastor' by the Honduran translators last night. They had seen some clips of me preaching and singing on youtube and the website before I came...I was pretty excited about my coolest pastor medal they presented me with...until they told me the reason for it was because I didn't seem like a pastor at all. Ha!!! What's that supposed to mean?? They were just impressed I could keep up with them in Halo, I stayed up to watch Blade 2, I had earings and I am constantly messing with them. Oh well, whatever - These kids (18, 16, 17) are amazing, they understand English better than me. Alright, enough of the worthless chit chat...I've got to get at this message or the team will see all this banter and hold a public stoning later when they get back from the destruct, I mean construction zone....maybe I'll just take a nap:) -what?

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

i didn't do tina turner justice and brandon wasn't a very good back up, as i tried to karoke my way through a couple of lines of "What's Love Got to Do With It".

Tina sounded better (a wee bit raspy), but she got it wrong on both counts. God breaks your heart so he can pour more of His love into it. So you need both in great abudance. Every day my heart breaks for the people down here and what they have to endure. But in their poverty they have more JOY than many of us do. (So STUFF doesn't equal HAPPINESS (and certainly not joy)...)

Honduras kinda reminds me of what Jesus must have seen when He walked on the earth 2000 years ago. His heart broke for us also, when he saw how we lived, where our priorities were and how we related to others and God. So much so that He chose to die for us, to save us from certain destruction and eternal death. Unbelieveable!

BTW, Ann, reading Bill Hybels book "JWATR", about a 1/3 of the way thru and loving it. The natives are going to attack me if I spend any more time on the comp. Agent Molder already gave me the evil eye. Out from Choletuca...

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

WOW.............how do you possibly put into a little blog all that you experience here. It's not possible. As I've journaled nearly every day.........a day here seems to last forever. Not in the sense of boring down time but in the sense of so much richness. There is no wasting away an hour watching TV or mindless activity. Every minute of every hour is rich in the fullness of living the Christian life. With every experience here it becomes more and more of a reality to me of how much I allow my "world" back home to interfere with living out God's will for me. Because there isn't this "great" need in my life; material wise; I tend to slip into this "me" mode and I think "I" can do it all or the typical procrastination; "I'll get to it eventually". Being here is witnessing the true meaning of "All you need is a Savior!!" With every conversation.............God and his wonderful Grace and provision is the most important topic. There isn't much "chit-chat" on trivial matters because there aren't trivial matters to be had here.
My heart has been so touched here...........from the hospitality of the families to the vast richness of the conversations.............to the heart breaking agony of witnessing the true meaning of a need!! I am so grateful and I Praise My Savior for this experience that will never leave me.
My daughter; Katey (14); is here with me. I can't begin to share how Proud I am of her. She has worked her self as hard as the adults. What a blessing it has been to watch her play and interact with the children. They love her blond hair and want to touch it all the time. She just lets them!! My heart is overwhelmed with love and pride to watch her courage as she participates in these experiences with the rest of the team. Again, all my praises to my Savior for this amazing memory that her and I will share. I feel so privileged to be her mother and be here with her.
One little side note............if it doesn't get blogged; please ask Kyle about the broken arm when he returns to the states! haha :)

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Bravo people...nice work. The team arrived back from working around 1:00, when I was informed that Pam had broken her arm. Our resident nurse Dianne told me this. They brought Pam off the bus, arm in a sling and a mob of our people consoling her. She was in a lot of pain, moaning, crying. They sat her down...she didn't look good. I pulled Dianne aside and asked what happened, she told me that Pams feet got tangled up in some cut down trees and she fell and broke her arm. I could see that there was a bulge under the wrapping. Not good. Jyl asked if I could come over and pray for her as Tony (fireman, emt) was working on her. I started praying for her and she started to cry in a lot of pain, this wasn't going well. Tony told me we had to get her on the ground, Tony and I got a hold of her and started to lift her off the chair, she was starting to faint. I was trying to hold her up, Tony stopped helping, I turned to yell for Tony to get back here to help and I noticed 3 of our team members had cameras. Pointed at me. That's when the laughter broke out. It was good. They had the perfect plan. They even got two of my "best friends" to go in on it, Brandon and Ben. Well played everyone, well played. They just don't realize they have messed with Jack Bauer and there's a lamp plugged in across the room. They don't know when it will happen, maybe they'll be sleeping...could be months from now...it's dark, cold...suddenly you hear something in your closet, you rub your eyes to make sure you are awake...indeed you are, slowly your closet door starts to open, the sound of breathing haunts your ears in the silent hour of 3:15...then it will happen.................uh.................or I could just use extremely difficult -to -be -proud -of footage from this trip of each person in front of thousands one of these weekends. Yeah, I'll just do that. You just took the action to the wrong Jackson el hombres. It's on. Choluteca style.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

What up people!!!

Its awesome you people are down there doing what you are doing. Some day i hope to go with you guys. For you homesick people dink... dank.... ching... Kyle will now what this means. So kyle where do you want to go next? Wallows?

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Hello everyone,
Thank you for sharing (and oversharing at times - Kyle...). I am a missions-whip and yet, through your passionate words, I am overwhelmed and inspired by how your push the message of the gospel pushes forward, even through language barriers. Thank you for putting your heart into words for us to share in your journey. Have a safe rest of the week and may the only injuries be staged practical jokes.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Hi Charlie. Hope things are going well for you and the team. It sounds like an amazing journey. Everyone is in my prayers. Love, Leslie

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Hey guys...it sounds like the Lord is using you in so many fantastic ways! My prayers are with you guys to touch more and more people while you are there. Have fun!

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Chappy - Don't push the button in the glove box...what? We went up into the mountains tonight. when we loaded in the bus I said, watch...we're going to break down up there. 35 minutes later we started to smell tranny fluid. 2 minutes later it looked like Luis was grilling steaks up on the hood of the bus. Poof, smoke everywhere. I should have shut my mouth. we all got off the bus waited for another one to come. we had a ton of fun, beautiful view up there...if there's anywhere to be stranded...it's there! we eventually made our way to the town we were headed for...really nice! great dinner up there, incredible views in the moonlight and clouds over the mountains. they had horses there...really nice ones, if you're into horses. I'm more of a motorcycle guy. We are all back at the hacienda hanging out for the night...it's 9:00 here. oh wiat...i just saw Tony chasing Danielle around the pool with a turantula we just caught in a bag. That's how we roll down here. One more day left and then it's back to the grind. I think I'm singing this weekend at P-Burg, but I can't remember. Fred said he was craving a frosty from Wendys...that has stuck in my head all night. I need some frosty action. Goodnight Ohio.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

We get back Sunday!! This trip has seemed long because of the exhausting schedule and emotional situations yet at the same time, I cant believe tomorrow is our last day. We will have a chance to have a party with the niños tomorrow. We have purchased them piñatas and will get to evangelize to them. How exciting.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

I just got kicked out of the lobby, but wanted to jump back on real quick and say thanks to all those who have supported us on this trip with prayer. It is also nice to see the familiar names of our friends blogging from back home. Thanks everyone.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

If you ever wanted to be humbled beyond your wildest dreams, crushed beneath the weight of unbearable burden, witness to the reality of unbelievable poverty, left speechless by the words of a unloved child, swallowed by a sea of hopelessness, revolted by man kinds willing indifference, consumed with regret for your own ignorance, speechless to the sight of unimaginable chaos, tested beyond the point of your physical and mental limits, Yet given the opportunity to tread for one mile in the life of Jesus' foot steps and wind up grateful and eager to serve while surrounded by the grace of God. Sign up for the most incredibly rewarding and inspiring time of your life. Go on a mission trip. It is guaranteed to be the most enjoyably, excruciatingly painful, and inspiring trip of your life. Not one moment of tears have not been balanced by equal amounts of laughter. Not one ounce of effort used in vain. Every moment a blessing. Every person an asset. What an incredible example of faith in action. Tony Comes, Choluteca, Honduras. Fire ants and beds don't mix!

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Amazing is what comes to mind for me....we have done so much down here in Honduras to serve the Lord but I feel the Lord has served us tremendously. When you look into the eyes of these people and they say 'thank you' when you give then something so small that we take for granted it makes it all worth it. Thanks to all my friends back in Waterville, Ohio who bought soccar balls to pass out....the joy that you brought to that child or young person can't be described. Thanks to my mother (Delphine Hearndon) who searched every Dollar general looking for the cheap flip-flops at the end of the season to pass out. Mom, I wish you could of saw the gratitude in the old mans face at out construction site who was working block when I handed him a pair. Robin (Hagemeyer) thank you for the beenie babies...the joy these spread cannot be imagined. And Finally, to my loving wife Bonnie for allowing me to leave Ohio and work for the Lord in this rugged and beautiful country. May God bless you all...

Mark

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

So here,s the deal (BTW, no apostrophe,s on the Spanish keyboard so I,m using commas...) Was trying to finish my devotional on Thur. after a night of the Montezma,s revengio (Spanglish for ,revenge, for unenlightened gringos...). Couldn,t eat breakfast that morning (had eaten everybody else,s food up until then and had been given the new name, MIKEY...). So I am slugging thru the last bit of the devotional (BTW, had to help Kyle write his message for the church for Sat. night as he was/is brain dead. This message will probably be much clearer than any of his other ones, even though it has to be interpreted).

So right before I am finished wrapping up my devotional thoughts, the team comes pouring out of breakfast, lead by Sandy ,,Sarge,, DuShane. I asked her, ,Are we still doing devotionals?, , (nearly broken-hearted) and she says yes, but quickly! ,How long?, I said. ,10 minutes!, was the reply. (Darn, Kyle and Ben had 15...)

So I flew thru it. Brandon and I bombed on the TT impersonation. Kyle gave me the high sign w/2 min to go and I forgot the close. Oh well, blogs give you a 2nd chance.

The question asked was, ,What is the definition love?, We went thru everyone,s answer Tina,s, the team,s, Dr. Love,s calculator on the internet (try it www.lovecalculator.com), Wikipedia and finally the Bible.

And the FINAL answer was, ,Dios es amor., 1 Jn. 4:16, so then ,Amor es Dios,!

Yes, God=Love, so Love=God. That is the answer and the ONLY answer! And boy have we seen God,s Love in abundance down here!

Make the time to come on a mission. The Great Commission was not a suggestion, it was a commandment. Change your heart forever and grab a big dose of God,s love on YOUR mission trip. Yes YOU! Sign up this weekend for 2008 at the Creek!!!

Hoping the work team leaves w/o me... ;-) Darn, they just found me, gotta run... Out!

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Hello everyone in Honduras! I just wanted to comment and let you know that our home group is faithfully praying for you. I pray that God will use your last day and show you His faithfulness in whatever miracle(s) He chooses. I also pray for safe travels back and that you will find rest before having to go back to the real world.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

This is our last day and this will be short and sweet- but I wanted to blog about Nicholas who Kyle talked about it the earlier blog (a 35 year-old man who has been crippled since birth).

It was my first time seeing someone with a body completely twisted, and when I first walked into the room I just walked up to his bedside, knelt down and held his hand. It wasn't me but God compelling me to show compassion and love the crippled.

God just drew me to him, I saw Jesus so much in Him, it was overwhelming to the point of tears. The one thing he had was a car that he held in his hand, as I would pray he would hand me the car to hold and play with----what love.

Nicholas was Jesus to me.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Well said Miss Keyes. we just got back from visiting a woman with aids, her three small children are all infected as well...hearing her story was heart breaking...they are receiving help though, from the church here...all of you back home make such a difference!! we left there and met up with the rest of the gringos who were making a honduran parking lot (parking space lines made out of big stones out in a field). we had a huge piniata party...no joke, kids were emerging from the jungle!!! Hundreds!!! we made two piniatas (spelling??) this morning so we were good to go. that was crazy, these kids looked like ants when the candy broke, unreal. I had the awesome priveledge to explain the gospel and pray before hand, hundreds of children repeated the call to Jesus...moments like those don't fade lightly:) we just got back to the hotel and a few of us decided it was time for two of our translators to swim. firemans carry style. Tony and Fred grabbed them, kicking and screaming all four went swimming. i thought that was the end of it until i was just walking over here and saw jose and roberto had brandon in a headlock, then i heard a splash. it's the pool of death right now and everyone has to walk past it to get to the place where lunch is served. im hoping i make it through. we have the afternoon to ourselves, we'll spend some time to decompress the trip and just relax. then it's dinner and off to church where some boring american is going to preach. oh well, can't win them all:) GO BUCKS!!!!!

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Regarding the pool dunk, I didnt go down without a fight. I eventually felt sorry for our interpreters (dunkees) and let them have their way with me...

Kyle asked us earlier in the week to figure what God was wanting us to learn from this trip. For me its become obvious and is as simple as reading our churchs Mission Statement...
;CedarCreek Church exists to help everyone, beginning with spiritually restless and unchurched people to love Jesus, serve others and tell the world about Christ;
That my amigos sums it up for me. That statement now has true meaning. I read that statement and now it comes to life. Now its a vivid illustration of Gods desire for all of us.

Well, Kyle is bringing the thunder at church tonight. Be praying that God will use him to impact and inspire the people in this Honduran community.
Adios and GO BUCKS!

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Thanks Leslie. Yes, it is great to be down here. God has done so much with so little (but that is the way he works, ,My strength will be shown through your weakness, ,so true and especially for me... ;-) We need to get some more of the singles going on these mission trips so they can get a ,real, perspective on life.

Kyle needs help on his BIG CLOSE preaching tonight. Gotta go write that for him too! (Actually, Brandon tells me he is sleeping. It,s seista time down here. He has almost completely converted to a full-fledged Hondurian...) Out from Cholectuca...

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

I feel very blessed to be on this trip. Before coming on this trip I have to admit that were times that I was not as thankful as I should be. In america we have so much and these people have so little. Even though they have little they still find joy in life. This trip has definetly been a wake up call for me. It was something I really needed at this time in my life. Seeing the hope that they have on there faces when they talk about Jesus is great. I feel that I have received far more than I could ever give back. I am praying to come back next year and I would like everyone to know that if it is possible for you to come on one of these trips you should do so. I think of the hardest things to see was a small village of primarily children that lived in houses made out of cardboard. We went there one day to put a tarp on there roof so the rain would not leek in and to hand out food. Most of the children were suffering from malnutrition and some of the adults had AIDS. The food we handed out would probably only last about a day or two. Please pray for our team to remain healthy and have a safe return.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

I just want to say how blessed we are to have had Kyle lead this trip to Choluteca. He was in constant control of every situation from start to finish. I felt safe and alive every moment thanks to his intellect and ability to perceive what lies ahead of every corner. He truly is a blessing. Thanks Kyle, what an honor to have been on this incredible journey with someone like you:)

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

I couldn't agree more with Danielle. When we first signed on I was a little hesitant...Kyle is certainly qualified...but I just feel intimidated around him. I have found out the opposite is true though. He is so humble, gracious and ready to serve others. How fortunate we are to have him in leadership here.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

You guys couldn't be more correct. I have had the awesome opportunity of getting to know Kyle and I can tell you this...I wouldn't be half the man I am today without his wisdom and guidance in my life. What a gift. What a guy. I often feel inferior next to him, I just admire him more than I could possibly express.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Thanks guys...that means more than I can ever tell you. It's my honor to serve with YOU! What a group.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Well, Kyle you seem like a really great person from what I've heard. It would be nice to be able to get to know you, or someone like you. You have really inspired me as a christian just from hearing your messages and hearing what you've had to say about this mission trip. I hope to be able to serve God the way you do. Just hearing about you guys going on this mission trip really motivates me, I never even thought of going on a mission trip before but now, I want to go more than ever, I feel that that's what God wants me to do. Things like that take my mind off the things that I don't like that are happening in my life, it makes these things in my life seem so small. I know that everyone has a purpose, and God has made me a very strong person because of the obstacles I have been through in my life, I know I have a purpose, I want to know so badly what it is! I know that for sure I will go on a mission trip. How old do you have to be to go? I'm just a kid, would I be able to go on a mission trip? Well, I would just like to thank you Kyle for how much you've inspired me, I never thought that a pastor could be so cool and easy to understand. You set a wonderful example. I never thought that it could be fun to go to church until I went to Cedar Creek. I hope that someday I can have the privellege of meeting you, you seem like a person worth knowing. God has made you a very significant person Kyle. I just wanted to tell you that. And everyone else that went on that mission trip, I want to tell you that I have been praying for all of you and I admire each and every one of you. I would love to have the privellege of meeting all of you.
-Kelly

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Hola from room 110 of The hotel Casa Real in the thriving metropolis of Honduras. Having the chance to spend time with such an incredible group of people for the last week has been the most humbling experience of my life. Right now my room mate Niel (chewbacka) Warner is sleeping soundly a mere two minutes and fifteen seconds after we finished trying to make sense of all that we have experienced this week. It could also be the mental gymnastics that every member of the team (..and I stress team..) have experienced this week. Or maybe because as the fact that as the tallest big gringo on the team he was the human jungle gym for just about every honduran child not busy professing there undying love including running a little over a quarter of a mile from the malnutrition clinic to meet the bus at our next destination to greet her "mi' amore' "and all around euchre champ,(sorry Jyl and Fred but we did win), Brian Skomer. It's pretty close to 2:15am here and we have to be up at 6:30 so I just want to say thank you to all of those who have supported this trip and that upon our return to Toledo late tonight our bodies may be home but parts of our hearts and souls will always be here in Honduras with the unbelievably selfless and dedicated team of individuals without whom this trip would be impossible. From top to bottom the people we leave behind to continue their work in God's name are the most incredibly dedicated and brave, honorable, talented, emotionally strong, supportive, and awe inspiring individuals I have ever had the pleasure of meeting in my life. Some of whom are only in their teens. I thank God for his guidance and will be forever grateful to have accepted Christ on 10-23-07 with such a phenomenal group of role models already leading the way serving so well at such a young age. Chewie's battery is blinking at me so I should go. Wendy, Happy Birthday! asta manyana. Tony Comes

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Well, Kyle did us proud preaching last night. (He had good material from an excellent writer... ;-) Our meeting last night had to be the most heart warming session I have been in. We laughed, we cried, we sang, we prayed, we reflected on how much this trip and the other team members have meant to us. You can buy everything else with MasterCard, but this was PRICELESS!!!

One parting shot. If we really LOVE Jesus, then we HAVE to love the lost (unsaved). If we don,t, then we really don,t really love Jesus. He loved them. He gave his life for them. WE, at one time, were one of them, until someone shared the Good News with us. Truly love Jesus, truly love the lost. Tell them about Him. THAT is the most important thing he wants ALL of His followers to do...

My prayers are with you all. Out from Choluteca!

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

And with that, we are packing our bags on the bus to head out. Next stop, Miami. We are mentally preparing for the Detroit cold when we get in around 11:00 tonight! Thanks for all that were tuning in over the week. I'm sure team members will continue to write in when they get back. It's nice to know that people we love back home were interested in our little 10 day travels. I'll see you all this weekend at P-Burg...back to reality:)

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

I feel bad for you guys that you are coming back at 11:00 tonight, it's supposed to be 40 degrees! It's supposed to hit freezing temperatures. I am so worn out, my brother had a sleepover for his birthday last night and they had me up almost all night, they were so loud! Yesterday they went ice skating, so I came because I love ice skating, and as many times they tried to make me fall, I didn't! Not once. And before ice skating I decorated our whole house for the party. My brother wanted an Ohio State theme, so I spent long hours putting up red and gray streamers. To the ceiling I taped streamers spelling out Ohio Bucks, Michigan Sucks. Yeah, I had a long day yesterday. But it was nice to support my favorite team. GO BUCKEYES!!!!!

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Aqui sablo espanol. Just kidding. I wish I spoke Spansih though, but I just started Spanish class this quarter, so hopefully I'll learn at least a little, I usually have French.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

That's awesome that you guys went to Honduras for a mission! I wish I could do that. I have too many commitments and such at home to go. Kyle, how do you find the time to do this? Doesn't your family miss you when you go? You seem like a great guy, I've heard so many good things about you, I believe you are very insightful. I think I could learn a lot from you, actually I already have. How long have you been with Cedar Creek? I'd like to know more about you.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

To all of you who were in Honduras; what an awesome group you are! Reading your blogs was so inspiring. Our God is an Awesome God. You each have touched our hearts with your stories. Welcome Back!!!!

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

We made it back from Honduras safely and I thank God so much for that. Being in the US, able to drink water from a faucet, not constanty having to use hand sanitizer, and taking a hot shower are all things I've taken for granted for granted before. I find myself all choked up and crying while I write this because while taking a hot shower I felt horrible washing Honduras off of me. The experience this week is more than I had ever imagined, from the team members I feel priviledged to have shared this with to the Hondurans that have touched my life forever. I could never have prepared myself for this emotional experience in a million years. From the HIV affected families, to the malnutrition clinic, the children walking through the mud with bare feet fighting off the killer ants, the sound of the prison door closing behind as we go in to see some inmates being baptized, the houses made out of sticks and cereal boxes, and the smiles and gratefulness that come from these people that have pretty much nothing. I was one of those people on the fence regarding a mission trip. It was always would of, should of, could of. I have to say that this week has been one of the highlights of my life and I wouldn't trade it for the world. I want to thank each and every member of the team for sharing this week with me. Kyle, you really are a great leader and not just a cool, untouchable, person from the stage (I think that's what Charlie said...). You really made this trip great for all of us. If anyone is on the fence like I was, I would encourage you to get out of your comfort zone and take a leap of faith. It will truely change your life forever. I think I'm finally ready to climb into my comfortable bed that I've been looking forward to all week. But when I do, I will think of Sonya in her hammock, worried about the roof falling on her head and sleeping with one eye open to protect her family. God thank you for all the blessings you've given me and please watch over the people in Honduras that we all fell in love with.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Now that I back to my SPOILED life here in Ohio, I can refelect: It was a great trip…we got to experience God’s presence in such a beautiful country.
This was an awesome opportunity to impact the lives of some wonderful people.
I feel blessed to have served in Honduras…the local church has a solid leadership team…I don’t think I have ever met a group of people so focused on serving God and others!!!
In addition, the Cedar Creek Team kept things “real” interesting: I bet the locals there are still talking about the Gringo (I’ll be nice and not mention any names) who stripped off his shirt after the church service right in front of the stage– the glare nearly blinded everyone…has that ever happened at the Creek?!!! We laughed and we cried (probably a lot more crying).
Can’t wait to see what Choluteca will be like in 2008!!!

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Welcome back guys! I'm glad you all had a great experience and a good time. I hope to be able to go with you all someday. What a drastic change from what like 90 degree weather to 40 degree weather up here. It did warm up quite a bit this afternoon, but when I was waiting for the bus this morning I couldn't feel my toes. I was soooo cold, and when I got on the bus it didn't feel much better because we had a sub bus driver and he wouldn't turn the heat on for some reason! Well anyway, welcome back!

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Fred, you're just jealous of the buff bod sans a little color... ;-)

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

...is anyone else craving a tortilla and beans? Oh wait, I think I'm going to throw up.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

... I got home and declared a 60-day BAN on tortillas, beans and banana flavored pop! ... Hey "ctm": just wanted to let you know I'm starting therapy to get rid of these horrible visions of the bare chested gringo I keep having!

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Charlie...you half naked on the stage in a church in choluteca honduras...I really didn't see that one coming. Well done my friend! Fred, the church will cover post trauma counseling.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Pam-just wondering if you are missing Louis? What a great guy. I have pictures of the two of you and will print them just as soon as I can so you can show him to your family. Who would of thought you would meet someone half way around the world ?

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Hey Fred, jealousy will trigger all kinds of negative thoughts in that mind of yours. Just stop trying to emulate something that won't happen in your lifetime.
(PS, try CC Life Support group "Overwhelmed & Shattered", it may help and it will save you 'mucho dinero' $$$ on that therapy... ;-)

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Well Hello team! Although I said I would not write on Kyle's famous blog...I lied b/c I am now giving in and writing. I must admit that I have been a bit lost these last couple days. I keep thinking I am going to meet up with you all and walk through some mud or laugh about our 5th or 6th bus breaking down. OK, I mostly just want to say that you all are wonderful and I look forward to hopefully visiting your rockin' church sometime in the future!
Please visit Casa Hogar's Blog for updates and a few photos from your trip @ www.casahogarvida.blogspot.com

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Ewww, you guys drank banana flavored pop. That's nasty. I'm allergic to bananas so I guess I actually really don't know if that would be gross or not, I haven't had a banana in years. I'm also allergic to pineapples.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

I am slowly weaning myself off of tortillas and beans. My goal is to have a McDonald's Hamburger by the end of the week. Pray for me!

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Molder. Hurry home. Live here. The big OHIO welcomes you. Thanks for being so sweet while we were there!!!

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Welcome back Honduran team! I just read all of your comments at one setting just now and loved them all! I've been out the office a couple weeks on vacation as well as recovering from knee surgery thanks to my mission to Mexico in August. (for the record, I don't recommend climbling waterfalls at age 52!) I can easily imagine what you all experienced since I have been there many times. Now you know that there just aren't enough words to express your experiences. It was always hard for me to come back and relate all that God did to someone who has never been- just get blank stares and "that's nice" kind of reponses. Well, now YOU know! Now you can better understand that living and working in Latin America is how I want to spend the rest of my life! By God's grace, I'll be spending a portion of the next couple summers in L.A. mission work before committing long term. I hope all who read these blogs will sign up and experience a short term mission in 2008. It's my hope and prayer that everyone who considers CedarCreek their home church will go at least once in their lifetime. Those of you who went are the best recruiters for upcoming trips. Spread the word, it's a blast and can change lives! Maybe even go with your entire life group. (small group, home group) Kyle, thanks for heading the trip up.

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Yep, Hooty, this trip shook me to the core of my bones. I truly understand how you feel and now am trying to decide if I can make the Feb. trip back to Choluteca in addition to the Oct. trip.

Bye

Well, I'm off to Tennessee until Thursday, so I most likely won't be blogging. I'm staying in a cabin in Gatlenburg. I can't wait. But unfortunetly I'll be missing this weekend's church service so when I come back someone will have to fill me in.
God Bless,
Kelly:)

Re: Hola -- Live from Honduras!

Hey there, I am glad that you are reaching people that need just a little smile to make them happy. I did a mission in Haiti and New York at the Aids clinic and orphanage and I can tell you that material things that we have on earth mean nothing really compared to what these people have. They laugh smile, run, play and enjoy life. In theses places money that you do not have you do not miss. I can say that God has blessed these places because they are not tainted by worldly pocessions. Here we complain if your money is not in the thousands in the bank. Well I can tell you I live a modest life I love football and watching it, I love my children and believe me I do not give them the top of the line stuff, I do not make a production on the holidays, and they know how to work. They have seen and did mission work before and they understand what happiness is. God, Family