The day started early at 7:00 am following a good breakfast with a time of praise through singing. What a wonderful way to start the morning with a crowded room of men’s voices led by acoustic guitars acknowledging God’s holiness and saving grace. Perseverance and its power for our lives as written in James 1:2-3 was the message in the morning’s devotional to help prepare us for the day’s projects of service and create the proper perspective for our hearts and minds in all our work during the week. In addition, we were encouraged that the inevitable stress and fatigue that might weaken our witness both during the week but also at other times in our lives can be countered with the full armor of God as Scripture describes in Ephesians 6:11. Our time of devotion was concluded with prayer asking for God’s blessing on our families and loved ones at home, the projects of the day, and to bless those we will meet as well.
After the time of devotion special recognition was given to those celebrating their third trip with Power Ministry. Particularly special was the recognition of Vance Luke who, besides celebrating his 10th trip, has also recently celebrated his 100th birthday. Everyone was genuinely thankful for his faithful witness, and his remarkable devotion to the Lord’s work, and we’re talking his physical work that keeps pace with everyone on the trip.
Today is our first day traveling across the U.S. border into Acuna, Mexico. We learn that the crossing will be most successful if we remember that it requires us to Pay, Pray and Praise. Each van must pay to cross, then pray that the border guards will pass us through without incident, and after passing through the gates and security forces praise God for safe passage. What a wonderful reminder of God’s presence, protection and providence in the most basic activity of the day.
Work teams were divided both for morning and afternoon sessions between construction of a new church, classrooms for two other churches, construction of a house for a family, work at Faith Mission, a Joy Tour, and the all important task of food preparations for the entire Trip contingent. Rain threatened all morning but held off until after lunch and even then didn’t keep the momentum of work teams from moving forward. Lunch was served in a local church that was established in a building that once served as a popular community dance hall. Both at lunch and dinner we were blessed to be joined by the families and friends of local pastors who have been closely connected with Power Ministry over the years.
As the day draws to a close the praise musicians are preparing and practicing for tomorrow morning, the Prayer Team has gathered and others are continuing with fellowship or making contact with family members back home. And for those that can, sleep will once again be welcome as we prepare through rest for Day 3.