While the day began early for me, after a short night and the prospect of a trip south that I knew would take me out of my comfort zone, the day began for the Team with breakfast and time of prayer together and then getting ready to head to the build site. I knew the moment I boarded a mini-bus to cross into Mexico I was indeed way out of my safe, comfortable world; I felt vulnerable. We were behind schedule and the driver’s side trip for a personal errand and then two return trips to the same depot to pick up more passengers before we crossed the border did not help lower my anxiety! I was fearful I would miss the connecting bus in Tijuana, so I simply prayed, “Lord, you need to help me arrive in time.” I knew the Team was praying, Valley was praying and Janice and the kids were praying; I rested in that knowledge. Passing through customs was relatively quick and I arrived at the Central Bus Depot in Tijuna with five minutes to spare!
I was not the only one who was anxious. A later than anticipated arrival by the Team at the build site had left Nicolasas, the single mom, we are seeking to bless with the house, wondering if they were going come; when they did arrive she greeted each one with a hug.
After surveying the build site and consulting together; a time of getting organized and on the same page the work began; walls were framed and the outside sheets were painted and attached to the frame and by
the end of the work day the outside structure of the house was raised. A couple of the children helped with the painting! The outhouse and shower arrived already built and ready to be put into place. The Team was blessed with beautiful sunshine and much was accomplished for day one.
We shared supper together and had time to enjoy one another’s company and share in a time of worship with a group of teens from the Regent Christian School in Surrey.
Everyone will sleep well tonight.
As I prepare to call it a night, I still find a measure of anxiety in my spirit; perhaps I’m right in that place where God can meet me and minister His grace. I’m thinking of Velma and the wonderful celebration we shared yesterday – we will miss Nick. I’m grateful for the wonderful way Valley has ministered kindness to the Dikur family; thank you for your support! As I rushed off to catch my flight, I know the right decision had been made to delay my trip.
As the clock moves toward 11:00 p.m., tired but still awake, my thoughts are drifting to home, for the first time as a family we are all in different parts of the world! So I send this posting with some personal words…to my dear wife Janice, to Lisa, Scott and Andrea, I love you!