It’s been a rainy month on the island with two passing tropical storms. The last one dropped a lot of rain (about ten inches in one day). The island cancelled school for three days. Everyone was stuck inside, too much television, indoor volleyball and kickball in the porch (with a beach ball), coloring, and making bracelets with rubber bands.
Since our last post, two new girls have come to the Children’s Home, sisters Gabriela (13) and Catherine (3). They are adjusting to life here. Catherine isn’t too sure about things, so she stays close to her older sister. Gabriela is in my (Rick) upper elementary Bible Study group. She fits in just fine, she is Spanish speaking, but teach this group primarily in Spanish for another girl who speaks mainly Spanish, Ruby, so it works well. Gabriela won’t begin school until the next school year begins in February, as school only has about two weeks before completing the current year.
Last Sunday the rain stopped for a day. Mr. Orsy decided to load up the bus with all of the bicycles that have been donated to the Children’s Home and take all the kids to an area of the island where they have some sidewalks. The children had a fun time taking turns riding the bikes out in the sunshine and being somewhere different. The rain returned that night.
We have been continuing our “New Testament in chronological order” Bible study. Since our last post we have gone through First and Second Thessalonians and First and Second Corinthians. Today is our last lesson in Second Corinthians, from chapter five, our temporary earthly dwelling and our eternal dwelling in heaven; capping things off with my specialty, edible craft activities (a tent made with graham crackers and frosting).
This morning in my Bible study from Matthew 18, Jesus taught the disciples that one must submit to Jesus as a little child, yielding in trusting confidence to Him. He then taught about the work we have before us, teaching the “little ones” of this world. To quote notes from my Bible Study, “It is sobering to be loved by children. It is more sobering not to lead them to Jesus.” Christie and I both feel it is a privilege to share life with everyone here and teach the love of our Savior, Jesus. It humbles us how these children, who have experienced so little love in their young lives, are drawn towards love.
Thank you for keeping us in your prayers.
In His grip.
Rick and Christie
Outside the kitchen
Christie and Rick in Roatan 