By Tami Heim
Love and grace are the warp and weave of leading a team to serve in Haiti. This December is no different. Dale and I review how blessed we are by the individuals God calls to join our team and we depart knowing God is with us.
Twenty strong, each one arrives early Saturday morning. We take our first team photo on the other side of security. Leaving to serve and ready to love, is written all over their faces. Nine go for the first time. Their anticipation brings an added layer of excitement and the remaining members work hard to NOT share ‘too much’ about the adventure they are about to encounter.
Earlier, to help the team connect, we ask each member to write a bio and answer the questions: Who you are? Why are you going? What do you expect? I tucked their responses in my trip folder. I read through each one again on the plane. I smile wondering how God will show up and show off His love this week.
Lewilson, my six-year old zanmi, becomes my photographer for the week. We walk the orphanage property corner to corner looking to catch love in motion. And that is exactly what we find when we see each team member in action.
As so this series of blogs begin. You’ll find in Haiti, compelled by love to go and wrecked by the God Who determines to reshape our hearts – to be more like His.
Carl Brewer: “I really feel God is calling me to break that routine and open up more in my spiritual life.”
Shonda Brewer: “My hope is that God will reveal himself to me on this trip like never before and use me to touch the lives of these sweet children.”
Jennifer Deshler: “About a year ago, I reached a point in life where I was no longer comfortable being comfortable.”
Jordie Deshler: “I can’t wait to meet the kids, play with them, and do crafts together!”
Pamela Ferguson: “I’m a Haiti fanatic! I am a grateful believer in Jesus Christ and feel blessed that He keeps calling me back to Haiti.”
Seth Huber: “I remember listening to the song “Hosanna” and after hearing the words ‘break my heart for what breaks yours.’ I prayed God would do that to me.”