Then we headed out for some morning devotions led by Rachel. We talked about our hopes for the trip and the hope we have in God to use us to truly awaken the church to mission throughout our journey.
After our devotions we enjoyed some group building. The first activity was led by Katie B. and involved pairing up with someone else from the group. We were asked to turn back to back and change something about our appearance. Then we had to turn around and find out what was different about our partner. We soon learned how important it is to pay attention to the small things and notice the people around us. Katie encouraged us to use this skill throughout the trip with anyone we encounter.
The second group building activity involved each family group working together to cross the lava swamp with the magic puzzle squares. Let go of the square and it would sink into the lava. Sometimes fire alligators would come and eat them or a tidal wave would wash one away. The family groups had to work closely and hold on tight to ensure safe passage through the swamp!
Now that we all made it safely across the swamp, it was time to go inside for another rehearsal. We continued working on our music and then divided up for sectional rehearsals. While one group sang, the other group went to take showers and finally get clean! When we returned, it was time for lunch. We enjoyed a great meal and some fun activities including the cup game. We also had a great group to help clean up after lunch was finished.
Another rehearsal went by and we had a chance for some free time. Some decided to try the dancing ribbons that were lent to the group for one of our songs. Others decided to discover the art of braiding hair. The most exciting part of the afternoon was getting the finished tie dyed shirts back. We were very pleased with the results!
In the evening we had a Mexican dinner and Jeremy's group helped to clean up afterward. They did an amazing job and seemed to have a good time doing it!
Each family group went off to plan their devotions and then later we all gathered to collate the 1,500 programs for the tour. One of the last group activities of the evening was a water war outside. We had some water balloons and water guns to distribute among the youth. While there were some that tried to avoid getting wet, they were NOT successful in their efforts to remain dry. Rachel and Jordan both were "baptized" by the youth with tubs of water when they least expected it. They seemed to handle it pretty well and were excited to see the youth enjoying themselves so much.
After some time bonding in small groups, it was time for evening devotions. Jordan talked about hope and read from Romans 8:24-27. He reminded us that sometimes we hope for God to help guide us but we don't always know what exactly we should hope for. We have the Holy Spirit interceding for us, searching our hearts and helping us hope for what we truly need. It is our hope that every person on the tour draws closer to God over the course of this mission and shares their experiences willingly with those God puts in their path.
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