Incredible. The only word I can use to describe the experiences here in Costa Rica. The Lord has given this class a humble spirit and a selfless heart. The first day here on Saturday we went to Iglesia Nuevo Amor (New Love Church) and played with about 30 kids. They were beyond excited to see us there and we embraced each child with love. After playing with them we walked around the village there and preached the gospel. We used the gospel cube and passed out tracts. It was incredible to see the look on the Tico’s(name for Costa Rican’s) faces when they realized that they were sinners and if they died today without salvation they would go to Hell. That day around 11 people received Jesus into their heart. Some may say that  it was us working through these people but only God could have done what He did that day.

On Sunday we attended the church service here at the compound and really saw Score’s heart for God. It was amazing to see how much they trust God to provide for this organization. After that we went to the Saprissa and Heredia soccer game which was so much fun!! We had never experienced fans that were so excited about watching their team play, it was awesome!!

Monday we went to Alajuelita and played with all the kids and shared the gospel with people in the village. I have never felt more humble in my life. These people were so happy even though they had nothing. I realized how often I complain about little things and only think of myself, instead we should consider each thing as a blessing just like these people in Alajuelita. The kids just laughed and had a blast playing baseball, frisbee, bubbles and getting their faces painted. Our class grew so much closer that day and we left their with joy in our hearts.

       On Tuesday we started by going zip lining at Fossil Land. We had an amazing time, although the mountain challenge was very difficult. We went on 5 zip lining courses and there was also a free-fall course where three of us got to do it. They also got the chance to hang upside down. After that we went back to Alajuelita to do VBS with the kids. There were a lot more kids this time and they were all very sweet. Raymond preached the gospel and they were very attentive and wanted to hear what he had to say. It was another humbling experience because of the joy we saw in the kids faces.

       On Wednesday which was our last day doing mission work, we distributed food to certain families chosen by the pastor of the village Alajuelita. Each family shared about their lives and it was incredible for us to see what they were going through and how we could pray for them. After that we went to an orphanage and played with the kids. Some of us were getting our whole faces painted while others were playing soccer or frisbee. We thoroughly enjoyed our time at the orphanage and our hearts reached out to each of these kids. Of course all of us wanted to take them with us and cherished each moment spent with them. 

I believe I am speaking for all of my class when I say that God has worked in our lives throughout this trip, he has truly changed each of our hearts. We all love Costa Rica and don’t want to leave. Thank you SCORE for allowing us to stay here and for serving us while we were here. God bless all of you and we will all be praying for you!!

Your sister in Christ,

Tags: costa_rica