Heading
This morning was spent putting the finishing touches on each of the three homes our team built. During the construction working side by side with anticipating family members bonds were formed that made these finishing touches all the more personal be they a final lick of pain in the color chosen by the family, a solar light installed which likely was the first electric light the family ever owned, or a custom stair with grab handles for the family with a special needs child.
Between 11:30 and 1:30, all three homes were presented to the families who were so grateful. To them, these 10x12 foot homes are even more exciting to move into as a custom home might be to an affluent North American family. Tears flowed freely and moms and dads alike had to excuse themselves briefly to wipe away tears and compose themselves. A humbling experience that brings alive this text from Acts 20:35b "And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive'."
After a late lunch and showers, the team headed to the local High School, where the ladies presented a "Woman of God" presentation while the men discussed what it means to lead your family and be a masculine and Godly man in this world. The teens' questions flowed freely, and they all insisted on photos afterwards.
When we returned to the Oasis a group of eager young children sat waiting on the patio. The cries of joy and delighted exclamations when they learned they were being sponsored by team members and would have access to health care and education was an absolute joy to behold and will not soon be forgotten. This is a tangible way to continue helping the community long after the service trip ends as you continue the relationship with your sponsor children.
The day ended with a presentation about Money Matters. Stewardship of God's money was discussed, and although a difficult topic to navigate, the roughly 50 locals who attended the evening appreciated it.
And so comes to an end our time in Yapak on Boracay Island. Our hearts are full, and tomorrow, we say goodbye to Jovan and his wonderful staff here at the Oasis. A fitting name for a facility that is a haven of safety, community and Godly teaching for the local community.
