Day 1 - Getting to Know Honduras

This day, as well as the two days preceeding it, has been full of the glory of God. God's power and provision was shown in mighty ways. Firstly, we were all awake and in good spirits for a 6:15am breakfast call. No small feat for a group who has had two very full days under their belts. God is good. Secondly, we arrived at our destinations safely. God is good. Thirdly, and most importantly, we were privileged to take part in how God is moving in Honduras - through caring physically for His children and providing for them when they cannot for themselves. God is good. Today was our first day of service. The six women in our group along with four dentists, one medical student, Dinora, and Aurora traveled roughly an hour outside of the city to a village called El Cayo. We were pleased to find a congenial community waiting for us with open hands and hearts. Although the town is far from stable economically, the people are not lacking in joy. We set up a medical clinic complete with a parasite preventative station, a nurses station, a pharmacy, and even a make-shift dentists office. During the span of 7 hours, 171 patients were seen and prescribed medication in addition to receiving deworming pills and vitamins. The dentists estimated a probable total of 60 teeth extractions as well. God is good. While the humidity and heat kept us looking damp and less than fresh, I felt oppositely in my spirit especially as the day wore on. I felt a progressive renewal with every pill I administered and every smile I reciprocated. It is a blessing to serve selflessly as unto the Lord. I believe those with me today in El Cayo would mirror my sentiment. God is good. While the women were treating the sick in El Cayo, the men in our group ventured to a school outside of San Pedro Sula to work on the completion of a wall that surrounds the property. The purpose of the wall is twofold: to lower the amount of students who leave during the day, and to keep unwanted visitors out. Their task is to finish the fourth side of the wall as the other three are already done. Together with Pastor Juan, the men in our group (Bob, Matt, Matt, and Phil) worked on creating forms for the concrete and tying rebar for the structure. They worked with 5 or 6 Honduran men and accomplished a good portion of the work today. Tomorrow they will finish with the remainder of the rebar and pouring the concrete (apparently it must be hauled up a large hill after it is mixed - I am sure they will be plenty exhausted by days end). I am thankful for a day well spent. A day I can look back on with no regrets, in which no time was wasted because it was spent caring for and loving and learning from God's children in Honduras. Thank you for your prayers! For all of us in San Pedro Sula, gracias. Sarah Detweiler