Una sonrisa es universal. A smile is universal.

Today the team went into different communities talking to locals to invite the children & parents for the first day of VBS. Though the majority of the team knows no Spanish, the connection between them & the community was undeniable. The connection didn’t come from minutes or even hours of deep conversation. A smile & a simple “Hola, Dios le bendiga” followed by an exchange of an invitation was enough.

What is it like to be met by 9 barefoot children on a dirt road anxious to hear you speak? Our youngest member Juju was able to experience this first hand. I, along with the team, watched as she passed out invitations and lollipops or “popis” with love and compassion. As we left, the kids smiled & yelled “Gracias por mi popi”! I am left truly speechless by the way God moves through a smile.

Later, the team of 24 embarked on an adventure for some bonding time. We had an awesome afternoon zip lining through the rainforest at Arenal Mundo Adventura. God’s creation is incredible. We had dinner at a local pizzeria and took a walk around the area. We are headed home to end the night with some worship & planning for tomorrow’s big Day 1 with a new group of kids!

Lastly, happy birthday Priscilla. I love you, y que Dios te bendiga!

Blessings,

Vanessa