Greetings to everyone back home,
How wonderful it is to wake up in the winter to a warm sun and bright clear ski and to be able to see the mountains surrounding you. Although I was last here over seven years ago, it's all coming back to me. The warmth,friendliness and graciousness of the Bolivian people. It's amazing to see the changes that have taken place in the landscape here. They have built many building for housing. An area near the Florida Norte church that was previously an empty, brush, trash and glass strewn field is now is a beautiful playground for the children. That's something that we've noticed as we have driven around Cochabamba, that there are lots and lots of large playgrounds. It is clear that they care about their children.
The VBS program yesterday was wonderful!There was so much creativity that went into this presentation of the Lord's word. Two of the male teachers did a mime skit with a cardboard box. The box was too heavy to lift. When they looked inside they took out a banner with that said,"Jesus Te Ama"(Jesus Loves You).
As at OSLC, scripture and prayer are very important to the Bolivian people. They begin working with the children from about age three,teaching them to memorize verses. The children are eager to learn. During their Sunday School hour each class works on the memory verse for the day. Then each class proudly presents their verse from memory in front of the congregation right after the sermon.They did the same thing during VBS.
The kids just adore "Mateo". They insisted that he be Goliat (Goliath). And what a wonderful Goliat he was! Falling down and all.
As we are preparing now for the second day of VBS they expect him to be one of the liones (lions). Well Mateo is asking me to stop as we have to begin our devotion. Talk to you soon.
With Love and prayers to all, Diane.
