My team is now back in Manila with the rest of the squad. We were brought back from Malay Balay to send off our previous squad leaders. Sarah Schrack and Lucas Tillman did an amazing job leading us through the first part of the World Race, and it was hard to say goodbye. Now they are back in the States and we miss them terribly. Hopefully they will be able to come out to one of our debriefs in a few months.
Of course our new squad leaders are doing a great job. I have every confidence that they are seeking after the heart of God and I’m looking forward to the places they will take us.
It’s been interesting being here in Manila though because the other four teams were here all month and our two teams who were on Mindanau have had to find ways to fit into the ministries here. It’s not been as hard as I thought it might be though. There are so many different ways to get plugged in here at Kids International Ministries. And there are always different groups coming and going. So far I’ve met a group of kids from Hong Kong, several Australians, and just today a group from Seattle.
Despite the constant changes of people going through here, KIM is making a lasting difference in this community and in people. Just a few of the people affected are the street kids we go play with and just be that person who loves on them and makes them feel like they’re worth something when the rest of the world says they’re worthless.
And the kids in the children’s homes both here and in Malay Balay who wouldn’t have a home or three meals a day if they weren’t there.
And the young girls living in the JAs House because their home situation just isn’t safe. They get to live in a Christian environment and go to school every day without fear.
And the people in the squatter villages who most likely won’t get another meal today other than the one we bring them.
Besides the Christian school KIM built and the birthing center that is being finished and the real houses for families who’ve been crammed in unbelievably small shacks.
And there are so many other projects going on all the time.
So anyone who comes here can find something they can put their heart into and make a difference in someone’s life. I would encourage you to check out the website and get a taste for what this place is about.
www.kidsinternationalministries.org
There are all kinds of miraculous stories about how God made this place possible. He is so good and He is obviously very interested in the people of Manila. And I think I’m beginning to share Jesus’ excitement for this place.
Needless to say, I’ve loved being here and I’ll be sad to leave on Friday.
But I’m not dragging my feet. I’m not leaving the race. Onward and upward to Thailand!
This time hopefully I’ll get to leave the airport!
