Our week is split by two different types of work here at Zion’s Gate. From Monday to Wednesday we work on the property. Tony has a beautiful vision for this place. Each different team has been assigned a task to work on. There’s everything from using a machete to cut the grass to painting in the house where Tony, his wife, and the boys live. Our team, Sanctified:31, has the privilege of making the area behind the front rock wall into a garden. So we are weeding and removing rocks the first three days of the week.
Then Thursday through Saturday we go off the property to do ministry out in the city. Thursday we go to a place called INHFA, which is a place for girls that have been in bad situations. It may be drugs, alcohol, abusive relationships, or other such things. There is also a section of it where babies, and children with special needs live and are taken care of. I was able to serve with these children the first week. Most of the kids were napping when we got there, but there was one little boy named Gabriele who was awake. So we took him out to the playground. We didn’t know what his situation was, but he did have some trouble walking. He is so completely full of joy! He would go from one thing to another, laughing with every new thing. The women who are the caretakers have so much love for these beautiful children. It is so wonderful to see, especially since most of them have been abandoned by their parents.
Friday is our “Take it to the Streets” day. I have to say that I was a little nervous about this. We go out to one of the busiest corners by the mall. We have signs that say things like “Dios Te Ama” (God Loves You), “Pita si te amas Jesus” (Honk if you love Jesus). I was in a group right by the entrance to the mall, and we had a sign that said “Abrazos Gratis” (Free Hugs). This is my favorite! We gave so many people hugs, and they loved it! Some people even came out of the mall just to get a hug, and then went back in. It was awesome to share the love of Christ in this way!
On Saturday we went to a place called the Colonies. It is a place were boys play futbol, and then can come in for a church service afterward. A few people from our squad lead some worship in addition to the church’s worship. Then we did a modified version of the Seven Deadly Sins (Lifehouse) skit. We tailored it to the boys and did drugs, alcohol, lust and violence. One of the boys from Zion’s Gate played the main part. I chose to take part in it as well. It was very powerful!
I have definitely been challenged already. And I can’t wait to have more new challenges next week!
