Laredo Mission Trip

We spent Spring Break with this amazing group of friends ministering in Laredo, TX.

God is doing a great work among the people in Laredo. After our second block party we were involved in, the crowd watched a drama presenting the gospel. Several people raised their hands wanting to know more about becoming Christ followers. And it was clear that it was the Lord's work--not some fancy program or building, no glitz or glamour. Just the power of the gospel. I literally cried watching it all take place, thinking, "Lord, it's all you. You are the pursuer of these souls." How beautiful.

And how even MORE beautiful that my children care for the salvation of these souls. They have no idea that Laredo is unsafe in many ways; they go willingly to those in need. Eager to spread the Good News and to show the love of Christ. Excited to play games with the children there, to hug on the little ones, serve popcorn and snow cones. All you need is a couple of bounce houses...

On Sunday while we were there, we attended a church service at Nuevo Desafio Baptist Church. This was one of the congregations started after our visit to Laredo last summer. Here's what was truly fabulous. We sang Santo Santo Santo (Holy Holy Holy), people there stood up and shared what God was doing in their life and why they want to thank him. When it was offering time, ya just go up and put your money in the plate at the front. Since a bunch of kids were there, a guy in the back and his wife took all the kids and taught them a great lesson about The Battle of Jericho. No props or puppets or lesson plans--just a willing heart and the Word of God. My kids loved it:) We sang a little with one great guitar player (Pastor Hervin Antonio who is starting the church in Rio Bravo). I seriously told God, "Lord check it out! We are in a little space in a shopping strip center in Laredo hearing the Word completely in Spanish. Just together praising who you are. Again, nothing fancy. This if flat out amazing--it's all you God."

We are going back in July to serve again. Oh and to eat at Taco Tote, which is greatness. And to risk being a little uneasy (since I do read the news like the political junkie that I am) just so I can see this...

And plus where can you find this kind of fun with your 5 year old and his buddies while listening to Justin Bieber for about 9 hours in the car? Did you know you can still sing with water bottle labels across your mouth? Well now ya know. Pure greatness.

As we left Rio Bravo (which yes is right on the border) for the second time, I did consider having Taylor drop me off here on the way out of town there. Pay CLOSE attention to the business name.

Our family is grateful for Church At the Cross in Grapevine--thankful for a church home who is willing to teach its families that serving outside the box is the new normal. And I am glad my kids won't remember life any other way:) Well, unless I leave them in a gas station in Waco (previous post)...