Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Day One

Dearest Friends and Family,
   Well, we made it! Our plane landed in Managua around 1:45 (3:45 EST), and we made our way through customs and onto a brightly painted bus that brought us to Casa Bernabe in Vera Cruz around 3:00pm. We unpacked a few things and were able to meet a few of the younger kids at Casa before we had dinner (Nicaraguan Chili, Chips, & Salad). Shortly after dinner we got the chance to cheer on the "Manchester Bernabe" soccer team as they defeated a much older (and larger) team. What a great representation of family, as this seemed like we could have been cheering on one of our local high school soccer teams. We had a blast getting to know the kids who came to support their team with us, and then took some time to get closer as a team ourselves. 
   Our first porch time centered around the story from Mark 14:1-9 about the woman who came to Jesus as he was eating at Simon the leper's home and poured out an alabaster jar full of expensive perfume. Kevin challenged each of us to take note and follow the woman's example. She put aside the ordinary and proper things, doing the unexpected. She gave up the control of pouring the perfume by breaking the entire jar, and ultimately she did this with little or no words. It is encouraging to know that it's possible to show so much love without saying a word. As language can easily become a barrier, we are reminded to pour out our hearts to these kids, and ultimately to Christ who poured it all out for us.
   Tomorrow the plan is to tour the grounds at Casa Bernabe and the surrounding village, Vera Cruz. Check back soon for more pictures as the cameras attempt to capture our excitement. Thanks again for all your comments and prayers. We are already experiencing so much here, and cannot wait to return and share what God is doing in Nicaragua. Love and Blessings,
   ~Leslie Magee

8 comments:

JD Calkin said...

We're praying for you guys! Thanks for the updates and all the details. It's good to experience a bit of it with you!
JD

Susan said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
tjj916 said...

I'm excited to see who writes what and the experiences each person will have. I'll be reading fervently and in prayer daily... I can't wait to see how the story unfolds!

Always,
Teri

DezyMarie said...

This is such a wonderful thing to do, I'm a so happy to see that regardless of how this world is turning out to be their are still people with love in their hearts, thank you Lord for allowing these people to touch a soul, God bless and can't wait to read more of your wonderful journey

warsof said...

Thank you Leslie and Kevin for sharing your extraordinary faith with our kids!!!! Kiss Katie and Zach for me!!!

Susan said...

Jordan,
I know today must have been quite an experience for you! We're so proud of you for taking this journey. Everyone I've talked to is enjoying this site and eager to receive updates. Some are even recommending I go with you next year - how's that sound??

Love you!!
Mom

Eaton's said...

Glad trip over was uneventful. Lot's of prayers heading your way..that God will work through all of you as you spend time with the children.

Hugs and kisses to Rachel Glennis Eaton! We miss u. Jonathan was over last night to help paint. Your room is coming along. We hope to have it ready when you get home next Tuesday. If not, you can spend the night in Miami. Just kiddin!

Love u, proud of u, Mom and Dad

heibythomas said...

Thank you for sharing God's love. You are wonderful ambassadors.

Helen: It appears the candy ministry is going well.

Kevin: We are waiting for a followup on last year's digging project

Take care and God Bless