God makes the ordinary extraordinary. That sums up what God showed me through our trip to the D.R. in April. We were 14 ordinary people who became an extraordinary community in a very short period of time. We did ordinary tasks to help others and God used them to build extraordinary bridges with people. We gave of our ordinary resources and they became extraordinary gifts in the eyes of the receivers. God takes what we offer and does amazing things.

Two highlights of the trip for me seem very “un-connected” at first glance but they both have this element of God’s transforming ways in them. One afternoon we were supposed to be doing some activities with the children but most of the kids were not available.

The two chairs and couch in the main living space in the orphanage were piled high with clean laundry so we jumped in and started folding. The wife of the pastor, Maria was so grateful for this simple way of helping and it really formed a bond with her that transcended the language barrier. A few days later, we were touring the church where Pastor Rene’ is on staff and asked about a room off to the side with a large banner on the wall. He told us that since 1997, someone had been in that room, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, praying. Now that is a prayer vigil!!

I love being a part of what God is doing – and to spend the time with Canadians is just an added bonus!

Stephanie C.