As I sit in front of my computer this morning, I struggle to find words for what I am feeling in my heart. Yesterday's presentation was the awesomest thing I ever was a part of. For those who are reading this and don't know, our team kidnapped the pastor and completely took over the service. Months of planning, practicing, and praying resulted in an event where I think every heart there was blessed. I was blown away by the team. We had the service planned down to the last detail. Everything was executed with maturity and grace. We began by showing a video kidnapping of Pastor, followed by a mime skit. We then outlined our planned ministry in Italy. Then after a song we had a video of Pastor reading the scripture from "captivity". After this we had offering followed by a performance of The Sin Chair skit. This whole event was culminated by Nick, the lone dude on our team, bringing a message which was timely and effective. It was the coolest thing ever to witness each member of the team using their God given gifts to bring glory to our Lord. What an opportunity to apply their faith through ministry. Our trip is changing them and we have not even left yet.
It was also cool from the whole church perspective. Seeing that this event was "Top Secret" most people came to church expecting the normal service. Admittedly the kids were a little nervous that everyone would be supportive. There was no need for concern. Everyone I spoke to was blessed by them. Some were even speechless. These kids have grown up in this church and it was such a blessing to see them mature in their faith and ministering to the Lord. And praise God it was such an encouragement for the team to see the acceptance and support from the older generations. God is so awesome, it is amazing that when he is in something then nothing is impossible. If you walk in obedience by faith he just makes things happen.
Another thing that was awesome was how God provided financial blessings. I know it was a fundraiser, but when the service was done we were so encouraged and blessed that even if no money was given it was enough. But God, who supplies abundantly more than we ask provided $2,862 and 55euros. I was blown away. I was praying for $1,700, God provided $1,000 more than I thought was abundant. Wahoo! God is awesome.

Upcoming events

He is risen! What an awesome thing to know that we serve a living savior, and how cool is it that he directs us to do things that are beyond our imagination. During this spring break the Mission Italy team has been hard at work doing work projects and planning upcoming events. One of these events is this Sunday March 30. There will be a love offering envelope and the Mission Italy team will be doing a unique presentation during the morning worship service. You don't want to miss it!! Check out the link to our commercial. We were going to play it during announcements the last 2 weeks, but were unable due to technical difficulties. The video is "To Be Continued.." March 30. Invite your friends and plan to stay for a soup lunch afterwards.
Also mark April 5, 6pm on your calendars. Calvary Bible church and Mission Italy are hosting a concert "The Rock Out". Come enjoy snacks, fellowship and a variety of contempory christian artists. The team will perform the Redemption skit, followed by a gospel presentation. Invite your friends and neighbors! This is a great opportunity to reach out to others who need the message of hope and life that our savior has entrusted to us.
We are also considering a date for a chili cook-off. So if you love to cook chili and think that yours is the best this is your chance to prove it. Stay tuned for details.
Blessings,
Deb

Short Term Mission Homework

This week for homework we are going to try something different. Do the activity that follows. Each participant must post their answers in the comments section of the post. No cheating and looking at what everyone else said until you post your answers. If you are not on the team, check out what we are learning. Feeling adventurous? Answer the questions yourself and post your answers in as a comment as well.

Read Numbers 13 & 14.

How is this a picture of a short term mission trip?

What was their objective?

Did everyone come home with the same conclusions?

Why were Joshua and Caleb able to see the bigger picture?

What was the bigger picture?

What did you learn that we can apply to our trip?