Hi Everyone!
We just got back to the hotel at midnight from a very full day, and we've got an early call in the morning for the airport so there's no full length blog tonight.
But we've had a great final day here in Budapest. The students are very sad to leave.
Looking forward to seeing many of you in person in the next few days and telling you stories in person!
Please be praying for our travels tomorrow!
In Christ,
Tom
Friday, July 27, 2012
Thursday, July 26, 2012
English Camp - Day 9 Update - Ben
Today was parent night. This is one of the best nights of the trip because we meet the families of the teens. The parents were able to receive a glimpse of what an average day at camp involves. Also, each English group performed a skit that allowed each student to speak in English. However, parent night is also a great night to share the Gospel, which is what Jared did with great passion. It was such a blessing to be able to witness the Gospel being explicitly shared to a packed auditorium.
The Gospel is amazing and wonderful. A God who sent His Son to redeem enemies to Himself. A Savior who willingly gave up the unfathomable riches of heaven to come to earth and suffer separation and wrath from God which I justly deserved. A substitution which allows me to call God my Father and praise Him forever in Heaven. We are all undeserving of the Gospel but yet we have a compassionate God who loves us more than anyone on earth could ever love us. This trip has shown me how incredibly stupid I have been about the Gospel. Where has my urgency been? If I have a God who will always love me and be there for me, why do I care if the world thinks me a fool for sharing the Gospel? This world is fragile and dying and they need the Gospel. We are here one second, strong as can be, and the next second, we are in a car accident or in a fight with cancer. There is no time to waste. No time for procrastinating. The time to share the Gospel is now. With whoever we meet. Spreading the the seed is more important than being considered a freak by "friends." During this whole trip, we knew the students were only here for two weeks and so we constantly shared the Gospel at every opportunity. We rarely waited for the students to ask us about it. Instead we directed as many conversations as we could to the truth of the Bible. But why is there only urgency on a mission trip? The whole world needs to hear this incredible message of love and sacrifice. If there is anything I have learned on this trip, it's that the Gospel is more important than social standing. More important than college and achieving a degree. More important than my family. The Gospel must and will always be my first priority. There are people all around us who are dying without hope. Tomorrow might be too late. The time to share the amazing truth of the Gospel is now. PLEASE, LET US NOT WAIT ANYMORE.
Ben
"He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose." - Jim Elliot
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
English Camp - Day 8 Update - Violet
Hey guys!
The second week is quickly wrapping up and each
day seems to be more enjoyable than the last. The computer is on high demand so here’s a brief update from
today. We began preparing for our skits that will be shown on parent’s night.
The campers were very excited to show off their acting skills. You can clearly
see the relationships building between the campers and our team and God
revealing himself through this camp. After camp we went to a delicious buffet.
I would tell you the name of the restaurant but I can’t remember it. The food
was amazing and we had some good discussions about God and Christianity as a
whole. One of my favorite parts of this trip has been really getting to know
some of the campers. It is inspiring how much these campers open up once they
feel comfortable around you. All together this has been one of the most encouraging
and powerful mission trips I have ever been a part of. Thanks you for all of your
prayers and we will see you back at home soon.
~Violet
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
English Camp - Day 7 Update - Katie
What a day! Today was American day,
so there was high energy starting from our first icebreaker of “riverbank” to
the end of the day’s dance party.
As
our days at camp are soon coming to an end, :( that doesn’t discourage the campers from staying even longer. We end camp,
have a debrief meeting, come back upstairs to leave….and they are still there!
It’s so encouraging to see that they actually enjoy our company :) .
It was scorching outside today so
instead of going straight out for games, we watched the movie, “Facing the
Giants.” I haven’t seen it in so long, and I forgot how amazing it is! I saw
many teary faces, and they all clapped at the end! Then, we went outside and
since baseball seemed a little complicated to teach them, we taught a variation
of kickball, and it was a hit (literally)!
Instead of leaving after the
afternoon games, the students stayed and ate an American BBQ dinner with us.
With plates towering with hot dogs, hamburgers, chips, and watermelon, we
enjoyed fun conversation and fellowship.
I can’t even begin to tell how much
the Lord has blessed us so far. It’s been crazy how much God has been answering
prayers. At our team meetings, I’m so encouraged to hear all of the great
conversation in small group and during meals that we’ve had with the students.
Many kids are asking thoughtful questions about the Lord, and God has been
faithful in pairing up students to leaders who share something in common, and
then sparking fruitful conversations. I can’t wait to see what else God is
going to do in our remaining couple of days. Please keep these kids in your
prayers, and for strength in our team members ;) See you all in a couple days!
~Katie
Monday, July 23, 2012
English Camp - Day 6 Update - Kelsey
Trying to wrap my mind around the fact that we are already on the second week of out trip here in Hungary has proven to be rather difficult task for me. Waking up each morning I find myself wondering how I could possibly make it through the day ahead. But looking back at the past week I've realized how quickly our time here is slipping away. What once seemed to be sixteen, full twenty-four hour days, has almost momentarily dwindled down to five momentary, precious days.
Today began our second week of English classes here in Hungary. Starting a new week meant losing some campers and gaining nine new ones. And although change is always difficult, no matter how small, the Lord was faithful and classes and teachings seemed to run just as smooth as usual. In fact, it has been amazing to see how the students' confidence is growing day by day in their conversational skills.
I'm in an English class with Jordan and Tim, and over this past week it has just really been amazing to interact with each student, see their English develop, form relationships with each one, and begin to see their personalities truly start to shine. Day by day I feel like I've been able to see a different aspect of the kids - whether it be their sweetness, sense of humor, sarcasm, or intelligence - each one so special to me and I love each one for a different reason. (But one thing I can tell you, I admire these kids sooo much! Not only are these kids going to a English camp during summer time, which in my mind is typically a school-free time of year, but they are dedicated to learning a foreign language and all seem to have super amazing language aptitudes! I mean I know I'm here to teach them English, but I've been trying to learn some Hungarian as well...and let me tell you: It's NOT as easy as it looks! In my mind, all the kids here are geniuses. They are here learning English and for most students, it is fairly easy for them to keep a simple conversation going. However, I on the other hand, who have had help from numerous Hungarians, can still hardly pronounce the Hungarian word for "thank you" correctly. Even going syllable by syllable, I'm struggling. But if I've learned one thing from these students it is to persevere and never give up. Sooo...even though most of the students have told me that I'm super bad at learning a new language, have some of the worst pronunciation they have ever heard, and have a pretty limited short term memory, I will NOT give up! You can hold me accountable, because I WILL be able to correctly quote off a Hungarian phrase by the time I get home :P)
But getting down to a bit more specific info regarding our daily activities: today was a fairly typical day of English teaching, except for the fact that we went for a Scavenger Hunt around the city during the afternoon. We broke ourselves up into groups of seven students and leaders and had three hours to find random "red", "yellow" and "orange" objects, and take pictures with things such as, "a random employee named Steven", "A fish tank" and "Burger King". And although it was somewhat hot outside, being in a group with Christina made the entire day completely worth it and certainly an experience. For although we plowed down numerous tourists in our path as we sprinted down the streets of the market or asked at least ten different, random people if their name was Steven, the highlight of my day was most certainly when Christina even asked a man in a tourist booth if he had pamphlets in Latin, but was quickly informed that Latin is a "dead language" and no one speaks it anymore. :P So overall, the scavenger hunt was super successful. Our team didn't win, but we had a lot of fun in the process and were able to develop even deeper relationships with the students in the process.
But ending on a more serious note, our time here in Hungary has truly been an amazing experience. I think I'm speaking for the whole team when I say that it has been awesome to see the ways in which God has shown up. Numerous people have had a chance to share the gospel, the kids seem receptive to our love and to the gospel, He has pretty much protected us from sickness, and even through our lack of energy, it is amazing to see how God is sustaining us and keeping us unified as a group. (which isn't always an easy thing). Today the verses in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 were really encouraging, because it talks about through our weaknesses how Christ continues to make us strong. And I couldn't see that more than I do now. Because even through are tiredness, through our sickness, through our lack of energy, through our possible bad attitudes, through the inconvenient times, God is continuing to show His faithfulness and is continually strengthening us amidst these stretching circumstances.
So looking back on this past week, it sometimes has seemed like time has dragged on, but truthfully I think it is going far faster than I could have ever imagined and would ever hope for it to go. The longer I'm here the more I don't want to leave, the more I see God;s faithfulness, develop deeper love for the kids, and see the importance of depending on God's strength. I'm not excited to leave here, but I'm trying to focus on the five coming days we have here. The past week has been absolutely amazing, and I can't wait to see what God is going to do with the days we have remaining! :)
~Kelsey
Today began our second week of English classes here in Hungary. Starting a new week meant losing some campers and gaining nine new ones. And although change is always difficult, no matter how small, the Lord was faithful and classes and teachings seemed to run just as smooth as usual. In fact, it has been amazing to see how the students' confidence is growing day by day in their conversational skills.
I'm in an English class with Jordan and Tim, and over this past week it has just really been amazing to interact with each student, see their English develop, form relationships with each one, and begin to see their personalities truly start to shine. Day by day I feel like I've been able to see a different aspect of the kids - whether it be their sweetness, sense of humor, sarcasm, or intelligence - each one so special to me and I love each one for a different reason. (But one thing I can tell you, I admire these kids sooo much! Not only are these kids going to a English camp during summer time, which in my mind is typically a school-free time of year, but they are dedicated to learning a foreign language and all seem to have super amazing language aptitudes! I mean I know I'm here to teach them English, but I've been trying to learn some Hungarian as well...and let me tell you: It's NOT as easy as it looks! In my mind, all the kids here are geniuses. They are here learning English and for most students, it is fairly easy for them to keep a simple conversation going. However, I on the other hand, who have had help from numerous Hungarians, can still hardly pronounce the Hungarian word for "thank you" correctly. Even going syllable by syllable, I'm struggling. But if I've learned one thing from these students it is to persevere and never give up. Sooo...even though most of the students have told me that I'm super bad at learning a new language, have some of the worst pronunciation they have ever heard, and have a pretty limited short term memory, I will NOT give up! You can hold me accountable, because I WILL be able to correctly quote off a Hungarian phrase by the time I get home :P)
But getting down to a bit more specific info regarding our daily activities: today was a fairly typical day of English teaching, except for the fact that we went for a Scavenger Hunt around the city during the afternoon. We broke ourselves up into groups of seven students and leaders and had three hours to find random "red", "yellow" and "orange" objects, and take pictures with things such as, "a random employee named Steven", "A fish tank" and "Burger King". And although it was somewhat hot outside, being in a group with Christina made the entire day completely worth it and certainly an experience. For although we plowed down numerous tourists in our path as we sprinted down the streets of the market or asked at least ten different, random people if their name was Steven, the highlight of my day was most certainly when Christina even asked a man in a tourist booth if he had pamphlets in Latin, but was quickly informed that Latin is a "dead language" and no one speaks it anymore. :P So overall, the scavenger hunt was super successful. Our team didn't win, but we had a lot of fun in the process and were able to develop even deeper relationships with the students in the process.
But ending on a more serious note, our time here in Hungary has truly been an amazing experience. I think I'm speaking for the whole team when I say that it has been awesome to see the ways in which God has shown up. Numerous people have had a chance to share the gospel, the kids seem receptive to our love and to the gospel, He has pretty much protected us from sickness, and even through our lack of energy, it is amazing to see how God is sustaining us and keeping us unified as a group. (which isn't always an easy thing). Today the verses in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 were really encouraging, because it talks about through our weaknesses how Christ continues to make us strong. And I couldn't see that more than I do now. Because even through are tiredness, through our sickness, through our lack of energy, through our possible bad attitudes, through the inconvenient times, God is continuing to show His faithfulness and is continually strengthening us amidst these stretching circumstances.
So looking back on this past week, it sometimes has seemed like time has dragged on, but truthfully I think it is going far faster than I could have ever imagined and would ever hope for it to go. The longer I'm here the more I don't want to leave, the more I see God;s faithfulness, develop deeper love for the kids, and see the importance of depending on God's strength. I'm not excited to leave here, but I'm trying to focus on the five coming days we have here. The past week has been absolutely amazing, and I can't wait to see what God is going to do with the days we have remaining! :)
~Kelsey
Sunday Update - Tom
Hello family & friends!
One day late, here's the update on Sunday.
We started our day with just an awesome team meeting. Jared and Julia each gave a great devotional on the Gospel. We then did some spontaneous sharing that ended with spontaneous singing. To be working so hard for the Gospel together throughout the week and then studying the Word together simply overwhelmed us and led us to praise! Then each team member shared one highlight from the week so far and one place where they want to grow. I wish you could have been there - this is just an amazing team - each one has such a heart for the Lord and for the lost. I am truly privileged to be a part of this team. I knew that going in, but after yesterday morning, I REALLY knew that was true. This is a humble, motivated team - and all for the sake of Christ.
In the afternoon, we worshipped at Kelenfold EFC once again. I cannot tell you how humbled I am to been asked to preach there the past two Sundays. First, I love this church. Even though they are small, they have a powerful heart to see Budapest reached for Christ. Second, this is a critical time in their history. Brad & Kari Mullet have been such a key part of their church over the years, and as you probably know, Brad & Kari are coming to The Orchard. So I really wanted to serve this church as best as I could through preaching because of the gift they are giving to us in Brad & Kari. It has been very emotional for me to speak with some of the church members about Brad & Kari's departure. Third, I'm just overwhelmed as I preach there by God's grace to me. I remember being called to preach as a kid - only about 14 years old - and I wondered if it would ever really happen. And now in this summer, I've been getting to preach at the church I love at home in the States and at a church I love on the other side of the globe. Humbling.
We ended the day in one of my all time "happy places" - Nancsi Neni restaurant up in the hills outside of Budapest. We had great food, but even better fellowship with the team, with Brad & Kari, and with a few Hungarian Christians.
For Christ and His Kingdom,
Tom
One day late, here's the update on Sunday.
We started our day with just an awesome team meeting. Jared and Julia each gave a great devotional on the Gospel. We then did some spontaneous sharing that ended with spontaneous singing. To be working so hard for the Gospel together throughout the week and then studying the Word together simply overwhelmed us and led us to praise! Then each team member shared one highlight from the week so far and one place where they want to grow. I wish you could have been there - this is just an amazing team - each one has such a heart for the Lord and for the lost. I am truly privileged to be a part of this team. I knew that going in, but after yesterday morning, I REALLY knew that was true. This is a humble, motivated team - and all for the sake of Christ.
In the afternoon, we worshipped at Kelenfold EFC once again. I cannot tell you how humbled I am to been asked to preach there the past two Sundays. First, I love this church. Even though they are small, they have a powerful heart to see Budapest reached for Christ. Second, this is a critical time in their history. Brad & Kari Mullet have been such a key part of their church over the years, and as you probably know, Brad & Kari are coming to The Orchard. So I really wanted to serve this church as best as I could through preaching because of the gift they are giving to us in Brad & Kari. It has been very emotional for me to speak with some of the church members about Brad & Kari's departure. Third, I'm just overwhelmed as I preach there by God's grace to me. I remember being called to preach as a kid - only about 14 years old - and I wondered if it would ever really happen. And now in this summer, I've been getting to preach at the church I love at home in the States and at a church I love on the other side of the globe. Humbling.
We ended the day in one of my all time "happy places" - Nancsi Neni restaurant up in the hills outside of Budapest. We had great food, but even better fellowship with the team, with Brad & Kari, and with a few Hungarian Christians.
For Christ and His Kingdom,
Tom
Sunday Update
Hi family and friends!
Sorry we didn't get a post out Sunday evening. It was a great and full day with a late arrival back at the hotel.
We'll do our best to get a full post on yesterday's activities along with a full post on today's activities here on Monday night.
God bless!
Tom
Sorry we didn't get a post out Sunday evening. It was a great and full day with a late arrival back at the hotel.
We'll do our best to get a full post on yesterday's activities along with a full post on today's activities here on Monday night.
God bless!
Tom
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