Celebration in the Midst of the Storms Part 1

Libby and I had a very unusual first assignment.
 It was to represent the teams who had gone before us at the 6th grade graduation ceremony. 
We were to be ambassadors for CSBC-DR and BGR. 
I do not think that either of us was prepared for what was about to take place over the next two days.

The 3 teams before us, like us, were assigned the task of repairing the roofs of several elementary schools. 
We were to work along side the pastors of the different communities as they reached out to the families affected by Typhoon Yolanda. When team three arrived at their assigned school they were asked to repair a roof, 
but this roof was not on a classroom.
 It was on a concrete platform. 
Puzzled, but willing to serve, they completed their task.

Colossians 3:23, “Work willingly at whatever you do, 
as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” (NLT)

This concrete platform was a stage for the graduating students to walk across. 
It was the culmination of a year that hopefully these students would never have to experience again! 
These storm torn communities had made it through and now 5 months later it was a time to celebrate. 
The graduating class of 2014 could commemorate their achievements of education requirements met, 
courage shown in the face of destruction and the tenacity to continue. 
What we had the privilege of witnessing was a testimony to strength against the winds of adversity that had blown.

Deuteronomy 31:6, “Be strong and courageous. 
Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, 
for the Lord your God goes with you; 
he will never leave you nor forsake you.” (NIV)

The teams before us had given hope to these communities and families of the graduates! 
They gave them a hope of a future by providing for them a place to celebrate their achievements.

Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, 
plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” (ESV)

When we had arrived at the school, it was obvious by our appearance, 
that we were part of the teams that had gone before us. 
We were greeted graciously. 
Shown around the school with special attention given to the work that the teams had completed, 
especially the stage for graduation. 
We were escorted to the different classrooms to meet the teachers 
and were finally ushered into where the graduates in their white caps and gowns where gathered. 
I was given the opportunity to pray for them and give them a blessing for their very special day.

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Revelation 14:12, 
“Meanwhile, the saints stand passionately patient, 
keeping God’s commands, 
staying faithful to Jesus.“ (MSG) 


Caprice <><
Please keep the teams that continue to serve and most of all those whose lives have changed since Yolanda made land fall. For more information on how you can help 
https://www.facebook.com/CSBDRM

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