Carnival in Peru!

Day 2 of the week and still no container - but we've all been reminded today that the Lord is faithful and certainly able to finish what he started.  The teams ran 2 carnivals and puppet & drama shows today at the Oasis Care Center in Manchay: in the AM, we cared for 3yrs - 5 yrs, and in the PM we cared for 6yrs+.  The puppet show included fun songs (all in Espanol) and a funny telling of Noah's Ark; the drama reenacted Jesus walking on the water and inviting Peter to do the same.  Interesting enough - we've all stepped out on the water in faith that the container holding what we believe we're here for will eventually come.

The carnivals included many fun games with prizes, as well as 2 spectacular pinatas - and yes, kids love candy here too!  (see photos below of some of the events of the day!)

As of this blog, the container has not yet been released - but we believe it's close.  There is a public holiday tomorrow, so no activity, but please be in prayer for the final release so the container moves on Thursday.  Please also pray for those involved, that the Lord will encourage them - this has been a long process for them.

In the meantime, we are staying busy with painting, concrete laying, and hole digging in preparation for our work on the playgrounds.  Someone pointed out tonight that we need to focus on the heart of service, rather than the task.  Each night's devotion's have challenged all of us to care for one another as we care for Peru's children.

One particular mention - we visited a home of a single mom in a shantytown.  This was a reminder to all of us of how blessed we are, and what poverty looks like here in Peru.  This home was approximately 10x10 with dirt floor, no running water or electricity, with the only amenities being a bunk bed, small dresser, and a small cooking table.  The mom must purchase her water from a local water truck that stops by every couple of days (see the 55 gallon drum in picture below).  The walls were made of thin wood with a tin roof held down by large rocks.  This was a sober prelude to our nightly devotions this evening on the Good Samaritan and our responses.

Thanks for your prayers!

Ryan Arledge