DAY 2

Today's mission was to start packing gift bags for the Christmas parties.  At the parties, each child receives a gift of their very own.  In most cases, this will be the only gift that they will receive for Christmas and for many of them, it may be the only thing they have to call their own.  The gifts themselves are very simple, but the children really do treasure them.  Each gift includes a small toy (for girls this is usually a doll of some sort and for the boys this is usually a car or motorcycle), a balloon, a small package of cookies, a piece of candy (this is where the candy comes in as long as it lasts), and a small story tract or New Testament Bible.  

Our team set up assembly lines (one for the boys' gifts and one for the girls' gifts) and set to work stuffing bags.  It took a little while to get into a groove, but the organization helped the process along, and we each quickly fell into our different roles in the line.  It's amazing how much can be accomplished when everyone works together.  While working, there was quite a bit of laughter and much encouragement as we continued to get to know each other better and share some of the amazing things that God has done in each of our lives.

While we packed the bags for the boys, several of the widows that live at the girls' home were in the adjoining room joyfully packing the bags for the girls.  We were all inspired by their servant's hearts, as well as, their joy as they worked and sang.  These ladies will continue to pack bags as we begin the Christmas parties.

After dinner, our team headed up to the roof for an enriching time of devotions.  Tammy shared from Exodus about God's plan for Moses' life even when it wasn't immediately visible and encouraged our team in asking God for a deeper relationship with Him to live out His purposes in our own lives. 

THE HAITI TEAM