Graduation

This past week was a huge one for CHI and the refuge in Reynosa (RIN). The kids in the elementary school (which is on the compound) including those from the neighboring area who pay to attend the Christian school graduated along with those in the special classes were honored in a special ceremony. The special classes are for those who for some reason cannot function in a school setting - either they had never gone to school at an early age, or have a slight physical or mental deficiency. It is a great accomplishment for them also so it is fitting that they should also be recognized. One of the girls we sponsor, Belinda, graduated from the special classes. She really worked hard and accomplished a difficult goal for herself. Later on in the day another ceremony was for the kids who attend classes in the public sector - junior high, high school, and college. We were not able to attend that ceremony as it required a over night stay in Reynosa and we had made prior commitments. So we attended the afternoon ceremony with a few others and drove back across the border while some others stayed for the later one.  We delivered the van to the office on the American side, then Randall, the director, was ready to load up a few few other and headed back for the evening ceremony. We were so sorry to miss that one as Pati, the other sweetheart that we sponsor, was honored as a high school graduate and will be attending college next fall.

the kiddos marching in

not sure what they were looking at - perhaps the balloons they let go

doesn't Belinda look proud as she receives her diploma

don't know what it says, but it sure made her happy

a brunch of chicken salad, croissant, and jalapenos

Belinda and her house mother

We were outside today checking the cactus plant which is ready to bloom and noticed a bird's nest in the middle of it. How in the world did a bird get through all those prickers to build a nest??? It certainly was protected. God certainly created amazing creatures. We also checked the turtle eggs - yep - just as we suspected - all that was left was a small hole in the ground.

We were prying for rice because we are out of rice and another large distribution is scheduled for August. Fred called a man who has supplied rice in the past and was told that yes indeed he had some rice for him. Little did we know that he had 2040# for us - all in 50# bags. Because of the two special ladies who help us bag the rice, we only have about 600# left to go. God always seems to know what we need before we even ask Him - and then He provides!!!

Church services were different this morning as the praise band sang some less exuberant songs, still they were just what we needed to bring us into the sermon. What are you holding back?? Sacrificial giving is a joyful ouch! We joyful give - of our time, talents, and money, but it is an ouch as we cut back on other things in order to do so. What happens when God tells you to give up something? Does God demand too much of you?? Why did Godask so much of Abraham? Genesis 22:1-14. Why did Abraham listen? God gives us everything - but He knows that when He asks us for everything He expects us to give it to Him. . He seldom asks for human life, so why did He ask Abraham to kill His son?? We get lost in God's blessings and forget the obedience to follow Him. God wanted Abraham to love Him more than Abraham loved his son. God needed to know if Abraham was holding back. He deserves to be our everything and wants us never to hold back, Being a jealous God, He wants all of you. He knows who and what we are, so trust Him. He will not ask too much of you.

As we go through the hot days of summer, take time to dream of the lovely fall days - cool evenings and glorious colors. But do take time to enjoy the heat - let it warm your bones and be thankful.