Lois's Post

We started our Sunday morning with worship led by our dear friend, Fanfan. Our worship time began with songs of praise, and Fanfan’s message was based on John 15:5 “I am the vine, you are the branches…” This verse spoke to all of us as it confirmed that, apart from God, we could not have served the Haitian people in the way we have. God’s presence and our open hearts to hear Him enabled us to act on the unexpected opportunities He put before us. This verse has never really spoken to us in quite the same way before. It takes on such a powerful meaning now -- We could not have been useful for His purposes on this trip had we not continually stayed "connected" to Him.

After our time of worship we piled into the taptap and explored downtown Port au Prince. Our first stop was the president’s palace that had collapsed in the earthquake. This pristine white building had fallen in on itself. The lawn was still beautifully maintained, while there were tents directly across the street. All the city parks were also filled with tents. What was supposed to be temporary has now become their permanent residence.

Next we stopped at various markets as we wound our way to the top of the mountain, Boutilier.We enjoyed bartering with the locals while purchasing some Haitian crafts for our loved ones back home. The closer we traveled to the top, the larger and more beautiful the homes became. In fact, only those who are truly wealthy can afford the homes at the top. Land is expensive and homes are expansive. The view is breathtaking! Although this part of Haiti is easy on the eyes, it is uncomfortable to think about. This small population has physically removed itself from the Haitians we had come to know and live among this past week - those whom we've grown to love deeply.

We enjoyed our last night at a very nice hotel restaurant for dinner, seated outside in the "cool" evening air. Good food, rich laughter, and great conversation was had by all around the table! We've become such a close group. We were friends before the trip, but because we have now shared such a life-changing experience, the depth of our knowledge of each other has become even greater. What a great way to end our trip...........

But wait! It's not over yet. For most of us it's time to dance!

Jean, another one of our fine Haitian friends, gave us a crash course in dance last night.

After dinner tonight he took us to a club to dance the night away. We had a wonderful time! (Even if we quite clearly didn't do the Salsa justice.) We braved the dance floor, but we also soaked in the atmosphere. These local Haitians belong on "Dancing with the Stars." Wow -- they were amazing to watch! What a great way to end our night and our trip. We crawled into bed around 2 a.m. with beautiful memories in our minds and smiles on our faces.

Tomorrow we go home. It is with a bittersweetness that we bid adieu to this country and to its people whom we've grown to know and love. Thank You, Lord, for choosing us to serve You and Your people this week. Thank You for using us.