Winding Down

A new hightlight in my day is my morning Bible reading with my new nine-year-old friend, Diwa. One day last week, Diwa and I started reading my Bible together, taking turns. After that, she comes calling for me almost every morning. We sit together and read God's word. She almost devours it! She has shown me some of her favourite verses, including one that I taught to the kids a couple of Saturdays ago. I was thrilled that she remembered it. Diwa doesn't have much, but I believe that she has God in her heart. Another special girl to me is Diwa's good friend Leah. I love to give these girls hugs, as it seems to mean so much to them. I wish they could come home with me. I pray that God will show me how I can continue to be a part of these girls' lives so that they will grow up healthy and be strong women who love the Lord.

For my last few nights here, I have moved to a cottage on the property. Giving my 2 roommates their room back, I changed locations on Wednesday. Looking out to the ocean from my window, I am struck by how much God has blessed me. My few nights in the cottage are like a little retreat for me. I have read 2 books and spent time praying, reading, journaling and reflecting. God has given me a new excitement for ministry at home and a continued desire to live a life that is pleasing to Him.

Saturday is my last day here as I leave early Sunday morning to begin my journey home by motorcycle, boat, bus and plane to get to Cebu City where I will have an overnight an most of a day. I leave Cebu City Monday evening at 7:50pm and arrive home Monday evening at 8:15pm. Funny how that works with the time change. My layover in Hong Kong is much shorter so that will shorten the trip a bit. Also, my flight from Hong Kong is about 2 hours shorter than the other way.

This place and the people are in my heart and this experience is a part of me forever.