Davao: Week One

Hello everyone,

This past week has been full on! We have had a 6 day stretch of doing 2-3 outreach events a day! These events range from working with elementry-college students to street evangelism with drug addicts in the slums of Davao! So much has happened that I do not have the time to tell you of all the wonderful things that have taken place.

Ministry:

We all traveled to a slum called Agdao! We had an awesome hanging out and ministering to little kids (3-10 years of age). The Lord is giving me a heart for little ones! I am pretty sure that i have some of the biggest arms in the city of Davao; they like me to lift them up in the air. Good thing they are really light! Then we split into groups and did some street evangelism; our guide took Tristan and I to the main hangout for drug addicts and drug dealers. After a few individual conversations we gathered around 10 guys all ranging from 12-19 years of age. They all were really high from huffing a drug that they call "rugby"; it makes them trip out and see things, but for only a few moments! They must consistantly use the drug to have a max effect or experience. I asked them a series of questions concerning why they use the drug and could they ever see themselves living without it; they simply said that the drug helps them numb the pain and that it is the only real joy that they know. I then shared part of my testimony and how the Lord has set me free from these things. I then shared about the loss of my brother Nick! Some were still laughing and mocking; the Lord then gave me a few words concerning their personal lives. They were now on the verge of tears and knew that something serious was taking place. We managed to get 7 of them back to the youth service; one kid even grabbed a friend and jerked him into the procession line back to the church.

At the church we were given the whole service. Some 40 or more 11-20 year olds attended! The church was awesome. It looked more like a large sheep sheering shed. Nevertheless, Rangi Gear from New Zealand shared his powerful testimony. I gave my testimony and then shared on the eternal punishment and the glory of the Cross of Christ. I also got the chance to pray and speak purpose and destiny over them!

We then performed a powerful skit! I highly recomand that you all check it out on http://www.youtube.com (Everything skit). We changed a few things, at the end before Jesus overcomes everyone we added a crusifixion! It speaks bodly of the love of Jesus and the power of the Cross. We then ran small groups! The Lord moved on the hearts of many and I believe many from that night will grow into mighty men and women of God! There is a high spirit of hopelessness here!

Speaking purpose and life over these ones instantly ignited their passion. The Filipino's are a beautiful and passionate people. I believe God is going to use many of them as the years merge into its final course on this side of eternity! Please pray for us as we continue. We are growing stronger together as a team and a family! Pray for strength and open doors! Pray for discernment to speak and act with clarity. Pray that the Lord will raise up burning and shining lamps here in the Philippines. God bless you all.