Reflections

Back to reality. I woke up this morning in my own bed rested, refreshed…and with a big case of post-Brazil blues. I’m so thankful to have had the opportunity to serve alongside the students for the past two weeks.

This trip was a reminder for me of why we as staff do what we do at IMPACT 360. It is incredible to watch each student use his/her unique story to share the saving power of Christ. One of the most powerful demonstrations of this was when the students shared their “cardboard testimonies” in a night service the first Saturday. Each student held up a piece of cardboard that had a phrase or words that describe what life was like before they followed Christ. They then flipped over the cardboard to show a phrase that describes their life after surrendering to Christ. I heard from locals that this was the most moving part of the service, but for us that know and love these students, it was hard to hold it together! Christ is very much alive and gives hope and purpose to those that follow Him.

While serving at the orphanage, Team Brasilia was a great example of the body of Christ. I was so impressed that there was little to no complaining or arguing among the students – this was a huge testimony to those watching and working alongside them. They were living Philippians 2:14-16:

14 Do everything without grumbling or arguing, 15 so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky 16 as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain.

Here are some specific ways that you can pray for the teams as they hit the mid-point of the month-long trip:

-Energy and strength as they keep pushing ahead
-Patience and flexibility with a much more laid back culture
-Health and protection
-Boldness in sharing Christ
-Team unity

Thank you for your prayers and encouragement. They are felt and appreciated!

In Christ,
Katy

More pics from last week: