Blessed Beyond Measure with Sagemont Church

"But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed."  2 Corinthians 4:7-9

Teaching Daniel and the Lion's Den As I think about the trials that this team encountered even BEFORE they arrived in the Dominican Republic, this verse in 2 Corinthians comes to mind...they were certainly hard pressed and perplexed...I don't know about being persecuted, but their week had a rough start- beginning in Miami where they missed their connecting flight due to weather and had to spend the night IN the Miami Airport!  But, to God be the glory because in their weakness, they displayed that the all-surpassing power was from God.  While their overnight stay in the Miami Airport was less than comfortable, God gave them several opportunities to bond as a team, learn more about God, and minister to others in the wee hours of the night/morning.  Especially to a dear woman from the Dominican Republic who had recently lost her husband and was stranded at the airport, too.  Sagemont took her under their wing and ministered to this precious widow, just as the Bible commands us to do.  I know that this woman was impacted, but so were those who came to her aid.  Often our mission trip begins even before we get on the plane.  To God be the Glory!

Eventually, this amazing team of 16 arrived, but unfortunately, NOT ONE of their 30 bags accompanied them. These lovely ladies made a bracelet for Regina AND her doll!  See the JOY!  Not one.  But, was this team was not about to be shaken, struck down, or destroyed!  No Sir!  This team had an incredible attitude.  We told them that it was obvious that God was going to do amazing things through them and we felt privileged to be along for the ride!  And boy, were we right!  Every time we turned around this team was loving, serving, encouraging, and ministering to others.  They brought a group of individuals who had a wide variety of strengths and gifts and it was a blessing to see the body of Christ in action!  The ages of team members ranged from a 15 year old high school girl to a 78 year old man!  The entire team was GREAT!

They brought team building activities to do with our staff, Vacation Bible School to do with children who live near the MAK House, completed many items on our "to do" list, painted, constructed bunk beds, and the list goes on and on.  It was a joy to hear the students share about Daniel and the Lion's Den and lessons they learned earlier in the day about obeying God.  We also were appreciative of all the supplies they brought for the school and Mak House, including 200 new dresses for young girls at the school and in the community.

Daniel and King Darius

We are thankful for our new friends in Christ and are eternally grateful for the ways they blessed the Makarios Community.  Our hearts are full and grateful.  Oh, and by the way, they did get their luggage...all but one bag that the airlines is still searching for! :-)

What an amazing week we experienced.  Thank you, Sagemont!  Thankful for the ways God works in the midst of our strengths AND our weaknesses.  

Not to us, but to God be the Glory! 

Thanks for joining us on the Journey.

Love from the DR,

The Becks