Last summer, I joined 15 disciples from the South Florida Church for a Member Missionary trip to Port-au- Prince, Haiti. Some have said, "I see how things are on TV. I'll pray about it." Going to a third world country is very different than watching the evening news.
We were warmly welcomed by Jorel and Junie Claude, the ministry leaders for the Port-au-Prince Church of Christ. When we met with the body of Christ for a devotional, singing familiar songs in Creole, many of the team members just listened with tears rolling down their cheeks, moved by the opportunity to worship with brothers and sisters in another language. Later we learned that many had come straight from work, as they often do, on empty stomachs, traveling for an hour or two on public transportation. The powerful singing was fueled by the Spirit and an incredible gratitude for fellowship with God's people. While there, we were given the opportunity to share with the congregation our convictions as we taught classes to the marrieds, parents, singles, students, and Kingdom Kids teachers.
We served the community on a HOPE worldwide outreach, focused on providing children with free vital sign checks. With the help of three doctors and two nurses (disciples from the church), over 133 children were treated and provided with medicines and vitamins.
The power of God is evident within the country of Haiti. In a church of 200 members, plans for a new church planting are in progress for the city of Montouis. God opened the door for a Women's Day, and many women are studying the bible. While there, we witnessed the baptism of a young man. I don't think I had appreciated the song "I've Been Redeemed" until I heard it that night! People in a far away place are hearing God's Word, His truth spoken in their own language. This is all possible because of God's power, and because you and I decide to sacrifice those things that seem important. "All over the world this gospel is bearing fruit and growing." Colossians 1: 6b
From South Florida Church of Christ website: www.southfloridachurch.org