For the past three years, I have been afforded the opportunity to travel to the island of Abaco with a group from the United States of America, being the hands and feet of God and sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Each year, we host Vacation Bible School at various churches throughout the island and visit the “peas and mud”, a Hatian refugee community.
This year was one of the most challenging trips we have encountered as a group. Firstly, our leader, Pastor Tim, was not able to make it. Secondly, our group was only a small fraction of what we had the last two years. Lastly, many of our engagements to host Vacation Bible School was canceled. Unfortunately, we were only able to host Vacation Bible School at the Dundas Town Church of God and St. John’s Native Baptist Church in Sandy Point, out of three other locations. It seemed as if everything that can possibly go wrong, went wrong. However, despite the many challenges, I would say, this was my most favorite experience so far.
Vacation Bible School was awesome. We hosted it from Wednesday through Friday, with the theme: “WONDER: Fearfully and wonderfully made! (Psalm 139:14)“ It was my responsibility to help lead worship and it was so amazing to see the little children participating and expressing their love for Jesus. During these three days, we saw many children coming and committing their lives to Jesus.
Our outreach in the “peas and mud” community is always one of the highlights of our mission trip. Every afternoon, we walk through the villages to gather children to play, connect and build a relationship. We get to see the less fortunate children of that community beam with joy, knowing that someone actually cares about them. I had an amazing time blowing bubbles and playing catch the ball with the children. It warmed my heart to see how grateful they were for the little things we were able to do for them, in such a short span of time. I was overwhelmed with joy to be reunited with Ville, a young boy whom I met last year and I also met a young man named Derrick, who I shared the Love and Gospel of Jesus Christ with and lead him to begin a relationship with Jesus. I admonished and encouraged these young men and other children within that community, to be all that God has called them to be, never allow anything or anyone to distract or detour them from where God wants to take them and that they can pursue their goals and dreams in life that will take them far beyond where they are now.
We ended the week visiting the “Crossing Point” to watch the sunset, take communion and affirm each other one last time. I was tearful as I reflected on God’s many blessings that past week and how all of our challenges worked together for our good.
Mission work is my passion and I am so grateful to God for allowing me another opportunity to be connected to an amazing group of people and experience the work of a missionary. I praise God for the souls that were saved and the lives that were touched this past week! I, along with Heaven are rejoicing! Until next time, keep praying for missionaries and countries all around the world, who needs to hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Some pictures…
Raphael R. Roker 