This was written by Maddy who is entering 9th grade:
Over the past week I went on a mission trip to Puerto Rico. While I was there I spent my time focusing on what God was trying to show me and where He was leading me. I learned that not everyone’s journey in faith is easy and that God shows up in the most amazing ways, especially when you don’t realize that you need him most. While working at Campamento del Caribe, I saw him in the smiles of the campers. Some of the children that were brought to the camp came from broken down homes and parents that might not show them they are loved. God brought them to the camp so that they could be introduced to Christ. The workers at the camp told them of the Lord and His unconditional love for them. At night time, we got to hear some of the adult leaders in our group’s stories. They were all very unique to them. It was amazing to hear the amazing ways God showed up in their lives, whether it was through something big or small they knew God was there for them. As I worked throughout the week I saw God while we were working. We were all working in conditions that we were not used to. We all became tired and anxious for the work day to end, so we could relax. God gave us the strength to push through and finish our work wholeheartedly. We never complained or gave up on the task that frustrated us because we knew our work was for the Lord. Christ moved us all through worship and prayer. I knew God was present during our worship. I felt Him move us all as we sang. I have never seen so many teenagers feel so close to the Lord. We all became so confident in our relationships with God that we were able to discuss it with each other, which can be a difficult thing to do. Our trip to Puerto Rico helped me further and strengthen my relationship with the Lord, our God. It was a truly beautiful and moving experience.
