We think too small, but God is so much Bigger

We completed the house yesterday.  We were all so happy. The sense of accomplishment was great. I had the honor of being the one to say a little something and present the keys to Orlin and Wendy.  

Along with some locals, Orlin and Wendy saw 10 of us missionaries from overseas work hard daily on building their house. They saw us smile, laugh , sweat and sweat some more. They saw us take some time out to play with the kids too. 

I made sure in what I said that I explained that even though he saw 10 of us missionaries that traveled thousands of miles to come and do this that there were at least 10-30 people behind every one of us that helped get us here, so literally hundreds of people came together under Christ to bless him with this home. Add on top of that the people at our church and his church that were involved this time and during prior years leading a path to this moment, and then there are hundreds on top of that. 

Orlin then said a few words and he said something like never in his wildest dreams did he think he would get a home like this. As he spoke more he gave the glory and thanks to God. As he spoke, tears welled up in his eyes and tears flowed down our cheeks. We stood there by two very grateful people.  He didn't think it was possible and he probably couldn't conceive of the work and grace others would have provide. Orlin, like most of us, thought too small, but his faith in the Lord was strong and Hid showed up in a BIG way. 

Wendy also thought small. On Tuesday, we found out that she was saving the last of her rice and 2 eggs so she could make a celebration meal for them when the house was done. The fundraising went so well this time that we were able to do so much more including bringing them bags of groceries. Eggs, juice, beans and other staples. Enough for many feasts (to their standards).  Wendy's faith is strong and bountiful blessings followed. 

Orlin works hard.  He literally digs and gets sand down by the river for a living. He earns $2 a day doing that.  In a prior year, a previous mission team saw him carry whole tree trunks on his shoulders. I am told he looked like an NFL linebacker he was so big and strong looking. Today, he is still strong, just much thinner. We suspect that the loss of weight has been limited resources. It's hard to feed and care for your family on $2 a day.  Still, Orlin and Wendy have been very faithful and connected to the church down here. 

I am told Wendy is shamelessly loud when praise and worship music plays. When it's time to worship, that she does. 

If you helped towards the mission this year, thank you so much. Orlin and Wendy are a couple of the people you made a difference in their lives. Even if your contribution was small, God made it BIG. If you listen to the Holy Spirit and you give in service and/or money, God will bless that action beyond what you think. 

God Bless,

Aaron Mason