La Zurza - Santo Domingo, DR

It had been pouring while we were on our way to this neighborhood that is home to one of the most impoverished people of SD. We weren’t sure if there was going to be any electricity at the church, if the weather was going to continue to be bad, or if people were actually going to be able to come because of it!

When we walked into church at first, everything was silent except for the bar across the road and foot traffic. But with every person we greeted, there was an atmosphere of anticipation, eagerness, and happiness growing. As we spoke to the children, their smiles and excitement broke me. We were just bringing some goodies, school supplies, candies + the Word. We didn’t expect anything in return, nor did we need anything!

But it is so true what it says in Luke - give and you shall receive. Our team went in there ready to give but oh boy, did we receive. I felt so much love, so much peace from these kids even though they have every reason to not be. They all have their troubles, broken homes and relationships, empty bellies and an individual story - and so do we. But guess what? They believe in the same God that promises you and me peace, love and faith beyond comprehension.

What they gave me that day is irreplaceable + unforgettable. And they don’t even know it.

You may be ready to give, but are you ready to receive? (at La Zurza)

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