Back on Home Soil Again!

Good-bye to Kona and YWAM and hello to Camrose again!
We left Kona a week ago Friday, saying our good-byes at an Olympic Opening Ceremony party (the only TV on campus), and at a frequent evening spot, McDonald's. Then we loaded up into a big van, and left for the airport amidst lots of hugs and waving good-bye. Hard to believe we were already leaving. The 6 six weeks seemed to fly by, at least from our end. We were kept constantly busy......down time was minimal!
It is hard to put into words all that we experienced.....it is so mulit-faceted. The volunteer work itself, the place where we lived, the worship experiences, the people we met and lived with, the places we visited on our own, and with the whole group, the Big Island landscapes, the ocean, hula worship dancing (!), learning more about ourselves, and growing closer to the Lord through it all. Early on I gave up trying to keep a daily journal, and just wrote on my calendar like I do at home. It's hard to keep up that pace and then write it all down! Of course, my camera is sort of like my journal so I won't forget too much!

It is good to be back and will be good to be at Messiah tomorrow to worship and connect with friends and my KidFEST (S.S.) family. When I worship in Kona (either outside at the church on the ocean, or in the oldest church in Hawaii), I think of everyone worshipping back in Camrose and I can get teary. Then when I am at Messiah again, I get teary thinking of everyone back in Kona! I am so blessed to have these special places and friends in my life. Like most of you do too.
The amazing, overwhelming thing is that wherever I am, I know that we are still worshipping the same God. What a tie! It keeps us close.

The Christmas decorations still need to be put away here, so I better get at it. Also my suitcase unpacking. It will take longer to unpack all the feelings and experiences.

I still would love to add some pictures to our blog, but first I will need to download them on to my computer. May God's grace and love surround you, wherever you are worshipping tomorrow, and as you seek Him out in your life each day.

Thanks for your prayers and support! (Lavona Broen called from Arizona yesterday and it was so good to hear from her. They left Kona just as we came and will be back to Camrose by the end of March.)

Much love and prayers,
Marlys

Last Day of Work - Unbelievable!

Our 6 weeks have just flown by! We have met amazing people, both Mission Builders and students and staff. The hardest part is the goodbyes. We are packing up our room, and tomorrow we will be renting the convertible and going around to a few last places.
God has been faithful to us here and we hear many stories of God's goodness. I think we need to do more of that at home, share our stories and what we are learning daily as we seek to grow closer to God.
Thanks to my KidFEST family who sent me a delightful card and picture! We are looking forward to being home again and seeing you all! Even in the snow!
Blessings on you for your prayers and encouragement!
It is time to get off to work now again!
Love and aloha from the Big Island!
Love, Marlys

Sunday Morning at Mokuaikaua Church

The past 2 Sundays, Kahu (Pastor) Derek has been preaching on Phil. 2:1-4, which has been very good. Yesterday he reminded us that we are the apple of God's eye, and have our security in Him, and our encouragement, no matter what we are doing. D.L. Moody said, "Be humble, or you will stumble." Good thoughts for working and serving here, or wherever God has placed us.
We attended the more traditional service. The choir sang (sometimes in Hawaiian!), and we sang an old song I hadn't sung for a long time.....
O we thank you for your kindness
O we thank you for your love
We have been in heavenly places, felt blessings from above.
We've been sharing all the good things the family can afford.
Let's just turn our hearts toward heaven and praise the Lord.

It just seemed to fit exactly what we are doing and have been experiencing with 70 other Mission Builders, at work, etc. Yesterday we went to Mile 88 beach. Last year there was lots of nice sand. This year almost nothing, just rocks and lava, and the beach got smaller the longer we were there! High, strong waves!! Beautiful! I went in and enjoyed them early in the afternoon, but decided to stay on the rocks later on! We got a lot of sun! Then last night we got a huge downpour. Inside our buildings it feels just like I am at camp!
The day before I was snorkelling with some others. That has got to be my favorite thing to do.....swim with the fish and the turtles. They are amazing! I just have to remember to keep breathing evenly and relax!
We have 2 weeks left. The time has gone by so fast.
I was thinking so much about home on the weekend with Breakforth happening. I pray that everyone who went came home renewed and more in love with Jesus.
Must get back to cleaning rooms!
Blessings and prayers, Marlys