SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador July 27,2008 — Today our group woke up early, ate breakfast and started ministering to people early. When the day began, we knew it would be very demanding as we would be going to two different impoverished communities to spread supplies, love, and the truth of Jesus Christ. At both locations, a magic show was performed, a skit was perfected and supplies and goodies were handed out. The joy the kids took in simple face painting, stickers, and balloon animals was breath-taking. At both locations, the spirit was alive and moving through the people. It was very encouraging to see how much all of these people feel blessed despite having nothing.

SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, July 27, 2008 — Many of the amazing things that happen during a missions trip happen to the volunteers. A volunteer today told us the story of one child that truly touched her life today. As she was handing out food supplies to families, she gave food to one woman and told her “Dios te bendiga” (God bless you). The woman kindly returned the phrase and told her toddler son something that the volunteer did not understand. The child leaned over and kissed the GAiN volunteer on the cheek. Our volunteer stated “she was about to melt” and “wanted to pack the kid in [her] suitcase and bring him home”. While it may seem that we do a lot of blessing people, it does not compare to how God blesses us in return. Having the opportunity to see people who have nothing pour out love to others is a blessing that truly touches the heart.

SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, July 27, 2008 — Part of our message today included a short sermon by one of our team members who happens to be an ordained pastor. At the end of the sermon he felt compelled to ask the people if they believed that Jesus Christ could heal people if they had the faith. A few replied and he asked them to approach the front where we were standing. While the GAiN volunteer was praying over the few individuals, our translater continued to call hurting and sick people to the front so we could pray for them to call out to God with them and see that he is a mighty healer. A couple team members stated that they felt their hands burning as they were praying for the people. Our group’s pastor told us that when that happens, it is where faith and life come together. Faith that the Holy Spirit can move and heal us meeting the life that includes so much pain. Our translator told us that one of the ladies had lost her chronic back pain. Our translator also told us that she loves seeing this from people who come. Many humanitarian organizations come and give food and supplies, but the groups from the Global Aid Network and Convoy of Hope come and bring the message of truth that can heal a wounded soul.