Costa Rica Mission Trip '24: Update #3

Saturday was a big day for the team. It was a day we have been praying about and preparing for months. It was our Park Day.

We were out the door at 7:30 AM so we could head to the park and set up. Our activities were supposed to begin at 9:00 AM, but people were already arriving at 8:00 AM when we got there. They had to walk a little over a mile to get there, plus an uphill climb to get to the area of the park we used.

These families live in small homes, their whole home size is comparable to an American living room. And they have as many as six or more living there. The homes are stacked with no green space so kids really don’t have a place to play. This was a very special day for them and the kids were so excited! Kasey, Brittany, Andy and Cam played with all the kids. They played soccer, parachute games and on the playground. You could hear the laughter and joy ringing throughout the park!

Claudia, Burnie and I spent time sharing our testimonies with the moms. The moms were engaged and felt they could identify with our team moms. We also shared the gospel with the moms. They heard of the hope that faith in Jesus Christ can offer. The atmosphere was open and we felt many wanted to accept Jesus, but there were many distractions. We know that seeds were planted and we have faith that Gods word did not fall on deaf ears.

We were also able to deliver another bed to a family—Myrna has 4 kids living in the home, one of which is special needs. Before we delivered the beds this family of 5 was sleeping on 1 queen and 2 twin beds—all had been on the floor. We were able to pray over the family and a young friend who was visiting.

As we gathered in Transforma's office, we celebrated Vanessa—Saturday was her birthday! What a blessing! Also a huge testament to her dedication working in the ministry and hosting us on her birthday. We shared our "WOW" moments for the day—there were so many. Moments of moms being touched and kids being loved on!

Cam shared a great word with us all about the power of water. It has been with us each day in the form of rain. But we are transformed by Jesus and He is our Living Water. Water is a blessing. Water brings life! We finished with a time of worship and sang in Spanish with the team.

It’s been a beautiful day. Filled with love, joy, and laughter. A day we won’t soon forget. —Kathy Reeves