Thursday - Hump Day

We thought this might be our last work day. Things have been moving along smoothly and were planning to leave a day early. This was not to be, and that is OK. We are called to serve and we will do so until the mission is complete. Below are a few pictures of the "Lawson" Bunkhouse where we sleep at night. This once was the education wing of the San Juan Church. Look closely and you will see the church in the background. The bunkhouse is named after Otto Lawson (the home repair coordinator) and his wife Darlene. Here is the touching part of the story. Otto and Darlene Lawson actually started this ministry at the Pharr/San Juan UMC. They belonged to a United Methodist organization called NOMADS (Nomads On a Mission Active in Devine Service). This group travels around the US in their RVS serving others. Otto and Darlene were NOMADS for about 5 years. They are from Northwest Iowa and wintered in Pharr, TX. While in Pharr they started the ministry we are serving. They built the facilities were we are staying inside the old education wing of San Juan UMC. In December Darlene was diagnosed with cancer and died in May. Our hearts go out to Otto and his family. Otto Lawson is a very special person to this team.

The men's dormitory. Otto designed the bunk beads so the lower bunk also serves as a bench.
One of the four-bed ladies suites.Brandy's black-out curtains.
This is what Brandy does at night. Crossword puzzles? Go figure.
The back of the house completed.
Brandy and Karl painting the last few pieces to trim.This kitchen ceiling is in bad need of repair. We took care of it this afternoon.

Otto, John, and Karl must be in very important conversation.

Here I am cutting backer board for the kitchen floor.

Here is Brandy stapling down the backer board. The kitchen floor is just plywood. The new floor will make it look really nice. We will finish the floor tomorrow morning.

Here is Juan Jimenez With our team He is the son of Maria who owns the house we are working on. Left to right; Chris, Brandy, Juan, Karl, Otto, and John. We are all friends. Before dinner Brandy lead our devotion. We discussed two types of mission. One to serve others with love and one to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ. We had another great discussion. After devotion we went to Willies Bar B Q for dinner. Otto came with us.

Today was homecoming at Alamo High School. They had a parade in from of Willies just for us.I had the beef brisket plate. It was great.
Romans 12: 9-13 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.