Joy Brigade Journal
August 15, 2024
Our day began with a thought-provoking devotional from Yolanda. She shared a story that illustrated the concept of God’s immense presence through the lens of perspective. Picture a father showing his young son a plane in the sky, which seemed tiny from afar but enormous up close at the airport. Yolanda used this analogy to explain that, just like the plane, God’s presence surrounds us, even if we can’t always see Him directly. It was a beautiful reminder of the depth and breadth of our faith as we embarked on our mission for the day.
Today’s adventure led us to the community of El Palmar, Las Vegas, Santa Barbara. Home to approximately 600 residents spread across 74 families and 80 homes, this vibrant area faces challenges like outdoor latrines and indoor wood-burning stoves for cooking. Trash is burned in the family yard, and the community relies on a spring 1 km away for drinking water, which, while potable, isn’t treated.
Here’s a rundown of today’s memorable moments:
- Robyn kicked off the day by helping a young lady understand bodily changes with Katie’s support. Later, she teamed up with Katie to assist a mother and her 4-month-old baby. Katie used a nebulizer to help with the baby’s respiratory issues.
- April brought joy to the children with engaging bubble activities, creating lots of giggles and happy memories.
- Louisa made an impression by giving stickers to several moms managing multiple boys. She also had fun observing which kids might be more inclined to get noisy.
- Reeves touched hearts by giving a sticker to a sweet little girl who, in turn, ran back to give him a sticker as a thank-you gesture.
- Shirley encountered a little man using walking sticks, who had fallen and possibly broken his hip. She was able to provide him with a referral for further medical care. Despite being homeless, he had found support from another local family.
- Alex had a bustling day in the dental clinic but still found time to do a little girl’s nails. She also taught a young girl how to make her own bracelets, passing on her crafting skills.
- Marc was moved by dentist Jaime’s dedication, giving away his Jesus Loves You bracelet and his cross to a boy undergoing a tooth extraction.
- John had a heartfelt reunion with Jose, a fellow volunteer from previous missions. He was impressed by Jaime’s commitment and enjoyed reconnecting with old friends.
- Teresa gave her cross to a 24-year-old mother with two daughters and a breastfeeding 1.5-year-old son. She also provided a referral for a concerning issue with the mother’s breast.
- Cate experienced a touching moment when her first patient of the day gave her an unexpected hug. She also donated her necklace to an elderly woman with two sons facing significant challenges. Both boys received referrals for additional support.
- Katie collaborated with Robyn to care for a baby, running a nebulizer to help with the baby’s breathing difficulties.
- Yolanda efficiently referred the first five patients she saw, ensuring they received the follow-up care they needed.
- Billy had a blast arm wrestling and sharing secret handshakes with the kids, making friends and spreading joy.
- Lindsay enjoyed the lively scene of Billy and Alex arm wrestling with the children, sharing in their playful energy.
To end the day, Billy read an evening devotional about strangers helping a man on a train, emphasizing 1 Peter 4:10 about serving others with our gifts.
Tomorrow we’re eager to continue our mission and make a difference in another community. Stay tuned for more updates on our journey!
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