#konquerkentucky

The first week is officially over.

I couldn’t have asked for a better first team. The adult leaders were on point and the students were high performing; Amanda and I were blown away.

The students literally exceeded our expectations when it came to the worksite. We had daily goals in mind for them but it was up to the students to plan, set goals, and execute the work. We figured they would get the first deck mostly built by the end of the week. But no, not only did they build the front deck early, they completely framed and hung all of the joists on the much larger back deck in preparation for week 2. Their focus wasn’t on just finishing the task we gave them, they wanted to do as much as they could to lay a solid foundation for weeks to come. How great is that?

After a long week of hard work, Friday we finished at the worksite and drove to Natural Bridge for a hike. I was super concerned about this because Amanda and I tried to go last week but my knee just couldn’t handle the incline. So the plan was to hang out in the park and wait for the group to return. But if you know me, you know I’m stubborn so with the help of some hiking poles (Thanks Pastor Ken) and encouragement from the team, I made it to the top with very little pain! Some of the students were not used to this kind of activity or the elevation so it was a challenge for them as well. Bust like every challenge they faced this week, they persevered and finished strong! Then of course we headed to Miguel’s after for the most amazing pizza…

Our study this summer is on Daniel. My prayer is that these students leave here wanting to look more like Daniel because he strived to look more like Christ. Daniel and his friends faced all odds. They were taken from their home, made to serve other kings, pressured to conform, and punished with fire and lions when they refused. Despite all of the obstacles, they were bold and confident that God of heaven would provide them with wisdom, protection, and strength. I want these students to leave here, not confident in their abilities but confident that they serve a God who is able.

 

I’m sad that the first week was over but I’m excited to see what week 2 brings. Please continue to be in prayer with us for these students, the people we’re serving, and Amanda and I. Thank you so much for the prayers and encouragement so far!

 

Also, if you’d like to send us letters/packages/etc here is our address for the summer:

PO Box # 1380 Manchester, KY 40962