100 Islands

Creation. What better way to see and experience God than to be wrapped in His beauty? This Monday the HSE team took the Pastors and their wives onto a boat, and over to see the Philippines 100 Islands! Even though the Pastors have lived in the Philippines their entire lives, few had ever gone to see these exotic islands. 100 Islands is seen as a luxury, and out of their budget from their humble lifestyle. This was truly a blessing for these Pastors and their wives to enjoy the beauty of their own country, and to fan the flames of the romance between husband and wife.

Upon arriving to one of the lush green islands, the HSE team and company explored the island and its crystal blue waters. To see the wives laughing and playing in the water, as the men admired them from under the shade of the cabana, was truly a heart warming sight. These men and women have dedicated their entire lives to the Lord, living in tin roofed homes, with dirt floors and concrete walls. They have gone without dinner, in order to feed others in need, even though they themselves are in the same situation. They have watched their churches turned to rubble by the seasonal typhoons, and have diligently rebuilt them without complaint. They have worn the clothing that has been patched and repaired for years, and have only adorned themselves with Gods strength and dignity. This is why, a day of rest to these wonderful and fearfully made people, meant so much to them and the Team.

After a fair amount of recreation, the group ate lunch as Joseph made an announcement. Prior to the outing, the HSE men had a meeting with every pastor. There, a list of needs and repairs for each church was formed. Praise the Lord, our God owns the cattle on a thousand hills, and His grace is sufficient to supply for all our needs. With prayer and U.S. fruit sharing opportunities, the pastors were blessed with supplies to repair and rebuild their churches. 10 pastors, 10 churches and a multitude of members will all see the love of God and His blessings in a tangible and real way.

The group then boarded the boat to move to the next island. There, the group of island hoppers took portraits of each couple, hiked up to the lookout point, and basked in the amazing sights and sounds of the island. Shortly after, everyone boarded the small wooden boat and headed back to the main island. With the wind at their backs, the ocean waters misting sun kissed faces, and the Pastors humming and singing familiar hymns and psalms, they made their way home.