The Power of Prayer

Today, my morning started out a little differently than the previous ones this week. Last night, Grace, Courtney, Kayla, Elise, Hannah Halleckson and I decided it would be fun to sleep outside on the trampoline here at Casa Buena. We brought out all our blankets and pillows...the whole shabang. Needless to say, I didn't get the best night's sleep. Haha. But it was super fun to lay out under the stars and have some girl time in MEXICO! Anyway, after literally jumping out of bed, we headed off to the Ranch. We usually start right in on the work, but this morning, Peter took us up on the mountain behind the ranch and shared his testimony. It was extremely moving and made today's labor much more meaningful,  knowing the story behind what brought the Gatto family here to LaPaz. Along with our entire team, a man named John was with us on that mountain. He checked in to Casa Buena last night and had asked if he could come to work with us. He was awesome to work with and it was great getting to know him a little bit. Today was Meagan Gatto's 16th birthday, so while she and her mom were out celebrating, we got everything ready for her surprise party this afternoon. It was a great oppertunity to serve the Gattos in this way, when they are constantly taking time to serve everyone around them. After all was in order for the party, we went back to Casa Buena for lunch, devotionals, and pool time. One of my favorite parts of this entire trip has been our small group discussion groups after devos. Doing this has allowed me to become closer with some of the girls I didn't know as well before, and also provides a daily support group where I know I will be lifted up and encouraged. In my group, we've been talking a lot about the power and importance of prayer. It's really had an impact on me and I can honestly say I am a changed person because of  it. Over the course of the past week, I've been praying a lot more. And it's not even like I feel obligated to, but I WANT to! I feel intimately connected with God in a way that I've never experienced before. He is truly transforming me and teaching me the importance and benefit of spending time with Him. I'm so thankful to be in Mexico, and am blessed to be able to serve here. Thank you all so much for your prayers for our team...we feel them daily and need them!
Aubrey Martin