Christmas in Peru – Day 9

Buenas tardes! My name is Allie Anderson from Coppell, Texas. It is absolutely impossible for me to put anything I experienced on this trip into words, but I will do the best that I can.

This morning, after two amazing days spent in Cusco, the team packed up and squeezed in one last orphanage visit before our flight back to Lima. If we’re being honest, I was completely exhausted due to altitude sickness and lack of sleep, and was not in the mood to go run around with a bunch of kids. On the way there, I said a quick prayer and asked the Lord to give me some sort of strength to get through this last visit. Much to my surprise, it ended up being one of the most fun and touching experience I had had all week. He is capable of the impossible; of this I am most certain.

We spent some time with the incredibly sweet boys at Jesus Mi Luz, and there couldn’t have been a better way to end the trip. From the moment we first arrived at the orphanage, the boys (about 40-50 from ages 8-17) happily greeted us, then performed an amazing dance and song they had been working on for months. Within twenty minutes of being there, it definitely made the list of top five cutest things I’ve ever seen.

On top of the exhaustion, we were sitting outside in the 60-degree drizzling weather. This is when I met my new friend Julio. As soon as I sat down to await their performances, a little 8-year-old boy ran over to me and jumped on my lap with so much excitement and joy.
Besides the fact that he was super adorable and we became instant friends, we also kept each other warm in the cold weather. Julio ended up being in my group for the activities, so we spent the rest of the time hanging out, coloring, sticker-ing, playing ball, and learning our bible verse for the week, Isaiah 7:14. When the time came for us to give them their Christmas gifts and humanitarian aid, Julio wanted me to come sit with him so he could show me his box of goodies. He told me how much he loved them and very carefully looked through the box, oo-ing and aw-ing at each thing. He then put on his new slightly oversized ball cap, gave me a big hug and said “ciao, mi nueva amiga!”

It is truly a beautiful thing to watch these kids, for they are so full of love. Just a simple smile, hug, and piece of candy gives them the greatest joy. I am so thankful that the Lord has given me this opportunity to come to Peru and share His great love with those kids, and I will continue to pray for the work He is doing there.

I am forever changed by the children and people I have met in Peru this week. It’s truly incredible how God sends you to touch the lives of all these kids, and you end up being the one touched the most.

Christmas in Peru – Day 8

Good evening, my name is Darryl White from FBC San Marcos, Texas. Today a portion of our group took a side trip to Machu Picchu in the Andes mountains of Peru. What an awesome indication of the proof that God can do ‘anything’!! To be down in the valleys amongst the enormous mountains reminds me of the lows we may feel in our lives.


When we’re down in the dumps, for whatever reason, the promise of the rainbow is most reassuring. As it sprinkled on us during our trip to our destination, we were reminded of the tears Christ sheds for us as He endures our sufferings.
As we scaled the side of the huge mountain, step by step, our legs felt that they could not go any farther. It required lots of energy and determination to ‘go the extra mile’. Hmm, that’s what Christ did for us!! Thank you, Lord, for bringing us out of the valley and carrying us when we were weak. When one reaches the top and gazes out across the grandeur of one of God’s awesome creations, it truly is a breathtaking experience. When Christ struggled carrying the cross to Calvary, he surely had to be struggling to reach the top. Yes, it really was a wonderful experience and one we will never forget. We are truly blessed and thankful for the opportunity to serve our wonderful Lord and touch the lives of those here in Peru. Today’s trip can easily be described in this way, it was a ‘mountain-top experience' and “Today we walked where Jesus walked, and felt His presence there”! God Bless You

Christmas in Peru Day 5 - God had plans to change my mind...

This is my third trip with Buckner for “Christmas in Peru”. I have never been on a foreign mission trip other than to Peru with Buckner, so I am anything but a seasoned missions veteran. I have become familiar with the orphanages that Buckner supports in Peru, and I have to admit that I look forward to some more than others.
In all honesty, there were only two that I knew would be difficult, primarily because the children are overly active, exuberant and unruly. I know God loves them just as much as the others, however, we are always exhausted by the time we finish those two. However, God had plans to change my mind this trip.
The first home was a home for siblings, many of whom are mentally challenged. Last year my wife received a fat lip and a bite mark as momentos. This visit went like most of the others, with a story by Buckner staffer Giugli, followed by a VBS program and then the presentation of Christmas presents to the children. This year I spent time with Richard, who told me he was 25 years old and had been there since he was nine years old. He is mentally and physically challenged, but always one of the happiest persons there. He eagerly participated in the craft we were doing. This year he had the help of a young man of about fifteen, also named Richard. The younger Richard was one of the few children that seemed to have concern for the older, making sure he received all the supplies he needed and watching over him while he completed his project. He asked me to write a greeting on the older Richard’s card, then to my surprise asked me to write one on his as well. That kind of thing would have been too gushy for the other, more macho-acting young men in the home.
After finishing the VBS program, we handed out gifts to the children. I went and sat with the two Richards, again sitting together and showing each other what they had received. The older Richard received a nice ball cap with a team logo, sunglasses, a watch and various other small items.He was proud of his gifts. The younger Richard received a plain ball cap, sunglasses and a watch as well. They compared hats, and the younger Richard was genuinely happy for the nicer cap his friend had been given. Then he looked in the bottom of his box and realized it contained a New Testament in Spanish.

He pushed the other items to the side and pulled the New Testament out. He was so happy to have his own copy of the Bible. That was his favorite gift of all.
The excitement to have his own copy of God’s word was so apparent. I teach Sunday School to middle and high school students at home. I only wish I could instill a portion of that desire to possess and read God’s into my students back home in the states. Young Richard is a fine person, and I am honored to have met him. I cannot wait to return to this orphanage to spend time with the two Richards again.

The second home has about 90-100 kids from about 4 years old to early teens. These kids go crazy when we visit there, and it is a bit like herding cats to get them to stay in one location and participate in the programs. My gift at this home was Jaime. I recognized him as a child I should know from a previous visit, but could not immediately place him. My wife came up a few minutes later and asked me if I remembered him from our trip two years ago. We had met him at the boy’s home in Cuzco. He then was very small and unable to walk. I was allowed to carry him up and down the stairs to go to the various activities. Even though he was crippled and could not participate in all that the other boys did, he smiled the entire time and seemed very happy that we were there to visit and spend time with him. I helped him with his craft project also, because even his fingers did not work well. When we returned last year, I was disappointed I would not get to see him at the home in Cuzco, as he was no longer there.


This time, he was an entirely different child. He was walking, running and playing with all the other kids. I could hardly believe the difference. I had prayed for his healing so many times upon returning home, as I know all the folks in our group that year had done. He made quite an impression on all of us. God had allowed me to witness an answered prayer, a walking and playing miracle. I told him I remembered him from Cuzco and enjoyed seeing him again. Giugli told me later that he was so proud I remembered him. His smile was enormous. I also cannot wait to see him again at this home next year.
Each year as we prepare to return home, it is hard to leave hurting children behind. But this year will be a little different thanks to the two special gifts I received in my “Two Richards” and “Jaime.” I have truly received more than I have given.

by Kelly Culbertson

Simple things

Hola, my name is Lanie, and this is my second year to travel with Buckner on the Christmas in Peru trip. Through my experience on these trips, I've seen how actions that seem so simple can mean so much to a child living in an orphanage. A visit, a hug, a gift, a photo, or just spending time with them will leave memories that they will treasure.

When we arrived at the first orphanage we visited today, one of the young girls named Jackie came to greet and hug us. In her hand she held a photo. The photo was of herself and one of our mission team members from last year. She was looking for the friend who had spent time with her last year. A year later, she remembered that short visit and what it meant to her that someone would travel so far to see her and bring her a gift.

Later in the afternoon, we gathered around a make-shift outdoor Christmas tree at another orphanage to hand out gifts. One of our team members noticed a boy named Luis opening his gift and saw that as he rummaged through the box he found a letter written by the family that packed it. He pulled out the letter, along with the photo of the family, and showed them to his friends. One of the Buckner staff members translated the letter for him and asked what he would like to say to the family. He responded that he would like to say, "Thank you, God bless you, and Merry Christmas to your family." He showed us the gifts in his box, which included a watch, a baseball cap, and a t-shirt. Luis, who will soon be thirteen years old, said that he had never before had a brand new shirt. A generous family half way around the world took the time to pack a few items in a small box, and it touched the life of a young boy.

We've been reminded this week during our trip that Jesus said, "Whatever you did for one of the least of these, you did for me" (Matthew 25:40). The children we've been visiting are certainly some of the least in status, in possessions, and maybe in hope. But simple things like a visit, a hug, a gift, a photo, or just spending time with them can make a big difference in their lives.

Nievas

How do I put in words the feelings coursing through my heart to the very depths of my soul at this moment? Inside, I ache as I reminisce saying "Ciao" or "Goodbye." With one final hug, I let the little girl in the black jacket go and hopped on the bus with my team.

On the ride home, I couldn't help but wonder how many times others have abandoned this little girl . . . possibly with no goodbyes. Her name is Nievas. Eleven years old. She has lived at the orphanage "Nuesta Senora" for one year.


I dwell on Nievas' future for a moment. She has so much life ahead of her. With my arm around her the last half hour at the orphanage, I, in my VERY broken Spanish, shared with her as best I could the reason my team traveled the long distance to Peru to visit her - to give a gift and tell about our one and only Savior. Regardless of our language barrier, Nievas seemed to understand my fractured explanation. And the last phrase I left with her was "my heart goes out to you" to which she replied "the same to you also". . .

Now you may understand why my heart is breaking so.

As I leave Peru, I will not leave Nievas. I will continue to pray this short moment of time I was able to give to her will in the end bring her back to the truth of the One I live for and adore - Jesus Cristo. I pray He then uses her life to continue to bring Him glory in this both beautiful and desolate country.

Christmas in Peru Day 2

Hello from Peru. My Name is Dori Naivar and I'm from First Baptist Church of San Marcos, TX. What a blessing it is to be here at Christmas time and to be a part of such a wonderful mission.
This morning, Sunday Dec 4, 2011, we visited a home for babies ranging from under a month to 3 years of age. "Divino Jesus Home" The first part of our visit was spent just loving and holding the tiny babies. When I first looked into the small room with cribs lined from end to end against the wall, my heart just fell. I'm a mother and a grandmother. For a moment, I just did not know what my reaction was going to be. It only took a split second and I was in. I'm looking around and already other people on this trip had the babies in their arms and were rocking and holding and smiling at them. I walked and touched them and rubbed their backs, but really there was no baby left to be picked up. Then I saw my roommate, Ashley leaning over a crib, playing and smiling. I walked up to her and she said, "she won't let me pick her up" It wasn't just Ashley, it was anyone. She was the most beautiful little girl, a little under 1 year of age. Very small, with big brown eyes and dark curly hair. Her name is Bertha. We both stood over her crib and tried to coax her into coming to us. Every now and then, you could see a little bit of a smile trying to come through. But each time I reached for her, she would reach her hands out for a second and then pull them away and look at me with those big eyes. It was very obvious, she did not trust me. I stayed and played patty cake and anything else I could do to gain her trust. Then finally when I reached out to her and she reached out to me, she came with me. My heart melted. Is this what Jesus feels when he reaches out to those that he wants to help and they pull away many times? He keeps on reaching and reaching and telling them that they can trust Him. Every time He reaches out and they go to Him, oh the love that begins to flow. We then went on to play with the toddlers. Oh the minute the Christmas Box's came out the whole room filled up with even more excitment. It was obvious that many of those children, remembered what was fixing to happen, and they were bursting with joy. As each child was given a box, they ran off to sit down and open it.

They were loaded with clothes and toys. I sat with one little girl as she opened her box, "Ramonia" was so happy with the colors she had been given and the book to color in.

As she colored, I looked around and watched so many of the children playing with everything from bubbles to toy cars. Most of these children do not talk yet. Their shining eyes and smiling faces say it all. I am so happy that God has allowed me to see this. I want to make sure that the people that pack these box's know how much they are doing for these children.

In the afternoon we went to CIMA. It is a boys home, age 8 to 17. One of the first things that stood out to me was how polite these boys were, not only to us but to each other. Teenage boys with manners such as this, was amazing. I have worked with a lot of youth, and having 50 plus boys all in the same room, usually means that you are going to have some issues to deal with. Not one time did I ever see any problems between these boys. It was obvious they were a family. Each one of them has a different story. They have had to grow up too fast. But their eyes and faces are still full of love to share. Oh they were excited because they knew with out arrival and after the games and crafts and bible time, would come the christmas present.

But more than that, they wanted to entertain us. They played music and danced and had us dance with them and they were so happy to make us happy. They were thrilled to see us smiling when they played their music. God has given each one of these boys a gift much bigger than we could ever bring them. I could feel His presence in this place today. They do not know what gift it is He has given them, but He does and He has a plan and a purpose for each one of their lives. I think I saw a glimpse of it today as I watched them teach us. I cried many tears today and said many prayers over all of the children and now it was time for goodbye's. I hugged many as they continued to say Merry Christmas and Thank you over and over. As I walked up the hill to the bus, I turned and looked back one more time, wondering to myself, if I would ever be back here again. Then I saw "Joni", he had ask me to dance with him. He waved to me and I waved back. God then reminded me. "I have a plan for this child" Thanks for checking in with us, I know there are going to be more wonderful stories told on these pages, so pass it on. Blessings to you!!

Christmas in Peru-Day 1

Hello, my name is Marti and I'm part of the Christmas in Peru team. After arriving late last night into Lima, Peru, our team got started with ministry today. We have lots of ground to cover this week--14 ministry sites where we'll see close to 900 children and pass out Christmas gifts to each of them. We also have a VBS program, and today we tried it out in two different locations. Above, you can see some of our team playing with the children in Pamplona. The hills in the background are just a small part of this very large and poor community. Buckner has a community center there that works with local kids and families. Since it was my very first day in Peru, I was continually struck by the differences between here and home--the sights, sounds, smells, tastes, but also the genuine affection and gratitude shown by everyone. The people's joy is truly a testament that God is present here.

Our program included a craft project related to the Christmas story. These two boys, both named Sebastian, spent a lot of time coloring in the lines and adding glitter to their treasured art projects. I speak very limited Spanish, but nonetheless, I found it easy to communicate with these loving Peruvians. Smiles go a long way, art is a universal language, and today I found out that "tag" is a game all kids understand!

This sweet girl, Pilar, is hugging the Christmas present she received. These presents were purchased, packed, and sent ahead during the summer months by many different churches and individuals. Our team had the privilege to pass them out and see the looks of anticipation on the children's faces as they came forward to receive their gifts. As you can see, Pilar has not ripped into her bag (the way I've seen other kids do it at home!) but she has carefully looked through it and packaged it back up. The bright smile on her face tells the story of someone who has received the greatest gift ever. Let us remember that we have all been given the greatest gift ever as we celebrate His birth into the world.

Honduras SOS Day 1

As soon as we landed today, we had a super quick lunch and then we were off to visit our first orphanage. Today was definitely a first for me; and I think it's safe to say it was for most everyone here. Today we met the children at a private orphanage that cares for orphaned children living with AIDS.

At first glance, it looked like any other orphanage I've been to in the last 4 years. But when we entered the building, the first thing we saw was the mural (for lack of a better word) below:

The mural on the wall are the children's hands with hearts painted inside them. If you look closely, the ones with crosses above their hands or painted next to the heart are the ones who have passed away....

Needless to say, most of us were a little shell shocked. I looked at the wall and then spotted Mary, crocodile tears streaming down her face. As I turned around, Mike was standing to my right in pretty much the same condition. All he could mouth was "Emma." Emma is his niece and could have easily been any of these children. Because at first glance, they don't look sick. Most don't know they are sick! And they don't understand why they feel badly sometimes. We actually had to be done and headed out exactly by 4:30, because that's when dinner is served, and the medicine is administered. They cannot deviate from this schedule.

On days like today, I simply remember that we serve a sovereign Lord. I can't answer the "whys." And I'm too tired tonight to even try. But I believe Him. I trust Him, and I praise Him. Because there is coming a day...every tear He'll wipe away. There'll be no more sickness. And no more pain.

This was the only orphanage that we visited today. We were there for several hours, and had fun playing with the kids. We played lots of "hot potato"...balloon style. Many bubbles were blown and chased, as well. We also all passed around little Denzel (yes, as in Washington) as if he were a newborn at a family reunion. He was absolutely adorable!

~ Carmen

Peru SOS Day Eight

Hey guys, my name is Megan Levers, and I live in the Dallas area. When I found out about Buckner going to Peru, for some reason, I just knew that was where I was supposed to be. I had never been on a mission trip to a foreign country, let alone by myself. I feel so blessed that I did though, because I had to put complete trust in knowing that I was in His hands.

Fortunately, that was what the VBS story centered around at the homes we visited, so I felt especially sincere in the message we were sending to the kids. We were there to not only provide the children with the material, but also the emotional support, never letting them forget about God's love for them. This trip was so beautiful, but it's hard to express in words the things I experienced this week; How I couldn't have asked for a more loving, supportive, and genuine group of people found in our Peruvian staff. How the simple act of painting a young girl's nails brought such joy in being attended to. How the tighter squeeze in holding hands or receiving a hug spoke louder than words. How saying goodbye to each child at each home slowly broke apart your heart. How such unimaginable poverty did not crush the spirit of its inhabitants or how some ancient buildings in the Andes could literally steal your breath away. I quickly understood the intense magnitude of God's love for his creation, and how much He wants us to love Him in return.

All of God's creation deserves compassion, and I pray that the children we served will not forget that the love we showed them was not our own but glorified through God. There's beauty in freedom even if one doesn't have it in a physical sense. We are free to love God and to find joy even in the worst of situations, and I will always remember the beauty of so many kids yearning to experience it. I pray in their darkest nights and loneliest hours that they will think of the proof that love is real, that it can be found through Him, that they too can look upon God's giving hands, in a shoe print. I will never forget the children I met, Peruvian staff, or the group of fellow Buckner team members who will all be leaving Peru with their hearts in the hands of 800 kids, their stories forever in our thoughts.

I'd like to close with a quote I heard during the week, "Hope is the unlikely, even the impossible, becoming absolute" (Patsy Clermont). I pray that if the kids I met got anything from our time spent with them besides a new pair of shoes, that it was the hope that comes from living in the hands of God.

Peru S.O.S. Day Four

Hola!

This is Shannon and Chelsea, and we are co-blogging. (: Our day today was very exciting because we got to hold babies. First we visited the Reyna de la Paz home, a home where very young mothers and their children live. The girls were teenagers and many were victoms of sexual abuse. When we first arrived there, it was like a community. When we greeted the girls our first thought was shock. Here were these girls, who are our age living a completely different life. You could see God working through these mother's hearts however, because despite the situation they were in, they had smiles on their faces and greeted us with open arms. One of the girls told us her story. She got pregnant at 16 years old. After her baby was born, she lived with the father of the baby who was in his thirties. He would beat her and that was when she came to live at the Reyna de la Paz home. Hearing this, we felt so much compassion towards her. We couldn't even imagine what she is going through but we pray that God will show her his amazing love and heal her brokenness.

The second home was amazing. The children run up to you the moment they see you and cling to you so tight, it's hard to breathe. It makes you feel special in a way because you are sharing that moment with these orphans who will never forget it. The most important thing to these children is to feel loved and accepted and hopefully we achieved that today through teaching the word of God. We asked them if they knew they were in God's hands and they all replied in unison, "si." We were grateful that the kids knew God has the whole world in his loving hands and they are not forgotten.

It was a blessing to be able to share God with these children and seeing their compassion for him. As we continure to pray for them we hope they continue to grow in theeir relationship with Christ. It was a great experience that we will never forget.