"Jesus is good and the devil needs his arm ripped off..."

"You have taught children and infants to tell of your strength, silencing your enemies and all who oppose you." Psalm 8:1

This verse could not be any more perfect to describe the last week.

We had the opportunity to spend the week at Southside Baptist Church providing a free Upward Basketball Camp for local kids. In the morning we taught the basketball basics (passing, shooting, rebounds...) and then we had a Bible story and discussion time before the kids could scrimmage--which was definitely the only reason they came back every day. Macy and I had the first and second grade girls and what a challenge they could be! They had so much attitude, sass, and energy! Our patience was tested and our eyes were also opened by our small group of sweet girls. Even when we didn't think they were paying attention in Bible Study, they always surprised us in our discussion. They answered all of the questions and always remembered the memory verse. A few of them even had questions about just how big and great God was and we got to answer them! Hearing their innocent explanations of God's creation and the simple everyday things they were thankful for made me really examine what I value. Rather than being miserable on rainy days (which we had a few of this week), we should rejoice! Without the rain there wouldn't be soft green grass and shade tress for us to enjoy on sunny days! Working with inner city students was definitely a challenge, but such a rewarding experience. I really saw that no matter what background a child may come from (Kanakuk families or families in South Jackson) they are all full of life and joy and a willingness to learn and soak up everything around them!

After basketball camp and lunch we went to We Will Go Ministries in downtown Jackson. There is a group of missionaries living in one of the worst parts of our state capitol who are daily ministering to the people who live there. They provide food and comfort to the people in need and they even have a church service on Sunday mornings! We had the privilege of helping them gut a house they recently inherited in preparation for the sheetrock man. We pulled nails and pulled down walls, we even pulled down a ceiling! Lots of manual labor on one of the hottest days of the summer, but so worth it! We also got a little preaching in from one of the women who started the ministry. She encouraged us to go out into our local mission field and make a difference. Spending time in this area of Jackson was another eye opening day. People live here in abandoned houses with no utilities and walls literally falling down around them. This incredible ministry is working to get these people back on their feet and to restore this community. They have a huge passion for the people of Jackson and are doing so many incredible things.

Friday night we had a worship service for the parents and families of the campers and it was a huge success! There were so many families there and they heard an incredible message! The week was great and hopefully we will have an even bigger turnout next year!

I was also the dog/housesitter for the Peacock's this weekend because Abby couldn't stay alone! Macy and I slept all day Saturday then laid by the pool! It was so relaxing to have a "Big Girl Day" to rest and recover from the last week. On Saturday night we had dinner at the boys house! Spencer and Chris cooked spaghetti and we brought the salad. It was so much fun and SO GOOD! We have such a fun intern family.

This week is super busy, I have three tests before we leave for the beach Thursday! Needless to say, Thursday cannot get here fast enough! After the family beach trip its off to StudentLife at the Beach! I can't wait!

Off to more studying...story of my life until Thursday-then I'm FREE!

Peace&Blessings