Day 2

Morning arrived way too soon but proved to be the start of a glorious day. We began by attending service at Oleo del Goso Church. We were all blessed by the presence of the Holy Spirit during praise and worship. What a joy and privilege that was as we sang The Power of His Love while reading the Spanish on the large screen. Pastor Picota played the bongos; his son plays guitar, keyboards and drums. Our hearts were touched by witnessing first hand people of another country, another culture worshipping the SAME GOD we do. It was a huge blessing to be moved by the Spirit when we didn’t even understand the words. Except for Mayra, of course, who was blessed to be worshipping in her native tongue.

Then we received our next blessing when ministering to the children of Oleo del Goso church with crafts, songs, puppets and an acting-out of “Jesus Feeds the 5000.” We were touched by how we were able to really connect with the children without speaking the same language but through the language of Christ’s love. They gave us many touching hugs and ear to ear smiles. One small child, Monica, even declared Betsy her mother; much to the chagrin of her real mother who was standing behind them.

The church members were not in a hurry to leave when the service was over. Many stayed to eat and to participate in discipleship classes and to fellowship. The ladies of the church prepared a home-cooked meal right there at the church. We were fed Panama style potato salad, rice, and meat cooked with lots of cilantro. Muy Bueno!

Back at the hotel we rested and then began planning and adjusting our programs for the next day. We had a delicious Panamanian Dinner at a restaurant in a nearby mall.