Day Five

Today we were back at it here in Liberia traveling many miles to continue our pursuit of relationships, learning, and growing closer to Christ. Two of the three groups went to schools that were outside of Monrovia. It took over an hour and a half to get there by van. Getting outside the city, we were able to see more of rural Liberia. The children and teachers at these schools get less contact from trips like ours, so it was a blessing to be able to spend time with them, bring gifts, and experience community together. Here is a run down of what all three groups did: 

Group One went to a Christian school in Totota. This was the longest trip we’ve taken yet. It was a 2.5 hour van ride. We cram as many people in the vans as possible to ensure we maximize our efficiency when traveling. You can imagine 13 college football players in a 12 passenger van with spotty AC for that long of a ride became rather uncomfortable. It was worth it. The kids at Totota were thrilled to have us. It took them awhile longer to warm up to us as they don’t see white people as often as some of the kids in the city. Our guys were fantastic and before long, the kids were holding our guys’ hands, asking to be lifted up, and playing games with huge smiles. In our debrief sessions, the players continue to share how impacted they are by time spent with the kids. Their joy in the simple things is something we continue to be inspired by. 

Group Two traveled to a Christian school in Kakata. This took a little over an hour and half. Again, we were a little pressed for space, but the conversation with the Liberians traveling in the vans with us made time go quickly. We brought with us two teachers from the main school at One Body One Hope’s main campus to check in on things at Kakata. We love engaging in meaningful conversations with our Liberian brothers and sisters on these long car rides. We try to invest in their stories. We learn about their experiences in everyday life, how they were affected by the civil war, and how the Ebola outbreak impacted their lives. We have been blown away hearing how so many people in Liberia have been through so much, but their reliance on the Lord has remained true through it all. We are inspired to reach their standard in this regard. Once we got to the school, we gifted the kids with soccer balls, footballs, and some jolly ranchers. The kids also had a welcome program prepared for us. They presented a skit of the Good Samaritan story, sang us songs, and recited scripture for us. It was impactful for us to welcomed so warmly. After the welcome program, we played soccer, kickball, and lapa outside with the kids. More beautiful time shared with our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Group three went back to One Body One Hope’s main campus to continue helping with the church project. The trench was dug from the group yesterday, so they began the concrete work. Mixing sand, quikcrete, and water together, we worked to get the substance together that would be used to pour the pillars to support the walls and ceilings. Again, the heat and humidity took its tole. Our guys will be leaving a lot of sweat behind in the African soil. It’s inspiring to see how hard they work on these jobs. It’s clear they are here for a purpose and want to fulfill the work God has for them here. 

Our debriefing sessions in the evening have been incredible. We spent last night debriefing on the beach. There is a picture attached to the blog so you can get an idea. It was an especially powerful time spent being vulnerable together as the sun sank behind the horizon, and the rhythmic sound of the waves rolling to shore filled our ears. None of us really wanted to leave, so the evening turned slowly to night. The stars here shine big and bright. As we stood in awe of the dark canvas adorned with thousands small lights, we were reminded that the same God who is with us on the football field in Sioux center, is with the people of Liberia on the soccer fields. The same God that we worship in the BJ Haan auditorium at Dordt is at the center of praise in the Liberian churches. What an amazing opportunity for us to come together with believers on the other side of the world to worship the one true God. We were given a beautiful reminder by the one who breathed the stars into existence that no matter where we come from, we are One Body of believers unified by the blood of Christ.