Hello Everyone,

We have continued to be amazed and inspired by all that we have witnessed this past week. From working with kids to painting and painting and painting, God has continued to bring us out of our comfort zones and equip us with patience, strength, and joy to complete our tasks.

Every night we have had the opportunity to listen as Joel (Sunshine Director) has challenged and stretched us to look beyond preconceptions of the inner city and fully open our hearts to the people we have been able to serve. Today, we had the opportunity to put these lessons into action as we handed out bagged lunches in the downtown Chicago area. We heard the stories of many homeless people as we showed them God's love through a sandwich, chips, fruit, and conversation. Through this experience we learned that even the outcasts of society are important as they were created in the image of God.

The picture you see was taken at the Sunshine Gospel Ministries summer day camp. Students working in this program were able to reach out to kids through drama, crafts, games, music, pudding (it's a good story) and dodge ball. The lesson for the kids was based on one way to serve. The lesson focused on Jesus washing His disciple's feet. Not only have we been able to help the kids, but they have taught us that the gifts of time and love and truly caring about others can go a long way.

We look forward to a day at the beach with the kids for the Peace and Sunshine Blast groups and more manual labor for the Yes! group. These will be followed by some sight-seeing downtown and then a hotel stay before the ride back home.

And for now, well, we're enjoying talking and packing and playing a good game of Apple, Apple Open, Open. We can't wait to share with you all the many things that we have learned through this experience.

His Clay,

Chicago Missions Team