Fantastic Time in Lenga

We loved being back in Lenga. Our main goal in going to the Philippines was to spend time with the believers in our tribal village, while teaching them the book of Hebrews. We enjoyed every second of being there!!

Meal at the church our first Sunday back.

We were welcomed with tons of hugs, and reminded many, many times during our time there how glad they were that we do not forget them and come back to spend time with them when we can. I wonder if they know we enjoy it as much as they do!?!?

I think the believers in Lenga should write a booklet on how to be good hosts. They must be the best in the world!! From the second we arrived until the moment we left, they made sure we were well taken care of.

Beautiful spot at the edge of our village.

We continue to be amazed at the beauty of their rice fields. 

My walk thru rice fields, over the brook, among the pine trees and slippery slopes, leading me to our airstrip (which the water buffalos keep mowed), brought back many pleasant memories. I love that familiar path!

The airstrip.

Coffee, grown in their front yards was always brewing on their wooden fires, and on the few breaks from that aroma, we enjoyed smelling their freshly harvested rice cooking away. Various greens from their fields completed almost every meal, but of course what we enjoyed most was just being with them while hearing how their journey with God has been going the past couple of years.

Since they had arranged for us to have our meals with a different family each day, spending time with them, as individuals, in their homes was so encouraging.  It was wonderful to see there are several people who are anxious to be taught and others who are excited to teach them.How thrilling to see how they have been growing in their walk with the Lord and their desire to see others come to know Him too.

Sitting in circles with the ladies while some were pounding rice; climbing the hills to their gardens or walking to their rice fields, all gave me opportunities to catch up with their busy lives.

In some ways things haven't changed much since we moved in, in 1981. In other ways, we hardly recognize the village - cemented pathways, a road to the village, wooden framed houses with tin walls and roofs etc.

Even though there are many physical changes, that does not change the reason we went to live among them. We wanted them to have the opportunity to hear the best news in the world, and for them to have the desire to continue to pass it on - whether we are living in the village with them or not - or how quickly their physical living conditions develop.

We enjoyed our fellowship with them, singing lots, sharing with each other and studying the book of Hebrews together. 

It was exciting to see them growing - our trip well worth it.