“The Bamboo Effect”
Worship was good today. Brian led us in reflecting on spiritual growth and doing a spiritual impact study. The results of God’s work in our lives aren’t always immediate, but something is always growing and developing beneath the surface. He shared the example of the Chinese bamboo plant.
In the first year, nothing happens—no growth at all, even with the perfect conditions. The same happens in the second and third years. The fourth year finally comes, and you still get nothing. Then, in the fifth year, the bamboo shoots up 80 feet in just six weeks. Why? Because all those years were spent building a strong foundation underground. God is preparing us in the same way, ensuring our foundation is solid and firm before we experience exponential growth.
Today’s pocket reminder was fitting: a piece of Chinese bamboo. The scripture we focused on was Galatians 6:7-9: “You reap what you sow.” It’s a call to remain faithful even when the results of our efforts are delayed. Brian reminded us that you can’t take a long flight with a small plane on a short runway. For the long journey, you need a big plane and a long runway. So don’t grow weary—stand firm. God’s timing is perfect, and He will not be mocked.
“Keep your finger away from the blade and bring your own skill saw.”
Those were a couple of takeaways from our first session at Mini Mission 1 today, and they’re good advice for anyone handling power tools.
Lunch was at Pan Am again, and we’re so blessed to use that space each day this week. God is good.
Back to our assignments. It’s truly amazing how fast the Chavez Family home has come together. In just a few days, we’ve gone from a concrete pad to framing, siding, roofing, painting, electrical, insulation, and drywall. Talk about a group of men on a mission!
It’s incredible to see the talent God has blessed so many of these men with and how they’re using those gifts to glorify Him and spread His love. Today, there was a truly special moment with the Chavez family’s daughter. She told us how a year ago, she found a key with the number 5 on it. She saved it and made a wish that her family would one day have a home. Today, when Josh handed her the key to their new home, it had the same number 5 on it. That moment reminded me of how God is always working, even in the smallest, most personal ways.
Dinner tonight was a treat—Texas Roadhouse steaks hit the spot. But the real highlight came back at Faith Mission when we got to hear from Cody.
Cody shared his testimony, speaking about unchecked sin and how easy it is to fall into sinful desires. He reminded us of Romans 6:23: “The wages of sin is death.” Too often, we mold scripture to fit our lives rather than molding our lives to follow Jesus Christ.
Cody talked about how sin had him on a leash, guiding his life and pulling him farther away from God. Through the support of Christ and his brothers in Christ, he was able to draw a line, cut that leash, and allow God to work within him. He reminded us that life is so much better in the comfort of Jesus than in the wilderness of sin.
Hearing Cody’s story was powerful—a reminder of how good Jesus is and how He works through our lives and the lives of our brothers.
Day 4 was full of moments that left an impact, both on us and the people we’re here to serve. I can’t wait to see what God has in store for us tomorrow. Time for bed—good night, everyone.