I felt a little closer to home this past week, as our speaker was flying here from Chico, CA! He is originally from Guatemala but was raised mostly in the states and is now working with the YWAM base in Chico. This week’s topic: The Character and Nature of God…very powerful week. We wrestled with a lot of tough questions, such as why is there such injustice in so many parts of the world if God is good? Why have we had pain in our lives if God loves us? Why is Haiti going through this nightmare? Carlos taught us something so important…we have to ask God these questions (not just people/books), search the scriptures, and not be afraid to question. I think the students (and staff) are processing through a lot of these questions in a new and more honest way than we have before.

Local outreach this week took place in downtown San Jose. We brought signs that said “Abrazos Gratis!” / ”Free Hugs!” and spent some time offering just that. Many stopped and wanted hugs, many smiled as they walked by, and many asked for prayer. It was a great time…I think the students were unsure of how this would go, and weren’t expecting so many people to take part in it. By the time we left for the bus ride home, everyone was in really high spirits and excitedly sharing their experiences with each other.

Some other moments from this week:

Coffee break mid-morning

Washing feet intercession time

Each Friday night we have an activity, and this week we had a Talent/No Talent show. The staff opened up with an interpretive dance to Lion King’s “Circle Of Life.” I know what you're thinking: Wow. It seemed to get good reviews from the audience. I realize that to be staff for DTS, you have to be willing to humiliate yourself sometimes. It’s just so much more fun that way. :)