Jamaica 2003, day two--Saturday, March 15:

"Well, the whole early beach thing didn't happen. Having not gone to bed at all Thursday night, we were all pretty worn out. Getting up was a little harsh. We had breakfast at the Big House and then went on to Hillview Baptist Church for a time of choral singing with the people. We worked on two pieces of music for about two hours before having a 'down home' Jamaican lunch of KFC & Pizza Hut! =) It wasn't exactly the Jamaica experience! After lunch, we spent a few hours at the Blossom Gardens Children's home. Romaine was my little buddy and spent most of the time contentedly sitting on my lap. The kids were again precious, yet their situation was SO sad. Romain kept grapping for me and sobbing as I left the home. Aaugh!!! Poor kid. I wish I could do something more for him...

[Doc, Ash, and I with the kids]

We had an incredible dinner tonight at the Big House of fish & Chicken (made by Gloria). Then, we had a concert at Hillview. It was such a great time of fellowship with believers of another background.

[Singing with the choir of Hillview Baptist Church]

Oh! Gaven flew in this afternoon right before we went to the children's home. It is so good to have him here. We're one step closer to being complete as a group again! We're still really missing Jess & Dave, though.

I am reading on in Job. He showed his angst and dismay at what he was going through, but he came to the conclusion that God can deal with him as He may. He is totally at God's mercy, so he is submitting willingly to Him. I need to spend time processing this concept. I'm not sure that I am at that point...It is such a profound and godly place to be. God, give me the strength to rely on your sovereignty in the same way."

[Looking out over Montego Bay after a lunch of patties and coco bread]