Day Four Update 4:15PM

We've returned to the hotel to rest up for a short time before we return to the church for tonight's concert event. After working through some issues, we were able to move the event to the soccer field located directly behind the church. In order to do it, our boys had to carry all of the staging equipment from the front of the church to the back in the middle of lunch. They did it without the slightest complaint and with great enthusiasm. (In fact, it was the boys' persistence that finally persuaded Pastor Dennis to let us move the venue to the back for tonight.)

Josh Irwin has been incredible on this trip. He has such a servant's heart and jumps in to help whenever needed. He handles every circumstance in stride with such a great attitude that his influence and leadership among our young men has been quite evident. I appreciate the role he has played on this trip.

I have really enjoyed seeing Matthew Akindipe step out. There is a fire in that young man, and to hear it and see it this week has been very exciting.

There is such depth to the hearts of our young people. As I listened to Christina Dilbone share last night and pray this morning, I am amazed at the maturity of her life and faith. At times, she may appear quiet and content, but she is a deep well indeed.

Katelyn Hopkins blows me away. What an impressive young woman. There is a dream in her that is so big, you can't help but see it. She has an infectious joy that spreads to everyone around her. I so enjoy watching her worship the God that she loves so deeply.

Caileigh Rugar always has a child in her arms. Her ability to love on the children of the neighborhood is so heartwarming to see. Every time I look at her (and I don't think I'm exaggerating) she has some child that she has cradled in her arms, hoisted on her shoulders, or sitting in her lap. So many of our young people have really taken time to love and invest in the children they meet. What a loving group of kids we have.

It's time to get washed up before heading back out. We'll update you on tonight's event when we return to the hotel. It will probably be another late evening.

Tell everyone at church tomorrow morning that we are doing well, that we love and miss them, and that we are accomplishing great things. They can be very proud of how this group is representing our house!