MISSION TRIP: DAY 5

Our theme for the week, inspired by Luke 4:18, has been “Annointed.” We we are greatful for one more full day here in Kansas City because we haven’t done a great job of unpacking the meaning of that theme with our teens yet. 

Today was our last day of service work, tomorrow we will spend time enjoying each others’ company by exploring parts of downtown KC, MO. Our small groups were split and served in the homes of local parishioners from the parishes who have been generous enough to host us this week. It was a blessing to serve the people who call these parishes home. We did seemingly insignificant jobs: weeding, cleaning windows, organizing kitchen cabinets, re-grading the ground around a foundation, etc... but we know that our presence was appreciated just as much, if not even more than the work! A trip like this allows teens an opportunity to have their eyes opened to the people who are right in front of them day after day. Sometimes we just need Jesus to rub some dirt on our bodies and heal our own hearts before we can be opened and more aware of the needs in our own homes and relationships. .

It is (or was, as it is now 12:09 am) the Solemnityof the Most Sacred Heart of our Lord Jesus Christ, so naturally we took the opportunity to reflect on the Mercy of Father and how much it is needed in our lives, especially as we prepare our hearts for the long journey back home.

Tomorrow we will tie up loose ends: being annointed, the grace given when we confront our ownfailures and short comings, the invitation to have our hearts and eyes opened to the needs all around us each day, and the power of our Lord’s mercy.

Please pray for us one more day! We can’t wait to show you the new hearts Jesus has given us.

More on that last thought tomorrow so stay tuned. 

Peace,

Zach Rawson

Director of Youth & Young Adult Ministry, Pax Christi