RENO DE JANEIRO!!!!!!

Today in reno: more canvassing, church cleanup, and lessons in Christian responsibility.

We started off the day at the Wess's house, a lesson about discipleship to start out the day. We learned that discipleship, which encompasses both conversion and spiritual growth, is an absolutely essential part of the Christian life. As we prepared, we were reminded that being ready to serve doesn't mean being perfect. Ministry is relationship oriented.

After, we went into canvassing. We did a good four miles today, not quite as much as yesterday. Our goal is to run completely out of invitations by the end of the week. Most of the people we have talked to while canvassing were receptive which is an encouragement.

Andy Gleiser's message carried a strong analogy. A farmer can have seeds, soil, water, and all the equipment, but the pants do not simply grow because he owns the right tools. He must put in the effort to begin the growth. God grows the plants, but the farmer must first plant and water. God can grow us spiritually, but only once we put in the effort ourselves.

After that message from Andy Gleiser, we went out to help around Calvary Baptist Church. After an hour or two of pulling weeds, raking, and cleaning shrubbery, the church grounds started to look good for the upcoming Easter events. It was very hot. Some may say TOO HOT.

Pastor Tilson was the one to give the evening message tonight. He reminded all of us about the personal responsibilities of the believer: Prayer, Personal Study, and Fellowship. 

As we hit the halfway point of our trip, the progress so far has been encouraging. A thought for the day: has the way I live improved the lives and spiritual walk of those I've talked to? Are you living in a way that's other's focused? Onward to the next day!

- De, Coop, and Collin