We're staying at CICRIN, a children's home on the island of Ometepe in Nicaragua. There are 17 children in residence. The base has several buildings, as well as a patio with nine hammocks. Some of the group have taken this as an opportunity to sleep outside. They have a view of the lake as they sway gently (or not gently, depending on the night) in the breeze. As a leader, it's really funny to walk down to the patio and see who has ended up in what hammock. 

There are roughly 20 other Americans there at the same time. We're struggling to find our place, as the other groups have already planned out several "felt needs" types of projects. The children are also on vacation this week, so we won't be able to help out in the classroom. The type of ministry available to us is the common everyday ministry. We'll be working in the garden that provides fruit and vegetables for the kitchen, helping cook and clean in the kitchen, and babysitting smaller children for the director. A few of the girls are struggling with this type of ministry for several reasons. One, it's not as glamorous as building a house or road. Two, it's more draining. After eight hours of working in a kitchen, you're going to be exhausted. Three, the children here aren't the typical "orphans in distress." They're healthy, well taken care of, and happy. Helen, the director, does an amazing job. 

It happens to every missionary. Our ideas of ministry is being challenged. Instead of saving the world, we're pulling weeds. Instead of healing, we're chopping carrots. So pray for us as God teaches what it means to do simple jobs in his name.