Day 4: 2025 Dominican Republic
Radical Generosity
We had another full day! Many of us woke up feeling the weight of exhaustion settling into our bodies, but despite our fatigue, we were excited to begin the day’s work at Mission Emanuel. Our morning started with hearing the history of the elementary school on the Mission Emanuel campus. It was incredible to be reminded that we are part of a much bigger story—one that God has been writing for over 30 years through a growing ministry that deeply loves the community of Cielo. We had the opportunity to step into a few classrooms and talk with the students. They asked us about our favorite sports, and we asked them about their favorite foods and colors. In return, they gifted us with a song in English, a moment that felt both humbling and joyful.
Back in the gym, we prepared for two rounds of Vacation Bible School (VBS). The first group of children were preschoolers, bursting with energy and excitement to see us. We sang a song with them in Spanish and reminded them that though our hearts are full of sin, Jesus, in His love and kindness, came to earth to die for us, offering the gift of eternal life and a relationship with our Father in heaven. We did a craft together and then repeated the same program with the older elementary students.
Meanwhile, our construction projects continued throughout the morning and afternoon. We worked on securing and building the footers of a home’s foundation. As we labored, we learned more about how Mission Emanuel partners with families through student sponsorships, which allow students to receive a discounted rate for their education.
At the end of the day, as we reflected on the relationships that have been built over decades and the many groups, like ours, that have come to the Dominican Republic to give, help, and serve, our conversations took a turn. We began to realize that we aren’t just here to give—rather, we are receiving in significant ways. Back home, our lives are often busy, distracted, and filled with wealth, ease, and comfort. But here, we have witnessed a deep gratitude and dependence on the Lord that can be hard for us to grasp. Dominican families have shown us a glimpse of true hospitality—welcoming 20 Americans into their homes, often without notice, never apologizing for messy countertops or unfolded laundry. Instead, they graciously receive us, accepting our prayers and presence as we sit in their living rooms.
We’ve also been warmly embraced by the skilled workers who labor with concrete blocks and heavy buckets. As 40 Americans clumsily fall into a line to pass materials, they patiently and generously include us in the process of building a home. In our culture, we often struggle to accept help or to be radically generous with our time and resources. But this week, these people have shown us the gift of a different way—one marked by grace, generosity, and an open-handed trust in God.
what we observed:
The energy, excitement, and delight of the children interacting with VBS
The love Mission Emanuel has for the community of Cielo
Deep gratitude and dependance on the Lord
Patience and the desire to include others from the skilled workers
HOw we saw god at work today:
Growth of the Mission Emanuel ministry - over 30 years!
Sharing worship in multiple languages
How God works through student sponsorships
prayer requests:
Energy to finish well
Eyes To see God at work among us
Joyful hearts as we serve