Destiny Village

This summer I was given the opportunity to stay at Destiny Village for 5 weeks. I had been to Haiti before but never for that extent of time. I didn’t know exactly what would take place or what God had in store for me, but I knew that God called me there for this time and purpose.

I had a divine appointment waiting for me and I was ready to be God’s carrier of love, joy, peace, and hope - God’s servant.

Every morning I would get ready for the day then go outside to play with the kids. I truly enjoyed getting to know them better by discovering each of their different and unique personalities, learning their likes and dislikes and having some of them share what they would like to be and do. The fun would never end! Staying a month in Haiti, I not only got to spend more time with the kids, but I was able to see a lot more of what goes into Destiny Village. It was much different than just coming for a week then leaving, there is a lot of preparation that comes along with it. This time I had the chance to help prepare for and host the groups arriving, along with Rick, making sure they had everything they needed and had the best time while visiting Haiti. I also got the opportunity to set out food, every night, for the kids and workers for the next day and to go grocery shopping or run other errands for things that we needed. As well as, had the privilege to lead some devotions and speak at the Wednesday service for the kids and workers that really stretched me personally. 

With the groups we were able to go to villages that we never had been to before. Some brought great adventures while others truly just touched my heart. One of the adventures was where Rick, a couple of the boys from DV, and I went to go find this lake that we were told was only about 5 minutes away. In reality, it ended up to be 1 ½ hours away but when we made it and discovered it wasn’t a lake at all but a beautiful natural spring! The water was fresh and cold! We walked down following the spring all the way back to the church! It was a fun experience that you don’t get to do everyday!

Another experience, that touched my heart, was when we were walking through a neighborhood up to a church and out of no where a little boy came along side me and grabbed my hand. This was definitely a God moment to show His awesome love, for me. Without seeing or knowing each other, he sat with me in this church and remarked about my bracelets and I commented on his, despite not speaking the same language; I just held him in my arms and prayed over him. He was so adorable. Then as the group headed back down the hill we began to walk down together, but before we left someone gave me a wet wipe to wipe my hands and instead of using it for myself, I wiped his face, arms and legs off. I was able to see him again when we went up another time and he remembered me. His face never leaves my mind, even till this day. I will soon hold him again, I pray.

Going out into these villages, you really get to see what miracles the kids at Destiny Village are. God literally hand picked them out and planted them at Destiny Village where they’re fed, clothed, sheltered, given gifts, and loved individually. Where once they were lost and had no hope now are found and kept safe where hope is given daily and dreams are fueled. It is an awesome sight to behold. The kids are full of laughter and joy not worried by the weight of the world. They live a life of joy - Gods joy and love. I will not be surprised and can not wait when these kids take over Haiti for God’s glory and I am glad I could be a small part of that growth and making.  

            Thank you, family and Destiny Village for allowing me to go, with blessing, to Haiti. My love has grown deeper for the kids at Destiny Village and my prayers even more earnest for their mission.