Our lesson today was about God being our shield and protector. Even though it was very rainy during our time at the park, some kids still showed up and had a lot of fun. We made shields and had a water balloon fight as a visual example of God’s protection, with the shields representing how He protects us from harm just like they protected the kids from the balloons. Other than our lesson many people made bracelets, played soccer, and connected with each other during our time there.

The “Polar Bear” park is going well. Many regular kids who have been great to play with and engage in our daily lessons.  They really appreciate the edible crafts.

Jesus calls Himself the Good Shepherd—the one who lays down His life for His sheep (John 10:11). In a world of hired hands and broken promises, He is the one who stays, searches, and saves.

On Sunday the team was commissioned, packed up, and headed to the airport.

Sunday morning (July 27th) marks a beautiful moment in our church’s journey as we gather to commission the Alaska Missions Team, sending them off to carry the knowledge, hope, and love of Jesus to communities far beyond our own.

This Sunday, our missions team will be heading to Alaska. As we go, we’re trusting God to guide our steps and use our time to proclaim the gospel.

The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork (Ps. 19:1). The beauty of Mt. Denali which was our glorious view this morning was only overshadowed by the praises of the team to Him as we reflected on His work in us and in the park this week. This morning we enjoyed a worship service together in the small town of Talkeetna which is near Mt. Denali. We were so grateful to the Lord for the opportunity to stop and reflect on God’s goodness in this team of people that He brought together to proclaim His name in the parks and encourage believers over the past week.

What a great week at Russian Jack park! Today our lesson was on prayer. On our last day and last week of Graceworks ministry, we wanted to leave the kids with the truth that Jesus is always with them, always listening and caring, wanting to hear from them. He wants to hear whatever is important to us. He wants to be our best friend. Please pray that these kids grow closer to Jesus. They were hungry to hear truth. Living Hope kids and families donated to purchase Bibles. We brought about $300 of Bibles and children's books like Stormie Omartians book What happens when I talk to God. We gave all of them out to kids! It was the greatest joy for each of us to have gospel conversations while making bracelets, coloring, in line for foursquare, kickball etc.

Hey everyone! Today was a busy day for us, but it was full of opportunities to talk about Jesus and build deeper relationships with those we have gotten to know. Today's lesson focused on sharing the gospel with others while making it clear and concise for those not following Jesus. We incorporated beach balls with images depicting God creating the world, the fall, and Jesus' redemption for those who repent and accept him. These were used for both the lesson and the craft for the kids afterward. As usual, we played games and hung out with the kids until we returned for dinner.

Today’s lesson featured an interview with a “special guest” - the Apostle Paul - speaking from house arrest in Rome. After reminiscing about witnessing -Stephen’s fearless proclamation of the Gospel, Paul recounted how Jesus changed his life, and shared scrolls with this message to the kids:

Today was a full day. The sun came out, and with the sun came the kids. At one point, we had over 40 kids at the park. Surely, God is moving among us and through us. The energy and enthusiasm from everyone on the team has been amazing, and I’m thrilled to share how things are going.