Keeping in line with the ICMC theme “Here Am I, Send Me”, July 4^th was a day dedicated to HOPE worldwide’s program “A Lot to Give” in the Lower 9^th Ward of New Orleans. The day started at 6 a.m. (yes, A.M.)! It should probably be counted as a miracle from God that 1500 students were ready & waiting for the busses to participate in physically demanding jobs in the hot Gulf Coast weather after a late night lesson & long day of traveling the day before. The day involved clearing debris, spreading dirt, cutting grass, and picking up trash. Some of the owners of these lots were in danger of losing their property if this work didn’t get completed. Many of the families in New Orleans were scattered to all parts of the country after Hurricane Katrina, but several families returned just for this special day of seeing pieces of their past being put back together. Many city officials, politicians, and relief agency directors were on hand to show their appreciation for the efforts made that day. Even the charter bus drivers to who transported the students to New Orleans couldn’t stop talking about how grateful they were for the work that was done. We followed up the great time of service with a Saturday filled with lessons from leaders around the world. 

Today (Sunday) features a worship service and closing address by Marty Wilkinson, a newly appointed evangelist from San Antonio and a former member of our Houston Campus Ministry. Thank you for the prayers, encouragement, and financial support that you gave to allow our students to have an amazing and life-changing experience! It is our deep desire for the Houston campus ministry to a part of the campus revival sweeping through United States & the rest of the world. Just in the short amount of time we have lived in Houston, we are inspired & humbled by the way our students are taking ownership of their own ministry and their eagerness to allow us to be their leaders. May all glory be given to our great and wonderful God!