Day 6 | Sent, Sandcastles & A Sweet Slice of Joy
This morning’s devotion gathered us around Exodus 3 and the story of Moses—one of the greatest reminders that sometimes, like Moses, we wish God would just send someone else. But He calls us. He sends us. Not because we’re the most qualified or the most prepared, but because He’s the one who goes with us. We have been enjoying making fires in the fire place more and more (never been used on a Storyhill trip before) and it’s a sweet reminder of God’s goodness in the morning and at night.
After breakfast, our team spread out across the property for a special hour of prayer. With prompts for each age group and for the surrounding community, we walked the grounds, sat on steps, leaned against walls, laid in the grass… praying over the boys who have become so dear to us this week. These buildings are more than brick and pain, they’re a safe haven, a training ground, and a reminder that God loves these boys fiercely.
We then enjoyed some rare downtime. Some chose a much-needed nap while the rest of us bravely signed up for Allison’s dance class to prepare for tonight’s big dance-off at the pizza party. The “God Is Dope Crew” may not have a lot of rhythm but we know how to have fun. If there’s one thing this week has taught us, it’s that joy and laughter are just as holy as paintbrushes and prayers.
Lunch took us by surprise in the best way: Thai noodles! It was an unexpected twist and a fun taste of home with a Bolivian touch.
With bellies full, we loaded the bus alongside the Pequeño and Naranja dorms and headed to the park to celebrate two precious seven-year-olds’ birthdays. The sunshine, laughter, volleyball games, and birthday cake were reminders that sometimes ministry looks like sitting in the grass and letting yourself get buried in sand by giggling boys. These moments matter. These memories stick.
Back at the BLC, we cleaned up just in time for one of the most anticipated nights of the week… our end-of-trip pizza party. There’s something so special about sharing pizza with these boys and the dedicated BLC staff, gathered like one big family in the cafeteria. And then…the dance-off began! Each dorm had worked so hard to choreograph a routine, and we were blown away by their confidence and creativity.. the Grande’s even included a Tik Tok dance by Forest Frank. It was pure joy to watch them lead, perform, and cheer each other on. Us Gringos even joined in, thankfully, our enthusiasm made up for our lack of rhythm!
After the dances, the Grande’s led a worship song that moved seamlessly from English to Spanish — a powerful moment of praising our good God together, side by side with these young men we’ve grown to love so much.
When the little ones headed to bed, the older boys set up an art sale and auction to showcase their incredible talent. Some of their pieces sparked a friendly bidding war. Two team members tied for the highest bid on one piece and settled it the only way that made sense… an arm wrestle! Laughter filled the room and it was such a gift after a week that has carried its share of heavy moments.
Our night ended the best way it could, with our team circled up to debrief around the fire. We opened letters from friends and family back home, words of encouragement and love. The tears were good ones… grateful ones.
Tonight we’re going to bed reminded that God doesn’t ask us to be ready—He asks us to say yes. He asked Moses to go, and He asks the same of us: to show up, love deeply, and trust Him with the rest. Thank you for sending your love, your prayers, and your words. They’re carrying us all the way to the finish line.
—
With love from Bolivia!
2025 Storyhill Bolivia Team
