I haven't blogged in a while because the last trip I did not have internet service. I visited Chicago Hope Academy and planned the June mission trip. While I was there, I learned about a gang initiation that had just taken place a few days prior: 17 shots, 17 deaths. This is a reality where some of these kids live. One of the male workers had a son that was shot.

Despite the reality of gangs and tough survival situations, the Chicago Hope Academy has one word that rings true: HOPE. These students have learned to succeed despite the odds against them. They have learned that there is a heavenly father that is always looking out for them. They have learned that God's path for them was planned before they were ever born. They are true survivors and examples of true HOPE.

The sweetest picture that reveals the community, love and relationship among the students was captured during the soccer game. One of the girls did not have shin gaurds or cleats and another team mate gave up hers so that this girl could play. What a story of Jesus in the skin among students.

From June 5th - June 11th I'll return to Chicago with a team that will work daily to improve their grounds. The students that attend Chicago Hope Academy will work alongside us. They will work to give back to the school that gave them so much HOPE. These students, that gave up prom to go on a mission trip, will work to improve their school with our team. Will they learn anything from us? I doubt it........I suspect God has alot in store for those of us blessed enough to go and serve. I suspect that God will teach us all about relationship. I suppose we will all be better off when we return than before the trip because we will all witness true HOPE.