March 13, 2008—it felt like an eternity waiting for that day to arrive. We had planned to go back to Honduras since the day last year when we said our good-byes and left the orphanage in tears as the children waved us off. We started off our senior year with about $5,000. Our goal in order to make the trip possible was about $18,000. As much as I had wanted to go back, doubts formed in my mind as the dismal reality of our low account sank in. Our goal wasn't being met as quickly as we had anticipated, but the donations slowly came in as we continued to ask the Lord for His guidance and moved forward with our plans.

I kept questioning whether or not we'd really be able to make it back to Honduras, but as our deadlines arrived, so too did our funds. The funds had not only come in on time, but they continued to come in clear to the day before we left! When I found out how much money had come in, I realized the Lord had not only provided for us, but that it was in His will for us to make this trip a reality.

It had been almost exactly one year since I had gone on my first mission trip. Through God's incredible plans, I found myself, along with the rest of my class, boarding the flight to San Pedro, Honduras, once again. Since it was our senior class mission trip, I was excited not only to see all of the kids at the orphanage again, but I was also excited for the opportunity to share the experience with some of my closest friends.

Despite the fact that it had been a long day of traveling, the moment we had waited and planned for the past three and a half years finally arrived. It was only our first day at the orphanage, yet by the end of it we already felt a deep connection with the children. With construction in the morning, vacation Bible school programs in the afternoon, kitchen and clean-up duties, worships, as well as shopping and sightseeing, all of us managed to have enough energy to squeeze in whatever time we had left to be with the children. While the days quickly passed, our hearts, as well as theirs, spilled over with joy and excitement during the time we spent together.

The trip was beyond all of our expectations, and went as smoothly as any of us could have possibly hoped for. The only disappointing part was having to say our good-byes. It has been amazing to look back and realize how much we accomplished within a mere 12 days. The Lord blessed us with safety, and gave us an experience that none of us will ever forget. Most importantly, it enabled us to grow closer together as a class, as we were reminded of how satisfying the simple things in life, such as friendship with those near and far, can really be.

Jin Park graduated from Battle Creek Academy in 2008.