Indiana—In early spring, I was presented with the opportunity to accompany our church's youth group on a mission trip to Puerto Rico. My journey with Christ commenced on Jan. 28, 2006, when I was baptized into the truth by Nick Zork, Glendale Church associate pastor. It was then that I made a covenant to unite with God’s blueprint for my life. After praying about the mission trip opportunity, I joyfully accepted and became the fourteenth member of our group.

On July 16, we met at 5 a.m. for our flight. I had never flown before, so I was extremely nervous. I kept praying that God would take away my anxiety and fill me with peace, for I knew this was His will. I listened to “Voice of Truth,” by Casting Crowns as we headed to the island, eager to see what Christ had in store for us.

We were welcomed at Elias Burgos Youth Camp by Abiezer Rodriguez, West Puerto Rico Mission youth director. We stayed in cabins at the camp with no air conditioning, and some days no running water. It was definitely a change from the city. We were abruptly humbled, and indisputably appreciative of the blessings that Christ continuously bestows upon our lives that we often take for granted.

We helped the camp in different areas that needed work. Our most considerable project was restoring the camp’s playground. We removed rocks and sticks, and also extracted roots, laid sand, and cleaned the entire area so it would be safe for the children to play on. The work was strenuous, but a joy in the Lord.

The theme for the camp was “Al Extremo con Jesus” (The Extreme with Jesus). Worship was about five or six hours each day. We heard testimonies, sang songs, played games, and received blessings from the guest speaker Luis Alberto Lopez, North Puerto Rico Mission youth director. He conveyed Christ’s messages of repentance, truth, salvation, and His never-ending love for us. One by one, with tear-filled eyes some made their way to the front in acceptance of our Lord. It’s amazing to be a witness to someone making a decision to follow Christ.

The Friday before our departure we decided to prepare for the Sabbath by having worship at the beach. We reflected on the things we had learned and accomplished. To know that God is at work all over the world, look upon His righteous majesty, and feel His presence in Puerto Rico was such a blessing.

God says, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations... Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always...” (Matt. 28:19-20). Friends, we have an obligation to spread the word of Jesus Christ, tell of His soon return, tell the world He has chosen them—the meek and mild, the young and old, and the rich and poor—to share His kingdom. Let us go forth, and tell of His everlasting love.

Nicole Garmon, Glendale Church member