A different kind of team

Casa Viva hosts 10-15 teams a year, but this team was different. It was the kind of experience that was more like a breath of fresh air than a crazy, hectic, leave-you-feeling-exhausted type of experience. Not because they didn’t work hard, because they did. As a matter of fact by Wednesday evening we were accomplishing projects that were on our “someday-maybe-hopefully” list. Instead it was a breath-of-fresh air trip because it was a reminder that God has a plan for each and everyone of us. He has uniquely gifted us to fill a specific need in His Kingdom.

As the week started out we were excited to discover some specific skills that we would have never even thought to ask for. We quickly learned that this was the kind of team

Rich, a commercial door installer by trade, brought a high-level of construction knowledge that lead to the repair of several commercial doors in our offices as well as the construction of three professional grade desks that we only dreamed of having some day.

Cindy, a realtor turned stay-at-home-mom, quickly set out to sew curtains and a slip cover. Her skill was far beyond anything we had ever even thought to petition God for.

A father-son-son combination, the Hamms, saw the trip as an opportunity to grow and serve together. And while they did accomplish much, they also served as friends and encouragers for the Aspegren boys.

Jeff, at a towering 6’ 6” was a great encourager and motivator on the team, but his physical stature came in very handy on Tuesday when a portion of the team replaced the ceiling in a Casa Viva home.

Connie and Bitsy’s cooking prowess was tested when they served a meal to 100+ Costa Ricans. The last person through received the last scoop of green bean casserole and the final role. A feat that was reminiscent of Jesus’ feading of the 5,000.

Greg and his son Cody were on the trip to serve alongside each other, but Greg’s role as a business coach and trainer came in very handy. At a time where Casa Viva is standing on the edge of something great, God sent Greg to provide professional coaching for Philip and Matt.

Tom’s heart for God’s work in the lives of the fatherless was evident from the moment he joined the team. He was there constantly encouraging and caring for Casa Viva families and fellow team members shown through.

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(This team originated from Wheaton Bible Church.)