Christmas at the hospital

Christmas Day isn't such a big deal in Peru as in the UK - the main celebration and family meal happens the night before.  So members of my Bible study group decided to spend Christmas morning in the city hospital, taking presents to children - many of whom might not receive anything otherwise, - and speaking of the Good News we are celebrating.

Wrapping the presents - nappies for newborns, toys and t-shirts for children.  Peruvian gift-wrapping is a whole new technique!

Waiting outside the hospital to be let in

The natvity scene - complete with snow-topped mountains!

We spoke about Isaiah 9 verse 6: For to us a child is born,to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

Reminding the parents that God knows and plans for each child that is to be born - and that his cousel is available for us.

 
  We gave out the presents and food boxes we'd brought.

Singing about Zacchaeus on the children's ward.

One of the teenagers we visited was very sad - he had both hands bandaged so couldn't open the gift we'd brought - Lourdes opened it for him - and hadn't seen any of his family yet.  We prayed with him and with the others we visited.

Visiting the hospital was a new challenge for all of us - but we were so glad we'd done it.  We thought of Jesus saying that when we visit those who are sick, he counts it as a visit to him.