Today was another day of recovery. We cancelled plans again, still sniffling, coughing, blowing our noses, and dealing with waves of weakness and the possibility of fevers. We’re feeling slightly better, but not enough to be fully active. Ministry, at least the visible kind, remains on pause.

Instead, we chose something very low‑key and practical: sorting and inventorying the summer camp supplies stored in the basement of the Student building. Down there are several large plastic bins, suitcases, and duffle bags—a patchwork collection of donations from American churches over the years mixed with supplies purchased here in Český Těšín. So today was a parade of kickballs, crayons, costumes, cards, paints, papers, post‑its, and bingo boards and bead boxes—a whole avalanche of camp essentials.

Alongside Radek, we emptied every box and bin, spread everything out, and re‑inventoried each item. It may seem mundane, but an accurate count at the end of each year becomes the starting point for efficient purchasing the next year. Quiet work now becomes smoother ministry later.

The other tasks of the day were equally practical: setting up an agent to handle apartment transactions while we’re away, and securing a Czech phone number for verification codes from local websites. Not exciting, but necessary—small steps that make future responsibilities possible.

Colossians 3:23–24 came to mind as we worked: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart…” Not just the visible ministry. Not just the moments on stage or in front of students. Even the sorting, the counting, the organizing, the administrative details—these too can be offered to God. These too can be acts of service.

Today wasn’t glamorous. It wasn’t energetic. It wasn’t the kind of day that fills a newsletter with dramatic stories. But it was faithful. And sometimes faithfulness looks like doing small things well, even while recovering, even while tired, even while waiting for strength to return.

My prayer tonight is simple: continued healing, renewed energy, and the ability to finish this trip well. But until then, we offer even the small tasks to the Lord, trusting that none of it is wasted.

Caio
Pastor Doug