My Last Week in Guatemala
As I sit back and reflect on my last week in Guatemala, Iām filled with a deep sense of gratitude and awe. It was a week that included unforgettable moments, emotional highs, and personal challenges. God has been so faithful to us throughout this journey, and in my final days here, I saw His hand at work in powerful ways.
A Day with Kids at Camp
The week began with an incredible opportunity to serve at a camp for children with disabilities. It was a humbling experience to spend time with these kids, who were so full of life despite the challenges they face. We took them to the zoo, where their excitement was contagious. Watching their faces light up as they saw animals they had never encountered before was a reminder of the pure joy that can be found in the simplest of moments. It was a beautiful day of connection and joy, one I will carry in my heart forever.
A Night of Prayer and Healing
One of the most powerful moments of the week came when we gathered for a prayer night. As we prayed for healing over the kids, I was overwhelmed with emotion. The vulnerability in the room was palpable as we stood in faith, asking God to restore these precious childrenās bodies and minds. There was something incredibly moving about standing in the gap for these kids and believing for their complete healing. As we prayed, tears flowed freelyānot out of sadness, but out of the awe of seeing Godās presence so real in that room. It was a holy moment that reminded me of the power of prayer and the deep love God has for each of His children.
Struggling with Sickness
The next day, I was hit with a wave of sickness that left me feeling weak and depleted. For days, I struggled with fatigue and discomfort, something I hadnāt expected in my final week. But in many ways, it became a reminder of the importance of taking care of ourselves and finding strength in God even in the midst of physical weakness. It was humbling to walk through this and still press on in the mission, leaning on others for support and prayer.
Friendsgiving: A Moment of Fellowship
After a few days of rest, we headed back up the mountain to have a Friendsgiving celebration with our ministry hosts. It was a special time of fellowship, where we gathered around a table filled with food and laughter. There was something so meaningful about sharing this meal together, especially as we neared the end of our journey. It felt like a beautiful culmination of the relationships and memories we had built over the past few months.
A Final Visit to Antigua & the Flower Festival
On the weekend, we made one last trip to Antigua. It was a time to reunite with the other teams from our squad, and I couldnāt have asked for a more special reunion. The love and joy that filled the air were contagious, as we reflected on the adventures, struggles, and victories we had experienced together.
We also had the privilege of experiencing the Flower Festival, which was absolutely breathtaking. The streets of Antigua were lined with stunning floral carpets and vibrant processions. The beauty of it all was a reminder of the richness of Guatemala’s culture and the way Godās creation reflects His glory. It was a moment to pause, take in the beauty, and give thanks for the journey.
Debrief in Georgia: Reflecting
Finally, after so many incredible experiences, we traveled back to Georgia for debrief. Itās been a time to pause, reflect, and look back on all that God has done throughout our time in Nicaragua and Guatemala. As we shared stories, prayed together, and processed everything that had happened, I couldnāt help but feel deeply thankful for the ways God had shown up in unexpected ways. From the moments of joy with the children to the quiet moments of reflection, Godās presence was with us every step of the way.
Cheers to the Last Week on the Race!
As I look back on these final days of my time on the World Race, Iām filled with a profound sense of gratitude. This journey has been one of transformation, not just for the people we served, but for me as well. The people, the places, and the moments will stay with me forever. Iām grateful for the opportunity to have served, to have loved, and to have been loved in return. Hereās to the last week on the race, and to all the ways God has moved in and through us. Thank you, Guatemala and Nicaragua, for being a beautiful chapter in this story of faith and adventure.