My last week in Nicaragua was incredibly sweet. I’ve been blessed to love the people, the places, and the memories I’ve made here. I am beyond grateful for the ministry we partnered with and the community we gained—this has truly been one of the greatest times of my life.
This week, I had the honor of giving a sermon to the workers at the dump, an experience I will always cherish. At the dump ministry, we pray and share a message with about 30 adults who work there. We also spend time with the kids, coloring and sharing simple messages with them. Afterward, we serve them lunch. While the dump ministry is heavy, God has worked through it, and it is a true blessing to speak and serve within that community.
Our last devotional time with our host was especially touching. He washed each of our feet and shared encouraging words with us. We read John 13 together, reflecting on how Jesus washed His disciples’ feet before the Last Supper, demonstrating how to love one another and serve all people. During this time of prayer and encouragement, I thought about how much I love the people in Nicaragua and how hard it will be to say goodbye. The verse John 13:1 stood out to me: “…Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.” This verse resonated deeply this time. I have never felt God’s love for me so profoundly. Jesus knew He would have to leave the people He loved the most, and it was a struggle for Him to even consider that. In that moment, as we prepared to leave those we had come to know and love, I realized that Jesus loves us even more than that. It offered a perspective on His love that is truly beautiful. Thank you, Jesus! The biggest lesson I learned in Nicaragua is how to love and how deeply He loves us. Our God is so good, and I can’t help but get excited when I talk about it!
I am so grateful for the community I connected with in Nicaragua. I will always be praying for everyone I was able to love so quickly! My micro church will forever hold a special place in my heart. It’s beautiful to grow as a family in God’s community with people from another part of the world. We might not have much in common, but because we love the Lord, we have everything in common! Special shoutout to the lovely ladies in the kitchen! I loved cooking, laughing, and serving alongside them.
One of my favorite aspects of ministry was going on prayer walks and connecting with so many people. Each person has a unique story and a rich testimony. I was able to share the love of the Lord with many and pour prayer into numerous homes. So often, the people we spoke with shared their lives with us, pouring into me more than I feel I poured into them—what a beautiful exchange!
I also learned to love waking up at 5 AM to spend time with God. Initially, it was hard to find the motivation to rise so early, but the more consistent I became, the more fruitful those moments were. I truly connected with the Lord and learned so much. This discipline is one I will take home with me—starting the day right, in God’s presence. Plus, the sunrise is one of my favorite things, so it’s a double win!
My month in Nicaragua has been one of the greatest experiences of my life. I was humbled, yet encouraged and strengthened in my faith. I cannot thank God enough for the incredible opportunity to immerse myself in the culture and community of Nicaragua. This country will always have a special place in my heart. To my Nicaraguan familia, muchísimas gracias por todo, te amo—see you in the sky! (Or maybe again soon!)
As of now, we just landed in Guatemala, and I’m beyond excited to see what MORE God has prepared! Please pray for safe travels and good health. Thank you all for following along on my journey—your prayers and support mean so much to me.
So much love for each one of you,
Mads!
