Service, Growth, and God’s Presence
The past two weeks in Guatemala have been nothing short of transformative. From teaching in schools to building cabins on the mountain, and even using machetes (which feel like a real-life sword!), each day has been filled with new challenges and blessings. As we continue to pour into the community here, I’ve found myself growing in unexpected ways—both in my relationship with the Lord and with my incredible team.
Teaching and Serving in Schools
Our time teaching in local schools has been a heartwarming experience. The children here are full of energy, joy, and curiosity, which makes every lesson feel like a new adventure. Whether it’s leading a classroom or helping with small group activities, there’s something so special about connecting with students who are eager to learn. It’s a privilege to be part of their education, and I’ve come to realize how important it is to sow seeds of love and encouragement in their hearts.
Building Cabins and Fences
Up on the mountain, we’ve been working on building fences and cabins that will one day house future racers for a local event. It’s been hard work—physically demanding, but also incredibly rewarding. There’s a sense of accomplishment in seeing tangible progress, knowing that these structures will be used to bless others. One of the coolest parts of this work has been using machetes. I can’t deny it’s a little like wielding a sword, and there’s something empowering about working with tools like that in nature.
Unplugging and Connecting with God
What’s been even more powerful, though, is the opportunity to unplug from the distractions of modern life and focus entirely on God, my team, and the people around me. Being without service means I have no choice but to lean into the presence of God and focus on what He wants to speak into my life. It’s been incredible to spend intentional time with the Lord, hearing from Him directly, feeling His love and guidance, and letting my heart be still before Him. This time of rest and restoration has been invaluable.
Evangelizing and Building Relationships
One of the highlights of these weeks has been evangelizing in the local town. I’ve had the privilege of sharing the Gospel with people who are open to hearing about God’s love for them. There’s a deep sense of joy and fulfillment in sharing this message, and every conversation has been a reminder of how much God loves His people. But one experience, in particular, left a deep impression on my heart.
While we were out praying for people in town, we encountered a young boy who had been paralyzed from a car accident. The moment we laid hands on him to pray, tears flooded my eyes. There was something so raw and profound about standing with this young boy, who had experienced such intense physical and emotional pain. It wasn’t just the circumstances that moved me—it was the overwhelming love and sympathy I felt for him in that moment. I realized how deeply I love others and how strongly I feel the weight of their struggles. It reminded me of the kind of heart God has been cultivating in me: one that aches for others and wants to see them healed and restored. I was reminded in that moment that God sees each person’s pain, and He cares deeply for them, even when the circumstances feel impossible.
A “Casa de Oración” Experience
Another unique and beautiful aspect of our ministry here has been the Monday “Casa de Oración” or “House of Prayer” gatherings. These times of worship, scripture reading, and prayer over each other have been deeply refreshing. The atmosphere of being discipled together as a team and praying over one another has been such a sweet time of growth. It’s powerful to see how God is shaping and molding each one of us through these intimate moments of connection.
Struggling but Finding Peace
As much as this journey has been full of joy and excitement, I’ve also been navigating some personal struggles. The past couple of weeks have been challenging for my mental health, but I am so grateful to the Lord for His faithfulness in sitting with me through it all. He has covered me with His love, reminding me that I am not alone, even in the midst of difficult emotions. In these moments of struggle, I’ve found solace in His presence, and I am learning that it’s okay to not have everything together. I am reminded of the verse from Hosea 2:14 that has been particularly comforting to me:
“Therefore I am now going to allure her; I will lead her into the wilderness and speak tenderly to her.” — Hosea 2:14
God has truly been so kind, gently speaking to my heart and walking with me through the wilderness. I’m learning to trust that He is near, even when I feel overwhelmed or uncertain. His love never fails.
Grateful for Support
As I reflect on these past two weeks, I am filled with gratitude for the ways God has shown up in big and small ways. I am also deeply thankful for each of you who has been reading my blogs and supporting me in this journey. Your encouragement, prayers, and love mean the world to me. Thank you for walking alongside me in this adventure. I am so grateful to have you in my life.
Please continue praying for my team and me as we finish our time here in Guatemala. God is moving in powerful ways, and I am excited to see how He will continue to lead us in the coming weeks.
I love you all so much!
