When I left my house, a little over 3 weeks ago, I was expecting to embrace a life of full abandonment. I was expecting to see my life, my perspective, and my relationship with God radically change.
I gave up 9 months of time with my family and friends, my comfortable bed, my closet full of clothes, my car, education, etc. so… with this should come a new, different, better version of me, right?
Actually, no. In the past week, I have realized that the change occurs when we make the decision to let God change us. The World Race is not going to change me.
The 22 other people I live with are not going to change me.
Giving up everything I own, other than what can fit into my backpack is not going to change me.
The only way that I will see a change in myself is to make a conscious decision to let God work in me.
Here in San Pedro, Guatemala, I still live a very comfortable life. Yes, I live in a small house with 22 other people. But I have a bed. I have a shower. We are able to get delicious fruits and vegetables from the market to eat. I can take a short bus ride into Antigua and get incredible coffee and semi-fast wifi.
I am blessed.
Sometimes I wish it was less comfortable here. But God is showing me that He is teaching me things about myself that I wouldn’t be able to learn other places. Living a genuine life for Christ is a decision. Learning to not buy into the comforts offered around me (like delicious Guatemalan coffee and chocolates) is possible.
When we take the time to get away from our phones, social media and other distractions, we are able to embrace the community around us.
I believe that God created us for community.
Living with 22 other people is hard. Sometimes there seems like no quiet. Sometimes there are piles of dirty dishes that no one takes responsibility for. Sometimes people eat the personal food you bought with your own money, and it makes you very sad.
But then you learn about patience and grace and love and forgiveness. You learn their ridiculously annoying quirks, but you learn to love each person for what they bring to the house, instead.
I am thankful, so incredibly thankful for this time in Guatemala!
Hugs and love from me to you! xo
P.S. I love knowing ways I can be praying for people back at home, so please feel free to email me with prayer requests of your own!
Prayer requests here in Guatemala:
Please pray for health for a few house mates have been battling sicknesses, which keep them from being able to participate in ministry, as well as the health of our host, Luis.
