My sister will be leaving for a summer mission trip to Honduras in a little over 6 months, so a lot of my time in Honduras was spent thinking about the things she would be experiencing and all the things we would be able to share after I finish the race. While in Tegustagalpa I was constantly being reminded that my sister would be in the same city, driving on the same worn streets, seeing the same broken homes, experiencing the same polluted smells, and meeting the same amazing people.
One day I sat down with all my thoughts and wrote her a letter, sharing a few of the things I wanted her to know before leaving. I just wanted to share a little of my heart with you all…
Dear Jess,
I’m in Honduras right now, a place you will soon be experiencing for yourself. I cannot wait for you to get here and experience this country. I guarantee it will draw you in. This is supposed to be the most dangerous country in the world, but don’t let this hold you back, there is so much more to this place. Let your heart break for these people. Hug them and pray over them as often as you get the chance. Make sure you give them all your love for the time you are here. Remember your time here is short, but you can build relationships and show love during that time.
I encourage you to abandon yourself during your time here; think twice before you complain over the food, don’t let yourself be disappointed with your living conditions, don’t worry over taking a shower every day, and most importantly put your needs aside and serve the people around you. This is a hard lesson to learn and it comes with daily struggles, but I also know the joy that comes with surrendering. I know you will find this joy because I know your heart. I also encourage you to share these things with your youth group and encourage them to abandon the comforts of home for the time you are here.
As much as I know you are going to change people’s lives here, I know the people here are going to change you more. I encourage you to keep a journal while you are here, and each morning and night write down your thoughts and prayers, you will want to share them later (and I will want to read them). You will be able to share this journal with people back at home and people will be moved by your experiences.
The Lord has called you to Honduras for a reason, so don’t be afraid of what He has for you here, it may not be comfortable and it will definitely be unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. But, it is going to change your world. Each time you see a child left homeless on the streets who hasn’t eaten or slept in days, take it in. Each time you step into the mud/cinderblock shack that someone calls home, take it in. Each time you notice yourself surrounded by the beautiful mountainside, take it in. Each time you ride through the city and see the big gap between poor and rich, take it in. Each time a child smiles at you and grabs your hand, take it in. Each time you pass over the dirty river that runs through town that people use not only as a source for bathing and washing, but also as a trash dump, take it in. Each time you see God’s beauty in the sun setting over the city, take it in. Take in the country and these people, and take it back to America with you. Never forget.
I cannot wait to get home and share stories with you. I cannot wait to see how the Lord has grown you since I’ve been gone. I know the Lord has some crazy plans for your life, and I cannot wait to watch you grow into them. Honduras is only the beginning.
Love,
Caitlyn
