Green thumb Emily.

 

Ministry this month!
We have been living on a mountain side in Chirraxgaj, Guatemala; neighboring Coban. 

We have been working with a local school teaching english, physical education, and creating a community garden. 

I got to work with the "garden crew". We were responsible for clearing out a piece of land that was on the hill behind the school, putting in the necessary rows, tilling the ground, leveling it, and planting. However due to the  dedication and hard work from the "garden crew" (Josh Jaime (Team R.O.A.R), Emily Molloy (Team Z.E.R.O.H)  Jah-Jah Jackson (Team Z.E.R.O.H) and myself) and with the help from the students; the school now has a functioning garden to grow crops year around. 

 

Back at our house we have been (when we haven't been stuck in the house due to rain) digging into the mountain side to create room for the church to expand. One things I love about digging with my team is we usually finds out embarrassing stories about each other, tell about things we miss back home (like mashed potatoes, hometown coffee shops, runs in the park, drying machines, beds, homemade cookies, and the list could go on….). We talk about our concerns, our dreams, our "plans" for when we get back home, and what God is doing in our lives.
 

 

By the end of the day we have blistered hands, muddy feet, tired bodies, and dirty clothes. And when we literally have nothing else to give…….we are reminded that this is what raw ministry looks like and this is how Jesus would have it. He didn't have padded pews, grand or elaborate programs, tracks, or even a written bible. He had two feet and a heart full of love to share the Truth. 

So if I had one phrase to summarize this month it would be…. "you are without excuse".
We are without excuse to give our all, in every area. Dispute how we feel in the moment. 
If you are tired. You are without excuse.
If your sick. You are without excuse. 
If your mad. You are without excuse. 
If your confused. You are STILL without excuse. 
Whatever your circumstance.
WE ARE WITHOUT EXCUSE……to give everything to the One who gave everything for us. 

Although this month has been the hardest for me, it's been the most rewarding. 
Not saying I'm going to miss the 30 minute hick up the mountain, but I'm thankful for the growth I received while in Guatemala. 
 

 

We will be in Panajachel, Guatemala for our 3rd month debrief (a few days where we get a chance to just relax, discuss, eat something besides PB & J, and get ready for next month). 

Next stop EUROPE!