Driving through the streets of Guatemala City as we approached the area known as “The Dump” we saw people scavenging through trash to find a scrap of food or metal or a recyclable that would become their survival for one more day.
We were on our way to Potter’s House, an outreach ministry to the people of The Dump. The orientation opened our eyes to the extreme poverty here. People literally spend their entire days sorting through trash. They look for items that can be salvaged to sell or use in their homes; they even look for food among the garbage piles to eat and feed their families.
I was in awe as I watched as the screen flipped through images of mothers and children, elderly, and even toddlers plodding through trash day after day. This is their life. In a dump. Always filthy. But Potter’s House has a different view of these people than the world sees them. The over 11,000 (6,500 of them are children) are not trash, rather Treasures. Each one is a treasure, as precious life, who deserves love.
Our day of ministry with Potter’s house, parents and racers side by side, was eye opening and moving. As small groups, we walked through the trash-infested narrow streets to bless families in need. Toting heavy grocery bags into each home, we spoke with the families with the help of a translator, learned of their needs, prayed for healing and provision, and gifted them with a full bag of groceries.
Tears mixed with smiles, love and hugs, and words of encouragement lingered in the air replacing the stench of garbage and death.
And I am reminded again that He has overcome the world. He has conquered death.
In Christ, there is no fear or condemnation. He sees us all as His treasure.
