We are officially on our third and last continent of the race. Where did the time go? It’s crazy that I’ve been on the field for nine months now!
Last month we were in Guatemala. It was by far one of my most favorite months of the race! Guatemala holds a very special place in my heart because my dad used to live there when he was a little boy. I remember him telling me stories about it growing up and always wishing I could go there and experience it for myself.
I love the culture in Guatemala. The people are so warm, loving, and welcoming. Everyone greets each other as they walk down the streets and they highly value relationships. Community is more important to them than sticking to a schedule. They always stop and talk to each other, whether or not they are late for a meeting. The food tastes so much like home – we ate lots of tortillas, guacamole, pico de gallo, and beans. The language was finally one that I can somewhat understand and speak. I grew up around the Spanish language and most of my family speaks it, so it was great to be able to communicate more with the people!
My team did ministry in a small town called San Raymundo, and we worked with a school called “Morning Glory.” The school was started by an American woman who has a strong passion for teaching children Christian values and helping them become successful adults. She believes that we should do what we are passionate about, so this is the first month we were given the opportunity to choose which areas we wanted to help with at the school.
I was so excited that I was able to help with the P.E. class and play soccer with the kids every day! I had SO MUCH FUN. The kids are so passionate and love playing soccer so much, and I absolutely loved playing with them. Soccer ministry has been one of my dream ministries and the Lord finally provided the opportunity for me to do it. I was able connect with the kids through having fun playing a game that we both love.
I also got to be a part of their Bible class and watch the kids worship. I wish I could explain in words what it was like, but nothing can fully explain it. Watching the kids worship brought tears to my eyes because the Father’s love was so tangible in them. The purity and love these kids portrayed was so evident and it overflowed.
I fell in love with the kids in Guatemala. I miss them a lot and really hope I can go back one day.
Our last week in Guatemala, we had something called “Parent Vision Trip” (PVT), which is exactly what it sounds like. It’s an opportunity for our parents to join us for a week on the mission field and get to experience what our lives have been like for the past nine months.
My dad was able to come and I got to see him after nine long months away from home!
It was so fun spending a week with my dad. We got to do ministry together, hike an active volcano (and roast marshmallows at the top), explore the city on a motorcycle, and I got to be experience a part of his childhood with him.
The racers had the opportunity to share what the Lord has done in us since we left home, and the Spirit was so present as we shared. Many people were moved to tears and the Lord began doing his work in many of the parent’s hearts.
I’m so thankful for this experience. I’m so thankful for this life the Lord has given me to live for Him. I’m so thankful for every one of you who have offered your support and believed in the Lord’s calling to send me around the world.
Sending all my love!
