I think one of the hardest things about mission work is having to confront how big some of the world’s problems are. I know it’s going to be a struggle for me this year not to get bogged down by the sad stories. I wanted to end this blog series with some of the stories that have given me some hope and joy this month, so enjoy!
• The first time we played night soccer with the group at La Casona, a man stopped off with a van full of food for the group. He visits groups around the city on various nights, providing food and coffee for them. What an encouragement to see someone answering God’s call to feed the hungry. I’m so grateful for this man’s heart and the work that he’s doing. He spoke to the group that first night and told them that God loved them so much he had sent a group from the United States just to hang out with them. That’s what I try to remember when it starts to feel like I’m not doing enough – that if these individuals can see God’s love through what I’m doing, it’s worth it.
• The last night we spent with the group at the Super 24 gas station, my teammate Ray suggested we pray with them before we left. After we prayed, several members of the group took turns thanking us for the time we’d shared with them and for being willing to learn more about the lives of street people. I kept thinking how crazy it was that they were thanking us, when I’d had so much fun with them and had learned so much.
• At La Casona, there’s a young man named Nahum who is very intentional about bringing God into our interactions. On more than one occasion he has directed us all to pray together. One of my favorite moments on the Race so far was my team standing in a circle with these homeless men and women, holding hands and praying together in English and Spanish under the stars. It’s a powerful connection. After several members of the team (myself included) were injured playing soccer, we started doing stretching circles before games. Most of the guys laughed at us, but Nahum took over and led us through a much more vigorous set of stretches than we’d planned.
• El Refugio, the women’s shelter we visit once a week, is one of the most peaceful places I’ve ever been in my life. I met a 19-year-old girl there named Maritsa who has a pretty rough story, but she is the sweetest young lady. I love going to el Refugio and talking with her.
There are so many good things happening in the world! This ministry has been hard, but most of all it has been fun and encouraging. Thanks for following along with my journey and being in prayer for us this month!
