WOAH. Is this real life?
I boarded a plane. I’m heading to Guatemala, a third world country. And I don’t have a departure date.
These were the first few thoughts that went through my head…
But lemme just say, as soon as I arrived I realized how great it was to be back! Surreal yes. But oddly comfortable and unexplainably restful.
I was greeted at the airport with hugs, “bienvenidos” signs and warm smiles. Some were new faces and some were familiar faces. But nonetheless, as we drove off in route to Antigua, tears were brought to my eyes because the security I felt in that van surpassed anything I’ve ever experienced. Comfort. Safety. Rest. Peace.
Usually not the feelings one experiences when moving to a third world country. There was so much confirmation wrapped up in that moment. This was a huge relief because of course, I had options. More school, finding a job, Guate, etc. And I chose Guate. It’s like the Lord, with a grin on His face, was whispering “you’ve chosen wisely, there is so much I want to show you here”
I was one of 10ish people flying into Guatemala to add to the team already established at the Guate Base in Antigua. The Lord had previously been speaking to the team about expanding their base from 1 to 2. One being in Antigua and another at Lake Atitlian. Clearly their vision lined up with the Lord’s and He was bringing in more people to enable their vision come to life.
Once everyone arrived, all 24-some-odd of us gathered around a big dinner table. That was a special moment. Everyone just stared in awe at what the Lord had done, and smiled with anticipation with what He had for us next. We blessed our meal and our new family then feasted all together in celebration.
After dinner, our leader, Jonathan made the announcement of our departure for the lake the next morning (news to me, I was glad I didn’t unpack) for a retreat week filled with seeking His face, as well as, getting to know our new family. He continued… “and we’ve asked the Lord about who should stay in Antigua and who is going to move to the lake.” He started listing off names of the lake group, and at the end of his list came my name (yet again, news to me).
This was a shock yet a smile came across my face as the Lord brought to mind things that have been spoken over me, things that included “pioneer, adventurer, forerunner, and explorer” and I could see how this was a way for these words to come to pass. New land, new territory, new everything. Starting from scratch. It is a challenge that I am thrilled to take on as the Lord guides every step!
We currently are searching for a house to move into and will be in temporary housing until the Lord blesses us with a new home! Please pray for guidance and for the Lord to speak clearly.
Thank you to all who are following what the Lord is doing, especially those who have been a source of support- whether in prayer, financial giving, etc. You truly have invested in something that is going to be nothing short of AMAZING and I’m honored to let you in on what the Lord is doing with His Kingdom here in Guatemala!
