This morning I am so thankful to be back in Cuenca. Ever since I heard that our journey to Peru included the bus stop in my July city, I selfishly prayed that we would have to stay a few hours. I even prayed that we would have to spend the night– and silly me, I doubted that it would happen. I wanted to see my Cuencana family again, even if just for a brief chat. Even after the perfect good-bye, I still wasn’t ready to let go.
As we drove over one of the four rivers, my heart felt at home. “We’re in Cuenca!” I said. ‘I’m home‘, I thought.
We arrived at the bus station looking for tickets. We knew we would be there for an hour or two, and so two of our brothers came to see us. Mama Lori didn’t know if she would be able to make it in time to see us, but she was trying her hardest!
As we were talking with our bros, our logistics gal, Claire, came up to me and told me we the news. We couldn’t get a bus until 9:30pm (my heart jumped)… Tomorrow night. PRAISE THE LORD!!!
I had just been talking to Kathryn about how I wish our squad could experience Cuenca for a day. And now they can!
And as for me, I get to spend time with my family here.
Last night, I was overjoyed. I was filled up with hugs, laughs, jokes, and good conversations. I walked around this town that is so familiar, and I just kept thinking, and saying, “I am so happy,”. This morning, I am still… happy. I don’t use this word much but it’s the best word to describe how I feel. The Lord helped me see thue freedom here with Refugio and He brought me back to remind me. And I still have a whole day ahead of me! A whole 4 months ahead of me, actually!
This mornings devotional blurb is from my friend and mentor, Helena Jordao. It says this:
Not only has God brought me back into this physical place (for a time), but He has brought me so far in every aspect of my life. I never imaged my life would be full of this adventure. As I remember the pit, and remember the hardships of this month–the stretching, the shifting, the growing–I am continually more thankful for the Lord’s hand. I am thankful that He cares enough to move me around, teach me new things, and remind me of His goodness. And although leaving again tonight will be sad, I am following the Lord as He continues to bless me beyond my belief.
My mom used to ask me, “Melissa, are you happy?“. I didn’t always know how to answer her. But, Mom, I hope this blog gives you comfort in knowing that I am. 🙂
Tonight, we continue our travels on to Peru. And I will continue to bring the happiness that freedom brings with me. <3
