Flashback to leaving Colombia:
I can’t believe my time in Colombia is over. Saying goodbye to this place and these people was one of the hardest things I have ever done. Normally I am really good at goodbyes. I have had a lot of practice and it seems with each one, they get easier. That was not the case here, and I am so grateful. I put roots down incredibly quickly here. I fell in love with these people in no time. When I landed in Medellin, I prayed for the Father’s heart for the people, and boy did I get it. He showed me the beauty of putting down roots even though I know I’m going to have to say goodbye. My heart was broken and it was worth it. It was real, it was raw, and it was all Jesus.
I cried. I don’t normally do that. We had ministry all day on our last day, so goodbyes were looming. I tried to prepare myself, but when the time came, I still wasn’t ready.
First we said goodbye to las mujeres. They barricaded us onto their floor. They blocked the door with a sofa and stood in front of it so we couldn’t get out. We had one final dance party. We cried. We hugged each other a little longer and a little tighter. We spoke life over them. We rejoiced for the work God is doing in their lives. They prayed over us! That is a moment I will never forget.
The rest of my goodbyes didn’t get easier. With every hug, every tear, and every prayer I felt pieces of my heart being left behind. No one wanted to let go. As I sat in the car waving one final goodbye, I was reminded that this is the beauty of la familia de Dios. The family that was formed in Colombia didn’t make any sense. We were from all over the world, we spoke different languages, were from all backgrounds, and in different stages of life. But, we have the blood of Christ flowing through our veins and that is a beautiful thing. Father, thank you for hard goodbyes because it means we loved well and held nothing back.
