Upon arriving our ministry host gave us the analogy of being a -1, 0 or a +1. Instantly I started paying attention closely because math has always been my worst subject and I knew I probably wouldn’t understand what he was saying. He went on to say that in ministry people can either be a -1,0 or +1. A negative 1 is someone who has excess baggage whether that be an injury/disease, a bad attitude or an unwillingness to do whatever has been asked of you. A zero is one that is present in a situation and able to do the task presented to them. A plus 1 is someone who is someone who is able to go above and beyond the normal task necessary. One of the local missionaries here was telling us how his brother has a disease that prevents him from being able to serve in other countries or he would probably be considered a “-1”.
For our 1st official day in Panama, we were asked to clean up the compound where we are staying. The previous day there were people pruning the trees which left multiple branches and leaves everywhere. We were told to watch out for snakes and poisonous caterpillars as we worked.
I was totally out of my element as I’m used to having gardeners do all of the landscaping back home. In the midst of working and beginning starting to feel tired and gross, I was reminded that I GET TO SERVE!! Thankfully I don’t have a disease, injury, or anything holding me back from be able to go serve others or be a “-1”. I think sometimes when we are in sticky situations or have to do things that we may not want to do, we can lose sight of what we actually have.
Bad day at work….Be thankful for income
Family driving you crazy….Be grateful as some have lost their family members
Frustrated in traffic….Be happy to have a way of transportation
I’m so grateful for waking up today, my health providing mobility in my limbs, my team, our amazing local ministry hosts, and all of my supporters that have allowed me to be here.
So even in the midst of situations where you are frustrated or don’t want to do something I challenge you to choose to be grateful, strive for positivity and count your blessings.
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
??1 Thessalonians? ?5:16-18? ?ESV??
***UPDATES***
-Here in Panama we are working with an organization called Missions Beyond Aviation to build a landing strip. They are American missionaries who help to provide goods to the indigenous Ngabe Bugle tribe. Also we will be working with them to construct a new church in the area.
-My main form of communication is now through this blog, WhatsApp or email([email protected]). Leave a comment if you would like my WhatsApp info.
– A HUGE THANK YOU for everyone who donated to help me reach my $10,000 goal to launch. I am forever grateful for choosing to partner with me in this journey. I need to have the full $18,100 by November but my next deadline is $13,000 by September 30. If you would like to become a monthly donor or give a one-time gift you can do so by clicking the donate button in the dashboard underneath my photo.
– Due to political unrest and safety concerns in the country of Nicaragua, we will be serving the country of GUATEMALA, for month 3 (October)!!!!
