I have been in Guatemala for only a week and I am in love. I have so many memories already and it’s only the first week. God has been moving in big ways through my heart, in my teams’ hearts, and in the hearts of everyone we reach. God has been showing me so much in this first week.
God has placed a word on my heart and the word is intentionality. That is my theme for my race experience. I don’t want to just serve the people of Guatemala, but I want to honor them and honor God in everything I do. “Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality” (Romans 12:9-13)
These verses resonate with me so much as I go out and love on my brothers and sisters in Christ and I will take them back home with me as well. I have given God my all and He has talked to me more than ever in the most beautiful ways that you could imagine. He speaks beauty when I watch the sunrise over the volcano. He speaks joy when I give an older lady a flower and she gives me the biggest smile that brightens the darkest of days. He speaks friendship when I am being goofy with my amazing teammates. He speaks love when I am having my morning coffee and devotion. This is when He and I have the most intimate moments. He is continuing to find new ways to show me His goodness and I will continue to give Him all the glory in all that I do.
So yes, I have fallen deeply in love with Guatemala. I have fallen in love with the place that God has really shown me who He is and who He wants me to be.
