We are through our second week of ministry here in El Salvador. While the work we have been doing has not been anywhere near as physically challenging as the rock filled work in Honduras, I still find myself exhausted. I’m not sure what I thought being a missionary would look like but it’s no walk in the park. I know from my pictures it seems like all we do is go to the beach, then go to the beach again, then jump off some waterfalls, go surfing, etc. Though all these things are true, and we have been blessed with our few off days a month, I promise you we have been doing some real work, and it’s not easy – but so rewarding. One missionary we worked with in Honduras, Donnie (who was actually from the great state of Texas!), said it best, “I used to work for money, but I then realized it just wasn’t worth it. Workin’ for free is the way to live”. Agreed Donnie, agreed.
Similar to last month, we have been doing a plethora of different ministries each day. A couples days we spent our time going to villages and praying for people, then holding a service for them later that day. The thought of door-to-door evangelism kind of made me cringe to be honest. I would much rather get to know someone first, be their friend, find out what is going on in their life; share the gospel in a more organic way. But to my surprise, each village was a place that was thirsty for God. Once again, I pray for the uncomfortable situations and that is exactly what He gave me. I was uncomfortable and building it up in my head to be a much bigger deal than reality. As soon as we knocked on the first house, and stepped out on faith into the unknown, God was there to give us a big hug. Every house/hut we approached we were invited inside & given a seat. Every person we came across greeted us like we were a long lost friend who had finally returned home. They were so warm to us that I had to actually stop and ponder if they were confused and did in fact think they already knew us. Then I realized that was silly; these people are simply genuine and comforting. I need to embrace it! (This warm greeting of strangers thing is something that should catch on in America. Just sayin’) Although we only had a translator a couple of the days, what I gathered from most people we spoke with was that they just wanted someone to talk to. It didn’t matter that we couldn’t understand every word, or in some instances, any words. Pain and joy can translate through any language. Sometimes we would walk up to someone, they would greet us, we would say a couple words about who we are and why we’re here, and as soon as they heard “Dios” they would break down and cry. They were hurting and had been so desperate for God that at the first mention of His name they knew their prayers had been answered. We held them, gave thanks and prayed for their needs; for God to help their village, to cure their bronchitis, for their children to know God & for Him to fill the void that their earthly father left, for safety from the gangs at night, for rain, and for love. Every person had a need, but every person also had joy for the Lord. It was humbling, sad, and joyful all at the same time – and I loved every minute of it.
On the days we didn’t go to the villages, we were able to visit the different public schools of San Vicente. We taught english to children, reenacted a couple Bible stories (my lamb impression is spot on if I do say so myself), and just spread the love & joy of Jesus to His children however we could. I must say, I am becoming very fond of these kiddos here. It may be selfish, but playing with the kids brings me so much happiness. I see a kid and my heart lights up with anticipation of being able to give them a hug or see them smile. I can only hope that in return from the joy they bring me, that they can feel the love God has for them through every hug, head pat, and braiding of their hair.
On a more personal and vulnerable note, something that I have been struggling with since the start of the race is hearing from God. It’s been a roller coaster of a process and thankfully this squad is full of wisdom to help me work things out in my head. But all the advice, comfort, and wisdom in the world cannot replace the one thing I desperately yearn for daily. God knew that, and He answered.
One Sunday, we went to the hospital to pray for the sick. We went around from bed to bed in groups of two or three people and talked with the patients. We walked up to a sweet old lady and had the pleasure of talking with her (or just smiling and nodding at what she was saying) for a while. She didn’t move much and I could tell she was in a lot of pain so we asked if it was alright if we prayed for her. This next part is hard to describe and may seem ordinary but trust me, it was powerful. As I was praying for her she suddenly wrapped her hands around mine and began stroking my hands. It took my breath away because I knew immediately this was God. This was God reaching out to me through this women to let me know He is hearing my prayers and loves me so much. My relationship with God is becoming more intimate everyday and there is nothing I want more.
Thank you everyone for the continual prayers and support! I am only $400 away from my next deadline which is at the end of March. If you would like to help me continue my journey I would be forever grateful. Thank you!
-Alexandra
