This morning we were invited to breakfast at Vladimir’s house, one of the church members and the chef/owner of our favorite pupusería (the photo below doesn’t do it justice. Please Google “pupusa” for a better image)
As we gathered around the table passing pan dulce (sweet bread), plantains, beans and rice, chicken tamales and (most importantly) coffee, it started to happen. Conversation began, laughter and some tears came and went and our relationship with Vladimir grew tenfold. He told us his story growing up in El Salvador and the blessings and provisions God has given him and his family. In addition, he shared with us an amazing story of generosity and selflessness shown to him by one man who was part of the very first missionary team his church, Iglesia Gran Comisión, had hosted 7 years prior.
The food was spot on, my first coffee since leaving the US tasted like heaven and it was an honor to hear his story. But these several hours of fellowship and community were brought together around one item that I and many more may take for granted: a table.
A few days prior to this breakfast blessing our ministry contact told us about some of the outreaches the church was starting to serve families in La Libertad. They are currently making bed frames to give to families in need and at the same time are able to employ others to assist with the construction. Their next goal is to make tables. Beds, one might think, are an obvious need but tables? I was pleasantly surprised hearing this but as our contact continued to explain, a table brings families together.
Thinking back to my childhood and teen years, my memories of our kitchen table involve homework, painting nails and using it for displaying food that we would dish up on plates to take and eat in front of the TV. As my team and I share more meals together around a table, and most recently in Vladimir’s house around his, I was struck by the beauty and blessings a table can provide.
On Facebook, Twitter and Instagram I had asked you to write what you saw in the picture below. It brings a smile to my face to read your responses:
– Community
– Sharing
– Friends enjoying fellowship
– Team unity
While “table” wasn’t mentioned, it certainly played a huge role in the 2 hour time frame we spent with Vladimir. As a challenge for myself and my team Dar Vida, I want to encourage you to spend more meals with family around your kitchen table to experience the beauty of conversation, laughter, fellowship and deepen relationships.
Sending you love and encouragement from the (currently) cool night in La Libertad!
Here’s the real deal breakfast, Salvadorian style.
