Today we finished ministry here at Cicrin. Thursday morning we leave for Costa Rica. When I reflect on this month I’m almost brought to tears. The past 4.5 weeks have been an emotional roller coaster to say the least. But I wouldn’t want it any other way, seriously. Some days were really hard, and sometimes they still are, but the lessons I learned (learning) and the realities I faced, only resulted in glory to God. And isn’t that what life is all about? I thank God for revealing himself to me in the craziest ways possible. Nicaragua truly has a piece of my heart. The people are sooo loving into incredible and I’m so thankful I got to experience the family-oriented, loving side of Nicaragua. But I’m also so thankful I got to see the broken side as well. Almost every home is made of concrete with no windows or doors, and a floor of dirt. They have 2 or 3 outfits each. There are barley any laws that require you to be safe. No clean running water, no AC, and power turned off about 3 times a week. Some people are very deprived and it’s easy to see, and it breaks my heart. But they love so well, and that’s what I’ll never forget. Despite every loss, they fill it with love. How beautiful is that? I’m very thankful I got to take a month in Nicaragua to help share the Gospel and love of the people of Nicaragua!
I think the biggest thing that God showed me this month was just how much 1 Peter 1:6-7 is evident in a Christian walk. Alongside 2 Corinthians 3:18, which for me, tie in very well.
1 Peter 1:6-7 says, “In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” And 2 Corinthians 3:18 says, “And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.”
Though I faced homesickness, bitterness, mournfulness, and many other feelings, I rejoiced. Because I know that I’m being brought from one degree of glory to the next BECAUSE to Christ, the genuineness of my faith is more precious than gold. Because of this truth, it has resulted in praise and glory to Jesus. How beautiful! That is so encouraging.
Another thing that really wowed my soul this month was Acts 5:41, which says, “Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name.” This was written write after it talks about the apostles being beaten by the counsel for continuing to preach the Gospel. This really put things in perspective for me. Even after they were threatened time after time, and then beaten, they rejoiced because they felt worthy to share in Christ’s sufferings. How amazing is that? Every time I go through a hard time I pray that’s my attitude.
Anyways, I’m so thankful for month one and I’m excited for what God will do in Costa Rica. Thank you to everyone who has supported and prayed for me this month. It has not gone to waste. I truly truly truly appreciate everyone’s support and prayers more than you could ever know!! I love y’all!!
