When I first stepped foot in Chinandega, Nicaragua, the only way I could describe it was a really hot and dusty bowl of bleh. I honestly was not having much fun the first week or so of ministry. Every day was going to random tiny villages in the ridiculous heat and dirt. The villages consisted of small shacks made of tin, cardboard, and plastic. They almost all had dirt floors, and wells to get water from. Poverty like I’ve never seen before, and here I was selfishly uncomfortable. As I talked to people about it, someone very wisely said “you make the feeling of the place you are in.” I took this to heart. After that, whenever I was having a not say amazing day walking into the next village. I would ask God to help me see the good in the day, and to show me new things. It is amazing how your perception of things can change. I went from calling the area a dust bowl to loving it just because the local people, and friends I made were there. Each week I had to opportunity of sharing the joy of Christ and watching people find joy, and healing in Him. On one amazing day, I got the opportunity to make friends with some local men around my age that looked like they mug me if I were alone. They had tattoos and were drinking during the day. As I was standing up to speak, the Lord gave me the words to speak, and I firmly believe that every word was meant for them. Afterwards we had the chance to sing praise and worship songs, and they all began dancing! In the end I loved the people and will deeply miss my friends there. The Lord taught me that no matter the situation, weather, or exhaustion. He will help me find joy in what He finds joy in. I don’t believe I would have been able to learn this as roughly and well if He hadn’t sent me to Nicaragua. Adios Nicaragua. I’ll miss ya.
