Welcome to the World Race! It’s no joke. I’ve been dreaming about this for so long, that I still can’t believe this is real life- someone pinch me. Let me just fill you in on what my month in Guatemala has looked like.
We are in the mountains of Quiche- where one minute it’s so hot you feel like your skin will melt off (poor burnt nose) to rapidly coming clouds that deliver freezing monsoons. It’s pretty much unpredictable but a good bet would be to bring your rain jacket everywhere!
Know one can possibly prepare you for your first month of ministry …ever. You are literally thrown into a different country, living with 55+ people and placed in a ministry that doesn’t speak your language (we got lucky thanks to Rene). Sometimes ministry isn’t exactly what you expected or what was explained to you. My team Agape Warriors, were told that we were going to an orphanage to work with kids. That turned into the school to work with the kids… which ultimately ended in hard-core construction of leveling lands, painting and digging trenches. So even when you’re told your ministry, don’t make any expectations until you’re there. Actually wait- just don’t make any expectations at all! Be wet clay and let the potter do what He does best- mold you exactly the way you’re supposed to be.
God has a funny way of changing things up. I was disappointed, angry, exhausted, sick, excited and filled with joy. Talk about internal conflicts daily! Ministry isn’t just a 9-5 thing. It’s a way of life. It’s taking the time to talk to a squad mate, it’s cleaning the dishes, It’s getting dirty and shoveling that mud out of the dreaded trench and it’s making sure the team has toilet paper. In each little thing ask yourself, “ What is God trying to teach me in this”- and He will answer. Sometimes it’s in such a small whisper that you have to be careful to be listening and not be distracted.
Rene- the young man I mentioned before has been such an intricate part of our time here in Quiche. He has become such a part of our squad- esp our team.. I’m just going to have to pack him up and bring him to Nicaragua with us! Talk about a servant’s heart. I’ve learned so much from him, I don’t think he even realizes. He comes from such a giving family- that this month it felt like they served us more than we served them. (Which is HARD). They have literally welcomed us with open arms; it’s truly humbling to be receiving such hospitality. Rene has a way of paying attention to each girl on my team’s interest. For example one day while driving in Big Red (Rene’s awesome car)- I mention I was craving a snickers bar. Rene decides to stop the car to get one at a local store- only to find out there isn’t one.. but that didn’t stop him. He stops again.. no luck in store number two but he buys Hershey’s cookies and cream and milk chocolate bar for everyone! YUM YUM! I was so thankful and brought to tears. BUT he didn’t stop there because I said “snickers” he stopped AGAIN and got me a snickers! He even got us all flowers after. Tear Tear. He isn’t rich- yet has literally spent all his time and money on us this month. What is up with that God? I came to give myself and my things- NOT the other way around. God still hasn’t given me an answer to that queston but I will be waiting… patiently?
I’ve had some adventures such as hiking, having amazing food, being in a Guatmalan parade, a bridge collapsing while trying to watch the sunrise, and being sick in the quarantine room at our host family’s house. Overall it’s been an amazing experience and memorable first month of the race.
If anyone wants to send me a bacon, egg and cheese on a roll I wouldn’t be mad. Or a chicken cutlet from Rockies – please and thank you!
Miss and love ALL OF YOU! You are all in my thoughts and prayers- let me know if there is anything specific you need prayer for.
-Jenny
