This has been a month of flexibility in regards to our schedule. Every day looks different (which I love) and things can change last minute depending on other factors (such as its too hot outside).
We have been blessed with a lot of down time but, that can also be a dangerous thing on the Race as it gives you an opportunity to easily check out.
Thankfully we have a team that loves well and hosts that have become like second parents to all of us. So that down Time is filled with intentional time together.
Yes, ministry hours are super impactful and there are many months that was my highlight.
However, I have come to appreciate the unaccounted for hours. So many of my forever memories have been formed in the little cracks of time strung together outside of ministry.
Even more so with this month in particular because of the bond we have formed with our hosts. In a way we never want ministry to end for the day because hanging out with them is just so much fun.
Whether its a dance party, movie night, playing cards, or playing volleyball they are always invited and so excited to say yes to spending the time with us. On our adventure days its assumed to include them in the plans simply because it wouldn’t be the same without them hanging out with us.
It is in those unaccounted for hours that our hosts open up and share; where we have the opportunity to pour into them and build their Spirit back up; learn lessons of life and faith we may never have gotten the chance to otherwise; and build true friendships with our brothers and sisters in Christ.
Emi and Valentin have made this month as normal as possible. We have family dinners, sit late at night laughing and talking, share inside jokes, and so much more. Emi even randomly videos us and takes pictures like a proud mom with a huge smile on her face.
The appreciation for the unaccounted hours is something I wish to hold onto when returning to the States. Its really made me reflect on all the moments wasted.
