My favorite view this month has been from the front porch of what I have called home in Belize. The Nazarene church we’re staying at sits right in front of one of the main roads in the small town of Independence. I have made time most days to sit out front, interact with the locals, read my bible and have quiet time with the Lord to just feel His presence in a new and different way. One of my prayers for this month (and all the 11 months) is to see people through Jesus’s eyes. Like truly see them for who they are and what they need. That prayer has been answered every time I sit on that porch in the mornings or evenings.
The first time I sat here I was a little bit on sensory overload. It was an evening that people were coming and going to work, kids were riding bikes up and down the road, dogs were running all over and I felt all eyes on me like the new town attraction. But every face I saw returned a smile, a wave or a simple ‘hello.’ So I stayed and I kept coming back because I saw joy. A pure form of joy in the lack of phones being used, cars being driven, and designer clothes being worn. I get to forget about those things for a while to just be present. Life on the porch is simple. It’s not a big complicated world that needs constant attention and planning. It’s a small world that is easy and carefree and makes sense.
I have made several friends sitting on this porch. All of whom I know were sent from the Lord. The first was an older lady named Elizabeth. I recognized her after seeing her at the local high school where we shared our testimonies in the religious studies classes. She walks to and from school 5 days a week wearing worn out flip flops. Walking hurts. Her walk is at least 30-45 minutes one way. She passes by in the evenings and has the kindest smile and warm spirit. I met a much younger family member of hers named Karolina that walks with her. She is so eager to say hello. She lit up the day I called her by name and told her I’d been waiting to see them. I have looked forward to evening’s because of them. A little boy around the age of 10 came up one day and sat down right next to me. I learned his name is JR and he lives with his parents near the water taxi in town. We talked about sports, his bike, school, his siblings and several other things that sparked his interest. He had a smile that seemed like it never left his face. He asked me what America and riding in a plane was like. He was curious and excited to hear about things outside his life here. I’ve seen him several times since then and he smiles ear to ear each time.
The Lord knew I needed this front porch this month. I’ve been learning what change and new routines look like. I’ve been embracing a completely new way of life and adjusting well. I’ve met people I’ve never dreamt I’d meet. I’ve had conversations and deep connection with God. I’ve poured over scripture in community. I’ve laughed and cried and processed new emotions. And most if not all has happened on that porch. God has been working on my heart in a new and exciting way and it’s only month one! I can’t wait to see what all He has in store ahead and what other front porches He has in mind.
