10 Things I’m thankful for in November
1. Getting to pour into people…
We hosted an AIM Immersion group of 60 crazy yet amazing college age students. Their team, a few friends, and our team all journeyed north to Lake Atitlan. For two and a half weeks we worshipped together, prayed for each other, did ministry together, and laughed a lot. It was incredible to watch the Lord transform hearts. So many of them left with a fuller understanding of the Father and His love.
2. Worship like never before…
We worshipped with 80 people at Lake Atitlan. There were several nights this month that we got to worship as a corporate group. There is just something about worship with 80+ people, overlooking his beautiful creation, while being in His presence. Some of these nights I will never forget.
3. The Cambodia Team joined us for training
There is hope for another long-term base to be started in Cambodia. Before the launch there, they came to us to get training, insight, and to experience the Father’s heart in new ways.
4. The many adventures that come from being a missionary…
We work hard, but we also find time to “unplug” and have a little fun. After several days of teaching and seeking more of the Lord, we took the afternoon to go cliff jumping (don’t worry parents, the place is secure and no one got hurt). Some conquered fears while others filled with need for an adrenaline rush.
5. Finding diamonds in the rough…
There are some things that are extremely hard to find on the mission field, one of those being gluten free food. One day, while I was casually walking through a tienda at the lake, I stopped dead in my tracks. I looked to my left and there was GLUTEN/ DAIRY FREE Mac& Cheese… PTL
6. Seeing God’s beauty in countless ways…
Our God is creative, beautiful, and overflowing with love for His children. I got to see these attributes each morning as I sat in a chair overlooking the lake. Day after day, reds, yellows, and pinks would paint the sky as the sun rose over the volcanoes. As I stared at the sky changing colors, I couldn’t help but praise my Savior.
7. Watching the Lord transform hearts…
It’s one thing to hear the stories of lives being changed, and it’s another to watch it unfold right before your very eyes. During our time at the lake, many people had an encounter with the Lord like never before. On the last day, 26 people were baptized! PRAISE THE LORD for changing hearts and never leaving us the same.
8. I saw the Lord open new doors with people we have been pouring into the last few months
I met a café owner in April. For the past 6 months, the relationship has been slowly progressing. A couple weeks ago, a door was opened to take the relationship deeper and share about The Lord. She was very receptive.
9. Increasing our family…
Thanksgiving day was a special day for our team in more ways than one. Not only did we get to reflect on all He has done this year in Guatemala, but we also got to start a new chapter in our book by adding two new team members. Justin and Hannah Wofford are the newest additions to our familia!!
10. I got to go home for Thanksgiving
Life on this mission field comes with many pros and cons. Last year, I spent both Thanksgiving and Christmas with my “adopted family of 60” overseas. I was hoping to be home this year, but my time in Guatemala continues to be extended. I might not get to go home for Christmas, but thanks to supporters and lots of prayer the door was opened for me to adventure to TN for Thanksgiving! My time was quick but filled with lots of fun!
