This past month we’ve been in Medellin, Colombia working with a Christian rehabilitation center for drug and alcohol addicts. This host is incredible and it’s been such a privilege to work with them this month. One of the guys on my squad, Taylor, wrote an incredible blog that sums up all this host does and what the month has looked like. I would highly encourage you to read it!
https://taylorflickinger.theworldrace.org/post/aguapanela-drops-of-grace
On top of all that, every week we play soccer with the men in the rehab program and I must say it’s a lot of fun to play some Colombian soccer. These guys are diving deeper into their relationship with the Father and working towards freedom from their addictions. Whether we’re praying with the guys, doing teachings with them, or we’re out on the pitch, you can see their pursuit of Christ in it all.
Last week while playing soccer, I went in for a 50/50 challenge with a guy and injured my foot. It seemed to be just a bruise so I stuck it out. A few days later, my foot felt alright so I went to go play again. In the first few minutes I received a pass, took a step to make a move, and immediately went down in pain. It was in the same spot I had injured my foot a few days before, but this time it was a lot worse and I wasn’t able to put pressure on it.
After a hospital visit and some x rays, it turns out I broke my foot and will be out with a cast for 8 weeks. This left me in a bit of a predicament. The squad is leaving for Africa (Rwanda, Uganda, etc) on Thursday and here I am unable to walk with a broken foot. Do I suck it up and go to Africa? Do I go home to recover? I had to make a decision.
After some time talking with God and those close to me, I came to the conclusion it wouldn’t be wise for me to try and travel around Africa doing ministry with a broken foot. There are too many possibilities to prolong the healing process, and for long term health it would be best to rest and rehab in one location instead of being on African buses (although let’s be real, that sounds like a blast!).
So here I am, heading home 6 weeks early. It’s hard because I’ve loved getting to lead this squad and I was looking forward to the next 2 months ahead. However, I know this is the right decision to make. L squad, you have been a huge blessing and a joy to do life with these 3 months; I love each and every one of you. Oh, and don’t even get me started on my leadership team (they frickin’ rock).
I want to give huge thanks to everyone who has supported me over the past 2.5 years. I’ve been blessed to minister and grow with amazing people in different parts of the world and see God love and transform lives across the nations. God is seriously at work in this world and even though I won’t be out with my squad, I know God wants me to continue to partner with him in Florida. Please be praying for me as I transition back home. I would also love prayers for a speedy recovery with my foot so I can get back on my feet (literally lol) and go back out with my squad for a bit next month! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or just want to talk! I would love to hear from you.
Much love to all.
