A lot of times, ministry looks like… ministry. Ya know, telling people about Jesus, directing people towards the bible, doing physical labor for free, preaching at people, explaining who Jesus is, churchy stuff, and Jesus Jesus Jesus. And yes, I highly encourage doing these things in a sincere non annoying way. But then there’s ministry where it’s regular day to day life and more about actions than words. An intentional mindset and attitude in showing the love of Christ. A mindset and attitude that’s driven by being loved and adopted as a son or daughter, and then pouring out that same love and acceptance to other people. A ministry in which you show love before you talk about it.
By loving through action BEFORE words, there’s this constant and distinct difference in the atmosphere. People are more drawn to God by being loved by His sons and daughters, not just talking about that love. Ministry doesn’t have to be “Christian” stores, “Christian” missions, or organized church events. It can be a regular business for regular people. Why be known as Christian by labeling your ministry as “Christian”? How about being known as Christian by being a normal person or business, and showing that love that only Christ can give, to others. Now at first glance, you might not be able to see that intentional sincere Christ-like love. You might not see the joy of serving others. And you might not see the love that was on the cross being lived out… But as time goes by, that constant and distinct atmosphere will be noticed. The image of God’s love and acceptance will become more clear. And as people sense the difference of being loved and accepted compared to being told about that love and acceptance, opportunities will arise to where the Gospel can be more vocalized.
With all that being said… I’m stoked to present to you an awesome business called GuateJava!
What’s GuateJava? Well I’m glad you asked! GuateJava is an example of establishing a really cool atmosphere that’s caused by real sincere leaders of the business. GuateJava is an example of showing love and acceptance by how they do business. GuateJava is an example of serving great quality product out of a willingness to sell nothing but the best. GuateJava is an example of having a purpose that brings the Kingdom to Guatemala… Soo what is GuateJava exactly?… GuateJava is an awesome coffee shop… And their coffee isn’t just good. It’s Guatemalan good!
Now, there’s a ton I could type out and explain the wholeness and vision behind GuateJava, but there’s something that can explain everything a little bit better… So do us all a favor, and check out this link ——-> http://gcworks.org/
After checking that link out, you probably noticed something: Global Community Works. GCW has more to it than just GuateJava, and the people behind this organization have hearts that are passionate for being used in changing the world around them. I feel like I can somewhat say this, because I had the awesome privilege in meeting and listening to the founders, Gabor and Candy Siklosi. And not just them, but I was also blessed in meeting and listening to Javier Villatoro, the manager at GuateJava. They’ve put into motion a vision that has been produced by utilizing the gifts and desires that God has given them.
So what does this mean for you? Well now that you have knowledge of another opportunity in spreading God’s Kingdom, you have another opportunity in helping out… So, first and foremost, please be in prayer for GCW and GuateJava. Be in prayer for the workers and the people that will walk into GuateJava and the lives that GCW will touch. You can also help out by buying some coffee! Get yourself some legitimate great quality Guatemalan coffee! I can confidently say that I doubt you’ll be disappointed. And while you’re at it, tell every coffee lover you know about it. And tell them to tell other coffee lovers they know about it!… Plus, I’m sure there’s more ways to pray for and donate to GCW and GuateJava. Check that link out and let everyone you know about it. God’s moving in Guatemala, and you have an opportunity in helping out in a pretty cool way.
Plus, I’m gonna just brag about Javier for a second. I’ve gotten to talk to him a few different times, and I can honestly say that I’m blessed every time I talk to him. His heart and attitude is contagious, and God is definitely using him to impact the people around him.
And let this be an encouragement to everyone who’s reading this. God has designed you with certain gifts and if you allow him to, he will put desires on your heart that you can chase after. An attitude that they have is similar to this: dream big and utilize those gifts that God has given you… So don’t settle for what the world says you can or can’t do, but run after the desires that God gives you, and dream as big as you can. Nothing you do is ever useless to God, and with a willing heart and openness to using your God given gifts, you will be used to change the world. Whether it’s one cup of coffee at a time, one smile at a time, or one small step at a time. It doesn’t matter… So just know that God can and will use whatever He has or hasn’t equipped you with. You’re here for a reason… Dream big and fight for your vision. When God’s behind it, nothing can stop it.
