Hey friends, long time no talk. For the past month, I’ve been hugging my friends a little tighter, spending time with my family a little longer, and making my time at home a little sweeter because I moved to ECUADOR. Hasta luego, USA! I’m entering my second week of living in Ecuador, and it has been sccchhhweet. I’m currently based in Calicáli at Hacienda el Refugio. (triple dog dare you to look it up, you won’t regret it) Days here look like beautiful Ecuadorian meals, loving on staff, gardening and manual labor. Puppy kisses, squeaky bunk beds, mountains, and looking up to realize that you literally live IN the clouds. Being the first squad to launch into the COVID world that we live in has been such an honor. But, layer by layer the Lord is stripping me of agenda and expectation, one curveball at a time.
1. Parent Vision Trip? Not happening
2. Our squad was split up between two ministry locations, meaning we see each other once a week instead of living together like we did for 3 months in Gainesville
3. We are obviously in Ecuador instead of any of the four countries that were originally on our route
4. We cannot actually leave the bases. COVID. Can’t really get our hands on people in the city. That was heartbreaking
The more I think about and even try to mourn these changes, the more I just want to jump into Jesus’ arms and hug Him so tight. I THANK Him for not giving me what I think I want. The more plans change and the more and more my race looks different from the so many before mine, the more I’m learning to give the Lord not only my “Yes,” but also my “It’s okay.” And not like, “Well then fine. Okay.” But my, “It really is okay, Father. You can have it.” (something that Mabe, one of our sweet ministry hosts, taught us) There’s something SO sweet about just showing up, giving the Lord your yes, and letting Him take the paintbrush. I get it, trust me! It looks so different than you thought it would. But that’s so cool. It DOES look different than you thought it would. It’s new and unexplored and you can rest assured that King is about to blow your mind. With tears in your eyes, butterflies in your tummy, sweat on your palms, just say yes. Release what you’re holding on to so tightly that your knuckles are bright white, and take a breath. He wants to hold it for you, and make it all even sweeter. See you in 5 months, America! & I will talk to ya soon. Si <3
