So. Guatemala has been an inexplicable place of emotions, faces, and languages I can’t explain.
The inclusive nature of the Guatemalans make me appreciate all the more God’s plan in having me here. But on another note, I have been reading a book lately by Bob Goff called “Love Does.” It was handed down to me from my sister and its nostalgic air belongs to some close friends back home in PA. In the book, Bob has the miraculous gift of seeing through experiences and moments for their overall purpose in the lives of those around him, and himself. Each chapter has its own unique character of love and perspective that will brighten your senses to the whimsical and obvious.
I love it. 5 stars.
After two weeks here in Guatemala, God has revealed to me HIS love in obedience. His steadfastness in the face of trial and mishap makes everything point so directly to the cross of Christ I can’t help but lean into Him this season. Realizing that I haven’t been in Guatemala for more than 20 days bewilders me at times, but He’s just getting started.
On our first day of ministry with our leader Gabe, I saw a man go from death to life.
In the small community of San Luis (the least coveted shift on the Municpal building cycle) we met Francisco. As all 6’3” of Gabe introduced the 9 gringos huddled behind him, the conversation started.
Francisco was going to a Catholic Church, but was interested in Christianity. (…what…)
AND
Francisco had no idea who Jesus was. (I had a feeling Jesus set this one up for a deep bomb…center field).
As Gabe continued in his romantic tongue, I saw Francisco’s conversational character change to one of deep stillness. His eyes seemed to glaze over as he placed his hands on his tightly fastened belt. Something was stirred in Francisco and it was felt through the entire group. He accepted Jesus Christ to be his Savior and Lord that day. The rest of the week, in that rinkydink municipal building, a woman rededicated her life to Christ, an officer came to Christ, and the father of a family gave the first “yes” to a church we are starting there in San Luis. This was uplifting and has left a taste of eternity in my mouth. But, I was also able to see the pain of brokenness too. Looking back now its hard for me to think about it.
For one day of ministry, Joe (my team leader) and I joined a team of girls to walk through a village and pray. There, we saw a man hunched over on the side of the road. Our interpreter, Miguel, asked us, “Is this a drunk man.” (The answer of yes flashed over my mind in this instance)Then, answering the question he said “No, he is creation of God who is drunk at the moment.” As he pressed the man’s shoulder, he lifted his head, drool slipping out his mouth with a vacant gaze. I didn’t really know what to do, but we all began to pray.
I was scared. I was worried. I was totally uncountable.
In the midst of this, the man’s muttered words and face of anger and confusion changed. He began to cry.Miguel said, “He mourns.”
I don’t know what this man on the side of the road was drowning.
But what I do know is that God stirred all the brokenness and hurt and pain that ravaged him. I believe, God gave me that moment, to see life’s no different back home. How deep will we let ourselves get lost in the darkness of ourselves before we sacrifice it to Him who loves and cherishes us. How long will change rest on the edge of my soul and yet, I still cling to my flesh? How can I?
I mourn for this man. I hurt for him. I have shed tears for Him and I thank God for His mercy and faithful pursuit over my life.
What I trust in, what I hope in, what I lay into is this: God is faithful to finish the work He has started through Jesus Christ.
Love, love, love triumphs. It moves and pulls and actuates us to the reality of others. I am beginning to learn this living with 7 other guys on a daily basis, while walking in the freedom and calling of my Father. The honeymoon period of the race is starting to come to a close for me but I feel change in the close distance. I feel a hunger for the Lord I haven’t felt before. The calm of this season I feel is coming to an end and what is on the other side, I know will be a different person.
And change is gaining speed. It’s gaining speed.
Let it roll.
-Will
