I was fortunate that I got to hang out with some of my Guatemala buddies last night while painting in the nursery at church. We talked about the trip a bit, wondering what's going on while we're gone, expressing an odd mix of feelings since we've been back.
We've each been feeling a bit out of sorts. Lack of motivation to do the mundane tasks of life. Feeling as if we can't quite get a handle on the emotions and experiences of being in Guatemala with the orphans, nor can we capture the experience in a sound bite or even a single conversation. Someone asked me last night to tell me about how I've changed in one sentence. It was a long, rambling compound sentence, which turned into a nice dialogue.
I can't put the experience in a tiny box and label it neatly so that others can conceptualize it and then put it away for their use in some future story when they need a really good example. "I knew a woman who went to Guatemala..." It wasn't like going to camp at 16 and vowing that I promise I'll read my Bible more when I get home.
I'm not sure what to do next, but God is still working on me, molding me even in this week post-Guatemala, speaking to me about what he's passionate about. Passion is the word that keeps running though my head. There's a verse that popped into my head last night that seemed to capture more than anything the swirling of emotions I feel now: "But if I say, 'I will not mention him or speak any more in his name,' his word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot." (Jeremiah 20:9)
What will God do with that passion, with that fire? I know I'm not the only one feeling like this, so what will God do with such passion multiplied? What can't he do, really?
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Monday, August 21, 2006
Apples and Oranges
My folks were really glad to have me home, and I think Mom hugged me a million times. It was great to be able to share in person with them about the week we spent at the orphanges, in Guatemala.
Mom told me that a co-worker had come into her office to state that she disagreed with me going to Guatemala, and that there are many service projects/needs that I could be and should be doing right in our city. I've been ruminating on that for a day or so.
She's right. We should be addressing the needs of the people in our city, showing the love of God to those within our sphere of influence, and in fact, we do that. A large part of the Guatemala team is active in Crash on a weekly basis. But to say that I should be doing local volunteer work instead of looking internationally is an effort in comparing apples to oranges.
God opened my eyes a lot this week to the harsh realities of life in other parts of the world. You can't flush toilet paper in Guatemala because their water/sewer system is weak. There is trash in the streets, in the streams, everywhere. There is the odor of garbage and sewage driving down the street. The streets in Guatemala City weren't really planned, and it's a mess. There is no foster care; children are in orphanages. There are 60 orphans and less than a dozen care workers in one orphanage, and they're locked in at night. The sex offenders are mixed in with the special needs kids, and unspeakable things happen. There is no Medicaid, no Housing Authority, no Food Stamps or commodities. If the orphange runs out of tylenol, the kids just have fever and cope as best they can.
Apples and oranges. We can have them both. We need them both. God calls all of us to look to the interests of others, next door and in those parts of our world where there are few to speak for them.
Mom told me that a co-worker had come into her office to state that she disagreed with me going to Guatemala, and that there are many service projects/needs that I could be and should be doing right in our city. I've been ruminating on that for a day or so.
She's right. We should be addressing the needs of the people in our city, showing the love of God to those within our sphere of influence, and in fact, we do that. A large part of the Guatemala team is active in Crash on a weekly basis. But to say that I should be doing local volunteer work instead of looking internationally is an effort in comparing apples to oranges.
God opened my eyes a lot this week to the harsh realities of life in other parts of the world. You can't flush toilet paper in Guatemala because their water/sewer system is weak. There is trash in the streets, in the streams, everywhere. There is the odor of garbage and sewage driving down the street. The streets in Guatemala City weren't really planned, and it's a mess. There is no foster care; children are in orphanages. There are 60 orphans and less than a dozen care workers in one orphanage, and they're locked in at night. The sex offenders are mixed in with the special needs kids, and unspeakable things happen. There is no Medicaid, no Housing Authority, no Food Stamps or commodities. If the orphange runs out of tylenol, the kids just have fever and cope as best they can.
Apples and oranges. We can have them both. We need them both. God calls all of us to look to the interests of others, next door and in those parts of our world where there are few to speak for them.
Sunday, August 20, 2006
Experiencing God at Work
I’m glad to know as I read this blog that I am not the only one feeling as if I’m living in two worlds at once. There are still so many vivid images from the trip on my heart today, and I pray that God will bless each of those children in Guatemala as much as he has blessed each of us while we were there.
I was looking over some of my journaling from before the trip and I thought I would share some verses that touched me. Romans 10:14-15 says: “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring the good news!” It was a blessing to share Jesus with the children of Guatemala but they shared Jesus with us as well in ways I had never seen before. God answered so many prayers this week. I don’t know that I can even put them into words.
I was a little uneasy going into this trip since it was during the week that my dad passed away three years ago. I thought this trip could be a challenge but felt God tugging on my heart to go. Simply going to Guatemala was a step of faith for me and a response to God that I want to follow His will for me. He showed me this verse before we left, “And the God of all grace who called you to his eternal glory in Christ after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.” 1 Peter 5:10 I really believe that God strengthened me this week. I pray this same prayer for the children in the orphanages, that they will only suffer for a little while and God will strengthen them into the people of God that he plans for them to be.
Finally, I will share one last verse that I feel applied to us this week as well as is my prayer for the children of Guatemala. “…you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” 1 Peter 2:9
I was looking over some of my journaling from before the trip and I thought I would share some verses that touched me. Romans 10:14-15 says: “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring the good news!” It was a blessing to share Jesus with the children of Guatemala but they shared Jesus with us as well in ways I had never seen before. God answered so many prayers this week. I don’t know that I can even put them into words.
I was a little uneasy going into this trip since it was during the week that my dad passed away three years ago. I thought this trip could be a challenge but felt God tugging on my heart to go. Simply going to Guatemala was a step of faith for me and a response to God that I want to follow His will for me. He showed me this verse before we left, “And the God of all grace who called you to his eternal glory in Christ after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.” 1 Peter 5:10 I really believe that God strengthened me this week. I pray this same prayer for the children in the orphanages, that they will only suffer for a little while and God will strengthen them into the people of God that he plans for them to be.
Finally, I will share one last verse that I feel applied to us this week as well as is my prayer for the children of Guatemala. “…you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” 1 Peter 2:9
Whom Shall I Send
Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here I am. Send Me!" - Isaiah 6:8
This is a verse that Emily shared with us during one of our morning devotions. I have heard and read that verse before, but it never truly resonated until this week. Those words have filled my head and heart for the last several days.
I think I can safely say that I left my heart in San Gabriel. While I am glad to be home, to be safe, to be with the ones that I love, my thoughts are still with those boys behind that steel door and concrete wall. I can't get that image out of my head or the feeling of leaving them behind, not knowing what their lives will hold in the coming weeks...months...years. I have been comforted by the promise Jesus gives in John 14:18, "I will not leave you here as orphans. I will come to you." It is a promise of love and protection for these boys. Yet I feel that Jesus comes in human form to these boys through those that answer His call. They so badly need to be held and touched and loved by us....God with skin on.
My heart's prayer for those boys is there would never be a day without someone hugging them, or encouraging them, or kissing them on the cheek. I know that the Lord has wonderful plans for all of them, but as His followers we have a role in fulfilling those plans. It was that knowledge that made me not want to get on the plane today. I wanted the bus to take me back to San Gabriel to see Leonel bake his cake, to watch Thomas and Amber sneak up on Jody, to have Oscar sweetly take my bag from my shoulder to carry it for me. That was not to be so today but it may be soon enough. So my heart aches tonight for them but I know that God is God and He will provide for them and for me.
What Jody said is true...this is just the beginning. I have no idea when God will send me back to Guatemala. I can only hope and pray that it is not too far away but if that cannot be, I pray that someone else will answer that call.
"Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" Tonight, I pray that if it cannot be me it would be someone else and soon.
This is a verse that Emily shared with us during one of our morning devotions. I have heard and read that verse before, but it never truly resonated until this week. Those words have filled my head and heart for the last several days.
I think I can safely say that I left my heart in San Gabriel. While I am glad to be home, to be safe, to be with the ones that I love, my thoughts are still with those boys behind that steel door and concrete wall. I can't get that image out of my head or the feeling of leaving them behind, not knowing what their lives will hold in the coming weeks...months...years. I have been comforted by the promise Jesus gives in John 14:18, "I will not leave you here as orphans. I will come to you." It is a promise of love and protection for these boys. Yet I feel that Jesus comes in human form to these boys through those that answer His call. They so badly need to be held and touched and loved by us....God with skin on.
My heart's prayer for those boys is there would never be a day without someone hugging them, or encouraging them, or kissing them on the cheek. I know that the Lord has wonderful plans for all of them, but as His followers we have a role in fulfilling those plans. It was that knowledge that made me not want to get on the plane today. I wanted the bus to take me back to San Gabriel to see Leonel bake his cake, to watch Thomas and Amber sneak up on Jody, to have Oscar sweetly take my bag from my shoulder to carry it for me. That was not to be so today but it may be soon enough. So my heart aches tonight for them but I know that God is God and He will provide for them and for me.
What Jody said is true...this is just the beginning. I have no idea when God will send me back to Guatemala. I can only hope and pray that it is not too far away but if that cannot be, I pray that someone else will answer that call.
"Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" Tonight, I pray that if it cannot be me it would be someone else and soon.
Saturday, August 19, 2006
Be safe...
Home at last. Mail sorted, messages checked, clothes in the washer. It's hard to sit at home tonight. I miss my team, the translators, our leader, our mission for the next day, the tight community. I feel kind of out of sorts. Spending tomorrow paying bills and running errands seems kind of lame in comparison to playing frisbee with Tito at San Gabriel.
I'm re-reading a really great book called "Blue Like Jazz", and I came across this passage on the plane today, and it jumped off the page at me:
" Can you imagine if Christians actually believed that God was trying to rescue us from the pit of our own self-addiction? Can you imagine? Can you imagine what Americans would do if they understood over half the world was living in poverty? Do you think they would change the way they live, the products they purchase, and the politicians they elect? If we believed the right things, the true things, there wouldn't be many problems on earth. But the trouble with deep belief is that it costs something. And there is something inside me, some selfish beast of a subtle thing that doesn't like the truth at all because it carries responsibility, and if I actually believe these things I have to do something about them."
Coming home from Guatemala doesn't feel like an ending; it feels like a beginning. There's a passion that has been stirred, and it's kind of scary because it requires movement, change, (dare I say?) sacrifice. I'm not sure what the looks like or how it'll play out, but it sounds like an adventure with God. Scot left me a message before we left: "Be safe. And dangerous."
Sounds like a plan.
I'm re-reading a really great book called "Blue Like Jazz", and I came across this passage on the plane today, and it jumped off the page at me:
" Can you imagine if Christians actually believed that God was trying to rescue us from the pit of our own self-addiction? Can you imagine? Can you imagine what Americans would do if they understood over half the world was living in poverty? Do you think they would change the way they live, the products they purchase, and the politicians they elect? If we believed the right things, the true things, there wouldn't be many problems on earth. But the trouble with deep belief is that it costs something. And there is something inside me, some selfish beast of a subtle thing that doesn't like the truth at all because it carries responsibility, and if I actually believe these things I have to do something about them."
Coming home from Guatemala doesn't feel like an ending; it feels like a beginning. There's a passion that has been stirred, and it's kind of scary because it requires movement, change, (dare I say?) sacrifice. I'm not sure what the looks like or how it'll play out, but it sounds like an adventure with God. Scot left me a message before we left: "Be safe. And dangerous."
Sounds like a plan.
One Heart, One Mouth
We all made it back to Indianapolis in one piece and on time, too! Praise God for smooth travels!
Romans 15:5-6 says, "May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ."
I read this verse on the plane from Guatemala to Dallas, then really started thinking about the deeper meaning behind it. As we follow Christ, God wants to give us unity. "Community happens on the way to cause." I have never felt that so strongly as I did this week. In spite of our many differences (including native languages), our team bonded in an indescribable way. There were sweet memories made, tears shed, and a lot of laughter over some quotes that will most likely not be funny to anyone who wasn't there. Our translators were amazing (and the source of many of our hilarious moments!), the Buckner staff in Guatemala was wonderful, and our group leader, "Mr. Jeremy," set a great example for us.
Back to the title of this post. This is similar to what Jody said before about the two definitions of knowing something. I knew before this trip that God was huge and could understand us no matter what language we speak, but now I know this experientially. I loved hearing the kids at the orphanages singing in Spanish and listening to the translators pray with a child. Knowing that it is all the same to God just blows my mind. If our hearts are bowed before Him, our language makes no difference--it's like we're all praising Him with one mouth. Simply amazing.
Sorry if this is jumbled--I'm a bit tired from all the traveling. But I do want to say thank you for all the prayers you've offered up on our behalf this week. We could definitely feel them, and we're more appreciative than you know.
Amanda
Romans 15:5-6 says, "May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ."
I read this verse on the plane from Guatemala to Dallas, then really started thinking about the deeper meaning behind it. As we follow Christ, God wants to give us unity. "Community happens on the way to cause." I have never felt that so strongly as I did this week. In spite of our many differences (including native languages), our team bonded in an indescribable way. There were sweet memories made, tears shed, and a lot of laughter over some quotes that will most likely not be funny to anyone who wasn't there. Our translators were amazing (and the source of many of our hilarious moments!), the Buckner staff in Guatemala was wonderful, and our group leader, "Mr. Jeremy," set a great example for us.
Back to the title of this post. This is similar to what Jody said before about the two definitions of knowing something. I knew before this trip that God was huge and could understand us no matter what language we speak, but now I know this experientially. I loved hearing the kids at the orphanages singing in Spanish and listening to the translators pray with a child. Knowing that it is all the same to God just blows my mind. If our hearts are bowed before Him, our language makes no difference--it's like we're all praising Him with one mouth. Simply amazing.
Sorry if this is jumbled--I'm a bit tired from all the traveling. But I do want to say thank you for all the prayers you've offered up on our behalf this week. We could definitely feel them, and we're more appreciative than you know.
Amanda
Last update from Guatemala
Things have been busy for the past couple of days, on the run continually from place to place, so we're sorry for the delay in posting.
Thursday was our last day at the orphanages. Thanks to all of our friends and family, we were able to donate much to the Buckner warehouse in Guatemala City to distribute to the orphanages as they have need. We delivered those items in the morning and helped with sorting at the warehouse, and some of us went to the babies' home again. We loved and held and gave airplane rides and blew bubbles. It was a delight to sit in the courtyard with the babies and show them such affection.
In the afternoon we went to a girls' orphange called Manchen in Antigua where we did VBS activities, crafts, prayer, and we were able to give the girls many gifts, for which they were thankful. We also had a pizza party for them...ironic that we used our money from funraisers from pizza sales to have a pizza party! They loved it.
It was really sad to leave, even though were were only the for a few hours. I met the sweetest girl named Susana who knew a little English (more than the Spanish I know). We traded words back and forth, pointing at hair, buttons, eyes and the like, sharing our words for them. She has the most beautiful freckles on her nose, and I wanted to bring her home with me. We hugged and kissed and she wanted to know when I'd be back. I told her I hope to come back, plan to come back to see her and hold her and remind her that God loves her.
Jennifer commented the other day that when we say good-bye/adios, adios literally means "to God". I thought that was lovely, to be saying to the boys and girls as we left them, "I leave you with God."
Friday was a day of relaxation, as we toured through Antigua, visiting a macadamia farm and then ending the afternoon shopping in the market. There was a farewell dinner last night at the hotel with our translators and guides, and though there were a few tears, it was honest to say to them, "We'll see you later."
Scot gave a sermon series a while ago called "Dust", referring to the disciples of a rabbi being covered in the dust he kicks up because they are walking so closely behind him. I've thought this week as we've been literally dirty that I have been much more dusty this week, walking very close to Jesus in our work and play at the orphanages.
We're getting ready to board for Dallas. More later.
Thursday was our last day at the orphanages. Thanks to all of our friends and family, we were able to donate much to the Buckner warehouse in Guatemala City to distribute to the orphanages as they have need. We delivered those items in the morning and helped with sorting at the warehouse, and some of us went to the babies' home again. We loved and held and gave airplane rides and blew bubbles. It was a delight to sit in the courtyard with the babies and show them such affection.
In the afternoon we went to a girls' orphange called Manchen in Antigua where we did VBS activities, crafts, prayer, and we were able to give the girls many gifts, for which they were thankful. We also had a pizza party for them...ironic that we used our money from funraisers from pizza sales to have a pizza party! They loved it.
It was really sad to leave, even though were were only the for a few hours. I met the sweetest girl named Susana who knew a little English (more than the Spanish I know). We traded words back and forth, pointing at hair, buttons, eyes and the like, sharing our words for them. She has the most beautiful freckles on her nose, and I wanted to bring her home with me. We hugged and kissed and she wanted to know when I'd be back. I told her I hope to come back, plan to come back to see her and hold her and remind her that God loves her.
Jennifer commented the other day that when we say good-bye/adios, adios literally means "to God". I thought that was lovely, to be saying to the boys and girls as we left them, "I leave you with God."
Friday was a day of relaxation, as we toured through Antigua, visiting a macadamia farm and then ending the afternoon shopping in the market. There was a farewell dinner last night at the hotel with our translators and guides, and though there were a few tears, it was honest to say to them, "We'll see you later."
Scot gave a sermon series a while ago called "Dust", referring to the disciples of a rabbi being covered in the dust he kicks up because they are walking so closely behind him. I've thought this week as we've been literally dirty that I have been much more dusty this week, walking very close to Jesus in our work and play at the orphanages.
We're getting ready to board for Dallas. More later.
Exit Guatemala
Just wanted to post a quick note to everyone. I sent an e-mail yesterday to John Wiggins, who's part of the crew in Guatemala, just to make sure all was well. I got a quick reply from him this morning:
Pray for these guys, they're coming home!
We are doing fine. nobody has blogged because we have been sooo busy. Jody will blog again today, but for now, we are sitting in the airport in Guatemala. Pray for our flight! See ya!
Juanito
Pray for these guys, they're coming home!
Friday, August 18, 2006
Update on our Crashers!
My wife, Wendy, sent me an e-mail today asking if I'd heard from any of our international Crashers. I hadn't, and since the blog hadn't been updated since Monday, I figured I'd do something about it.
I gave a quick call to the Dallas office of Buckner Group, the group that's handling the trip, and they've been in daily contact with the group leader, and everything's going fine. I didn't ask for any more details than that, but if you're worrying about the group, you can stop now. :)
Hopefully we'll get another update from them before they leave, but if not, I'm sure there'll be plenty to read once they get back. Let's keep praying for them, for opportunities to share the love of Christ, and for a safe return trip.
Update: Well, it seems Jody made an update Wednesday but forgot to publish it, so, see the post directly below this one for some news.
I gave a quick call to the Dallas office of Buckner Group, the group that's handling the trip, and they've been in daily contact with the group leader, and everything's going fine. I didn't ask for any more details than that, but if you're worrying about the group, you can stop now. :)
Hopefully we'll get another update from them before they leave, but if not, I'm sure there'll be plenty to read once they get back. Let's keep praying for them, for opportunities to share the love of Christ, and for a safe return trip.
Update: Well, it seems Jody made an update Wednesday but forgot to publish it, so, see the post directly below this one for some news.
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Today my heart broke
Today was our last day at San Gabriel. We had 3 days to connect with the boys in that orphanage, doing lessons, playing games, praying together. Yesterday had been frustrating due to some fighting, bad attitudes, and animosity among the boys, so we prayed for peace for the boys, willing and open hearts, readiness to receive God's message, and victory in the spiritual battle that rages in that place.
They were calm. We talked about salvation and prayed with the boys, we bought them fresh fruit (a real treat for them), gave them underwear and toys, and hugged. A lot.
My heart broke when we left, with the boys holding onto us, hugging and kissing and smiling, and I don't know when I'll see them again. What will happen to them. Many are certain they will die young and have a fatalistic view of the world and their futures. They waved out the iron door, yelling "adios!".
There are 2 different words in French for the word "know". There is savoir, which is to know in your head, and then there is connaitre, to know relationally, experientially. I have always known that there are orphanages, but now I know Thomas, who likes to sneak up and surprise me while holding Amber's hand; Tito, who likes to play hide and seek around the tree; Miguel, who likes to wrap his arms and legs around me when I pick him up; a boy whose name I don't know because he doesn't talk but he could hug me for an hour and pepper my neck with kisses.
These boys are orphans in Guatemala with personality, humor, ire, attitude, affection, and they were created in God's image. Just like me. He loves them and chases after their affection, has grand plans for them, will use them to his glory, will sing over them while they sleep.
My heart aches for them, yet I know that we showed the love of God today. There were many tears and laughs, and the meaning of the word "bittersweet" is crystal clear.
They were calm. We talked about salvation and prayed with the boys, we bought them fresh fruit (a real treat for them), gave them underwear and toys, and hugged. A lot.
My heart broke when we left, with the boys holding onto us, hugging and kissing and smiling, and I don't know when I'll see them again. What will happen to them. Many are certain they will die young and have a fatalistic view of the world and their futures. They waved out the iron door, yelling "adios!".
There are 2 different words in French for the word "know". There is savoir, which is to know in your head, and then there is connaitre, to know relationally, experientially. I have always known that there are orphanages, but now I know Thomas, who likes to sneak up and surprise me while holding Amber's hand; Tito, who likes to play hide and seek around the tree; Miguel, who likes to wrap his arms and legs around me when I pick him up; a boy whose name I don't know because he doesn't talk but he could hug me for an hour and pepper my neck with kisses.
These boys are orphans in Guatemala with personality, humor, ire, attitude, affection, and they were created in God's image. Just like me. He loves them and chases after their affection, has grand plans for them, will use them to his glory, will sing over them while they sleep.
My heart aches for them, yet I know that we showed the love of God today. There were many tears and laughs, and the meaning of the word "bittersweet" is crystal clear.
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Another lovely day
Today was another lovely day in Guatemala. We went back to San Gabriel to finish projects in construction, the kitchen and the laundry. Our focus this morning was to tend to the care workers, giving them support and attention. We had a great chance to visit with the cooks in the kitchen and pray with them for their personal needs and to pray for them to be blessed for the love they show to these orphan boys.
In the afternoon we did more VBS activities and games. More opportunities to connect with the boys, show them love and affection, touch them and show them that they are important to us and to God.
We also shopped for about $130 worth of feminine hygiene products at a supermarket. We were stared at by the locals and shunned by the men in our group. We made them carry them anyway.
We are all safe and well (despite an abbreviated episode of Montezuma's Revenge...everyone is healthy at the moment). Thanks for the prayers.
My friends are mad at me for hogging the computer. We're off to pray for and plan out tomorrow's fun.
In the afternoon we did more VBS activities and games. More opportunities to connect with the boys, show them love and affection, touch them and show them that they are important to us and to God.
We also shopped for about $130 worth of feminine hygiene products at a supermarket. We were stared at by the locals and shunned by the men in our group. We made them carry them anyway.
We are all safe and well (despite an abbreviated episode of Montezuma's Revenge...everyone is healthy at the moment). Thanks for the prayers.
My friends are mad at me for hogging the computer. We're off to pray for and plan out tomorrow's fun.
Monday, August 14, 2006
San Gabriel
Today we met the boys at San Gabriel, a goverment orphanage that looks like a prison. It used to be a prison. This morning we helped with some construction in that we painted and worked at tearing down a concrete wall (that task isn't finished yet). We also met with, helped, and ministered to the caregivers in the laundry and kitchen. You really connect with people while sorting beans.
This afternoon we met with the boys. We were mobbed upon arrival with hugs and kisses and pleas for dulce (candy). We did lessons on Daniel and the lions den and played soccer with the boys in small groups. We each have stories of connecting with the boys. They asked for prayer for their families and their studies. We threw the frisbee or kicked the soccer ball for what seemed like 5 minutes, but was really an hour. They have so many scars, visible and invisible, yet in some many there is pure joy in getting personal touch and attention.
There was laughing over a frisbee to the head or a poor job with our Spanish phrases, tenderness with a hug, communicating without words but showing love. We've prayed so much this week, and God is answering our prayers in that we are able to show His love and make His name more famous in this country. We also experience the "upside-down-ness" of God's kingdom in that we show up to give and find ourselves being blessed more than we could have imagined.
We go back to San Gabriel tomorrow with more excitement to continue to build on today's work. Thanks be to God for letting us be a part of the story of Jesus being lived out in this week, in this country, in our lives.
This afternoon we met with the boys. We were mobbed upon arrival with hugs and kisses and pleas for dulce (candy). We did lessons on Daniel and the lions den and played soccer with the boys in small groups. We each have stories of connecting with the boys. They asked for prayer for their families and their studies. We threw the frisbee or kicked the soccer ball for what seemed like 5 minutes, but was really an hour. They have so many scars, visible and invisible, yet in some many there is pure joy in getting personal touch and attention.
There was laughing over a frisbee to the head or a poor job with our Spanish phrases, tenderness with a hug, communicating without words but showing love. We've prayed so much this week, and God is answering our prayers in that we are able to show His love and make His name more famous in this country. We also experience the "upside-down-ness" of God's kingdom in that we show up to give and find ourselves being blessed more than we could have imagined.
We go back to San Gabriel tomorrow with more excitement to continue to build on today's work. Thanks be to God for letting us be a part of the story of Jesus being lived out in this week, in this country, in our lives.
Sunday, August 13, 2006
So Blessed
We were discussing tonight at dinner how we wish we could write down everything we're experiencing and feeling as it's happening. We have experienced so much in just a short amount of time, and yet when I finally sit down to write about it I am at a loss for words.
We began our day by worshiping at a church not too far from our hotel. I wish I could fully express how amazing it was to praise God in that environment. While most of us had no clue what anyone was saying, we could still feel the presence of the Lord. They sang some familiar worship songs which allowed us to praise in our native language while they praised in theirs. I was overwhelmed. It made me feel like I was experiencing just a taste of what it must have been like at Pentecost or even what God hears everyday from his church all over the world. Different words but the same song of love to our Savior. Indescribable.
Next, we visited the transitional home which is home to six girls who are now too old to remain in the orphanage. Buckner is preparing them to enter back into society and giving them a chance at a productive life instead of one on the streets. These girls were full of joy and love and welcomed us into their home with open arms. We spent the day taking pictures, making crafts, painting nails, and doing hair. It was a wonderful time of fellowship. When it was time to go, we offered up prayer for the girls which was a wonderful experience. But as soon as we were done, one of the girls asked if she could pray for us. The prayer she spoke was full of so much compassion and wisdom for a girl of only 19. And it was offered for those she barely knew. Many of us were overcome with tears of joy.
Several times today we have been told how blessed people have been by our work here and they have thanked us profusely. I must confess that I believe we have been a thousand times more blessed by those we have encountered than whatever it is we have given them.
And this is just day two...
We began our day by worshiping at a church not too far from our hotel. I wish I could fully express how amazing it was to praise God in that environment. While most of us had no clue what anyone was saying, we could still feel the presence of the Lord. They sang some familiar worship songs which allowed us to praise in our native language while they praised in theirs. I was overwhelmed. It made me feel like I was experiencing just a taste of what it must have been like at Pentecost or even what God hears everyday from his church all over the world. Different words but the same song of love to our Savior. Indescribable.
Next, we visited the transitional home which is home to six girls who are now too old to remain in the orphanage. Buckner is preparing them to enter back into society and giving them a chance at a productive life instead of one on the streets. These girls were full of joy and love and welcomed us into their home with open arms. We spent the day taking pictures, making crafts, painting nails, and doing hair. It was a wonderful time of fellowship. When it was time to go, we offered up prayer for the girls which was a wonderful experience. But as soon as we were done, one of the girls asked if she could pray for us. The prayer she spoke was full of so much compassion and wisdom for a girl of only 19. And it was offered for those she barely knew. Many of us were overcome with tears of joy.
Several times today we have been told how blessed people have been by our work here and they have thanked us profusely. I must confess that I believe we have been a thousand times more blessed by those we have encountered than whatever it is we have given them.
And this is just day two...
Saturday, August 12, 2006
Beautiful Guatemala
Up at 4am this morning in Terre Haute, getting on a plane in Indianapolis at 8:30, hanging out in Miami in the afternoon, and arriving in Guatemala City later in the afternoon. What an unusual and amazing day!
We went from the airport to dinner to the babies' orphanage. We met the 6 little ones who live there, held the babies, fed them bottles, blew bubbles, and played with lots of toys. I still have spit-up on my shoulder, but it doesn't seem so bothersome.
When we were preparing to leave, I walked outside from the back of the house, holding a little girl named Crystal with special needs, and I nearly cried and the sight...Jennifer swinging a little boy, airplane style; John pushing a little boy in a plastic car; Amber and Jen playing with a little girl; Amanda and Emily talking to the staff and translator; Chelsea holding a bundle of energy named Isabell; Jay taking pictures and making faces at the kids; Joy playing with a sweet little girl; Chris being goofy with the boys; Bill, Kim, and Hannah building relationships. It was the most beautiful thing I've ever seen, the love being shared between cultures, genders, lifestyles. This is a beautiful country with friendly people, and it is a perfect place to be, being used by God to touch the lives of people who need Jesus, just like we do.
Tomorrow is another great chance to see Jesus in the folks we meet. But first...sleep.
We went from the airport to dinner to the babies' orphanage. We met the 6 little ones who live there, held the babies, fed them bottles, blew bubbles, and played with lots of toys. I still have spit-up on my shoulder, but it doesn't seem so bothersome.
When we were preparing to leave, I walked outside from the back of the house, holding a little girl named Crystal with special needs, and I nearly cried and the sight...Jennifer swinging a little boy, airplane style; John pushing a little boy in a plastic car; Amber and Jen playing with a little girl; Amanda and Emily talking to the staff and translator; Chelsea holding a bundle of energy named Isabell; Jay taking pictures and making faces at the kids; Joy playing with a sweet little girl; Chris being goofy with the boys; Bill, Kim, and Hannah building relationships. It was the most beautiful thing I've ever seen, the love being shared between cultures, genders, lifestyles. This is a beautiful country with friendly people, and it is a perfect place to be, being used by God to touch the lives of people who need Jesus, just like we do.
Tomorrow is another great chance to see Jesus in the folks we meet. But first...sleep.
We've arrived!
Up at 4am this morning in Terre Haute, getting on a plane in Indianapolis at 8:30, hanging out in Miami in the afternoon, and arriving in Guatemala City later in the afternoon. What an unusual and amazing day!
We went from the airport to dinner to the babies' orphanage. We met the 6 little ones who live there, held the babies, fed them bottles, blew bubbles, and played with lots of toys. I still have spit-up on my shoulder, but it doesn't seem so bothersome.
When we were preparing to leave, I walked outside from the back of the house, holding a little girl named Crystal with special needs, and I nearly cried and the sight...Jennifer swinging a little boy, airplane style; John pushing a little boy in a plastic car; Amber and Jen playing with a little girl; Amanda and Emily talking to the staff and translator; Chelsea holding a bundle of energy named Isabell; Jay taking pictures and making faces at the kids; Joy playing with a sweet little girl; Chris being goofy with the boys; Bill, Kim, and Hannah building relationships. It was the most beautiful thing I've ever seen, the love being shared between cultures, genders, lifestyles. This is a beautiful country with friendly people, and it is a perfect place to be, being used by God to touch the lives of people who need Jesus, just like we do.
Tomorrow is another great chance to see Jesus in the folks we meet. But first...sleep.
We went from the airport to dinner to the babies' orphanage. We met the 6 little ones who live there, held the babies, fed them bottles, blew bubbles, and played with lots of toys. I still have spit-up on my shoulder, but it doesn't seem so bothersome.
When we were preparing to leave, I walked outside from the back of the house, holding a little girl named Crystal with special needs, and I nearly cried and the sight...Jennifer swinging a little boy, airplane style; John pushing a little boy in a plastic car; Amber and Jen playing with a little girl; Amanda and Emily talking to the staff and translator; Chelsea holding a bundle of energy named Isabell; Jay taking pictures and making faces at the kids; Joy playing with a sweet little girl; Chris being goofy with the boys; Bill, Kim, and Hannah building relationships. It was the most beautiful thing I've ever seen, the love being shared between cultures, genders, lifestyles. This is a beautiful country with friendly people, and it is a perfect place to be, being used by God to touch the lives of people who need Jesus, just like we do.
Tomorrow is another great chance to see Jesus in the folks we meet. But first...sleep.
G-Day
"Today you will be in Guatemala!" Jody's words to me on the phone just now. It's still dark outside, I am running on little sleep, and I've never been more excited about anything in my life. I'm been thinking about how rare it is to be consciously aware of pivotal moments in your life before they happen...moments when your life will change forever. I believe this to be one of those moments and I am awestruck by it. Usually they happen without notice or time to contemplate what your life was like before. What you believed. What you valued. What seemed important. These things are all about to change and it is a welcome one.
Thanks to everyone who is praying for us. We love you all and will keep you updated! God be with us on our journey.
Thanks to everyone who is praying for us. We love you all and will keep you updated! God be with us on our journey.
Friday, August 11, 2006
Change of plans
So, we got a call from Buckner today (Buckner Orphan Care International is the group we're traveling with) with a change of schedule. We've been praying for safety while we're there, and Buckner has identified some problems in the rural areas which they would like to avoid, so we'll be staying in Guatemala City the entire week. Emily said it would be like staying in a city like Indianapolis for the week. And evidently there are plenty of orphanages to visit without even leaving that city.
Check out our revised schedule listed below:
Saturday: Arrive in Guatemala and visit Babies' Home
Sunday: Attend church and visit Transitional Home
Monday & Tuesday: Boys' Home (construction and VBS)
Wednesday: Community Orphanage & Boys' Home
Thursday: Babies' Home & Girls' Home (Antigua)
Friday : Girls' Home (Antigua)
Saturday: Travel Home
Many thanks to all who are keeping us bathed in prayer and for all the wonderful donations which we will enjoy sharing with our new friends in Guatemala.
Check out our revised schedule listed below:
Saturday: Arrive in Guatemala and visit Babies' Home
Sunday: Attend church and visit Transitional Home
Monday & Tuesday: Boys' Home (construction and VBS)
Wednesday: Community Orphanage & Boys' Home
Thursday: Babies' Home & Girls' Home (Antigua)
Friday : Girls' Home (Antigua)
Saturday: Travel Home
Many thanks to all who are keeping us bathed in prayer and for all the wonderful donations which we will enjoy sharing with our new friends in Guatemala.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Safe
Yesterday things were smooth and calm. We received a huge donation of medication and had to unpack and repack to make room for the items in our suitcases, but it was a good "problem" to have.
This morning we woke to the news of foiled terrorist attempts in London, heightened security at the airports, photos of long lines of waiting people in Heathrow, and the need to unpack and repack yet again.
Several of our traveling buddies report stress levels rising.
What an effective method of distraction! We decided that the enemy must be working overtime to kill our fun, ruin our focus, cause panic, undermine our mission. God's mission. I'm sure that Satan would like for us to stay home rather than make a dent in poverty, ill health, loneliness, desperation, and oppression. I'm certain he'd prefer we stay at home and complacent rather than visit Guatemala and come home more passionate about the cause of Christ.
Emily shared from Psalm 91:1-16 this morning:
Whoever goes to the LORD for safety, whoever remains under the protection of the Almighty can say to him, "You are my defender and protector. You are my God; in you I trust.: He will keep you safe from all hidden dangers and from all deadly diseases. He will cover you with his wings; you will be safe in his care; his faithfulness will protect and defend you. You need not fear any dangers at night or sudden attacks during the day or the plagues that strike in the dark or the evils that kill in daylight. A thousand may fall dead beside you, ten thousand all around you, but you will not be harmed. You will look and see how the wicked are punished. You have made the LORD your defender, the Most High your protector, and so no disaster will strike you, no violence will come near your home. God will put his angels in charge of you to protect you wherever you go. They will hold you up with their hands to keep you from hurting your feet on the stones. You will trample down lions and snakes, fierce lions and poisonous snakes. God says, "I will save those who love me and will protect those who acknowledge me as LORD. When they call to me, I will answer them; when they are in trouble, I will be with them. I will rescue them and honor them. I will reward them with long life; I will save them."
This morning we woke to the news of foiled terrorist attempts in London, heightened security at the airports, photos of long lines of waiting people in Heathrow, and the need to unpack and repack yet again.
Several of our traveling buddies report stress levels rising.
What an effective method of distraction! We decided that the enemy must be working overtime to kill our fun, ruin our focus, cause panic, undermine our mission. God's mission. I'm sure that Satan would like for us to stay home rather than make a dent in poverty, ill health, loneliness, desperation, and oppression. I'm certain he'd prefer we stay at home and complacent rather than visit Guatemala and come home more passionate about the cause of Christ.
Emily shared from Psalm 91:1-16 this morning:
Whoever goes to the LORD for safety, whoever remains under the protection of the Almighty can say to him, "You are my defender and protector. You are my God; in you I trust.: He will keep you safe from all hidden dangers and from all deadly diseases. He will cover you with his wings; you will be safe in his care; his faithfulness will protect and defend you. You need not fear any dangers at night or sudden attacks during the day or the plagues that strike in the dark or the evils that kill in daylight. A thousand may fall dead beside you, ten thousand all around you, but you will not be harmed. You will look and see how the wicked are punished. You have made the LORD your defender, the Most High your protector, and so no disaster will strike you, no violence will come near your home. God will put his angels in charge of you to protect you wherever you go. They will hold you up with their hands to keep you from hurting your feet on the stones. You will trample down lions and snakes, fierce lions and poisonous snakes. God says, "I will save those who love me and will protect those who acknowledge me as LORD. When they call to me, I will answer them; when they are in trouble, I will be with them. I will rescue them and honor them. I will reward them with long life; I will save them."
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Community and Crash
There are 14 of us going on this trip to Guatemala, 10 from eXchange and 4 from northern Indiana. The team from eXchange includes:
Chris Austin
Jody Elslager
Jennifer Haas
Amanda Lennen
Jay Mosteller
Jennifer Seddelmeyer
Amber Telle
Joy Whitlock
Emily Wiggins
John Wiggins
John and Emily went to Guatemala last fall and were so fired up about what they experienced, they ignited something in the rest of us to inspire us to action. They are also bringing along family (Billy, Kim, Hannah, & Chelsea).
I wanted include some kind of clever, descriptive comment about those going, but I realized that I don't know everyone very well. Yet. A week-long mission trip should rectify that, though. We talk about how community happens on the way to cause, and this will be a great experience in that. The cause of Christ is clearly to help and love those in need, and we'll be getting to know each other in a much deeper, more intimate fashion while we work out that mission.
We all want community, to connect with other people, to be known and accepted. We try to do that over coffee or some other beverage, asking the classic "So, where are you from?", second only to "What's your major?". I've found in the past few years that you really can get know someone by standing shoulder to shoulder with them painting a wall, pulling weeds, moving furniture, serving lunch, and the like. You can know how they respond with kindness, how they deal with frustration, if they have a temper, if they work hard...know their character.
So, these are my friends, my community, with whom I'll be working shoulder to shoulder for a week while we're on mission. I'm excited about that element of the trip to; knowing and being known.
Though the coffee isn't out of the question.
Chris Austin
Jody Elslager
Jennifer Haas
Amanda Lennen
Jay Mosteller
Jennifer Seddelmeyer
Amber Telle
Joy Whitlock
Emily Wiggins
John Wiggins
John and Emily went to Guatemala last fall and were so fired up about what they experienced, they ignited something in the rest of us to inspire us to action. They are also bringing along family (Billy, Kim, Hannah, & Chelsea).
I wanted include some kind of clever, descriptive comment about those going, but I realized that I don't know everyone very well. Yet. A week-long mission trip should rectify that, though. We talk about how community happens on the way to cause, and this will be a great experience in that. The cause of Christ is clearly to help and love those in need, and we'll be getting to know each other in a much deeper, more intimate fashion while we work out that mission.
We all want community, to connect with other people, to be known and accepted. We try to do that over coffee or some other beverage, asking the classic "So, where are you from?", second only to "What's your major?". I've found in the past few years that you really can get know someone by standing shoulder to shoulder with them painting a wall, pulling weeds, moving furniture, serving lunch, and the like. You can know how they respond with kindness, how they deal with frustration, if they have a temper, if they work hard...know their character.
So, these are my friends, my community, with whom I'll be working shoulder to shoulder for a week while we're on mission. I'm excited about that element of the trip to; knowing and being known.
Though the coffee isn't out of the question.
Monday, August 07, 2006
Pure and lasting religion
In preparing for this trip to Guatemala, I read a book about reading the Bible through "Third World Eyes". It intrigued me to think that the Bible would have different meaning in other countries, and what it was specifically about those nations that would merit a whole book on the subject. What jumped out at me in reading it were those scriptures that dealt with injustice and oppression. God doesn't mince words in his view of those who abuse power, take advantage of the poor, enslave the disadvanged. He also offers great praise for those who help the oppressed, who stand up against injustice. But how does the Bible read if you are oppressed? If you are the one being beaten down by a system that isn't right and fair?
One of my favorite verses has been James 1: 27..."Pure and lasting religion in the sight of God our Father means that we must care for orphans and widows in their troubles, and refuse to let the world corrupt us." Sometimes we get lost in the "thou shalt nots", and sometimes we get stalled trying to figure out God's specific will for our lives. But I love verses like this one in James, pointing the way to what God would have us do to please him. What pleases God? Taking care of widows and orphans in their troubles.
What if you're the orphan? How does James 1:27 sound when you're 11 years old and living without parents in an orphanage in Guatemala? I wonder if they know about James and if they're waiting for us to come.
One of my favorite verses has been James 1: 27..."Pure and lasting religion in the sight of God our Father means that we must care for orphans and widows in their troubles, and refuse to let the world corrupt us." Sometimes we get lost in the "thou shalt nots", and sometimes we get stalled trying to figure out God's specific will for our lives. But I love verses like this one in James, pointing the way to what God would have us do to please him. What pleases God? Taking care of widows and orphans in their troubles.
What if you're the orphan? How does James 1:27 sound when you're 11 years old and living without parents in an orphanage in Guatemala? I wonder if they know about James and if they're waiting for us to come.
Monday, July 31, 2006
Guatemala Crash Itinerary
I thought that our friends and families might like to see what we're doing while we're in Guatemala, and you can be thinking of us during the week, praying for the work we're doing.
Saturday, August 12:
8:27 a.m.: Depart Indy
2:03 p.m.: Arrive Guatemala
4:30 p.m. Visit Baby Home
Sunday, August 13:
Travel from Guatemala City to Hue-Hue
Monday, August 14-Wednesday August 16:
9:00 a.m.: Construction/Cleaning at orphanage
1:00 p.m.: Ministry Program with the children
7:30 p.m.: Put the children to bed
Thursday, August 17:
Travel from Hue-Hue to Guatemala City
Friday, August 18:
9:00 a.m.: Travel to Antigua
10:00 a.m.: Ministry at Girls' Home (Manchen)
1:30 p.m.: Sightseeing and shopping in Antigua
6:30 p.m.: Farewell dinner
Saturday, August 19:
8:20 a.m.: Depart Guatemala
6:30 p.m.: Arrive Indy
Saturday, August 12:
8:27 a.m.: Depart Indy
2:03 p.m.: Arrive Guatemala
4:30 p.m. Visit Baby Home
Sunday, August 13:
Travel from Guatemala City to Hue-Hue
Monday, August 14-Wednesday August 16:
9:00 a.m.: Construction/Cleaning at orphanage
1:00 p.m.: Ministry Program with the children
7:30 p.m.: Put the children to bed
Thursday, August 17:
Travel from Hue-Hue to Guatemala City
Friday, August 18:
9:00 a.m.: Travel to Antigua
10:00 a.m.: Ministry at Girls' Home (Manchen)
1:30 p.m.: Sightseeing and shopping in Antigua
6:30 p.m.: Farewell dinner
Saturday, August 19:
8:20 a.m.: Depart Guatemala
6:30 p.m.: Arrive Indy
Sunday, July 30, 2006
Welcome to the Guatemala 2006 blog!
This blog will house posts from our Guatemala 2006 Crash team. We'll get stories, pictures and much more. Stay tuned!
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