For approximately 2 years I have felt the need to go to Guatemala. I have always had a heart for missions and helping others. In 2015 I thought for sure it was my time to go, but God had different plans. The money I was raising suddenly stopped coming in. I was sad but chose not to be discouraged because I knew I was being obedient to God and he would provide the money when it was time. I continued to raise the money and in July 2016 I was not only able to go but I got the privilege of staying for 2 weeks.
The stories I heard from others of Guatemala made me fall in love before I even went, and when I arrived it was more amazing than I imagined. I knew I was ‘home’. We did so many thing that just made my heart melt. We taught English in the local school and I enjoyed watching their love of learning. We were able to lead programs at the church we visited, go to a village and hand out food, give the kids toys, and do a miniature vacation bible school with them. One of my favorite things was going to a school in the dump and playing with the kids for hours and giving medical care. I loved being able to take pictures of the kids and watch as they would point at the picture on my phone with the biggest smiles on their faces.
On that day standing in a garbage dump, things were put into a different perspective for me. God truly opened my eyes their need for God’s love and acceptance. God revealed to me Guatemala would be my new home. I fell in love with the kids, the people and the culture. I hope to do all of these things while I’m there. My heart yearns to be in the dump again with the beautiful souls that are there. I can’t wait to see what God has in store for me this year as I move to and live in Guatemala.
God is working mightily in my life. He is preparing me physical, emotionally and spiritually for my departure for Guatemala this June. I will be working in the school teaching English and in the children’s church. Please pray for Guatemala and for me as God molds me on this journey.