Guatemala, January 29, 2011

1st Baptist Palmetto and friends arrived home safely Saturday night. We praise God for the work that He did through us. We know that what was done could not have been completed in our own strengths. For each of us, the trip involved some hardship. Many of our men are self employed so they lost a week’s wages or potential business contracts while serving. Some of us endured illness while in Guatemala. The emotional toil was also hard, not only to leave the people and children we have come to love, but to know that the suffering will continue for them. So, why did we do it? Why will we do it again if God allows? Because He has blessed us so greatly we cannot help but share that love with others and because of children like Renalda. The pictures here are from her arrival at the Malnutrition Center and after time spent there. The workers are making sure that she is well fed and clean, but they do not have the time to shower her with love and affection that she also needs to be healthy and thrive. Here is a challenge to all of us. What will we do for Renalda? Or Marta? Or Jose? Sure, we can send money or supplies, but what these children and the families who received new homes this week need is not our money, but us. If you have hands to change a diaper or hammer a nail, then you need to go. If you have arms to carry wood or hug a child, you need to go. If you have a mouth to say, “Jesus te ama,” you need to go. Let the feet God gave you carry you to a place where you can build something that will last for Christ. A home or a hug can change lives. No more excuses. Just go.