While all of us felt led by God to come to Guatemala to serve the Guatemalan people, one thing that has been clear on this trip is that they have been serving us! They take such good care of us that it makes it easier for us to do the work that we have been called to do. In fact, they are good examples of what we all hope to be. From the airline employees to the customs agents to the hotel front desk, we were greeted like old friends. The zip line operators not only ensured that we had a safe excursion, but a fun one. They even practically carried some of us back up the hill to the truck! The vendors in the market made sure we had everything we needed to buy and then some. Most pitched in extra goods or lowered prices when they found out we had come to serve the children. In the hotel restaurant, the servers have earned their name by being gracious and accommodating. Our drivers, Samuel and Samuel, Jr. smile pleasantly as they negotiate the mountain roads and swift turns in the towns. They put up with a lot of nonsense and noisy passengers and make sure that the ones who get carsick sit up front. Our interpreters, Alejandra and Olivia, and our summer intern, Ella, have also been servants. Not being content to simply help us with language, but to advise us and to work alongside us with the children. And finally, the best examples of servants are the workers at the Center. They are amazing women who give selflessly to the children. Working 60 a week for 12 hours a day, they nurture and care for more children than any of us could handle alone. And they do it kindly and compassionately. Yes, we have come to serve, but in watching the Guatemalan people, we see the best examples of servanthood and are humbled by the gracious spirit and welcoming attitude.
There was no WOW time tonight as we had a delicious meal at a local restaurant, so I will close with a couple of sweet moments I witnessed today.
First was the relationship that Bethany has built with Basilo and his wife Guadelupe. Guadeloupe told Howie today how much she has enjoyed having Bethany’s company even though they have to communicate through simple phrases and hand signs. Basilo is eager to learn more about bees and gardening, and it is so neat the way that they work together. It is obvious that God brought Bethany to this time and place for this reason.
BETHANY AND BASILIO
The Chicks finally got to go outside this afternoon! Luke played bowling for babies with them and everyone had a blast. He would throw a ball to the top of the slide and as it rolled down the toddlers ran to the bottom of the slide to catch the ball. They laughed and squealed and were so happy. There got to be so many at the bottom of the slide that Luke started throwing several at a time. Then, it was a free for all and more got to play. They got a lot of running and exercise because of Luke’s game.
In between working on construction such as painting and moving bunk beds in the new dorms (which are getting closer to being finished), Allen, who is a pre-med student at University of Miami, has been shadowing the doctor. It is fun to watch him observe and ask questions. He also takes time to cuddle with the children every chance he gets.
GETTING THE DORM READY FOR TEAMS!
The Palmetto First Baptist girls held Children’s Church on the stage in the playroom today singing “O Happy Day” complete with hand motions. Then, they invited all the children up on the stage to sign and dance with them. It was a very special moment particularly as some of the children were so enthralled with being on stage.
OH, HAPPY DAY!
Aura, the baby with Down’s syndrome, got more holding and time out of her crib today as Dallas and Aubrey made sure that she got lots of attention.
And finally, we had a praise service on the bus when Olivia confided to Di and Cathy that she has started a course in hotel and restaurant management so that she can better serve the children and teams at the Malnutrition Center. She feels God is calling her into some type of ministry and that those courses will help her, but she was going to have to go to Guatemala City and leave the children. She decided not to do that, but instead, God allowed her to take her classes on line so that she can continue to serve while she studies. Praise God for her willing servant’s heart.
OLIVIA WITH MANUELITO
It’s been a great day in Guatemala. Come join us why don’t you?
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