“Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers,
they hated him all the more…you intended to harm me, but God intended it for
good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives” (Genesis
37:5 & 50:20) Like Joseph, we all have dreams; dreams which God ordained long
before we were even born. But when God places those dreams on our heart, we
must be patient to endure the bumps and hardships along the way. Joseph was
thrown in jail and enslaved, but in the end he eventually saved the lives of
all of his family. Coming to Guatemala has always been a part of His plan for
each of our team member’s lives. He has set a dream inside each one of our
hearts and the children in this center, accomplishing both by the work we are
doing.
Today we were able to tell the parents of the children in
the center that their lives have a purpose and a dream as well. Providing hope
and joy to the parents is essential for themself and for when their children
are well enough to return home. The parents who visited today were gathered
into the outdoor pavilion where Dr. Alvarez addressed them in Spanish,
regarding health updates and important advice for keeping their children well.
Afterwards, Kristen shared her personal testimony to the families with our
translator, Olivia. Once the presentation was finished, Lucky, the center
director, asked for any of the parents who wanted to speak to our team to
stand.
What happened next was the most beautiful and heartbreaking
thing we have ever witnessed. There was not a dry eye in sight when we heard
stories of how their prayers were answered by people like us who are willing to
be the hands and feet of Christ. You could see the pure love they have for
their babies. They gave a great sacrifice by doing what was best for them by
sending their children here to be nourished by food but also by the Spirit. You
can, without a doubt, feel the presence of the Lord when you step inside the walls
of this haven for the hurting.
After our tears were somewhat dried, we handed out food baskets
to the families, which included staples such as corn meal, sugar, fruits, rice,
oil and soups as well as some treats. Humbling couldn’t describe the way we
felt when seeing how thankful they were to be able to feed their families
without worry for the next three months. Some parents had tears in their eyes
and many tight embraces and kisses were given. It was a God breathed and
ordained event to be a part of and witness the true meaning of gratefulness.
Today, Margaret shared with the nannies about Christ while
they were served a warm meal and where we also presented them each with a food
basket. Kristen and Rebecca were able to present their gifts to the men workers
at the center. You would be amazed how their eyes lit up at a lunchbox, socks,
flashlight, ball cap and candy bars!
Sometimes it can be difficult to digest that so many are
hurting and there aren’t enough resources to help them, but we have to ask God
for the peace of knowing that helping one person does matter. In fact, this
very malnutrition center was a dream that God gave to the founder of the
center. There are many steps and obstacles along the way, but if we could just
look up the Father and focus on His love, He will be faithful to move that
dream to completion. Philippians 1:6 says “And I am certain that God, who began
the good work within you, you will continue His work until it is finally
finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.”
One of our team members, Margaret, is a great grandmother
who the Lord called to come to Guatemala with us. She has not let her age stop
her from following Jesus. Others of us, by the grace of God, were given enough
donations to sponsor our trip. All of this to say, there is no excuse not to look
at the world around you and move yourself into action. You will bless others
and you will also be blessed. He is faithful, He is good, and His love endures
forever. These babies are living proof of His redemption and love for His
people.
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