On my birthday, we had the opportunity to hike Acatenango (the third tallest volcano in Central America). What a fantastic experience! I am grateful that I got to do something I love on my eighteenth birthday! God had me surrender my eighteenth birthday when I was away from family, and all of my expectations were dashed. However, he still allowed me to do something I love on my birthday with my sweet community. It hit me hard that I was away from my family on my birthday. They were all so intentional and kind, making me miss them even more. I found time to call my mom for a couple of minutes before we started hiking, and it was a blast! We started hiking, and I was in my element! The views were gorgeous from the bottom and the top. The hike took five hours and ten minutes to get up, which was pretty good. Usually, it takes people around eight hours to get up. It was challenging at times but so much fun! I love hiking, and I’m thankful I got to hike. The entire hike, I was in awe of God’s creativity. Everything he creates is so beautiful!! I encourage you to look around at God’s beautiful creation. It’s an easy way to brighten any day just sitting in his presence in his beautiful creation. If you get the chance to hike any time soon, you should because you encounter God’s beauty in a new way.
On one of our last days in one of the cities, we encountered a homeless drunk man looking for money and food. We started talking with him and told him about Jesus. He said that he had heard of him on the radio one time. He listened intently as one of my squad mates shared the basic gospel with him. With everything that my squad mate said, the drunk man got so excited and said wow. He got emotional, and we asked if he wanted to accept Jesus into his heart. He said yes, of course, and so we were able to lead him to Christ, and he was so joyful. Talk about a transformation! He went from depressed and very drunk to sober and full of joy. It was amazing to watch! Some of the group then went to get a Bible for him at a store and came back with six! Someone donated six for free! Praise God! We got him some food and discipled him. What an incredible experience! God is so kind in allowing us to be a part of bringing someone to his loving arms.
We are on our way to debrief now before heading to Romania. I am so excited about what God has ahead of us, and I’m happy I get to do it with you all by my side. Thank you so much for your support, prayers, and encouragement. I’m praising God for all the beautiful things that happened in Guatemala! Now off to Romania!
