A Case for Missions-Part 1

A Case for Missions: Part 1

As a family, we've had a heart for missions as long as I can remember.  Yes, we've sponsored several kids with Compassion International and even had one graduate from the program.  We love Compassion!  We've supported missionaries and done our best to learn about other cultures and prayed for them to hear and know the love of Jesus.  Heck, we even trekked to the middle of China to adopt our son.  However, boarding a plane and actually taking our kids to a third world country is something we've prayed for the last decade or so. And when you have a tribe of 7?  It's sometimes necessary to divide and conquer.  So, that's what we did.

I'm sure it's never crossed your mind, but we did try to justify staying home because of course "There's a mission field downtown, at the grocery store, next door, and do not forget within our four walls."  Perhaps you've thought the same thing? Yeah...we get it.  However, I am making a case for a third world country missions trip and yes, even a short-term missions trip.  Even further...in my humble, yet blunt opinion, it's NOT the same.  I figure on my own blog, I'm entitled to my opinion.  : )   

So, last October, this homeschoolin' momma kissed my husband and kids goodbye and hopped on a plane with LJ, my 14 year old.  We didn't really know what exactly we were going to do in Guatemala and I'm so glad.  The Lord just told us to "show up"  and make ourselves available to serve as He led.  

        Booking overnight flights always seem like a good idea at the time.....but reality?  Not so much.  We were exhausted & relieved when we landed in Guatemala City.

            At least 20 bags with our group piled on top of our van.  3 hours later, they were still on top.

We arrived at Eagle's Nest Children's Home in Solala, and to say we were captivated by the scenery is an understatement.  What a gorgeous place!  Eagle's Nest Children's Home has an amazing view.  

                    The first morning we got to take care of toddlers and babies.  Oh my!

We were hooked.

Eagle's Nest is home to approximately 40 children, but that number is continuously fluctuating.  They also host a feeding program 3 days a week to the local children.  These children come for a healthy meal (perhaps their only meal in a day) and they get to hear about a Savior who loves them.   The Eagle's Next Pastor shares the Gospel with them each time they come and it was a joy to listen in and help serve these precious children lunch.  (Of course, I had no idea what he was saying, but I did understand "Jesus!"  As they were leaving,  I just happened to have an extra bag of apples and wondering if anyone would want one.  They were beyond thrilled.  I'm trying to imagine offering these to kids back home.  Yeah.....the things we take for granted.  Apples!

 

We had the opportunity to pour cement in the new commons area at Eagle's Nest.  I'll just say that we got to do it the "old fashioned way."  I think the Guatemalen men were not sure what to think when our small group of moms, kids, and one dad showed up that morning.  However...

I think they were shocked!  We busted the project out and some of the older kids in the Children's Home saw the action and decided to join in and help.  It's amazing how much you can communicate, even though you do not speak the same language!  Hard labor and bonding brings unity fast!

The completed cement floor for the new coffee shop/commons area.  I never saw a more beautiful cement slab in my life!  This is where missions team will come to support "The Nest" by purchasing coffee, locally made mugs, and more!

             Leading VBS with the language barrier was an adventure to say the least, but R. rocked it. 

LJ and L. leading worship in Spanish!  

I will admit, this is a missions trip that makes you feel just a tad bit spoiled.  Hard work, yes.  Good food-oh you have no idea!!!  My mouth is watering just thinking about it.  Local women are employed by The Nest to feed the teams that come down to serve.   It was simply amazing!!!  

They don't make it like this back in the States...just sayin'.

 The best part of the trip was serving with my girl.  The crew back home was well taken care of by my husband and he was relieved part of the time by my awesome mom-in-law.  We both returned home changed from the inside out.  Closer to Jesus and closer to one another.  It changed our perspective on things when we returned home.  And, most importantly, it cultivated gratitude.  Oh-don't we all need more of that?  We're forever changed.

http://www.eaglesnestint.org/

Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe.  Hebrews 12:28