grace

I think I am still learning to show it to myself. As I strive for holiness and discipline, I have to be ok with not being perfect.

Goodbye 2

I learned a lot about saying "goodbye" in Nicaragua. It was really hard to go to all these different churches and bond with the kids during vbs. We made crafts together, played games with one another and even worshiped our God with one voice. When we had to leave every church I always reflected on how much the people served me. They didn't have much to give, but gave everything they could to make my stay as comfortable as possible knowing the uncomfortable conditions. It was hardest to say goodbye to my brother Cristobal who quietly served me in every way from helping me set up my cot daily to literally washing my feet at one of the churches. It's difficult because I will probably never see him or any of the kids or church members I met for the rest of my life. But at the same time I found myself rejoicing in the fact that when I do see them it will be in heaven when we can all worship our Father together. I cant wait for the day to see all my Nicaraguan brothers and sisters singing the same songs in adoration of Christ, (re)united as His body.

With this rejoicing also came a desperation for the proclaiming of the gospel in every opportunity I had. Knowing that this was the last time I'd ever see these people, kids especially, again in my time on earth, the urgency of desiring to see them in heaven and the need for them to hear the good news of salvation through Christ became my greatest priority. I learned what it means to have hope in the gospel. I know I won't be able to be with the people of Nicaragua in person, but I know, because of the promises of Christ and the salvation he has granted, that we will soon be reunited with all our other brothers and sisters in heaven. What great hope is this to believe in an eternal homecoming awaiting us all? This brings me joy


when we arrive at eternity's shore, where death is just a memory and tears are no more
we'll enter in as the wedding bells ring, your bride will come together and we'll sing
you're beautiful