Comfort and Reverence

I’ve now been back in Jinotega for almost 2 weeks since my quick visit in the States. Thank you Thank you. Thank you. To everyone who helped me get home and who said such sweet and comforting words through that difficult week. Your presence in my life, and my families, is a blessing that I continually thank our Father for. God gave us family through blood, but through His son, he gave us the best family you can dream… the church.

There have been lots of learning moments, serving moments and laughing moments through the last couple weeks. Specifically there are two that have stuck with me the deepest that I would like to share.

Thursday night is Gringo Devo! Gringo is the normal term for white person in Nicaragua. It jumps from house to house and we rotate who brings food for the meal. It is a wonderful thing. Last week we watched a Francis Chan video and followed it with discussion. During the discussion we mentioned how comforting it is to run to Jesus’ open arms at the end of a hard day. Whether because of long hours, little sleep or us sinning. He is the comforter. He is the giver of peace. Because He continually grants us mercy and grace. Zachary, one awesome 10-year-old dude, said, “And just think. He does that for everyone in the whole world… at the same time!” Amen. I love hearing other people’s views and concepts of our God. However, to hear it from a child, who isn’t such a child, is even more of a blessing. Thank you, Zach for teaching me.

Friday afternoons, about 3:00, we visit Casa Materna. Casa Materna is a home for pregnant women from outlying villages/cities. They come a week or so before their baby is due and stay a couple weeks after they’ve had their baby to be closer to a hospital for medical attention. On Friday’s a group of women from the church, with Janese and Becky, have a devotion time and give the new ladies baby bags. (I’ll tell you more about Janese, Becky and the baby bags soon.) What struck me this last week was during our time of prayer and worship. It was a warmer afternoon so we moved outside to the porch. We sang then began to pray. Right before the prayer began, every single one of the ladies from Casa Materna stood. Let me remind you of the picture… 9 months pregnant sitting in rocking chairs on the porch. I’m sure sitting is so much more comfortable for their backs, feet and whole body. But no. They all rise and bow their heads. They stand out of respect and reverence for the Almighty God they’re talking to. It’s a simple act. But it speaks so strongly to me. When I pray, it’s so easy to be distracted and let my mind wonder. The last few days, however, it has only wondered back to that porch. Where I keep asking myself, Am I showing our Creator the most respect and attention I can give? Some moments I realize no. Other moments, I feel like I could crumble at how incredible it is that we are able to speak to The God of the universe.

There are more stories and lessons to share with you. I have started working with the man in charge of schools this week- which is exciting for me. I’ve also got to take a few day trips to other cities around Jinotega. Life here is feeling more “normal” and less “mission trip week” and that is incredibly encouraging. Please continue to pray for the work in Nicaragua as I find specific ways to serve. Also, please be praying for Benny Baker. He and his wife are coming back to Nicaragua this week. They’ve been in the States since early January as Benny recovers from heart surgery. Pray that we all are looking to our Father for guidance and wisdom. Talk to you soon!