Below is a story from one of our dear friends that went with us to Guatemala and the impact that it had on her and the impact she had on someone else. God is moving in a mighty way and using His people to make it happen. What could He do through your obedience?
It was July 2018- little did I know, this would be the first of many trips to Guatemala for me. It was only my second mission trip, so I was a novice at many things pertaining to the mission field. I knew I was going to serve a need and to be the hands and feet of Jesus. The trip itinerary changed before we traveled to Guatemala due to a volcanic eruption that caused a great deal of pain and suffering for many families. I had knowledge of this but still did not know what I WAS doing, how was God going to use me during this time. Several days into our trip, we ascended upon the volcano site, shelter locations and homes visiting those that were impacted by the volcano. As I listened to story after story of people fleeing, my heart was heavy for those that had lost everything but their lives.
One day, we visited an impoverished village by the name of San Felipe, where we would visit homes, provide food items and provide words of hope and encouragement through prayer for the families. Upon visiting one of the homes, I met a young woman by the name of Maria, Maria began to share her story of trials and tribulations, one that was ridden with a life of prostitution to provide for her family- she had 2 young children at this time. I immediately became overwhelmed with emotion and wanted to do something so she would not have to resort to such measures for provision. God is SO INTENTIONAL and TIMELY! Again, I had no idea where he was leading me and how things would transpire. During this encounter, I learned how the education system in Guatemala works and what it takes to get a decent paying job to provide for your family. My heart broke for this mother who went to such extremes to provide for her family. I was plagued with a multitude of thoughts. I pictured my children and thought, “What would I do?” but I also thought about the ultimate sacrifice that was paid for me! We prayed with Maria and continued with our visits. My heart was so heavy after this I don’t know that I recall the visits afterwards. I felt a tug in my spirit to do something. To do more.
Our trip came to an end, and we returned home. I was able to maintain contact with someone in San Felipe and send funds to help Maria. I didn’t want to enable her by just sending money. She decided she wanted to return to school because this is what would ultimately help her family. There was a friendship that developed despite many miles and a language barrier, but the Love of God is understood in all languages and despite any distance! We decided to fund her schooling, not just for her but for the future of her children as well! Some called it a sponsorship; I never viewed it in that manner. I was able to communicate with Maria and see how things were going with her family and school! I am so grateful for that visit to San Felipe that day and how it not only changed my life, but it changed the lives of an entire family. Maria went on to complete school and is now working full time and is able to support herself and her children. Of course, there are obstacles in life that we all face, that present little challenges that she’s had to work through. Maria has continued to endure and trust God to see her through them. I encourage her to help someone else as she can. I never imagined that I would have a close friend in Guatemala. I have now visited Guatemala seven times!!! I look forward to my visits with Maria and her family and all the lovely people in San Felipe. My life was forever changed and really opened my eyes to what it truly means to Love God, Love People, Make a Difference!
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