Wonder And Awe From Up Above
As I write this update on my flight from El Salvador back to Ohio, I am simply awestruck. It's difficult to put into words the sense of amazement that is filling me up as I reflect of these past months moving to El Salvador and beginning the initial steps of long-term missions. I also am blown away as I look out my window and see the intricate yet majestic earth that only a Creator could have come up with; vast oceans, volcanoes, vegetation and the millions of people that each hold a special place in our Heavenly Fathers heart. At times it almost seems unfair, that I get to live this life that He has given me, knowing how many times I falter and mess up-God continues to love me and bless me in ways that I truly do not deserve. That kind of love is difficult for us to understand at times, but nevertheless very real and very powerful.
I'm overjoyed that I get the opportunity to return home for a handful of days to spend Christmas and New Years with my family. The old saying sure does hold some weight, "Distance makes the heart grow fonder." I have certainly missed them a lot and am excited for the time we will have together. I'm even more grateful for my family after seeing so many of the people down in El Salvador lacking a true place to call home; children without one of their parents or none at all, youth who don't receive the love and support that they are so desperately searching for in their parents, and adults who simply are trying to survive and can't spend time with their kids. All of this makes me reflect on the HUGE blessing that I have at home with my parents and brothers and other extended family members who love me without a doubt and are there by my side. I hope that the biggest thing we can all reflect on this Christmas is how grateful we should be for the families that we have, and that those of you with kids (no matter what age) can be encouraged to never stop loving them, supporting them, and realize what an important role that you play in their lives.
God is certainly on the move in El Salvador and I'm beyond grateful to have a good view in watching it come together and partaking in what is to come. As I said in my last update, I've been doing lots of preparation for the new year, communicating with teams and missionaries we will receive, and personally adjusting to my new home. Thank you for your prayers in my adjustment-everyday I feel more and more at home and definitely know that this is exactly where I'm supposed to be in this stage of my life. I've had to really cling close to Him in the times that I may feel alone or isolated-but those moments are so vital and a good reminder that I can't do anything on my own power. And I certainly cannot do anything without your prayers and support. For the upcoming year we are excited to offer the sport of volleyball to a local community in where our Soccer School and English classes are. Although soccer attracts many people, most girls have no interest in playing and wonder around the streets doing nothing, and unfortunately being influenced in a negative way. Our desire is to give these girls an opportunity to do something constructive for their lives (physically, spiritually, and emotionally), allow them to have fun playing a sport that's not too common for them, and providing an encouraging and welcoming atmosphere where the can feel the love that God has for them. Please be praying for this new opportunity as we hope to start as school begins in February. As well as starting volleyball, I've also had the opportunity to talk with some girls my age who live close to me about starting a running club. Because of the nearby college, there are lots of college girls who have an interest in staying fit and love to run. Sport is a universal language that can bring so many different people together. Why not collide our love and joy from the Lord with the gift of running together? After many many meetings with various coworkers, pastors, and other ministry partners it seems pretty apparent that God is creating many opportunities to reach out to His people in El Salvador and be a light in this dark world. Please be praying for these new ideas for ministry and the existing ministries that we are humbled to serve in. Jesus came to the earth and humbled Himself as a servant-I pray that I can continue to follow that model and be a blessing to the wonderful people that are around me.
I will finish up writing for now but stayed tuned! Can't say thank you enough for your generosity and sticking with me on this mission together!. I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year! See you all next year!
Love you all dearly,
Lauren
