Wednesday in San Pedro

It was a flurry of activity today! Not only were we having medical and dental clinics, but we scheduled an outreach to women in the morning and VBS in the afternoon. There were so many people gathered when we arrived this morning, with many women who needed to see the doctor and didn’t want to lose their “spot” to attend the women’s meeting that we decided to hold the “women’s” meeting in the sanctuary of the church, which served as the “waiting room” so that no one had to miss their turn. This instantly transformed the women’s meeting to a “coed” meeting. Actually, it turned out even better, which is always the case when God tweaks our plans. It was good for the men to hear the lessons on Mary and Martha and the Samaritan woman. We were emphasizing that Jesus cared for and respected women, something that is lacking in this culture. This was also addressed last night in the men’s meeting, which was a tremendous time of sharing and encouragement for both our team and the men who came from the community. It was such a blessing to hear the reports from the men tonight who realize that though we may live in different circumstances and cultures, we all have the same needs and struggles. Dr. Tito thanked the fathers for showing love for their sons, demonstrating that it is good to give your sons a hug and outwardly express love and affection for children, something Guatemalan men shy away from.

In the afternoon, the children began to trickle in. At first, we thought there might be about 60 children, which would have been fine, but the group quickly doubled, and the sanctuary was filled with excited, eager children. Two families prepared lessons on Jesus calming the storm and Jesus walking on water, acting them out with props. It captured the children’s attention, and they seemed to understand the message, even though many of the children speak only the local dialect, not Spanish. Game and craft time was the usual “semi-chaos,” but a truly enjoyable time. It is always amazing to see children taking such care with their crafts, diligently making their own creations. They are so eager to show off their handiwork and take great pride in their work.

Meanwhile, the construction continues on the floor of the second floor wing of the church. The men have been able to get all the work finished for concrete in two days, about half the time expected. We’ve had heavy rains off and on during our time here, and we are praying that it will hold off tomorrow long enough for the concrete to be poured. They really need the team’s help to get that done before we leave.

It has been such fun to see everyone on the team, both American and Guatemalan, work seamlessly in the numerous roles, from clinics to construction, painting murals (done by the youngest members of the team, and quite well!), holding babies, praying with everyone entering the church, loving on children, comforting dental patients who are frightened and in pain, and just pouring themselves out for the people of San Pedro. Only the Lord could accomplish all this!

We’ve had a few fall prey to “tummy troubles” today, but we’re praying that everyone will rest well and feel fine tomorrow. It’s hard to believe that tomorrow is our last full day here. As always, it goes by so quickly! Uri, one of our helpers from America Latina School (Bible teacher), encouraged us so beautifully that our presence here, though it may seem brief, doesn’t end when we leave; it will continue to bear fruit through eternity. Such encouraging words! She also said that no amount of money we could send could take the place of making a personal connection, sharing life one on one, that it is personal interaction, having other believers joining with them, that truly makes the difference, a great reminder and affirmation of why short-term team ministry is important and does make a difference!