Let the adventure begin

We have settled into our home away from home for the next few days and it is beautiful. The sweet smell of tropical flowers greeted us as we stepped off the van at the hotel in Sumpango. They have a beautiful garden, bird sanctuary, and pool visible outside our window. The melody of birds, Spanish and mariachi music served well as a wake-up call this morning, preparing my heart for the day ahead. 

Last night, we had the opportunity to meet with the pastors we will be serving with while we are here in Sumpango. They each shared their heart and the vision God has given them for the churches in Sumpango. A prayer request they have is for God to call up people within the area to create a board that handles practical requests, complaints, and makes financial decisions so they can focus on preaching, teaching, and taking care of their church family. 

This team comes from a long legacy of pastors. Manual felt called to lead this church at the age of 68. He and his wife Dorita recently celebrated their 50 wedding anniversary. As he shared their story, the love in his eyes was clear and we didn't have to wait for interpretation as he frequently begged a kiss from his ever obliging wife. They have dedicated their lives and marriage to serving and glorifying God, producing children that all became pastors or married pastors. Marvin, their son-in-law pastors the other church in Sumpango. The legacy of faith and dedication to God is so inspiring and I am looking forward to the work we will be doing together. 

Betty was our gracious hostess for the night and for the entire week. She is an incredible woman who wears many hats including teacher, student, and mother to her adorable adopted son Miguel. Her heart and passion for helping people breaks the cycles of poverty and despair through the power of Jesus Christ is incredible. We have much to learn from her and excited for the week ahead. 

This is the view from her home. 

As we go today to complete VBS, home visits, teaching at the orphanage and teaching at the church, we ask for your prayers of protection, wisdom, and obedient hearts to speak the words of truth the Holy Spirit gives us to teach. 

Side note: a fun game you can play throughout the week is where is Cathy? Though she couldn't join us in person, she is with us in Spirit and flat form. Her picture can be found in many of the pictures we will post.  Can you find them all?

Adios todos! Hasta luego!