Full circle

From the moment I first visited this small little town about an hour south of Managua I instantly fell in love with its charm. I remember our first day here visiting the local park and meeting Mario one of the drunks at the park. I remember passing by the city dump on the way out to where the group of friends that I was with would be assisting a local pastor build his church. The numerous people out digging through the trash looking for plastic bottles or food to eat. It saddened my heart and gave me a desire to help in any way that I could. Some may find it strange that I find humor in the fact that there is always room for one more in a taxi not matter if there are already 8 large adults inside. Or when you have to help the cabbie push start his car and jump in before he takes off. I love that every meal has some form of rice and beans. 

  The love that is shown by the people here is unlike any I have ever seen. You are welcomed by a hug or handshake and always offered a bite to eat or a cup of coffee or water. Chairs are set out for you to sit and visit no matter when you show up. It is normal to see a family sitting out front at night talking and spending time together. It's just something you don't see stateside. 

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It has been such a joy the past two weeks to be able to visit with so many friends i have made over the years. From the boys a Pajarita Azul to some of the children I used to see daily at the children's home. Friends in town at different stores and even having a Taco place hault business just to say helllo to me as I walked in. My heart was overcome with joy on so many occasions this trip. 

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  By far one of the biggest joys was being able to attend a service at the church I in a small way helped build. I remember when it was just dirt and the church met under a tin roof covered shelter. Now it is complete other than a sound system. The church has service everynight in some capacity. It is called a mission camp and they go out in to the community at least once a week to meet with people and share God's word. I even had a chance to speak one night. Luckily I had Marvin to translate for me. My Spanish isn't quite good enough for preaching just yet.

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There are so many things God is laying on my heart to do here. I am so thankful for those back home that support what I do and help with the projects we take on here. Since arriving in early May we have been able to assist in the building of two new houses for lady pastors here. We are taking on new projects daily it seems. God has been so awesome and faithful. All of the glory goes to him.

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