Universalities

After living here for 2 months, I have learned a lot about the culture of Guatemala. However, something I did learn in my first week here was the fact of universalities.

Always living in the same place, I knew there were things that were universal, I just didn't know what. Coming to a place like Guatemala, I assumed a lot. Poverty is common, so I assumed there was grief in their hearts and not much to joke about. Wow, was I wrong! So here are six universalities I have discovered...

My favorite person to joke around with!

1. Humor and Sarcasm
Although Guatemalans are extremely joyful people, before coming here, I just did not realize that humor is definitely universal. I think my sarcastic attitude and being able to joke around was helpful here. Learning a language is difficult, so being able to laugh at yourself is actually quite important! Many of my Spanish-speaking friends and I have relationships that started with humor. It is one of the easiest ways to get to know someone, and a great way to grow a relationship. I discovered one Spanish pun at the start of my classes, and it has stayed my favorite:

John Cena
John Almuerzo
John Desayuno
(It only makes sense if you know Spanish!)

2. Laundry
Unless you are crazy, nobody likes to do their laundry. It is universal. Obviously, it is a bit easier when you have machines to do it for you, like we do in the U.S. I have been humbled by how hard they work to just do simple daily tasks, such as cook and clean. When you do not have machines for everything, it takes a lot longer to simply wash your clothing or dishes.

3. Entertainment
In today's age of technology and social media, the definition of poverty is changing. Nearly everyone has smartphones now. My neighbors, who live in a house made of metal sheets for walls, and dirt for floors, have smartphones. Yes, there is poverty here. But it is different now. Instead of saving money for education, food, and housing, people have phones. This need for entertainment is sad, but universal. Of course, there are people that do not have these privileges of having a phone. However, we do all find entertainment in one way or another. Here in Guatemala, even if people do not have a phone, they will find it in live music, TV, or even fireworks.

4. Post-It Note Pranks
Alongside the topic of humor, I discovered something very interesting. There are not many cars here, especially compared to the U.S. In America, you may see a post-it note prank every once in a while. Surprisingly enough, it is the same way here! One day, as I was walking, a car covered in post-it notes drove past. I had to laugh at the fact that this joke may be funny wherever you are!

5. Jehovah's Witnesses
Everyone knows the Jehovah's Witnesses for their widespread door-knocking and brochures. They even found my house in the middle of nowhere back home! When I arrived here, I had never even thought about that. They are in my town in Guatemala every day. As I talked to a Guatemalan friend, she was telling me about their widespread door-knocking here. I had to laugh when she told me about not wanting to answer the door, because I have definitely been in the same shoes.
However, I do not say this to offend anyone. I actually was recently talking with my host mom about this very topic. She is encouraged by the fact that they all go to the ends of the earth to proclaim their beliefs. Obviously, her and I both have many disagreements with the religions. But what if we, as Christians, always followed God's call? What if we shared the Gospel wherever we are? What if we went wherever He called us?

6. One Amazing God
The biggest lesson I learned here deals with unity and love. God's grace and love stretches to all places. One of my favorite verses, Acts 4:32 says, "Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things that belonged to him was his own, but they had everything in common." No matter where I am, He always remains. When I came here, I had nothing in common with anyone here. We could not even speak the same language! But when we find unity within Jesus Christ, we have everything in common. We are no longer strangers, but fellow citizens within the household of God.

One Week

One week. That is all I have left. A week from now, I will be flying back home. Words cannot describe all I have learned throughout these past two months. I have made lifelong friends, learned a whole lot of Spanish, drank lots of coffee, adventured, and most importantly, grew in my relationship with God.

I love my Guatemalan mom!

I fell in love with a new place. I found a new home. There is a reason for this. Because when I moved here, I was blessed with supportive Christian friends and a Christian family to live with. I love the culture here, and I love the joy of the people. However, I don't think my experience would be the same without that Christian fellowship.

Being a homebody and leaving home is difficult. But when you are rooted in Christ, you can feel at home anywhere. You can find family anywhere. And for that, I am forever grateful. Furthermore, the faith of the Guatemalan Christians is incredible. I strive for their joy and their unwavering faith in God.

This experience was so far out of my comfort zone. However, God brought me comfort. This place has become more than just a missions outreach or the location of my Spanish school. This place is my home, and I already know that I am going to miss it more than anything by the time next week comes around.

So when thinking of Guatemala, I pray that they will not get caught up in the works or in all the small technicalities. Our faith is not about the works, but instead about our faith and His grace. I pray they will not only believe, but also try to grow in their faith. I pray that they would know that God has a plan for their life, no matter how many trials may come their way. I pray for peace in the midst of hard times. I pray that they would never lose their "first love" for Him. And ultimately, I pray that they would lead others to Christ and continue to share their immense joy.

I came here two years ago and got a taste of Guatemala. I fell in love and will never forget that week. These two months are the same way. I love that God has used me in this way and I am so grateful for such an amazing opportunity. I am not ready to leave, but I don't think I ever will be. Thank you for a great two months, Guatemala. See you soon, America.

Stand Firm and Be Bold

A few blog posts ago, I mentioned noticing a few themes throughout the New Testament. First, love. In my eyes, loving others is the most important part of evangelism. The other theme I have noticed is the phrase, "Stand firm and be bold." After realizing the things that I was learning, I have recognized that God is preparing me for evangelism.

Throughout the New Testament, these two things are repeated over and over, and my mind automatically correlates them. In 1 Corinthians 16:13, it says, "Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong." And in Acts 4:29, the Bible says, "And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness..."

This is certainly not the only time the New Testament mentions standing firm and speaking boldly. Faith that stands firm is an inward issue. This is necessary for speaking boldly. You cannot speak with boldness without a strong faith.

The first part is difficult. It is hard to continue praying, reading the Bible, and growing your relationship with God. I believe everyone has this struggle at some point in their life, probably more often than not. On the hand, the second part can be even more difficult for some people.

If you knew me when I was younger, you would know that I was one of the shyest kids you would ever meet. I only spoke at home, and did not speak at school until about second or third grade. I have always been introverted, so speaking boldly has not always been my forte. However, God has called me to speak with boldness.

2 Thessalonians 1:11-12 speaks of God making us worthy of His calling. He can be funny sometimes. Instead of using our strengths, He often uses our weaknesses to do His work through us. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, the Bible says, "But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me."

First, it is on the inside. You need to be firm in faith. Then, He calls us to action by loving others and speaking boldly. I may think it is ironic that God is calling me to speak boldly. However, I believe God knows exactly what He is doing. He is working through my weaknesses. The New Testament has taught me a lot about how to evangelize to others. It sounds easy. Stand firm. Speak boldly. Love. This is far from easy, but He does make it easy to understand. He is a great mystery, but through the Bible, He teaches us how to easily share His saving works and amazing grace.

When It Doesn't Go Your Way

I have control issues. Just ask my family, I like being in charge and always planning ahead of time. It worries me when things do not go my way or go according to plan. However, I am actually never in control. I have this illusion in my head of total control of my life. Instead of worrying, I should rest in the fact that our all-knowing God has a holy plan that surpasses all of my expectations.

2 Thessalonians 1:11-12 says,

¹¹ To this end we always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of His calling and may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by His power, ¹² so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Paul is writing to the Thessalonians, praying that they would realize God's plan is worthy. Then in 2 Timothy 1:8-9, Paul again speaks of this "holy calling."

⁸ Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me His prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God, ⁹ who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of His own purpose and grace, which He gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began.

God makes us worthy of His calling. I come across these, what I like to call, "control issues," often in my life. God's plans tend to be different than mine. A lot. Every time, I fight it, struggle with it, and question His plan. Yet, He always proves me wrong.

Even though I question His plan, it is always better. He is the one that calls me to leap. He did not choose to use me for His glory because of who I am, but because of who He is. He is an Almighty God who can use sinners like me for His amazing works.

I have this tiny plan. Maybe it's my next job, or the college I will attend. Those seem like big decisions, but when you put them in comparison to God's eternal purpose, it's nothing. We get to be a part of His eternal purpose. So when things don't go my way, maybe I should think of His plan. It is always better. But even so, as I struggle, I am comforted by this short phrase from 2 Timothy 2:13, "If we are faithless, He remains faithful."

God made me, a filthy sinner, worthy of His calling. His grace and faithfulness amazes me every day. Maybe, I won't get my way this time, and I probably won't understand either. However, I will continue to rest in His plan and follow His all-knowing, holy calling.

His Letters of Recommendation

As I work my way through the New Testament during my time in Guatemala, God has taught me so many different lessons. However, a few things keep sticking out to me in the Gospels and the following books.

In 2 Corinthians 3:1-3, The Bible says,

Are we beginning to commend ourselves again? Or do we need, as some do, letters of recommendation to you, or from you? ² You yourselves are our letter of recommendation, written on our hearts, to be known and read by all. ³ And you show that you are a letter from Christ delivered by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.

Although I had read this passage before, I never thought much of it. However, as I apply for jobs, colleges, and scholarships, letters of recommendation are an important part of my applications. You want a good letter of recommendation for your applications. Although they are not you, and sometimes they do not represent you, they are able to give the other person a good idea for who you are and what you are like. So when Paul says in this passage that we are God's letters of recommendation, this is a big deal. Although we are not God, and we are nowhere near as perfect as Him, we are representing Him. Obviously this can be a bit of a challenge. However, there is one thing that is repeated over and over in the Bible to represent Jesus Christ: LOVE.

Matthew 22:37-39 says,

³⁷ And He said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. ³⁸ This is the great and first commandment. ³⁹ And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.

This is not the only time the Bible commands us to love God and love others. Up until Ephesians, it is repeated in Matthew 5:44, Mark 12:30-31, Luke 6:27, Luke 6:32-35, Luke 10:27, John 13:34, John 15:12-13, Romans 12:9-10, Romans 13:8-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, 1 Corinthians 16:14, 2 Corinthians 8:8, Galatians 5:13-14, and Ephesians 5:2. As a recurring theme, God has taught me how to minister to people both in Guatemala and back home in the United States. There is not much more to it than showing His love.

As I helped at Fiesta Navideña at ASELSI in Chichicastenango, I was reminded of this love by a little girl named Francisca. I was welcoming people, and out of nowhere, this little girl ran up to me and gave me a big hug. Although I had never met her before, she loved on me. Fast forward to five minutes later, Francisca and all her friends were looking at me from afar. Suddenly, I was attacked with hugs from about eight little girls. None of them knew me. None of them even knew I could somewhat speak their language. They didn't care that I had a different skin color. They didn't look at me differently or treat me differently. This is God's love.

Although I didn't get a picture with Francisca, I know she was in the crowd learning about God's love!

Regardless of what I looked like or if they knew me, these little girls showed me love. At eight years old, Francisca and her friends taught me what true evangelism is like. It is not always speaking with words about God's love, but instead through actions. As a powerful statement, God sometimes chooses children to be His letters of recommendation. I cannot think of a better choice.

Thankfulness, a Few Days Late

My Thanksgiving was treated as a normal day. I didn't get more food. I didn't get time with family. I didn't get the day-off. But in fact, that actually taught me something about the Thanksgiving holiday. As great as the food and time with family is, Thanksgiving is supposed to be about giving thanks. And that should be an everyday thing.

We dedicate one day to giving thanks for all we have. As I treated my Thanksgiving as a normal day, I was reminded that I should always be giving thanks. The popular verse, 1 Thessalonians 5:18, says, "give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." As much as I missed my Thanksgiving, I'm even more grateful for the experience to not "celebrate" it.

So as I adventure through Guatemala, here are some things that I am thankful for every day:

Adventure- Guatemala is a totally different country than the United States, so that makes everything an adventure. I am so thankful for the chance to learn about new cultures, meet new people, and see the world. I love my opportunities to travel, learn, and see God's amazing creation.

One of my adventures: making Guatemalan food (with lots of help!)

Caring Families- My parents and family have been so encouraging throughout this whole experience. They were supportive from Day 1 and always challenge me to be my best self. Not only do I have a great family, but I have two. My Guatemalan family has been so caring and always looks out for me. I am thankful for their forgiveness with my terrible Spanish. I am thankful for all their love and joy, even though they have only known me for a month. Family is so important, and I am so glad I get to experience that wherever I am.

Supportive Friends- I am thankful for friends who are willing to talk when I just need an English conversation, both here and back home. I am thankful for people here in Guatemala who make sure I am doing alright and look out for me. I am thankful for a supportive church both here and afar. For friends back home, I am thankful for all the prayers, support, encouragement, and English conversations.

Trials- Although I am loving my time here in Guatemala, it is not always easy. I miss family and friends. It is difficult, but I am thankful for the difficulties. They have made me stronger, taught me more about our loving God, and taught me about myself. My trust in God is always strengthened when life isn't easy. Life in Guatemala can be scary, but it only increases my faith.

An Amazing God- Throughout all my life, only one thing is steady. Hebrews 13:8 says, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." So when everything changes, God still stays the same. I am so thankful for His saving grace and His everlasting love.

Not celebrating Thanksgiving was not necessarily my choice. But being thankful everyday can be. John 5:30 says, "By myself I can do nothing..." I cannot do anything on my own power, and that is why I am reminded to praise and thank our Lord.

Halfway There

I am already halfway through my time here: I arrived in Guatemala one month ago, and I leave Panajachel in a month. I thought I would catch you all up on what I have been doing (besides having deep thoughts about tough issues).

I have been attending class 25 hours a week, and it's extremely tiring. There really is no way to explain the difficulty of learning another language, except for the fact that you are always tired (no matter how much sleep you get) and your brain constantly hurts. Although school has been difficult, I have already learned so much. Putting it into practice is the hard part!

Between only yesterday and today, I have had tons of cultural experiences! Yesterday, I attended a high school graduation for one of the sons in my host family. Since the ceremony was in Sololá, I got to take a chicken bus up to the other town. If you are not aware of what a chicken bus is, it is a colorfully-painted school bus, always jam-packed with people. The drivers are known to be drunkards and they definitely drive faster than what most people would like, going around the curves in the mountains. However, the ride was not terrible, and I am glad I can say I did it now. The graduation was very different than an American graduation. Although I really did not understand anything, there were many traditional parts of it that I also did not understand. I was most definitely the only gringo in the room, and that is always an experience!

Afterwards, we got a taxi back to Panajachel, so unfortunately (or fortunately?) I did not get to ride on the chicken bus again. I went with the whole family to a restaurant, which was by far the best food I have had here yet. I loved going along with the family, and becoming a bit more cultured!

Today, I went on a tour around Lake Atitlan. Besides Panajachel, there are eleven other towns around the lake, in which I visited four towns just today. I went to San Marcos, San Juan, San Pedro, and Santiago Atitlan. It was interesting to see the differences between each town, even though they are so close. The water was very choppy, which led to a boat ride that felt more like an amusement park water ride. By the time we arrived in Santiago Atitlan, we were soaked and tired from screaming and laughing. On the small boat, there was people from approximately five countries. It was really fun to go on a crazy boat ride with a whole bunch of strangers from around the world, and reminded me that we all have something in common. Even if it is just finding joy from a crazy boat ride!

The beautiful Volcano San Pedro, from Santiago Atitlan

This weekend has already tired me out (my Fitbit says I walked 10 miles today!), but I am loving this great adventure! Please continue to pray for my health, both physical and mental. I would also appreciate prayers just to continue soaking in everything I am learning, as I am going to need it next summer. I love all the support, and cannot wait to come back home--minus the snow, of course! As my Iowan family and friends are freezing, I will keep getting sunburnt. Thank you for all your prayers and support, please keep it coming!

Being the Outsider

I have been contemplating how to write about this tough issue our world faces. It's not easy to tackle this issue, as it is dear to many hearts. I am not trying to offend or start any arguments, just simply trying to share my experiences and thoughts in lieu of living in Guatemala, but also in lieu of this election.

This election has brought a lot of fear to both Americans and foreigners. And honestly, it's impossible to tackle the big issues of immigration, racism, and diversity in one small post. I just want to share my heart.

After Donald Trump won the election, I heard and saw many people scared for what will happen. People from Mexico, people from America grieving for people of Hispanic backgrounds, and of course, people from Guatemala. And this reminded me of all of our differences.

God created each one of us unique, and for some reason, it is our sinful nature to not accept this. We automatically look at others and see the differences, rather than the similarities. Growing up in predominantly white, conservative, northwest Iowa community, I never had to be an outsider. At least not by the way I looked. I never had to be looked at differently, called names, or deal with the fears of my outside differences. I never knew what this was like.

But then I came here, to Guatemala, and now I am the outsider. As I walk down the street, the people often stare at me. Guys whistle at me, or whistle at their friends about me. They nag me on the streets and try to talk to me, because they think of me as an object rather than a person. This is obviously very different from the way we treat differences in America. I agree, there is a race problem in America. There is a race problem even in small-town Iowa, and we need to acknowledge it. But it's not only in America. When you're a different ethnicity, whether it be of Hispanic, African, or Asian descent, in America, you may be treated differently. But if you're white in another country, you will be treated differently too. I never thought of this being a problem in other countries; I always thought of it being an "America" problem.

I am definitely not here to solve the world's problems (even though sometimes I wish I could). Spotting the differences in each other is our human nature. There is only one thing that can change this and solve this. It is not the president or the laws. There is no special formula. We need unity, but there is only one place we can find this. In Christ. Ephesians 2:13-22 says,

¹³ But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. ¹⁴ For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility ¹⁵ by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, ¹⁶ and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility. ¹⁷ And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near. ¹⁸ For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. ¹⁹ So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, ²⁰ built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, ²¹ in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. ²² In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.

Only through Christ can we be united. As we speak of diversity, let’s turn to Christ. We can have no similarities to others, but when it comes to Christ, we can unite and share everything together. In fact, God is the same sovereign God no matter where you are or what you are going through. My life has been turned upside down, but luckily God has stayed the same in everywhere I go, whether it be small town Iowa or Guatemala.

In Ephesians, there is a lot about unity. But there is also a lot about grace. I believe these two concepts go hand in hand. We were only saved because of God’s grace. We all have the sinful nature to pick out others’ differences, whether it be ethnicity, interests, or personalities. So when dealing with this issue, let’s have grace. It’s difficult when it’s happening you. It’s difficult when it’s happening to your child. It’s not easy. Honestly, most often I want to scream at the Guatemalan men that try to treat me like an object, as they whistle at me and try to charm me. I need grace upon grace upon grace, and so do they. Let’s treat each other with grace, and love one another’s differences. We can only unify under Christ. Seek Christ first, and the rest will follow. We no longer have to be strangers and aliens, but instead fellow citizens in the household of God.

The Election in the Eyes of a Foreigner

So this week was a big week for the states...the election! And when they say the whole world was watching, they weren't lying. My host family stayed up until 2 a.m. waiting for the election results, and it isn't even their country! Being in Guatemala for the election was eye-opening and fascinating. I had never really thought of how foreigners perceived America. Obviously, America is solely a dream for them. They will never get the chance to live or even see the United States.

Look who I found in their newspaper! Of all people, my representative (Steve King) and my senator (Chuck Grassley), were in the Guatemalan newspaper.

The whole world was especially watching this election, but only for one reason: Donald Trump. In America, everyone thought it was crazy because of Donald, but also because of Hillary. For Guatemalans, they get their international news from the TV. CNN, to be exact. Whether talking to some white missionaries that live here or Guatemalans, it was sad to hear what they thought. I had conversations with others explaining Benghazi, as they had never heard of it before. I explained Hillary's trial, as they didn't even know that it was happening. They simply assumed all Americans must be Hillary supporters, because that is how the media portrayed it for them.

Guatemalans did have a problem with Donald Trump. They could list off many horrible things he's done. According to them, he persecutes Christians, encourages discrimination, and will kick out any foreigner in America (legal or not). When it came to Hillary, there is nothing wrong with her in their eyes. In my opinion, I have never heard Clinton discuss religious liberty, so what makes Trump different for them? The media. Their opinion is only based off of that. After talking with some people, they realized that they might not understand the whole picture. Not all foreigners are going to be kicked out of America. If they are there legal, nothing will happen. If they are there illegally, there is a possibility, but we will never get ahold of the whole issue. I don't think Guatemalans even knew there was a difference between legal and illegal immigration.

So yes, the world is laughing at America. People claim we've joined their club: having a comedian for president. For me, this doesn't discourage me, but instead encourages me. Let's prove the world wrong. Let's prove that we can bring our country back. This does not depend on the President. This does not depend on the Supreme Court Justices. This depends on us. We were given these two choices based off of a reflection of our society and government. Let's change it.

13 Things

I have been here for thirteen full days, and in my short time here, I have learned so much about the Guatemalan culture and way of life. I thought I would share with you thirteen things I have learned thus far...

1. It is completely normal for small children to sell alcohol on the streets.
While I was at the Sumpango Kite Festival, kids were yelling "Corona! Corona! Es frio!" These are types of things you don't see in the states...

2. Big guns are normal too.
Banks have money, therefore, they guard them with armed men. Sometimes, it makes me a bit apprehensive, but they do not use their rights in a bad way. I am all about supporting gun rights, and I am happy to see that there are barely ever abuses of these rights. It is more of an intimidation factor, and for some reason, it seems to work.

Cemetery in Sumpango on Day of the Dead

3. Cemeteries are a place to celebrate, not to mourn.
Day of the Dead, on November 1, is a widely-celebrated holiday in Guatemala, and in other Spanish-speaking countries. There are many old beliefs connected to the day; however, the holiday had moved away from the beliefs and more to a tradition. They celebrate the lives of their loved ones in such a beautiful way.

4. As a "gringo" in Guatemala, I have learned to expect stares. All the time.
It is not the most comfortable situation to always be the different one. I look a little out of place here, especially because I don't spend my time in the touristic area. It is odd to feel watched, but now I can put myself in the shoes of many Guatemalans in America.

5. Fireworks are fun at all times of day and night, mainly because we apparently love noise.
For real, Guatemalans seem to love noise. Fireworks go off randomly, including at 4 a.m. My favorite type of alarm clock...

6. You don't have to be good at singing to praise God with your musical talents (or lack thereof).
There are a few churches near my house, and I can assure you, they try to make it sound good, but there just isn't a whole lot of talent. Luckily, God doesn't care if you're good at singing or not. I love hearing these people crying out to God with no cares in the world of who hears them.

7. Roosters do not crow at the crack of dawn like all the stories claim.
In every perfect fairytale, the rooster crows to wake you up. Not here. They like to crow when you're trying to go to sleep. Or in the middle of the night. Or pretty much anytime you don't want to hear them.

8. Rules are only suggestions, especially on the road.
I am sure there are laws in Guatemala, but I honestly doubt that many are enforced. Stop signs are merely a suggestion that no one cares about, and lanes: what are those? We just like to weave around whoever we want on the road here.

9. Sunburn can happen in November.
I forgot about sunburn. I always get sunburnt. However, not usually in November. Surprise, surprise! Zara is now a tomato after a long day at the kite festival.

10. Cold showers remind you of how blessed you are.
Seriously. The first week here, I did not have warm water. Even their warm water isn't very warm. Hot water is such a blessing.

11. American politics could be worse.
Guatemalans love to ask me about my political views and who I voted for, because they know it is quite the show this year. However, they shouldn't be talking. They have a comedian for a president.

12. Sometimes you just have to be adventurous.
Most things I do here are out of my comfort. Even just going for a walk to get food on Sunday night can be scary, but God is with me through this adventure. Also, I tried some street food (which I am not supposed to eat because of the risk of getting sick), and it was worth the adventure. The food was fantastic, and I didn't get sick! I'll call it an accomplishment.

13. When you struggle to speak the same language, complete simple tasks, and lack the feeling of home and safety, you trust God for everything.
You don't rely on yourself, and then turn to God. God becomes your #1 stronghold, just like He should be. God is with me on this crazy journey, and I am so glad He called me to this beautiful place (even with all the crazy things listed above). An adventure it is.

Leaving Comfort Zones

This whole trip down to Guatemala was a leap out of my comfort zone. I was the shyest kid you would meet when I was younger, and now God is stretching me to be more outgoing in a language I don't even speak. Talk about a challenge!

We did still make kites of course!

God has challenged me in crazy ways thus far. On Saturday, I went with a girl from my school and helped with a school for children, ages eight to twelve, in a rural area. As I headed there, I simply knew I was helping with a school, and we had planned to make kites. Sounded easy enough, and more in my comfort zone. They started out their class by sharing the Bible story of Noah's Ark. As I sat there listening and half-understanding, the girl who came with me whispered something in my ear. With my poor Spanish skills, I didn't understand, even after she repeated herself. All I knew was that she said something about English. I didn't think anything of it, and just responded saying yes. I assumed she was maybe going to translate for me, or show me something in English. However, I found out after the Bible story was over, that I had actually said yes to telling Noah's Ark in English and then teaching the fifteen kids English for about 25 minutes. I kind of chuckled at God because I knew this was His doing. With public speaking (even in front of kids) not on the top of my favorites list, this was definitely far out of my comfort. If I would have known what the girl was saying to me, I honestly probably would have said no. But God didn't give me the choice this time. It was such a blessing to be able to teach these kids. English is an important thing they need to learn; however, they do not have the resources or English speakers to teach them. God definitely challenged me, but I would not have it any other way. The kids were so joyful and accepting of me. I wish to be inclusive as they are, and I strive to have their joy.

On another note, I have been in a school for over a week now, and I love it! My teacher is wonderful and the school does a phenomenal job at reaching out to the students. There are so many opportunities for me through the school, and I have already been able to meet people from all around the world. Although school is wonderful, it also is extremely tiring. Five hours a day of intensive learning is strenuous and much more difficult than what I expected. Please keep praying for renewed energy each day to learn the most I can!

I have also found a wonderful church family here in Panajachel, who have already welcomed me with open arms and been very supportive. I am looking forward to telling you about my awesome missionary church in Pana. Thank you for all the prayers and please continue to pray for safety, good health, and lots of energy! Adios (for now)!

The Start of Something New

Dulce fits her name perfectly, because she is so sweet! :)

After a bout of sickness and many changed plans, I made it to Guatemala on Wednesday night! I arrived in Panajachel on Thursday, and moved in to my new home for the upcoming two months. My host family is loving, watching out for me and helping me along. My host mom, Magda, makes me three meals a day and is patient with my terrible Spanish skills. Her husband and three kids all either work or go to school, but I have been able to meet all of them, even though they are busy often. Magda's granddaughter is four, and full of energy. I have loved playing with Dulce and seeing her immense joy, with a little bit of attitude on the side. After moving in on Thursday, I became a little more acquainted with the town, walking around and attempting to figure how I would get around. I started classes at Jabel Tinamit Language School on Friday morning. My teacher, Celestina, and I, meet for five hours on weekdays from 8-1. Currently, there are only a few other students at the school. We all have our own teacher and receive one-on-one tutoring. I absolutely loved my first day of school and it went by quick! However, it is crazy that in two months from now, I will be able to speak enough Spanish to translate for others. It is a bit overwhelming to be in a foreign country where they do not speak my language, but God has been faithful and kept me safe.

Just on my walk to school...

As I was walking on my plane to Guatemala City, I was assured that God called me to do this. Even though I love adventure, this would be way too adventurous and out of my comfort zone for me on my own. I am so glad that I answered God's call, because it is definitely not simple. It is easy to say you will go and live in a foreign country, but actually doing it is difficult. Now that I am here, God has given me peace and more faith in Him. Usually I am a homebody, but God has allowed very little homesickness and more of a desire to discover and adventure in Guatemala. I have already seen myself rely on God more, just in the few days I have been here. Instead of trying to solve every little problem myself, I am more likely to pray. Feeling unsafe? Pray. Scared I might get lost? Pray. Feeling sick? Pray. God has continued to answer my prayers and keep His hand upon me. I cannot imagine all I will learn within two months here, as I have already learned so much in a few days.

The beauty is incredible here (The weather is too. Sorry Iowans!). Not only in the kind people, but in the surroundings as well. I have already taken long walks just to go and see the lake. Lake Atitlán is breath-taking, surrounded by volcanoes and mountains. When I see a place like this, there is no way I can doubt God. If He created that beauty, I know He can do anything. The same God that created volcanoes and the beautiful lake created me and you, and to me, that is more amazing than anything. I am so blessed to be called by God to this wonderful place, and I cannot wait to see what else He has planned.

¡El lago de Atitlán es muy bonita!

T-Minus 1 Week!

I will be reunited with this beautiful place in one week! I am excited, nervous, and happy to finally be headed to Guatemala! After having a trip delay, I am still in a bit of denial about the fact that I am actually going. I will be writing more once I get there and updating you all. Thank you to everyone who has met with me, sent me a quick encouraging message, prayed for me, or supported me. Every little thing has meant so much to me. Each card, quick text, and prayer, has been a huge blessing. I am so grateful for a wonderful God who called me to Guatemala and has already taught me so much along the way. I cannot wait to share more of what He will be teaching me. Please continue to pray for me for safe travels (next Wednesday), a smooth transition, and to stay in a good health. I will be beginning Spanish lessons next Friday, and continue until the middle of December. Thank you all again!

God's Plan

Today was the day I was supposed to be writing to you from Panajachel, Guatemala, telling you of the beauty there and my amazing experiences thus far. But I'm not. Instead, I'm sitting on my couch of my living room, still in Iowa. Sometimes it is difficult to understand God's plan in it all.

After two weeks of packing and preparing to leave, while fighting health issues and a sickness, I was sure I'd be going to Guatemala on October 4. I had my plane ticket, my language school bill paid, and I was totally in control. However, on Friday, God reminded me that my control is simply an illusion. I had a second doctor's visit, and was told to hold off on international travel, especially to a place like Guatemala where there is a poor medical system.

I was called by God to go to Guatemala. His plan for my life was finally coming together. Then this happened. I was finally about to do something big, go out on my own, and it all came crashing down, just days before I was supposed to leave. Disappointed and angry, I just wanted to shut down. I did not want to talk to anyone, and I'll be honest, I definitely did not want to talk with God.

However, God somehow got through to me. He reminded me of something that I needed to be taught. This is not about me. This is not about Guatemala. This is not about my health or my happiness. This is about Him. Our lives are not meant to be self-glorifying, but instead God-glorifying. I could never go to Guatemala on my own. Doing this is so far out of my comfort zone. God calls us out of comfort zones and into His great plan.

I knew God was going to teach me through this experience of going to Guatemala. However, I sure did not realize how much He was going to teach me before I even arrived. At this point, I have no clue how soon I will be going to Guatemala. I will only know a few days in advance. No, this was certainly not my plan, but fortunately, I have an amazing God who has an even better plan. I may not always know why, but I am going to trust Him. He is faithful through it all. He's a big God with big plans, and I cannot wait to see what those plans may be.

Searching for Truth & Good Coffee

A few weeks ago on July 16, I attended Together 2016, a large prayer event on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. With half a million people there, I never expected the event to become so personal. I had been waiting to hear back from ASELSI Ministries in Guatemala. I thought God was calling me to minister there next summer, but I had been waiting for confirmation for quite some time. Together 2016 was all about the Great Commission. The whole day, we were in prayer for young people following God's calling. Within a few hours of being there, I heard that I was approved to go to Guatemala. Crying out of joy, excitement, nervousness, and every emotion in between, my mom and I shared such a personal moment at such a public event. Throughout the day, it just felt as if everything was directly for me. The music, the speakers, the prayers. It all applied perfectly to my life. We were even in my favorite city where I'm hoping to spend much of my future. It all came together, and I learned a great lesson that day. I don't always trust in God's timing, but I should. His timing is impeccable. I couldn't have asked for a better day to be called.

Now that I am actually going, I have lots to do before I leave! Between college and scholarship applications, to fundraising and planning for my time abroad, life is crazy, yet fun. I am very excited, yet nervous, for this leap of faith and learning adventure. I know I will learn so much there, and that's why I am searching for truth and good coffee! I will be learning more about myself and about our almighty God. And if you know me well, you know I am a coffee snob :) but Guatemala has great coffee, so I am quite excited for that aspect of things! In all seriousness, I am overjoyed to be able to take this crazy learning experience and soak it all in.

From early October to late December, I will be attending Jabel Tinamit Language School in Panajachel, Guatemala to learn the Spanish language fluently. I will be using this skill next summer when I return to Guatemala for three months to intern with ASELSI Ministries. I will serve as a translator for American teams as they come to Guatemala for short-term missions trips. I would appreciate your prayers for safety, health, and most importantly, that I would make a difference for Christ. If you feel called to give, I am in need of approximately $10,000 between plane tickets, language school, and entire living costs. Any monetary gifts would be appreciated, no matter how small. Thank you for your prayers and support, and I will keep you updated here during my time away!