Guatemala - Where it All Began
Last month, I had the opportunity to embark on my fourth trip to Guatemala. This particular journey has always held a special place in my heart, as it marked the beginning of a significant chapter in my life. It was during this trip that I realized our family's next step would be in missions. I didn't know where or when, but one thing was clear: I would not remain the Youth Pastor at FBC for the rest of my life, as I once hoped. God had started working in our hearts, leading us to surrender to the calling of taking the Gospel to another country.
Meeting the wonderful people of Guatemala and witnessing the profound need for the Gospel left a lasting impression on me. Additionally, observing the deep commitment of the missionary family, the Wilders, to the people of Guatemala deeply touched my heart. Over the course of four visits, we have built strong relationships with the Guatemalans and had the privilege of getting to know some these precious people.
One of the most significant experiences we were privileged to be a part of was assisting Pastor Marvin Yos in establishing his first church in Paramos, Guatemala. Marvin is a Guatemalan national who was reached and trained by Missionary Daniel Wilder. Returning to Guatemala and speaking at this church is always a joy, as we witness more people being reached with the Gospel.
I love missions trip for 3 reasons:
You see God work in powerful ways.
You build unique and strong relationships with the ones that co-labor with you. Some of my best friendships have been developed on mission trips.
It’s amazing to see that God is working everywhere. He has no borders or language barriers. I love being engulfed in other cultures and meeting some of the sweetest people on earth.
A few pics of our group - Go Cubs Go!
For many years, I have been teaching a concept to the teens of FBC: the idea that God's way is God's will. In simple terms, if we live our lives according to God's desires, loving Him and others, He will guide us along the way. Sometimes, He uses influences and our life experiences to direct us. In hindsight, we can see that God has used this opportunity to lead us to do the same thing in Portugal. Our aspiration is to reach, love, and train the people of Portugal, just as many missionaries are doing all across the world.
Some of my great friendships I’ve made in Guatemala. The top left pic is David, he has grown in his faith and God used him multiple times on this trip as my interpreter.