
this was different than any other move. 10 years in guatemala had solidified our life and ministry there. our friendships were deeper than ever. our kids grew up there, our youngest born there. spanish had become just as common, if not more so, than english in our home.
the village of buena vista, as troublesome as it might be, had become our home. fears from the early years that kept us from letting our kids freely rome the streets (kidnapping, gangs, abusive men, etc) didn't affect us much anymore, even though the actual risks may have never changed. this was our village. these were our friends and neighbors. its amazing how we adapt. we actually feel more comfortable in rural guatemala than when returning to visit jacksonville, FL!
the rhinos are our sons. most of them lack involved parents, so that became us. we were the ones who cared about their emotions, feelings, spiritual growth, temptations, physical health, grades in school, and if they had a decent pair of shoes. parenting 30+ boys is exhausting and wonderful.
it also makes saying goodbye extremely difficult. one of the hardest days of my life, actually.
brothers & rhinos forever |
witnessing the heart-brokenness of the boys who lived with us in our home was probably as tough as anything else. hearing them work so hard to articulate the pain they were feeling in their hearts... their love for us as parents, for jake and luci as brother and sister, etc, etc... there's nothing i can write that will accurately express the weight of the moment.
if i weren't certain that this move is out of obedience to God, i think i'd be legitimately angry! in my limited ability to see things, i feel like those boys need us (and us them). my limited visibility leads me to wonder how they will grow in their faith, and make good decisions, without us there?
but when i come close to the Father, i realize how weak and faithless that way of thinking is. i realize how limited, ignorant, and arrogant it is! i am reminded of His power, His grace, and His love. He loves those boys far more than i do... and if He has called us to leave for His purposes, than i trust that He knows what is best, and that His timing is perfect.
i miss my guatemala family. i miss my friends and i miss the boys. my heart hurts. but i trust in the Lord and i know He is faithful.
2 comments:
Hello Brock and Kerrie, I have thought of you all often as the day approached for you guys to leave Guatemala and come back to America for some rest. What you shared here is what I prayed for most when I thought of you and your family. Spending just a few days there in Dec 2017 I saw a little of how extremely hard it would be for you all to leave. I always think of Acts 20:37 where Paul's friends are clinging to him and crying. Praying for you all and wishing you wonderful rest as you wait for what God has for you next.
Sincerely, Mary Davis
thank you mary. such kind words. that imagery of paul brings tears to my eyes all over again. thanks for your prayers!
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