God has initiated so many wonderful ministries here. the 12x12 love project construction ministry, the playground and community center, the chicken micro businesses, sports programs, kitchen-stove-bathroom projects, and of course the regular medical emergency situations that we take on.
in addition, we have been so blessed to be joined in purpose with a handful of churches and families who support what we are doing. selfless folks who don't seek mission trips for their own purposes, but who genuinely come to serve and pour themselves out. thankfully, these groups love and support our ministry, and simply want to come help out with what God has already begun.
that approach has shaped our philosophy as we continue to host occasional mission teams. not to mention, it sure takes the edge off... we don't have to go through hoops to make it a "great week" for anyone. we don't have to over-do the catering. no need to over-think or over-plan. just allow friends to come down and serve the poor and take part in what God is doing.
with this approach, the Holy Spirit has complete freedom to lead. so long as we're listening, we can anticipate that He has something incredible for each team, whether we see it coming or not.
basically we can approach each team not as if we are going to plan out a great mission trip experience for them - but rather that God has entrusted us to seek His will for this group, and to give an opportunity to meet the needs of the poor.
before our last team, i read the following "vision statement" as related to dSg teams:
"you are here to serve the poor. this is an opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus to some people whose needs are far greater than our own, perhaps greater than anything you've ever seen. this week is not about "us" or "our experience", but rather it is about them. it's about serving them, and God can do to us whatever He wants to. we are not aiming to give you a great week here. that may not be what God has for you! we will simply give you the opportunity to meet the needs of the poor, to hear the voice of Jesus through the poor, and leave the rest up to the Holy Spirit."
thank you God for leading us regarding how to approach teams. thank you for being so far ahead of us always! we are so thankful for our family of teams who support us, and seek to come serve the beautiful people of guatemala. and we can't wait to see what else you have in store!
pictured to the right: children in Buena Vista saying goodbye to the Watershed Charlotte team.