A Glimpse of Grace!
Deidra is giving out homework assignments to some of us on this mission trip. She started with a couple of her more challenged students, me and Joe David Bailey. To paraphrase, her question was “Can you share how/why Guatemala mission trips have impacted you?” My mind went a thousand directions, and then one of the team members walked by with a shirt that had the GRACE website listed aglimpseofgrace.com.
God showed me a clear answer. Every time I get to be part of supporting the mission here, it’s by His grace. I’m just blown away by the impact that GRACE and SLAM have had (and continues to have) here in Guatemala. I could write a book, but I wanted to share just a few things from this trip.
– I cried last night as I watched the school children share a Christmas story. I couldn’t understand one word, but I knew everything they were sharing. To see those children sing praise to Jesus so hard that they go up on their toes. They love Jesus.
– At the medical clinic this morning, I witnessed a young father being treated for a terrible infection in his leg. The story behind what GRACE and SLAM have done to help this man is mind blowing. Most all doctors that looked at his leg months ago felt that he would loose his leg. Through prayer, care, and the grace of God – his leg is much better and appears it will be healed fully.
– I witnessed a 24 year old young man (Edgar, Jr) receive his high school diploma. The teachers at Collegio Jet worked extra hours to help him thru – talk about love. Edgar loves Jesus and is so faithful. His family was able to attend – they were so emotionally thankful for God’s grace shown to their family.
– I was able to see the two young boys my daughter has sponsored for years here at the school (Sebastian and Esvin). I watched her love those boys since they were small, and they love her. Children who might have been lost to the street are coming to know Jesus because of your support for them.
– This last one has been a tough one for me. When Soy went to heaven, I wondered if this trip would even take place. Of course it did, and I know he would be aggravated at us if it hadn’t. I’ve only taken a couple pictures while here. One was of the kids playing soccer on the great field that was donated by some kind folks. As I stood off and watched them play, so clearly in my mind I heard a whistle and Soy running out with his (basketball) referee shirt on to call a foul that wasn’t really a foul. He was showing some of his goofy dance moves and the kids were loving it. Grace.
This week Pastor Joe David has been sharing about being an effective missionary. One of his first points is we have to love people. I see so much love here for the people of Guatemala. After Soy passed, I heard from different folks “I wish you wouldn’t risk going there”. My answer (though I kept it to myself) was “Satan wishes I wouldn’t go too”.
Thank you to anyone whose had a part in the work thru GRACE and SLAM. You are part of that Glimpse of Grace.
Morris
John 8:12
Shining Light Abroad Ministries 