With My Own Eyes

This is Pastor Eli and his wife Nancy. They lead one of the congregations in partnership with World Orphans/AMG. We were blessed to attend their church’s youth service which met in an outdoor multipurpose facility. It was funny to see how youth ministry in a distant country in a different language looks a lot like youth ministry at home (ice breaker, games, lesson). The teaching was solidly biblical. We met three pastors yesterday and each of them was such a humble example of wholehearted Gospel ministry. Saturday morning was spent at the Guatemala City cemetary and dump (more on that another time). Needless to say it was very moving. Saturday afternoon we learned a lot about World Orphans’ efforts to equip churches to strengthen families in Guatemala City. We get to worship with some Guatemalan brothers and sisters on Sunday.

Do you think you are a king because you compete in cedar? Did not your father eat and drink and do justice and righteousness? Then it was well with him. He judged the cause of the poor and needy; then it was well. Is not this to know me? declares the Lord .
Jeremiah 22:15‭-‬16 ESV
https://bible.com/bible/59/jer.22.15-16.ESV

Guatemala is a beautiful, mountainous, tropical country. Temps in the 70s. Intense sun as Guatemala City is 5000 feet.

We have arrived. Travel went very well (Grand Rapids to Houston to Guatemala City). Enjoyed lunch at a park in Guatemala City that had this very cool 3D map of the country handmade out cement.

This guy is the real deal. Mike Krick pours his heart into World Orphans and his enthusiasm is contagious. Looking forward to working with him this week.

Contemplating a long day of travel and recognize that the Apostle Paul is probably rolling his eyes.

Apparently Guatemala is known for its coffee and chocolate.  That’s perfect because I am known as an epic consumer of coffee and chocolate.