*** Blog written by Haley Smith

Wow, it is already Sunday! While the days have seemed to fly by, they have been full of love, excitement, and new experiences for our team. In the past four days, our team has become quite a little family, as we have shared many laughs and good thoughts.

(Lindsey being creative with sidewalk chalk in the market in San Pedro)

Friday morning started off wonderfully—we rode in the back of trucks through the beautiful streets of San Pedro until we reached a Christian school. The kids there were incredibly receptive and loving as we played games and sang songs with them. We left feeling the acceptance of the people and the love of Jesus Christ. After lunch, we ended up going to a public school. This came with many miscommunications and changed plans. Because of this, our team didn’t end up spending the time with the kids like we had planned. The kids at this school showed a lack of interest. I think it’s safe to say that most of our team felt frustrated at the public school. However, with reflection, each of us learned something valuable through our disappointment in the situation. Many of us learned about our expectations and how they aren’t always the same as God’s plan, as well as the fact that God’s plan is sovereign even if we lack understanding.

We ended our day with dinner at Pastor Antonio’s house, where we enjoyed our time together and soaked in the fact that we had completed our second day in Guatemala.

(Hannah passing out beads to make Salvation Bracelets)

(Some of the team members playing with kids)

Saturday morning, we went on a prayer walk through the streets, and ended up going to the market. It was neat seeing the unique culture of this place, and even neater buying fresh coconut and mango from vendors on the street.

After lunch, we went to the basketball courts near a church in town. The kids brought sidewalk chalk, basketballs, soccer balls, jump ropes, and Frisbees. We gladly started hanging out with the people there— the younger kiddos even got in a chalk fight and gave each other chalk handprints. A few members of our team used this opportunity to discuss Jesus, and read a tract explaining Jesus’ sacrifice for us.

We completed our night with a wonderfully cultural dinner at Pastor Antonio’s house. We were served fresh veggies, rice, and a WHOLE fish. Yes, the head was still attached, and Tanner took pride in eating an eyeball. Needless to say, we are far from Highlands Ranch, and we are learning about a culture much different than our own!

(The team having an evening devotional and worship time)

 It is now Sunday evening. I am writing this blog post while swinging in a hammock and listening to the constant laughter of our team. We had a joy-filled day today, as we spent time at a church this morning. We sang songs, danced, played sports, and handed out hygiene bags to kids. Later, we went kayaking in Lake Atitlan, and enjoyed splashing and flipping each other’s kayaks.

This was followed by a church service at Pastor Antonio’s church, where we got to listen to their choirs sing worship songs, and we even got the opportunity to sing a few songs in English. The fellowship we have experienced has been incredible, and we are filled with joy, love, and giggles. I have constantly felt the presence of God here in Guatemala, and I look forward to the next days of excitement to come!