Guatemala

I wasn't sure what to expect out of a trip back to Guatemala. I've said that before. How to explain what I saw in a new way, well I don't really think I can.
I saw things in Guatemala that I've seen before, things I've often played over in my mind day after day. It's the beggars, the people who appear to work so hard every day and yet have so little in my American perspective. I heard children who have been abandoned, hurt, or orphaned worshiping God in a language I can't understand with my mind but can join in with my heart and tears fill my eyes. The worship in different languages and cultures always gets me, because it's right there, I think the Spirit is just practically screaming the greatness and vastness of our Father. Our God who is not bound by culture or language or space, but His love so great and poured out for all people on this beautiful earth.
I was reminded over and over that happiness and the joy that comes from my Savior has nothing to do with what you hold in your hands but everything with the love and hope you have in your heart. But also that the smallest possession given by the compelling of love can bring the biggest smile I've ever seen.
I was reminded that adoption isn't just a nice thing to do, it's an act of God. There is no other way to explain how two little Guatemala babies are now safely sleeping in their home here in the States after being born into hunger and poverty. And seeing how much He's done to care for us here in this fleeting life proves to me how much greater He has provided for my eternal life with Him.
I was challenged to go deeper, to strive for more, that there is SO much more to be learned in my faith. I was reminded of how easily I can slip into complacency here in my "perfect" world away from deep material needs, but that great new adventures in this breath of a life await if I will take that first step.
I was reminded of what my Savior looks like, I saw Him in children's eyes, I heard His joy in their songs, I recognized His hope in their dreams and plans and talents. I saw His redemption and healing in a home where children find refuge and provision and love. And I saw His heart break as His creation walked streets begging for some bit of change, hungry people in need of a gospel that speaks more than just words and emotions.
I've seen it all before, I'm sure I meet my Savior every day. But it's so much easier to have our hearts open on those great and special one week trips out of the year. I'm pretty sure Jesus is who He is always, and I'm pretty sure if we were who we claimed to be we would see that a lot more clearly. It doesn't take Guatemala or Africa or a homeless shelter to see it, it's where ever you-are letting your heart open to a Love that can make your heart see and give much more than that selfish flesh ever could. So where ever our God takes us, Africa, Guatemala, China, the grocery store or across the hall, God is still God. Who are we?