Hi, I’m Riley!
This missions trip was absolutely amazing! God worked in so many wonderful ways, and I’ve made so many memories that I will cherish forever.
Today we flew home, and as I reflect on the trip, I’m so amazed with all the ways God provided for us; He truly worked within the team and the people to whom we ministered. I’m so honored to have witnessed so much love and compassion, the transcending of language barriers, so many laughs, so much prayer and true child-like joy for Lord! I’ve loved growing closer with this team in such beautiful, powerful, and spiritual ways, as well as challenging myself to be bold and step out of my comfort zone for Christ.
I am so beyond thankful for the opportunity to go on this mission trip to El Salvador, and everything we were able to do to bless others. I’m blown away with all the ways they blessed us as well!
Signing off,
Riley
Hello, Grace here!
I am absolutely humbled by the touch of the Holy Spirit descending upon us this week in order to heal, connect, and spread His joy. Stories can only tell so much, and experiencing the power of the Great Physician to mend hearts, bodies, and minds (sometimes immediately) had me in utter awe. Jesus showed up and did a great work, and He used you, too! Your willingness to sacrifice and give selflessly made this trip possible. Thank you. Thank you for listening to that still, small Voice. Thank you for praying, donating, and sharing. Your efforts have made an impact. You have glorified the Kingdom, both sowing and reaping an everlasting reward.
Although seemingly insignificant, my favorite part of this trip was watching a little girl fearlessly run into my arms. I was sweaty, stinky, and overwhelmed, yet she yearned to be close to me. The dance party around us quieted; we were safely sealed in our own wordless world of smiles, hugs, and snuggles. Perhaps it was my own heart yearning to be still or the sudden tiredness of the week, but during that moment I too cried out to Jesus for a shoulder to lean on. I wanted to fearlessly run into another’s arms without regard for safety, sanitation, or doubts. With the tenderness of a child’s hug and the vibrance of their smiles, God was tangibly revealing that all He needs me to do is show up. Our strength is too weak, but He is strong. He is big enough to cover my doubts. He is kind enough to give me the faith I need to take the next step.
Putting aside for a moment the burdens that accumulate with age, I invite you to embrace an inner, child-like faith with me. Together, let’s recklessly run to the Father. Let us be held, be comforted, and be strengthened knowing He is fully pleased with us. And nothing, nothing could ever change such a love so pure.
“You did not choose me, but I (God) chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit…” — Luke 14:25
Signing off,
Grace
Trip stats:
Days in El Salvador: 5
Team members: 14
Teachers/leaders: 3
Hours spent praying on our last night: 3
Missions Journal post views (at the time of posting): 921
Number of flights: 5
Gospel productions performed: 5
Average high temperature: 91
FYDC shirts given: 51
Impossible to count: Ice cream orders, coffee runs, books read, late-night fellowship, laughs, hugs, lives changed.
It was a truly incredible trip, and we’re so proud of our students for the work that they committed to with their whole hearts. It was a special honor to work with Amazing Love Missions this week, and we encourage you to visit their website and subscribe to their newsletter to stay informed on the work they’re doing, including upcoming projects and ways you can support the amazing individuals we got to know throughout our time in San Salvador!
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