It was a beautiful day in Antigua. We went to the lookout point to see the city and admire the volcano (not the one that exploded). Then we talked Joel into stopping at the Luterana church. We were invited in to see the building and grounds...but not by the Lutherans, they are only there on Sundays. They share the building with Calvary Chapel. One of their missionaries from Florida gave us a tour, showing us the old ruins of the former convent. So beautiful!
Next, SHOPPING! Yes, to the market to "Joel's friends" who will always make you a good deal, because you love Jesus and know Joel. Then lunch and to the ruins.
There was an earthquake in 1733 that destroyed the city. At that time Antigua was the capital of Guatemala. But after the earthquake the people moved the capital to Guatemala City. But people remained in the city and began to rebuild.
We were able to tour a huge convent that had been destroyed in the earthquake. Actually, you could spend an entire week touring all the different ruins. Anyway, it was incredible. To just walk through that place, to know of what went on, the prayers that ascended to God. We were standing on holy ground. The most beautiful experience was this: There was this underground room that had the most incredible acoustics. Everyone was talking really loud, but I started whispering, which echoed also. Joel wasn't sure what it was for until my mom said "I wish I could just sing down here." So then Joel starting singing Amazing Grace and it just stopped us all. It was so beautiful. But then it hit me, the music was rising. So I made Joel sing again while we found where the music was rising to. It was going into all of the nun's rooms. It was amazing to hear this music coming from stone.
I said to myself, “Relax and rest. God has showered you with blessings. Soul, you’ve been rescued from death; eye, you’ve been rescued from tears; and you, foot, were kept from stumbling." Psalm 116:7-8
This afternoon I was drenched with blessings. To be reminded that 300 years ago there were faithful people sharing their faith in Jesus...this same faith that I have so deeply embedded in my heart. Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever. Hebrews 13:8
On our way home I started asking Joel about the salaries of the people who live in Guatemala City. I just was trying to get a better understanding of what people make in the places where we have been. Here is what people make a month, approximately:
Ghetto Dump: $75-90
Ghetto: $150-300
Middle Low: $300-400
Middle: $400-500
Middle High: up to $1200
I think this is what Joel said.
What is important to note is that most families have 6-10 people living under one roof.
What we can do is open door by the gifts that we can give. By just sharing a piece of clothing, a smile and hug, by loving them without reserve we share Jesus. Our organization is their contact to Christ...we just step to take their hand in this moment to share a simple message - Jesus loves you more than you could ever know.
Thank You God for this day of rest. I needed it for reflection. Thank you for calling me to be light among the shadows.
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