My team traveled from Guatemala City to a small village called Chicamon on Wednesday. We began our day when our driver picked us up around 8 am. Most of our squad was staying at the base for a few more days so after a last breakfast together and their blessing over us, we gave our goodbyes and loaded our packs into the van. Our gracious driver Erik estimated the drive to be roughly six hours with an arrival around 2 pm.
After two hours of driving, we stop at a small gas station in a rural area. We see many trucks lined up the road. The employees communicate that the main road is blocked because of a mudslide caused by the immense rain recently.
After debating staying in a hotel and waiting for the road to open or rerouting which wouldadd six more hours to our trip, the police let us know that they may open the road soon so we find a spot to wait. After thirty minutes and with Erik’s willingness, we collectively decide to navigate to a route that he was unfamiliar with. With most of us feeling car sick, we were discouraged and hopeless of reaching our destination.
Throughout the car ride, we go through countless small villages, asking local community members for directions. I spend a lot of the time interacting with Erik through google translate (I thank God for that). He is a Christ follower who was evidently supportive of our ministry and peristent to get us to our host home safely.
Between mountains and valleys, switchbacks, free range goats, people running for Guatemala’s Independence Day, and a final rain storm- Erik delivered us safely to our host home at 7 pm (roughly a 10 hour trip!) He did with the smile that God gave him.
I am so thankful for Erik for his ministry to us- he reflects Christ with his selflessness and sacrifice. I have been learning that life is ministry- YOU can be a vessel wherever you are. Erik also wholeheartedly reflects the culture of the people of Guatemala. Just breifly have I been able to experience the welcoming and warm spirit present here. I am simply overjoyed.
Be well. Love well.
Mags
