And we’re off!!

Today marks a series of firsts—Madison’s first time out of the country, her first journey away from home for a purpose beyond vacation, and the first time either of us will set foot in Guatemala. The next seven days hold so much in store for us.

Leading up to this trip, Madison and I have been doing a devotional together through the Bible App. The plan, sponsored by Compassion Ministries, is called “God, Use Me – Devotions for Your Mission Trip.” It has been such a meaningful way to align our hearts and minds in preparation for what’s ahead.

This morning’s devotion focused on Romans 12:1-8, which challenges us to present ourselves as living sacrifices and to be open to transformation through the renewal of our minds. That alone is worth deep reflection as we begin this journey. But the passage goes further, delving into the concept of individual gifting:

“For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.”

It then lists various gifts—prophecy, service, teaching, exhortation, generosity, and leadership. As I reflect on this passage, I realize how uniquely God has assembled this group for this trip. Each of us brings different gifts, and each will contribute in a unique way.

I have a strong sense that some of these students, Madison included, will discover new things about themselves during this trip. God may be preparing them to step into their gifts with confidence, to embrace who He has created them to be. I’m eager to see how we will come together as one body, each playing our part. Who among us will be the servant? Who will emerge as a leader? Who will find joy in exhortation, teaching, or generosity? How might God speak through one of us as we serve the Guatemalan people?

This is exciting stuff! Please join me in praying that each person on this trip will lean into their gifts and allow God to use them—not just this week, but for the rest of their lives.

Fundraiser Update:

The yard sale was a huge success—far beyond what I could have hoped for! God blessed us with perfect weather, an incredible number of shoppers, and a final total that left us with extra spending money. But in an unexpected turn of events, we didn’t need any of it.

Before I even had a chance to deposit the funds and settle our account, an anonymous donor covered everything in full!

God is good!!

Thank you all for your incredible support throughout this journey. It has already been life-changing for both of us, and we are overwhelmed with gratitude for the amazing people God has placed in our lives.