According to the t-shirt I packed, it has been 10 years since I first came to El Salvador. I feel like a lot has changed over that period (except for the food), the presence of Shelter and the number of Shelter homes has increased, the transportation to the communities is safer and efficient (slightly less fun than on the back of the cattle truck).
I feel blessed that I get to experience this trip with my wife and my two oldest children. At the time of writing this post, our entire team has helped to build 12 houses for 12 families. Getting to build along side these families and getting to know them is one of my favourite parts of the trip.
Today, the team I am a part of got to build a house for Anna. Anna has lived in this community for 6 decades and has had 12 children. Two of the other houses we have built this week are for other members of her family. Anna has been here through the civil war and through periods of gang violence. One of the differences today for her children and grandchildren is that there is now a church and a school in the community that her family can walk to. Now they have a safe place to live that will keep them dry in the rainy season!
She took our picture today so she would always remember us as she continues to pray for us after we leave. It is clear that God has been at work in this community long before we arrived this week and He will continue to be at work after we leave. I am grateful that we were able to play a small part and experience that this week.
Scott
Awesome to get your perspective from years ago and hear about a conversation with a woman who has seen many hard times, but acknowledges the blessings in her community over the years. You are right, God is at work in ways we don't always see. God bless you & your family as you experience serving together.
ReplyDeleteWe are so blessed reading the testimonies of those who are right on the mission field ministering to the folks in El Salvador. Know that we are praying for all of you daily. God bless and thank you for your awe inspiring testimony.
ReplyDeleteTestimonies from you and others of this trip are beautiful, inspiring and all examples of the Lord’s love within. Thank you for sharing the Incredibly awesome news of Anna and her family receiving two homes and all that your trips to El Salvador have meant. God Bless!
ReplyDelete