Our first full day in El Salvador (starting at 7am) is one where we get to finally meet with the families for whom we’ve been praying, and for whom God has been providing. It’s always a little tentative at the start. They wait and prepare food, decorations and a wonderful setting to receive us. And we step slowly into their welcome, politely shaking hands and exchanging smiles.
After a few formalities, comes the games, laughter and a recognition that despite the language and cultural barriers that exist, we all share some valuable traits: we long to be part of a welcoming community, and we have a hope for a better way.
The welcome ceremony is a wonderful blessing because of the possibilities that exist. There’s a palpable expectation that God is doing something with us.
That’s one blessing.
In the afternoon, we had the unique and special opportunity to visit with two families who had previously received homes. One last November and one last April.
You can read Rosa’s story here.
You can read Francisco’s story here.
It was a powerful reminder of the importance of being physically present. The connection and welcome we received far outweighed the fact that we had only spent a few days with them in months gone by. They each shared their story with our team and then they prayed with us and for us.
That’s a second blessing.
And then they spoke passionate words of commission on our lives and for those we represent (that’s you, as a supporter/reader).
Each one asked the Lord to give us “a double portion of blessing.”
Separately, in two different locations, in two different communities. This double blessing prayer was conveyed.
At our team debrief this evening, it occurred to me that I had never recalled anyone praying this kind of prayer over me one time. And it happened twice. On the same day. In two different communities. From two very different kind of people.
Isaiah 61:7 reminds us that the Lord can bring double blessing after times of trials, struggle or sacrifice. And there are several other examples of this throughout Scripture.
And today, in two tiny, dusty mountain villages a double blessing was prayed for upon us, by those who would say they have been doubly blessed, after years of trials and challenges.
May the Lord give you and I patient and faithful endurance to trust Him even in difficult circumstances, knowing He has a double blessing to come.
Deve
