In case you haven't heard... we made it! :)

Hello, family! We are so sorry that you aren't getting a blog update until just now. Unfortunately, we have had a few issues with the internet, but it is up and running today. :) This is just a short, "hello!" to let you know we are here, safe, well-loved, and enjoying our time with our family from Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yire and the wonderful missionary family Carlos and Mayra Bonilla-Giovanetti and their lovely children, Alberto, Carolina, and Daniela. 

(Pending internet availability) Another update will be posted tonight between 10 pm and 1 am. 

Thank you for your support and prayers! All our love! :) 

God bless!

"Keep my eyes to serve, my hands to learn..."

The dust swirls through the air completely neglecting your allergies or need for oxygen. The sun beats hot (and you forgot sunscreen...again). You feel hungry, dehydrated, and exhausted from the day before. But you keep your gaze steady--to serve. You keep your hands busy--offering handshakes and hugs; offering a spirit of love. 

This is mission: to deny your own needs, wants, and worries to serve one another in Christ's love [wherever you may be].

"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."  John 13:34-35      

This is what we hope to do two weeks from now in San Marcos, Nicaragua.  We'll be serving alongside our brothers and sisters from Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yire in a spirit of mission; in a spirit of Christ's love. 

Feel free to subscribe to this blog. It will be updated at the end of each day (usually between 10:30 pm - 1:00 am) during the trip (Feb. 14-21). I hope you'll enjoy this journey with us because whether you're in Nicaragua or praying for the group at home, you are a crucial part of this mission: 

"Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it." 1 Cor. 12:27

We love you all! See you in Nicaragua! Vamos! :)

If you have 4-5 minutes to spare, this is a video of several mission trips from this blog (including San Marcos, Nicaragua). Also (and most importantly), this is an effort to say thank you to the amazing men and women who support service in mission--home or abroad. You are an amazing, irreplaceable part of the "body of Christ." {1 Cor. 12:27}

Peace & God bless!

Seek Him First--Urban Project, L.A.

One of the children, Alejandro, getting knocked down by the surf.

Dance party at the Salvation Army in Compton!

More dancing!

Some of the kids started arriving for our day at the beach :)

California waves-- 3, brave children-- 0

My apologies for not updating until today. As you can see by scrolling through the pictures above, we had a blast with the kiddos! :) But working at our "mission sites" was not the only goal of Urban Project, Los Angeles. If you're like me (before the trip) and you aren't sure what Urban Project is, you can click the link above for more information. I'll also try to explain UPLA to the best of my ability as I understood it from my short time there. 

Urban Project strives to not only serve those in need, but to push its participants to live in the midst of those they serve; to experience (or at least get a glimpse of) what poverty might look like lived out. How is this possible? Well, while on project, everyone lives in tight quarters. For example, our room was about as big as a typical dorm room, and we managed to fit 4 inflatable mattresses, 5 sets of luggage, and 4 sleepy people within its walls. We had good reason to be sleepy. The majority of those living in poverty are hungry, tired, and typically work two or more jobs leaving little time for rest. The UPLA staff attempted to mirror this in our diet, schedule, and service. We woke early every morning to a sugary cereal breakfast (the discount stuff). After breakfast, we had some form of discipleship, interaction and discussion, study, and so on. After this, everyone grabbed a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, chips, and maybe an apple (again, limited in nature). Soon after, we loaded the vans and headed out to our ministry sites where we served different communities by spending time with children, painting, cleaning, and organizing projects and events that the children could enjoy. Dinner followed--by this point we were all ready for a good meal. After dinner was another session of discussion, study, lecture, etc. So, you get the picture. I only lived by this diet and schedule for 5 days, but most had been living it for 2-3 weeks. Lack of proper nutrition and a busy schedule leaves one easily tired, stressed, stretched thin, and pushed to seek God in the middle of it all; to overcome the physical and continue in service despite perpetual exhaustion. This is hard--no lie. 

Other than the physical state of the UPLA participants, their mental, emotional, and spiritual states were addressed, as well. During the "study sessions" each day, participants were asked to look at the world in a new way--a way that is Biblical, based on Jesus's teachings, stories, and prayers in the Gospels. Different speakers focused on redemption, relationships, relocation, redistribution, prevalent needs in the world today, and (most importantly) the power of God's love for us and displayed through us when we make Him our main priority and focus. 

This was such a well-organized, thoughtful, and life-changing project for those who were willing to give up 3 weeks of their summer to serve in L.A. If you know a student in college who might be interested in participating in this or a project like this, I encourage you to read more in the link posted above and share. :) 

I was asked what my favorite part of the mission was... I struggled with this question because I truly enjoyed so many aspects of Urban Project. However, there is one thing that truly stands out among the rest--the genuine fellowship of believers. Their examples in struggle, in faith, in genuineness, and in community shined as the most wonderful gift (I didn't expect to receive) on this trip. God bless you all, if you're reading! I am truly blessed to be able to call you all sisters and brothers in Christ. 

Romans 28:8

For everyone at home, thank you all so much for your prayers! As always, the power of prayer is an awesome thing. Your long-distance encouragement was fully felt. :)

If you have any questions about the project feel free to post here or contact me, personally.

Always in His love,

Meredith

1 Corinthians 13:13

Leave a Legacy.

Why do we live? What do we live for? These are big questions. As I complete my coursework for counseling, these are questions my professors pose to "us students." I really believe that each one of us (my sister, my cousin, the man I stood behind at Kroger, the nurse that just worked a double, the child walking down the road with a skateboard in tow) have an undeniable, genuine purpose in life.

In any event, this was a response to one such question posed by my professor. I truly believe the following and felt compelled to share:

"I recently attended a memorial service for a good friend’s grandfather. Of all the wonderful speeches made and endearing memories shared that day, one word caught my attention—legacy. It was said that, “he wanted to leave a legacy.” I feel each life is that person’s legacy. We have the ability to invest our time, our life, our love in one thing or another. What is it you love? Each life will live as a legacy to what the living loved most. Mumford and Sons said it best, “Where you invest your love, you invest your life.” I consider life to be an investment. I choose what I love most and then I spend time on that thing. I love my family. If this is true, I should spend my time “investing” in my family. I love those who need love most. If this is true, I should spend time at homeless shelters, mentoring, and (attempt) maintaining an attitude of grace and love throughout each day. I know I am only finishing the “first quarter” of my life, but I take this thinking seriously. I don’t ever want to look back and say, “I could have loved better.” What a shame that would be. So, I do my best now to invest in those people and things in life I love most; acknowledging every day as a new opportunity to leave a legacy."

As this weekend comes to a close, I am preparing to leave for Los Angeles, California for an Athletes in Action mission known as "Urban Project." I will only be able to participate in a portion of the mission trip (June 19-25); however, I will do my best to "leave a legacy" and "invest my love" in the children and people I meet while there. I will have more updates on Urban Project to follow. 

Always in His love. 

PS.. Thanks to Stacy H. for her awesome insight on "investment." Every day... Always good conversations at the "E" :)

1 Corinthians 13:13

Day 8: The last goodbye...

What a wonderful day in Nicaragua! Today was our "free day" which was to consist of some shopping, sightseeing, and a fair-well church service in the evening. 

Kathryn started us off with the morning devotional. She gave her own testimony and explained how God had put her on this trip for a purpose. Her close connections with the people here, shared experiences, and the opportunity to encourage one another seemed like such an act of God in her life. She explained she was so grateful for the opportunity to be here and to experience what He has in store for her. She did a wonderful job and we are so blessed to have Kathryn with us in Nicaragua. :)

After breakfast, we set out for the market in Managua, Nicaragua. We shopped for a couple of hours. Some walked away with some beautiful finds including nice woodwork and handmade crafts to remember our time here. My good friend, Demo, was able to meet us while we were at the market. I was so excited to see him! It has been too long, my friend. :) After shopping, our friends--the missionary family Bonilla-Giovanetti--joined us for the day's events. We were so happy so see them again! 

We left the market and Juan took us to Granada--one of the oldest cities in Central American, founded in the late 1500's. In Granada, we took a boat tour of Lake Managua (or Lake Nicaragua). The tour was absolutely beautiful! We were informed that there are about 365 private islands in Lake Managua. There is one for sale if anyone is interested--$350,000 to own your own island. :) After the boat ride, we went to the town square in the center of Granada. It was full of life with vendors, food, music, and historical architecture in all directions. 

We saw Granada from a different viewpoint when we went to a scenic overlook across a smaller lagoon. This was our las stop with the Bonilla-Giovanetti family. We hugged, took pictures, exchanged gratitude and blessings before parting ways for the last time (this trip). They were so warm, inviting us all back whenever we liked. They expressed their hope for our groups to meet again and work in ministry together. We hope and pray for the same. We miss miss this beautiful family until that time comes.

On our way back to Skylark for a quick break, we stopped to see the school we helped paint. The hard work of the families and students of San Marcos, Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yireh, and our team shined through in the finished product. The school looked so fresh and new! We truly enjoyed our time working here, and we hope the labor we spent will be a blessing to the teachers, the students and their families. 

After the shopping and touring, we attended one last church service of Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yireh. This service was intended to be a fair-well service before we head back to the United States. I think I can speak for the entire team when I say--we were so extremely humbled and loved during this service. Their expression of gratitude and genuine love was overwhelming. They gave us certificates commemorating the trip. They gave us each two gifts to take home. Some church members that we became especially close with gave us additional gifts (bracelets, letters, keychains, bookmarks, etc.). At one point, all three of our translators were in the front of the church leading worship. Erika and Tony were singing, and Leyner was doing what he does best--playing the keyboard. After worship and the gift-giving, we began the long (sorrowful) process of saying goodbye. There weren't many dry eyes to be found. It seemed more evident then than ever before--we truly have become one family. Lubeck Community Baptist Church, Calvary Baptist Church, and Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yireh have joined together as one family of many families. We mare so many miles apart, but our love in Christ will always bind us together. 

We are so grateful for you all... following at home, praying, sending well wishes as each day passed. You have been such a huge contribution to this journey. Each moment, each life saved, each relationship, and each hug was wrapped carefully in your prayer. We cannot express enough gratitude for your constant involvement and love, both before and throughout this week. 

Always in His love,



1 Corinthians 13:13

Day 7: John 3:30

Rhonda and Sandy dancing with some of the ladies from the nursing home. 

Children from Iglesia Bautista singing at the nursing home.

Rhonda taking care of her new friend.

Sherry spending time with some of the children from Iglesia Bautista.

Roger and Helbert after Helbert's solo performance.

Lisa and I (Meredith) mingling with the residents of the nursing home.

Mark doing some "mingling" of his own. :)

Stacy doing what she does best--playing with the kids!

Today, Kenny was the leader of our morning devotional. He went into his "God story," talking about challenges and victories, alike. He did an amazing job and truly touched our hearts with his words. He emphasized that he is a simple man and his favorite verse is a simple one-- "He must become greater; I must become less," John 3:30. As Kenny explained his favorite verse, it was realized that Mark Houser was wearing a shirt that had "John 3:30" written on the front. Just after that, it was realized that the bracelets we would be giving out at the Narcotics Anonymous meeting carried a message that reflected John 3:30, as well. So, the (obvious) theme for today was John 3:30. 

This morning we had to split up our team to accomplish everything on the day's agenda. The men went back to the school to finish painting, while the women visited a local nursing home. At the nursing home we opened up with a "mini" church service. A group of children from Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yireh sang a beautiful song for us, and one child, Helbert, sang a solo. Pastor Mark Wood delivered a short sermon focusing on our walk with God and the wisdom that we gain from that journey. He encouraged the men and women at the nursing home to continue their walk, clinging to God's love and staying in the Word. After the message, Marcos (the Worship Leader) asked us to find one person from the nursing home to pray for. We scattered, found a new friend, and began praying for them. This really was a beautiful moment, and it was evident that the residents of the nursing home were very grateful for the prayer and the love we hoped to convey. Next, it was time for snacks and makeovers! The ladies were treated as if they were in a day spa. Their hair was brushed and fixed with beautiful pins; their nails were painted an array of different colors; and their make-up was absolutely beautiful when the volunteers were finished applying the shadows and lipstick. The men may have felt left out; however when we asked if they wanted their nails painted or make-up applied, they politely declined. :) After everyone was looking beautiful the dancing began! Rhonda and Sandy were busting a move on the dance floor with a few of the residents. They said they felt young again. :)

Later in the afternoon, the men returned to the school to finish painting. Dinner followed with the usual recap on the day and friendly conversation. After dinner we had a meeting at Margarita's home with the church leaders of Iglesia Bautista Jehova Yireh. We spent time expressing our genuine gratitude to Iglesia Bautista for all of their preparation, work, and prayers over these past several months (and this week). They returned the sentiments. At the end of the meeting, Pastor Rudolfo showed us the "blueprints" (or plans) for their future church building. It will be two floors when finished, complete with classrooms and a worship area. They ask for our prayers that they will be able to fund the project and reach more people in San Marcos for God.

(Side note: As we pulled up to Margarita's home for the meeting, Lisa and I [Meredith] saw the Matron from our home visit on Tuesday walking down the street with assistance from her walker and her daughter. This seemed like a miracle to us! Just a couple of days earlier she said she could not walk. She said walking was not possible because she was in so much pain from her heartache and poor hips. To see her walking was answered prayer. We hope to visit her tomorrow, encourage her, and invite her to evening worship. He is good :) )

We left from the meeting around 7:30 and went to "The Hope and Faith Group," also referred to as Narcotics Anonymous. This was such a humbling and wonderful experience. We were able to participate in an "open meeting" with Narcotics Anonymous. They explained that they use a 12-step program (similar to what we would use in the US). They also have 35 spiritual principles that they reference through their recovery process. Not only do they treat current addicts, but they also provide prevention education for children and families that may be susceptible to drug or alcohol addiction. The meeting began with a message of welcome and a wonderful "drama" put on by the Worship Team of Iglesia Bautista. Following the drama, individuals came up to share their testimony. From our team Kenny, Zach, Meredith, and Mark spoke to the members in attendance. It is our prayer that everyone there was blessed, because we know we were. We left feeling inspired and promising prayers for these men and the struggles that lie ahead. They claimed that they will struggle with addiction all their lives. However, they said with God's strength, they will overcome these struggles day by day, victory by victory. We left bracelets carrying the John 3:30 message for each member in attendance. Everyone seemed so grateful for the bracelets, the message, and for our visit. The director of the meeting said he wanted to thank us for our visit and our message of Christ because it gave them hope and strength to continue in their journey. God is good.

As our day winds down, we think of our family and friends back home. As always, your thoughts and prayers are so powerful. We thank you for your support as we finish out the last day of this mission. God bless! 

Always in His love,


1 Corinthians 13:13