When I arrive in Meanguera, I am not even out of the truck before I have at least two little girls in my arms, welcoming me home. It feels like home to me. The next day, I have a whole little group of children that pour in to say hello and give me hugs. Most of them will follow me around for hours, ask me when will I give them classes, and when will I come over to their houses. There is very little in this world as sweet as the affection of a child. A lot of them have difficult circumstances at home and some of them don't, but every one one of them needs to know the love of Christ in his or her life.
I get as many hugs from the adults as I do from the children and a lot of times, more food than I can ever fit into my stomach. They are have huge hearts and a lot of love and hospitality to offer. They love that someone cares to spend time with them. Some of them are hurting like the children and every one of them needs to know the love of Christ in his or her life.
All of these things erase any concerns and worries I would have about the country and how it's different from the US. God has put a big love in my heart that will not answer to anything else. The country is beautiful; it takes my breath away. I love the simplicity of life in El Salvador. I love that everyone has time for family and friends. I love sleeping in hammocks. I love hiking through the trails in the mountains to get to the fields and visit friends. I love the spirit of the people, their affection, their contentment. I love the children. But most importantly, I love that God has called me to work there and I can't wait to see how God will change their lives and mine on this adventure.
Yes, El Salvador is a poor country, but just like any country, it is full of people with hearts aching for Christ's love. Will I be successful? I am not the one that matters. God will work through my weaknesses (2 Cor. 12:9).
"Never consider whether you are of use; but ever consider that you are not your own but His." Oswald Chambers
