"Influence isn't about power and getting what we want, it's about servanthood and giving our best to others, whatever our position in life."

 

My heart was completely broken this week. We visited another dump, where the men, and even young kids are in sewer water and all this garbage to find bottles..and that's how they make a living.

It's so hard to see that this is everyday for people in this world. Through being on this trip, everyday I am realizing how I am not going home the same person, and my heart is contiually changing, and growing with compassion. When seeing these things, I immediately want to give my all and help. I am empty handed with nothing physical, only being left with what I know, and my heart yearning to love these people. As God calls us to do. I got to talk to many people in the community, and pray for them. I love seeing their faces light up after I pray with them. I see joy in their smiles because someone gives them the time of day. And, of course I end up dancing with some random Nicaraguan, and start singing with them...I love how that is not awkward here;) It always happens with me!

THE COOLEST THING HAPPENED THOUGH!!!!!! So a couple blogs ago I wrote about Felix, (pictured above) the man dying from the kidney disease.  Him and his family have been on my heart, everyday.single.day. And he is growing worse. In just one week his hair changed from black to grey:( He has a little over a month to live. We leave this place where we're staying in 8 days, and  I've been praying to God to help me make these last weeks intentional.

Wellllllllllllll,

after calling together a squad meeting ( & I've taken people from our squad to meet Felix & his family) we all pitched in money, and got together $500 american dollars. Only $500 to let  this man have peace when passing away. For him to know his family has a good house, and will be better off. This means the world to him... How carelessly, have I spent money in my lfie on the most petty of things?

This morning, me & a couple others went with Mario( He works with Vision Nicaragua, and is so awesome:)) we all went to buy metal, wood, and materials for the house. We drove to Bethel, and hauled it, with the help from some youth in Bethel, and brought it all to Felix's house! Anyone from our squad is welcome to help all next week. You betchya I'll be there everyday 7-4. I am beyond excited, I can not wait to start! Being able to do this for him and his family  is such an answered prayer:) He is so delighted, he told me he's going to make soup for us all on Monday. He is such a kind man, always encouraging. Always offering the little he has. To give it all back, and show God's love is my favorite thing to do- and that's what I am able to do for him and his family! 

"Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work." 2 Corinthians 9:7-8

"Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.: Romans 12:13

 

Their family is very poor, and has little. He can not work because he is sick and dying.  His house always leaks, because theres holes in the roof. He also doesn't have a front wall to his house, it's just an open space. Continually, again & again God shows me just how much He can use me! Many, times I think we think ourselves as not being capable enough to do big things, or change someones life. That we're not "good" enough, however,

God can use everyone of us! If we are willing. If we listen, and feel in our hearts what God is leading us to do. I am so glad I listened that day, I felt God leading Christy, Nash, and myself to go down this one long strange path on the outskirts of the village to Felix's house :)