Winning the War

     As I mentioned in my last post, I started my time here in Honduras in the book of Joshua.  Through my time in the Word (both in Joshua and in the Psalms), the phrase that has been pressed on my heart is "wait on the Lord."  Reading Joshua, I noticed that every time the people fought a battle after God had told them to fight (and graciously reminded them that he was with them), they won.  Every time the people tried to do fight a battle on their own, they lost.
     Already in my time here, I am tempted to go full speed ahead.  My head is spinning with ideas: putting up theater productions, developing a youth group incorporating YL club-style activities, a book club with our neighbor kids, staff worship/discipleship stuff, etc. etc. etc.  BUT WAIT!  Did the Lord tell me "go"?  Nope, not yet.  I know that.  In fact, the Lord has even forced me to wait in some ways (I'm pretty sure the language barrier is no accident--it's keeping me from going to deep too fast!).  As the locals keep telling me, I have "mucha energia!"  Surprised?
     That said, even though there are many things on hold, there have already been so many simple, sweet moments.  I love playing keep away with the boys, round after round after round of Jungle Speed with Noe and Edward, having to guess who has just put their hands over my eyes, defending myself against the boys' playful jabs, watching/encouraging the boys' mad futbol skills (on the field as well as on the Xbox), futbol and bible study with teenage girls from the community next door, accountability/cooking/working out/special conversations with my lovely roommates.... and so much more.  Truly, every day is a blessing.  It always has been, and it always is (it just takes presently living in the presence of Christ to see it!).

This tiny little frosting fight is nothing compared to the all out
WAR that occurred tonight... More info/pictures to come :)

     Whenever I am able to lose sight of myself and take in my environment, I am reminded of how blessed I truly am!  Though, I'll admit, there are moments where I get ahead of myself; there are moments where I insecurely wonder "do I belong? do I have a place?  am I wanted?"; there are moments when I care more about those around me liking me than I do about them liking Jesus.  Those are the moments where I get in the way.  Those are the moments that I try to fight where the Lord hasn't said "go".  Those are the moments when I lose a battle.  But, I'm reminded that even if I lose some battles, God has already won the war.  Praise be to God that the beauty and majesty of my dear Lord Jesus Christ is victorious.  And I get to see glimpses of his glory each and every day!
     Thank you, Lord, for these boys.  Thank you, Lord, for your grace.  Thank you, Lord, for the beauty that surrounds me.  Thank you, Lord, for my friends and family back home, as well as for those I have here.  Thank you, Lord, for giving me your joy and peace.  Thank you, Lord, for allowing me and those around me to be a part of your body--doing your work for your glory.  Thank you, Lord, for not only redeeming my lost battles but also for winning the war.  Thank you, Lord, for your love.

On the soccer field with my roomski Jessica and some of our kiddos

(That said, feel free to pray for the ideas that are churning... Waitin on that "go" ;)...)