Before
After with the Bradford's furniture and my couch.
When the Bradford's returned to the States, it changed some more.
But what a difference from day one!
I have thought about these last two years a lot and still cannot begin to put into words what life here has meant to me. So often I have wished I was a better writer to be able to share with you the nuances of life here, but all too often I fail.
Today was Palm Sunday and it was a perfect day. It sort of sums up all the things I love about Peru. I started my day at Cristo Rey. Pastor Wes Baker had an amazing sermon, but first, we read Matthew chapters 26 and 27. In 27 when the crowd is crying out to crucify Jesus, he had the congregation cry out for the crowd. Whenever the crowd spoke in the reading, the congregation spoke. It was very powerful and moving. We are the reason he was crucified. One of my favorite songs is How Deep the Father's Love for us. The words are so powerful:
"Ashamed I hear my mocking voice,
Call out among the scoffers."
Today the congregation played the part of the crowd and it is our voice that calls out among the scoffers. We, in our sin, were like Judas betraying Christ; and like Peter, we deny Him. Yet, He loved us so much, He died upon that cross to save us!
"It was my sin that held Him there
Until it was accomplished
His dying breath has brought me life
I know that it is finished."
What an amazing gospel truth and reason to celebrate! He died and rose again for me--for you!
After church, I attended our missionary lunch and we sang in English and prayed for one another. It is always fun when we sing a song in Spanish in Church and then later in English and a great reminder that the Lord is Lord of all; no matter your language. The language of the gospel knows no barrier. Today that song was Stricken, Smitten and Afflicted.
And to end my day, I attended a meeting with my cell group in Santa Maria. I love these Peruvians. They are my friends, my brothers and sisters, and my family here in Peru. We meet in the Vasquez home and two of their daughters have been such amazing friends to me over the past two years. I look forward to more time with them as I continue to serve. Katy and Maresa are such fun, intelligent, gracious and kind. I am very thankful for their friendship.
Katy, Me and Maresa
After a wonderful meeting with lots of new friends attending, (which was a huge encouragement to see the Lord grow this group so fast!) I was surprised by Hermes and the rest of the group with a cake, and such kinds words for my two years here, and then a slide show of photos of my time here. It brought me to tears. He did a great job narrating so you will miss out a little, but you'll get the gist.
Well, I cannot get it to post. I'll work on this and post later. Also, my friend Sandi Smith was there and was able to get a lot of good pictures. . . so I'll need to update anyway. One more photo from the night from my camera. Since Sandi was there taking photos, I forgot to get mine out until we were leaving. oops!
Hermes and Me
For now, I shall give thanks to my Lord for my two years here. Everyday I am amazed that He is able to use such a sinner as me, broken and poor, to be a part of His redemption plan. I am eager to see what He has in store for me over the next two years! Until then, a look back.
Living out of my suitcases to start. . . I did eventually get a dresser.
Maresa, Me, and Katy (August 2009)
My dear friend, Heather.
Precious friends, roommates, and more! Patty, Katie, Me and Julie
Maresa and Me Christmas 2009
Short Term Teams are my passion for sure!
Pictured here is just one of so many, Disciple Makers, August 2010
These girls are such dear friends!
Elva, Me, Maresa, Katy, and Briggit
Playing games is always a fun part of any Peruvian party!
This was Jenny's baby shower and we were guessing how big she was.
These are just a few of my treasured memories and a very small glimpse into life in Peru.
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