Today we returned to Patzún for our last day of clinics. More than 80 patients came through the clinic, which made for a full, busy day for the team. Some counseling stations spoke to as many as 20 people. We heard stories about broken families, substance abuse, and economic hardship. I was moved to see how our students listened with compassion, asked questions, shared scriptures, and prayed over each person.
Today’s story comes from Aaliyah.
The Lord is continuing to bless me through the most amazing ways. I was able to find a new friend in the most beautiful way. I was in a counseling station with Jon, and Titus. The first family that entered our station was a young mom and her two daughters, Brenda (20), Alice (2), and Kaila (11 months). Brenda came to the clinic for her daughters to get medicine to help their coughs. However, as she was talking to us about her and her family, sweet Alice started to open up to me. She opened her arms to be pick up. (And as my heart melted , I complied)
I brought her up to my lap and we started to talk (more like she talked and I listened). Her mom started to open up of how tired and burdened she felt having to raise two little girl at such a young age. Brenda expressed how she has been married since she was 17. She used to work until she got pregnant with sweet Alice. Her husband told her she is no longer allowed to work. When she said that, again, you could see how her heart broke all over again. I felt blessed that we were able to love on her and her daughters and she was able to open up. Alice and I started to color in my journal and push up each others glasses. Her laughter was contagious, and her mothers smile was beautiful. I love how God is teaching me different ways to love on the people of Guatemala. I will cherish the drawing Alice drew for me and her beautiful smile.
Fellowship Student Missions 
Again, Praise Be To God !! My heart has been so blessed hearing the stories each mission team member has to share. I continue to pray for those in need and for safety to all. May God continue to lead each one of you. My love and God’s love be with you.
Reid Whitaker
LikeLike
Sounds like a long day with many families, but you all finished strong by helping, showing compassion and praying.. Aailyah, I know God is using you in a mighty way! I loved the glasses part. I can totally see it in my mind and it made me smile. I’m so proud of you all. Sending virtual hugs and real prayers to you!!🤗 I can’t wait to see you tomorrow, Lizzy.
LikeLike
Aaliyah, I am so thankful that I was there with you to witness such a beautiful moment and watch you interact with Alice. She felt safe and comfortable with you and her mom felt the same. My prayer for the people of Patzún is that the God of peace will meet them in their brokenness and that His love will sustain them. Money will be spent, food will be eaten, medicine will run out, but the finished work of Jesus can never be undone. I am so glad that I got to work with each and everyone of you this week.
LikeLike
What an amazing week it sounds like it has been! I am proud of each of you on this team and grateful for the ways God has shown himself to you all and the ones you have served! I can’t wait to continue to hear about the week once you all return tomorrow. Praying for smooth travels!
LikeLike
Wow, sounds like another busy day for the team. We have loved following along with all the amazing work the team has done this week and can’t wait to hear all about it when you guys return. JD – didn’t you already wear that shirt earlier in the week??? Also, we see that you were put on the dentist rotation again yesterday…hoping that is a good sign that you’ve practiced good dental hygiene yourself this week. 🙂
LikeLike
Dear Mission Team,
Hope you had a fun day at the Market. Praying for a good trip back home. Looking forward to welcoming you back home at the airport.
Love Susan and Axel
LikeLike
Thank you for serving the Lord. I am so grateful for your hard work. I hope to one day be able to go!
LikeLike