A Mother's Heart in Guatemala

Years ago, I wanted to take my boys to India. I wanted them to know somewhere other than America, to have a passion for other worlds and other people. I wanted them to experience God's creativity and passion for His complete world, not just our own. 

But the door to India closed. Then we tried Haiti, but it wasn't meant to be either. After two failed attempts, I wondered, " When will it be time? Did I not pursue these opportunities hard enough? Did I miss IT?"

Then, last year, Meghan Mukri (CKM's Outreach Director) sent me an email: "Would your family like to lead the Guatemala trip next spring?" I opened my heart to the possibility. Since it was the right time, we found ourselves reaching out to the roughest part of Guatemala City (Zone 18) in partnership with Engadi Minsitries. 

Imagine with me. You're a mom of two boys. When they were born, you were terrified you wouldn't be able to keep them alive, well-adjusted and healthy. Suddenly, you realize you have the responsibility of raising them to love and have a passion for Jesus as well. The calling is intimidating. 

But now, you're in Guatemala. You and your husband have brought your 10 and 13 year old sons to a completely different country and culture. Your dream of doing outreach as a family is becoming a reality. 

The first day, you watch your kids interact with the children in Zone 18. This is an area where the life expectancy of a boy is 25 because they often join gangs at 10. Your youngest son, Joseph is playing soccer with some younger boys and you think to yourself, "Joseph's 10. If he lived here, the gangs would be courting him." 

Moments later your 13 year old leads the children in a game and then tells them the story of the Good Samaritan. You watch him, realizing if he lived in Zone 18, he would be a gang member, drug dealer, gun carrier and possibly womanizer by now. 

Life could be very different for you; for your boys. You watch them in thankfulness. Thankful they've chosen Jesus and have a passion for those who have not. Thankful that they're not afraid to make friends with children who are unlike themselves. Thankful they are unashamed of the gospel, and even of mispronouncing their incomplete Spanish phrases. 

Sure my boys aren't done becoming who they will be. Sure they may have experiences ahead that will challenge and shape their faith. But thankfulness is where I rest best because worry wastes my time on what ifs that probably won't materialize. I will not worry. "Why should I worry about tomorrow? Let tomorrow worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." (Matt. 6:34)

Instead, this mom will choose to do what she's been doing when she's afraid; trust. I will trust that Jesus loves my boys more than I do. "And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in them will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ!" (Philippians 1:6)

You can take your family on an trip with CKM's outreach department, Multiply Global! Check out multiplyglobal.com for upcoming opportunities. 

© 2016 by Sharie King.  All rights reserved.