A Day of Compassion

What an amazing day! We had the opportunity today to visit one of the programs that is assisted by Compassion International here in Guatemala. The site was located in Chimaltenango, about a forty-five minute drive by bus from Antigua. The program is based at one of the local churches, and provides assistance with education (school supplies, uniforms, text books, etc.) and encouragement in physical, social, economical, and spiritual development. They have over 200 children enrolled in the program in Chimaltenango, and it is such a blessing to each of them and their families. The children enrolled receive free medical care and prescription medications, meals of nutritious foods several times a week, and sometimes clothing and shoes. For some, these are the only balanced meals they receive, the only time they get to see the doctor, the first time they get to have a pair of shoes. It's heart-breaking to see, first hand, the poverty in Guatemala and to see God's children in need. This one needs a coat, that one new shoes. This one is hungry and that one scared. But the wonderful thing about Compassion is that each of these children is being taught about the love of Christ and is receiving physical provisions in His name. It's a lot easier for these children to hear and understand the gospel when they are warm, clothed literally in His love. God is working miracles, one child at a time, through Compassion International.






Greg and I have sponsored a child in Kenya, through Compassion, for nearly three years now. We've been blessed by the letters our sponsored child has written to us, and rejoiced as we've seen her grow. And as a sponsor, I was really impressed seeing, first hand, the work that is being done. I have seen all the ways my money is being used to bless, comfort, and educate the children of the world. I only wish I could give more.



What a blessing it was to see the smiles of gratitude on every mother's face yesterday! With the political climate being what it has been lately, Americans (especially adoptive parents) have haven't been received as warmly as we used to be. It was a marked change yesterday. Every mother we met or passed in the street smiled warmly at us, her shining face reflective of the gratitude in her heart. Her precious children are not hungry for food, but have a new hunger for the Word of God. Her children are not cold, but warmed by Jesus' sheltering wings.






As a mother, absolutely nothing makes me happier than to see my children in ministry. Irene has a servant's heart. She gives easily, without inhibition, and regardless of language barrier. She is absolutely filled with the Holy Spirit and she's never been more beautiful.




To learn more about Compassion International, click here.
Even if you can't get involved, please pray for the wonderful ministry.