Day 2: Antigua, Guatemala

Matthew 25:45  He will reply, "What I am about to tell you is true. Anything you didn't do for one of the least important of these, you didn't do for me."

Today was an emotional and exciting day.  We began our day at an orphanage for disabled children.  Most of these children and young adults had been abandoned by family.  The home is also a hospital and a home for disabled adults.  They operate soley off of donations and do a wonderful work.  The children, most of which could not communicate, would get so excited with just a touch or for someone to call their name.  The organization and their volunteers are a true testament to the value of human life.  My experience today really challenged me about loving others.

The second part of our day we headed out of town and up into the mountains to an afternoon camp for children.  This was a blast.  Starting around 3 PM you could see dozens of children coming out of the woods and up the hill.  One of the homes of some of the children was close so we walked down and visited.  Their home was what I have heard and read about but never personally seen.  It was a metal shed with dirt floors.  A family of 10 or so lived there.  Their livestock and pets shared this home with them.  I told Jake as we walked away, "what a joke any complaints we have are." 

There were around 80 children who came from ages 3 to 20.  We were able to spend some time with them through games, crafts, and sports.  It was pretty comical for Jake and I trying to explain to children who spoke no English how to play dodge ball.  Alicia asked me why I was talking so loud and with a Spanish accent.  The children had such a sweet and humble demeanor.  They did not hesitate to hug and kiss us.  We met one little boy whose name was Elvis.  Imagine that, the king of rock and roll still has influence even in the mountains of Guatemala.  The day ended with an opportunity, through a translator, to share the Gospel with them.

Reflecting and praying about today's experience has been challenging to me.  Why would Christ instruct us as He did in Matthew 24:45?  Why does God's word give us instuctions on "pure religon" in James 1:27? Because it's exactly what Christ did for us. He came and He dwelt among us to give His life for us.  Also, it's the only place we can find true satisfaction is in Christ, walking with Him and glorifying Him. It's safe to say, and all of us would admit, that a life spent on self and things of the world leaves us empty.

And, yes, the rooster is still crowing.