Honduras

This week, A and I have been on a mission trip in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. I have been processing much of our week and wanted to share some of it with you all. We have spent most of our time working with the kids at Jubilee School in La Era. La Era is a barrio of approximately 10,000 people. Driving up the mountain in La Era is to witness poverty as I have never seen before. The houses are very small structures made of pieces of steel, cardboard, wood, or whatever materials are available.  It is dirty, dangerous, and scary. 

Jubilee School is a private school in the area that charges parents $5 a month to send their children there. They are trying to educate these children to help get them out of the barrio and at the same time, teach them about the love of Christ. Approximately 25% of these children have lost a parent or grandparent by murder. Many of these children live with a grandparent or aunt because their parents are living in the US trying to make ends meet.  The stories are heartbreaking. 

While I knew to expect such sadness, there has also been great joy this week. I have spent time with these kids and seen the love of Christ in so many ways. These children are joyful. They have truly taught me that to live is Christ.  They know the good news of Jesus and they are content and even joyful, despite their dismal circumstances.  They are excited to spend time with us - their brothers and sisters in Christ. What a privilege and a joy to be able to love them and serve them this week. 

 

This is Daysa. She has been my special little friend this week. She is one of those children that lives with Grandma because her mom is in the US working.  Daysa has sat on my lap and held my hand for the past 3 days. Even though we don't speak the same language, love has crossed all barriers. I have been able to hold her and love her when her mom can't.  Saying goodbye tomorrow will be heartbreaking but I will find comfort in knowing that someday, there will be no more hurt and instead of worshipping together in a classroom, we will walk the streets of heaven together.