almost four weeks in!

Heyyy!

Where do I start? It is so unbelievably beautiful here. Although my Spanish is definitely rusty the people have been so kind welcoming and patient. Also food has been so good. We are settled in a little village in the mountain countryside of Nicoya Costa Rica. I am surrounded by the Lords beautiful creation ranging from flowers, macaws, parakeets, trees, lizards, and armadillos to cows.

I am so grateful for the past few weeks, topics we have dove into in school have been: The nature and Character of God, what it means that God is the creater and knower of all things and still chooses to be personal and intimate with us. The life and work of Jesus, How Jesus’ life on earth not only impacted the people he was with but also serves as an example to us today and how we should live our lives. And this last week was the father heart of God, what it means that God is the father and holds the role as father in our lives. This next week is going to be about the Holy Spirit and I can’t wait to see what God will communicate.

While I’ve been here I’ve also gotten the opportunity to participate in the local homeless ministry that they provide to the community of Nicoya. During the ministry they provide a 10-15 minute message and a meal. It has been such a blessing to be able to work alongside the staff and learn from them and experience their heart for Jesus. This last week I had the pleasure of getting to give the message for the ministry. I spoke on Matthew 14:22-33 which is Peter walking on water with Jesus. Talking about where is God asking us to step out of what we’re certain of, and to trust that he has our next step. I feel God working this a lot in my heart and in my life right now challenging me to trust him and lean into what he is calling me to, not as a last resort, but with everything all the time.

Things that I need prayer for:

That the Lord will continue to work and transform me from the inside out, that I will be changed and grow. That through this God will use me in mighty ways for his glory and to further his kingdom. Prayer for the community of Nicoya and surrounding villages and that there will be a great yearning for the Lord and his kingdom here on earth. Prayer that the team will stay safe, unified, and healthy.

Also I am still raising money. We leave to go on our outreach in April and I am still going to need about $3,000 before then. Im really asking if the Lord is placing it on your heart, for people who are willing to give reoccurring donations or become monthly supporters.

And finally as I am here in Costa Rica right now, my heart is still in Minnesota. And it is heavy for Minnesota. I ask if you are willing, to join me in praying for peace, wisdom, discernment, empathy, integrity, and justice to be brought back. That the hurting and the violence would end, and that the Church, the body of Christ, would be an example of what it looks like to live a life imitating that of Jesus.

Thank you again for all of you who are faithfully following this journey, and thank you for all prayers and financial support, I could never fully express my gratitude.