Preface: Post-Mission Trip
Roe: What an experience I had in Peru! I kept asking God why Ahrim had to stay behind, but I realized I was asking for all the wrong reasons. I was really relying on her instead of God to help me get through the trip. But I soon recognized that God was using this experience to train and condition me. I had to be broken and out of my comfort zone for God to mold and build me up—to be the person He wanted me to be.
Although I didn't have a translator during the sports time, I learned that language was in fact no barrier. We were able to play the games using gestures. I spoke in English and they responded in Spanish. But it all seemed to work and we had so much fun! Actually, the kids were very athletic and I hope to see some professional players in the future or actually sponsor kids to a school for their talents.
I am sad to leave so many children behind but excited to continue to do God's work here. Through their physical depravity, I was able to see my own spiritual poorness. Yet, God is so good to me. This was just my first experience serving Comas, Peru but I would like to continue serving for the rest of my life.
Ahrim: I was very upset and broken-hearted to stay behind because I was really looking forward to the trip. (Last minute, I found out I couldn't attend the trip) But God was truly gracious to me during this time. He allowed me to still be a part of the Mission Team—as a prayer warrior here in Michigan . Like I said before, when we serve it is really we who benefit. When I prayed with the other women, I was overwhelmingly graced by their presence and felt such intimacy with God.
Prior to this trip, I asked God to really touch Roe—to make him a "changed man" forever, loving God and His people with great passion and fervor. More than anything, I wanted Roe to see the children in their poverty and understand God's grace and mercy for us, how blessed we are to know Him and have salvation, even how blessed we are to live in such luxury. Also, I hoped the team would come back fired up for the Lord that would infect the rest of the church.
In so many ways, my personal prayers were answered. Roe has come back with a new-found sense of mission and purpose—for which I am so grateful for. The children in Peru really loved him too. And I have no doubt that his experience there will enrich our marriage and household even more.
It is hard to put into words how we both feel. But one thing is for sure, we are blessed sooo much by your support and prayers and we hope to meet all of you soon to share more of our experiences!
