Swatting away flies has become a game.
How fast can I smack em?
Can I catch one with my hand?
If I kill this fly, will its family be upset?
Our days here in Pacasmayo, Peru have leisurely beginnings, peaceful midpoints, and still evenings. Besides smacking down flies, we have the pleasure of working with a church called “La Antorcha” (otherwise known as “The Torch”). VBS in the morning, English class on a few afternoons, and youth group into the evenings. It may sound like a packed schedule, but with Peruvian culture, it feels like a nice walk on the beach. Each person we’ve met has greeted us with a kind and open heart, as well as willingness to serve us in every way possible. To say I feel welcomed would be an understatement. Our ministry hosts this month are the Lujan Family. Auden and Wendy, as well as their three children, are making huge strides in the community of Pacasmayo by getting to know the people where they are and meeting them there with the love of Jesus. At least… that’s what we’ve heard.
The Lujans are currently in Texas visiting Auden’s family! They’ll be joining us here in Peru soon, and we cannot wait to meet them. For now, we have another host: Grant Zalud. Grant is a World Race Alumni, loves the Lord with everything he’s got, is friends with one of my squad leaders, AND is from the beautiful state of O-H-I-O. Sadly he’s from Cleveland, but I won’t hold it against him. Grant challenges us with tough questions, leaves us laughing for hours, and most importantly, pushes us towards the Father. We’re living in an old orphanage that’s 10-minute walking distance from just about everything. The grocery store, restaurants, and the town square. If you’re down to walk about 5 minutes more, you’ll arrive at the Pacasmayo Beach. Not bad, if you ask me.
Being near a beach is great and all, but what I’m most excited about are the people I’m living with: my team. For the majority of our time in Chile, we were all split up in different houses. Our host families were wonderful, but I do miss my ladies. These women have grown immensely over the period of 4 months; I am astounded with where they are now. They push me deeper with the Lord and pull me away from my old habits. They are hilarious, great dancers (in my book at least), lovers of good food, full of joy, and all around fantastic individuals. Parents, you raised some amazing women after Christ. I am so thankful I have the ability to live life with them.
Till next time; I have a good feeling about our time here in Peru. Do you have something you’d like prayer for? Feel free to shoot me an email, I’d love to join you in prayer! I can’t guarantee I’ll have constant Wi-Fi, but I can guarantee that I’ll be praying for you!
//
I normally add the music I’ve been listening to down here, but I would LOVE to hear your music suggestions! What have YOU been jammin to lately?
So glad to hear that you finally got to Peru!!! Glad to hear that you ladies are back together again. Would you believe that you would meet someone from OHIO in Peru? Hardly. Ha Ha! I think you should behave because he might have a direct line to Cincinnati. Ha! ha! It sounds like you are going to have a busy schedule. You are close to everything Pascasmayo has to offer so enjoy your time there. Love you lots and lots! Mama
YAY!!! You finally made it!! It sounds like Peru is going to be a great experience! I’m so glad you get to live with your team. It will be an encouragement for all of you. Send you lot of hugs and love as always!
Thank you so much!!! We are so excited and thankful! I’m sending love and hugs to you as well! 🙂
Wow Sweetie, the Lujans, Grant, and ministry there sound amazing! I’m so excited for you ladies… not only for your time there, but also that y’all are back together again! And what a fun blessing that Grant is an ex-Racer!
You asked about music… have been listening to Misty Edwards, Kari Jobe, Laura Hackett Park, and Bernadette Beacham…. they are all amazing!!!
Love you so so so very much, Sweetie!!! Also thankful you are on the mend! xoxoxox
p.s. look up oils that will help keep the flies at bay, you have some with you (winky face)
Anything from the Greatest Showman! Glad you’re loving it in Peru!
Love,
Nick
Hi! Peru sounds great – both the people and your ministry time! Praying you continue to stay healthy and have a fulfilling stay there. So good to hear your back living with your team. I’ve been listening to Mercy Me and Michael Jackson. We went to the Michael Jackson “One” Cirque du Soleil show last weekend. Before your time I guess but it was A-MAZING!! Hugs and prayers for you!