Been a couple of weeks since I have written a blog here in Guatemala. I have been trying to think of things I could write about, but nothing felt right. I also didn’t even know what would be super relevant to write about for me. As I write this blog however I think I discovered why it was hard to think of something. I have been coasting.
Things kind of took a turn last week. Not that it was super horrible I wouldn’t dare say that knowing it could be much worse but maybe a few bumps and bruises. About two weeks ago, things were moving quickly but I was motivated. Motivated to wake up early, to work out, to dive deep into scripture, and to simply better myself. Then it quickly came to a halt as I got sick out of no where last Thursday. That kept me isolated from people, stuck in my room, and leaving my mind to wander. Oh, and I also lost my phone. Which is fantastic… That first day my throat hurt a little bit, and immediately when I got back from ministry my phone was gone. You don’t realize how much you need a phone until it is gone. No Venmo, camera, google translate, alarm clock, books, music, etc.
So naturally without the distractions of being out with people or doing ministry I found my mind wandering to being home. Being home in my own bed, able to watch a movie or tv, go to a spring training game, be able to watch my school win the championship I had seen them lose many times before, have a job where I can see my bank account going up rather than down, or even be in a place where I know I can easily communicate with everybody instead of worrying about being translated for, or by some miracle actually know what they are saying. At times I find myself wondering if being on a trip where I can hardly communicate with anybody is the best way to spend my time when I feel that I could do a lot more for the kingdom at home. I have found new motivation the last few days in the two words CHOOSE TODAY.
Choose today. Choose to wake up. Choose to be willing to die to yourself and your wants for what God has. Choose to live in the moment that you are in rather than looking ahead. Choose the people that are right in front of you now. Choose today.
We have the wonderful opportunity on Wednesday’s to head to discipleship with some locals that are a part of our ministry Worship Room. There is 7 of us guys that get together each week, and we are going through the life of David. This week we discussed David’s willingness to be where God has him and remember to have the same heart for God through all the circumstances. When his family shoved him to the side. When he had to wait for anointing to come to fruition. When all the ladies wanted him, and he was on top of the world. When he was hated and had to hide and wait. When he was king and running Israel. Through good times and bad David kept turning to the father and trusting Him in whatever season David found himself in.
Look you and I are where we are today for a reason. You are in the season of life you are in for a reason. Let’s not coast on through it hoping the next day or next season is better but instead fully dive into where we are right now. God is more than likely teaching you something today, be willing to give your all in this season to be prepared for the next.
We also need to lay ourselves down to what God has in store. This week we got an update about our next country that left me very disappointed. I was really excited and hopeful to announce in a few weeks that we were going to Peru next, however just a couple of days ago we got the announcement that COVID has seemed to shut that plan down and we are going somewhere else which I will announce at a later date. I immediately was frustrated, my flesh wanted so badly to go to Peru. The country that we will be going to left me frustrated for other reasons as well. Throughout that worship night I was reminded over and over that this year, shoot this life is God’s and if He has us going to a different country then there must be a reason for this.
Friends we need to have open hands to what God wants, our flesh may be frustrated at times which is okay, but we must keep our head up and choose today.
Side note: because I lost my phone and probably won’t have another for quite awhile reach out to me via Instagram, Facebook, or email. Thanks.
And shoot y’all I am getting so close to being fully funded and I am hyped! My hope was to get this done by the end of the month and I do believe it is very possible still! So, if you feel led to give and partner with me, I would love for you to come alongside me in support.
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JD
JD, this is so good. It is so easy to think about or worry about what is next or to long/hope for what is next. In doing so it is so easy to miss what is happening now and how God may be wanting to shape or direct us. Sorry to hear that you’re not going to Peru (at least for now) and I’ll be praying that there is something amazing for you wherever you do go next. I needed the reminder to “choose today” so thank you!
I’m so sorry about your phone. That stinks! I’m also sorry you got sick but am glad you are feeling better. I love hearing how the Lord is working in your mind, heart and soul. Even when things don’t go as planned or expected, continue to find joy in the journey. He has big plans for you JD! Love you!!!
Our home misses you too. I am so glad I didn’t know you were sick until you were all better. I love this blog. So good. It apply so much to everyone right now. Love you so much and excited to see what God does in the next place you go!
Ugh! I wrote a whole nice comment to you and then my phone blipped and it disappeared. Oh well, must not have been what I was supposed to say. At least I have a phone, right!? Sorry yours disappeared. Also sorry you got sick and you don’t get to go to Peru next. You are doing such a great job of staying positive and taking it in stride. Thank you for the reminder to live in the moment and appreciate what is right in front of us. Each day is a precious gift. Thank you for being real and sharing every inch of your growth on this journey. You are courageous and you are loved!
Sorry to hear about your phone, but it will get better. I am sure feeling sick didn’t help any either. We sponser a child in Peru so that country has a special place in my heart. I pray that you get there soon. Keep praying and carrying on! You’re doing great things there. We don’t always know what God has in store for us, but he already knows the results of your work! Praying for your group.
Thank you so much for sharing what you are learning in the tough times as well as those that are smooth and easy