The Journey Begins

The Journey Begins......March 14-15, 2015

If you want to get a lot of work done in a short amount of time, ask a group of Presbyterians. The Guatemalan Mission Team met at St. Andrew at 7:15 am. After loading 112 suitcases and carry-on luggage, a word of prayer and some group photos the charter left the parking lot at 8am sharp and were off to O'Hare Airport. After a brief pitstop at the "Oasis" in DeKalb, Illinois we were back on the bus and enjoyed a stirring game of Guatemala Trivia, hosted by Randy Hausler. The prizes made it rather competitive. By noon we were at O'Hare and unloaded the bus with the same precision that it was loaded in Iowa. This group is a well-oiled machine.

Part of the group at higher altitude

Our baggage limit was 70 pounds, which meant a lot of weighing, re-weighing and swapping jars of peanut butter and other supplies between suitcases. God is good. We did it! All 112 bags were checked in a timely fashion at Avianca Airlines. Soon, we were headed to San Salvador in a comfortable plane with free movies and a modest dinner. It is always impressive to witness the 18 and under crew on our journeys. They are an adaptable, friendly and entertaining group of young people and represent both St. Andrew and Iowa in such a positive light!

Randy and Jan "Siesta"

After a brief layover in San Salvador we had a quick 30 minute flight to Guatemala City, Guatemala and arrived close to 10 pm. It was surprising how modern and efficient the airport was. Customs was a breeze. At this late hour, luggage bearing the special "orange St. Andrew tags" was efficiently gathered from the baggage claim and packed on top of the bus that was to take us to our lodging. All but one suitcase made it to Guatemala from Chicago. No journey is without its obstacles and family takes care of other family with offers of clothing and toiletries. God provides. Lights out for the weary travelers.

The sun rises early in Guatemala and so do God's Children. We enjoyed a delicious breakfast of ham and eggs, French toast, guava, watermelon and "real" Guatemalan coffee. Delicioso and just what the doctor ordered!

Breakfast was followed by an inspiring lesson from our host and Promised Land/Impacto Ministry founder, Pastor Luis. who encouraged us that truly living our faith will take us to the point where we:
1. make decisions that involve big risk
2. start long journeys
3. wait for the impossible
4. are willing to give everything

As we walk with God, each other and the people of Guatemala our faith will be tested each and every day. Pastor Luis told us that his wish is we will leave the Promised Land as "changed people".

Travel is interesting in Guatemala. It may be something only pictures can illustrate and if the internet and technology cooperate, perhaps they can be posted. It's a little sketchy in these remote parts. You will get the idea with these few words: converted school busses, dirt roads, hair pin curves and mountains. Dramamine is our friend.

One might call this a "slippery slope"

The volcanoes, lush vegetation, colorful people and a few stops made the hours of travel pass quickly, but just as those before us, we were happy to see "The Promised Land" on Lake Atitlan, located in the middle of three volcanoes. Nourished by a dinner of chicken, potatoes, and watermelon (and more of that wonderful Guatemalan coffee), we unpacked the 56 suitcases of supplies and repacked them in categories: shoes, school supplies, medical supplies and sewing supplies. This group never ceases to amaze! Singing, a bible study and planning for tomorrowa activities completed the evening.As this is written cool breeze and sounds of the waves in Lake Atitlan put us at peace. Soft Latin music plays in the kitchen as our gracious Promised Land staff prepares for tomorrows breakfast. If the wind blows just right one can catch the smell of onions or garlic being sauteed. Such peace. Our day was full and so are our hearts. We walk in faith.