I see hope when I look at the town of Bolivar, Ecuador. Two months ago, on my very first day of my internship here, I stared out into a town that didn’t have much life to it. And now today, standing in the same spot, I see houses painted with color and kids laughing as they play soccer and people wanting to learn about Jesus. It’s a beautiful sight. And it’s all because people were willing to get messy and be the hands and feet of Jesus. It’s obvious He’s been here. I see it in the way a girl lights up when she’s told she’s beautiful for the first time. I see it when a widow with eight kids and no food smiles because she now has hope. I see it when my team members aren’t afraid to get sweaty and play with kids who might not get that kind attention at home. I see it when a group of kids are eager learn about the bible. I see it when a brave high schooler speaks truth into a group of teenage girls about where their worth comes from. I see it when the families here, who have barely anything, are eager to share with us. I see it when a community is willing to come together weekly to learn about God. He’s here. In every person. In every moment. In everything. I can leave for the United States tomorrow and know that the town of Bolivar has been well loved. It doesn’t matter how many houses we painted, or how many bible lessons we did, or how well we did this or that. If we didn’t love, then we’ve wasted our time.
Because “the only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through LOVE.” (Galatians 5:6)
– Amanda Carson
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