I'm sitting at one of my favorite places to journal, which happens to be the picnic table on the deck at my parents house. It feels kinda weird to call it that because I grew up here. But I guess I better get used to it not being my home anymore. I'm excited about what is ahead though.
As far as my time in Peru, it seems like only yesterday that i was packing up to head down there. But at the same time it seems like so much has happened since then, and much has happened. When I look back over our experience in Peru and wonder about a common theme throughout our time there, one sticks out vividly in my mind. The way I see it, the theme of the summer was God's provision.
It started with my passport problems at the beginning of the trip when I didn't know if I would even be able to go. But God provided two free flights the next day. It continued with the spiritual warfare that we faced upon arrival when many things seemed to be going wrong. But God's provision was again evident.
We saw God at work again when we faced relationship issues and personality conflicts within our team, but God provided patience and unity. Trouble again arose when Casey and I were robed and lost almost everything important that we carried. As we watched our valuables walking away we felt helpless and very weak. We didn't know why something like this would happen to us and we questioned ourselves on what we could have done differently. Could I have grabbed the gun?
But even as we were left with nothing and possibly no way to return home, God provided for us yet again. We both had new passports the next day and God provided a friend named Gabriel to help us through the process. Other friends helped us cancel our cards and calm our fears. Finally, a few of left Peru with severe swelling from many bug bites, but God provided again with his healing touch.
So now I sit here at home with a new passport, a new license (which I got today), a new check card, a phone on the way, and the reassurance that a friend from above has been and will continue to watch over me.
What a joy it was to serve Him and the people of Peru. Little did they know, but they were serving us as well. And now as I look ahead to what is coming I know that God will provide. I will hold loosely to the plans that I have made, because I know that God's plans are far greater. And I'm confident that He will find us a place to live and provide us with the strength to plan a wedding.
It's great to have someone who knows all our needs and just how and when to meet them. This summer has truly been an adventure, and may all the glory go to Him.
Until next time,
Kyle
