What I learned in Mexico
I just recently returned from a class mission trip to Morelia Mexico. As a Charis Bible College student, we are required to take a missions trip as part of our criteria to graduate.
Many of us were not thrilled to go, didnt know what to expect, had none to very little information on the who, what and where of anything. Our instructor, bless her, has been teaching us what it means to be fluid! You see, you can be flexible, but bones break… when you are fluid, you learn to flow no matter what without breaking. Reminds me of the Holy Spirit and how when we flow in and through it, things are seamless, even when change happens. Turns out, being fluid isn’t as easy as it sounds, but when you learn the flow… WOW!
Charis Birmingham and Charis Atlanta teamed up with Nations Arise Ministry to go out and be the hands and feet of Jesus in Morelia. My favorite was the street minisrty. We hit the streets in a park downtown and held up signs that read: ABRAZOS GRATIS or FREE HUGS. The people were thrilled to run up and receive a hug, from the youngest to the oldest, hundreds were hugged, loved, prayed for and healed, in Jesus name!! It was such a blessing. I could not believe how many people longed for nothing more than just a hug, a gesture that someone cares for and loves them.
While we were there, we also had the oppertunity to visit a few local churches. When we worshipped with the people, I could feel heaven open up as we were ushered into the Glory and Presence of an almighty GOD. It never mattered that there was a language barrier, when we sang unto the Lord, it was the most beautiful sound I had ever heard, it brought me straight to my knees and to tears.
There are many impoverished mountain villages in Morelia, resources are scarce and the people are hungry for a Savior, a hope and a future! Nations Arise Ministry has been working for years to establish relationships with the people there, and many have already received Jesus! Hallelujah! So it was awesome to meet with them, distribute food, pray and worship together. Our Class performed a drama and a skit portraying the Joy of the LORD, and how he turns darkness to light! They were powerful, and opened doors for prayer and ministry with the people there.
My heart is forever changed! Our Heavenly Father dealt with me in many different areas, always in his loving way of correction. Turns out, I had some self-righteousness and pride to deal with, and….. offenses came of course, people aren’t always a delicious cup of tea… but as believers, we are all children of God and should be treated as such with a heart of compassion and love. My flesh tried to exhault itself and needed to be dealt with. Thank GOD he is loving, patient, and kind, and as he is in this world, so am I. Our biggest battle is simply believing that we can choose to abide in Christ and release the fruit of the spirit in us! As that fruit grows, we become more confident in who were are in Christ, and the flesh doesn’t stand a chance anymore!!
Moral of the story…..Learn to be fluid! To flow in the Spirit in any and all situations. My plans and ways always seem right to me… but God has a plan and his is the best, not just for me, but for the people he puts in my path!! AMEN!!
