Everlasting Impact Everlasting God

This past week, I went with my church to Juarez, Mexico to partner with the organization Casas Por Cristo. The mission of Casas Por Cristo is to open the door for local pastors and churches to share the love of Jesus Christ. Since they began leading teams of volunteers in 1993, they have built over 6,000 homes for families in physical need. Their dedication to building is also a way of meeting the spiritual need for Jesus.

Juarez is located on the border across from El Paso, Texas. Where these two cities collide, the greatest picture of disparity is painted. While driving, I looked to my left and saw tall buildings and the influence of comfortability in the United States while on my right is dirt streets, homes made of scrap wood or palates, and people carrying such heavy burden. Many people come to border cities like Juarez seeking job opportunities but with the influx of people at the border, they are often left unemployed and in need of safe homes.

Within four days of building, the family was given a free gift from God, a home. I am faithful that God did a miracle in the family we met this past week and that the father of the family will come to know Christ soon.

On the side of a mountain that overlooks all of Juarez is writing that reads, “la Biblia es la verdad, leela” which means “the bible is the truth, read it”. This message was first created in 1987 collaboratively by many evangelical churches in Juarez. In September 2021, roughly two thousand people participated in retouching the message. Many people hope to gain recognition for four Guinness World Records including being recognized as the world’s largest invitation to read the bible.

Those pastors and volunteers have made an everlasting impact on the kingdom by inviting people to seek God, reminding them to read His word, and remember the truth that is in Him. God is so evidently present and working in Juarez.

As we drove around the city, I saw many homes that Casas had built over the years. Despite looking aged, they looked so very cherished and I was reminded also of the long-term impact these homes have for generations to come. I want to approach missions with an everlasting mindset by investing deeply into corners of the world. By seeking things that are everlasting, we are preparing for the return of Jesus Christ.

It has been over a month since I’ve committed to the world race. I’ve experienced deep joy and peace, as well as fear and worry for the next few months and when I leave for the field. The enemy likes to attack the most vulnerable parts of our hearts. I’ve been praying each morning that I would have a great confidence in this calling– a confidence that exudes finding joy where God leads me.

In scripture we see God calling Gideon to be the leader of Israel and deliver the people from bondage. His response to his calling could be summarized like:

–          Who me?

–          Who, you? (Judges 6:13)

–          Are you sure? (Judges 6:17-24)

–          Are you really, really sure? (Judges 6:36-40)

People like David, Paul, Moses, and Jesus Himself all received a similar message from God- “I’m with you, now go!”. One way I have recently overcome self-doubt was by writing down a list of all my weaknesses and presenting them to God with the expectation that I will rise above them and be greatly equipped.

My squad officially has 33 people! I have been able to get connected with a lot of them through text and a video call. I feel grateful to know they can support me and share how they are preparing. Family and friends have been so encouraging and generous in prayer and financial support, thank you! I am roughly 25% funded and am close to reaching the first support raising goal. I am overwhelmed by the generosity.

With less than fifty days left of undergrad and living with my sweet roommates, I am trying to take in each moment and be present with the blessings around me while preparing spiritually.

He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together- Colossians 1:17