"Entering the Land"

In the Old Testament book of Joshua , chapter 1, the Lord prepares Joshua to enter the promised land. In Joshua 1:5-7 & 9 it says:

"I will be with you. I will never leave you nor forsake you. Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their forefathers to give to them. Be strong and courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you, do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. Do not be terrified. Do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

We have arrived! Thank you for all of your prayers today! It was an uneventful travel day and we are all grateful to be resting in Art and Lisa's beautiful home tonight. Our day was filled with many blessings, including "divine appointments" on flights, the opportunity to pray over our luggage attendant (who turned out to be a Guatemalan pastor!) in the airport and the fact that Roberta was seated next to team members on both of our flights. Roberta purchased her flights after the rest of the team and assumed she would be separated from us. It was a great surprise to discover that she had been placed right next to us. The customs officers examined four of our donations bags, but after some "sweet talk" (and prayer, of course), they let us through without any issues.

We were welcomed at the Camarena's home with traditional fireworks and enjoyed a delicious home-cooked meal. We are all tired and the house is quiet as everyone has settled in for a good night of rest.

Tomorrow is a big day here at the house. We are throwing a large celebration for the community, which will include a home-made lunch, Bible study, music, pinatas, games, soccer and a bounce house (which is a very special treat for the children here). Everyone will receive a gift bag (thanks to Roberta's home group and the donations of others). We will also be honoring Roberta's husband, Ben, who led many outreach teams to Guatemala and passed into eternity this July. Needless to say, it's going to be an unforgettable day!

Buenas noches!