I had the incredible and life changing privilege of joining Global Health Outreach on a one-week trip to El Salvador. I went into the trip expecting God to do great things in my life, but He did much more than I could have imagined! One of the first things I noticed about the El Salvadoran Christians was their joyful and genuine hearts. Some of them have close to nothing in the world’s eyes, yet they live as though they have everything because they have Christ. They are satisfied and joyful in Him and in the hope of the Gospel alone. I met one El Salvadoran woman who explained to me that she had just accepted Christ as her personal Savior that morning. She began to cry while she described the incredible peace and joy that she has now. Her response to the Gospel impacted me greatly. Since the trip, I continually remind myself of the beauty and greatness of the Gospel and the indescribable peace and joy it brings. Even if everything in the world were taken from me, I would still have everything because I have Christ. The people in El Salvador reminded me that without Christ I have nothing, but with Him, I have everything. My trip to El Salvador reminded me of how easily I get distracted by material possessions and comfort. I recognized the beauty of simplicity and how Christ is truly all we need. I must find complete comfort, rest, and joy in God, not in things of this world. He is the only thing that satisfies.
God also used my team members to grow me spiritually. As a student, I was encouraged to serve with humble and godly medical professionals. I saw Christian medical professionals use their careers as ministries for the Lord. These people were great examples for me as I prepare to become a nurse myself. I know that I have brothers and sisters across the country using the medical field to serve God and to be a witness for Him. I also learned the value of openness and honesty within my team. Many people were vulnerable with the team, and I recognized how important vulnerability is in the Christian community. I grew tremendously in my walk with the Lord through my trip to El Salvador. I pray that I will continue applying the valuable lessons to my life as I continue to follow after Christ.
God also used my team members to grow me spiritually. As a student, I was encouraged to serve with humble and godly medical professionals. I saw Christian medical professionals use their careers as ministries for the Lord. These people were great examples for me as I prepare to become a nurse myself. I know that I have brothers and sisters across the country using the medical field to serve God and to be a witness for Him. I also learned the value of openness and honesty within my team. Many people were vulnerable with the team, and I recognized how important vulnerability is in the Christian community. I grew tremendously in my walk with the Lord through my trip to El Salvador. I pray that I will continue applying the valuable lessons to my life as I continue to follow after Christ.