Hope Filled Eyes

The spark of my passion for medical missions has amplified over the last year. My heart burns to use my vocation as a route to introduce my Lord and Savior to those who have not yet heard of his splendor. I am encompassed with this urge to go beyond the boundaries of the states and promote the glory of God. I enjoy the thrill of knowing that He has plans for my life and that I have no idea where I will be five or ten years down the road.

I was blessed with the opportunity to spend a week in Guatemala this month. Despite the responsibilities I have in regards to school, I was able to escape the hustle and bustle of America and take time to use my passion for nursing to spread the love of the Lord. The adventure began bright and early on a Saturday morning with my fellow nursing students--Lauren and Kasey. We all carpooled to Little Rock in order to catch our 6 am flight out of the country. The excitement rose as reality began to sink in: we were on our way to fly out of the country and share the Lord with our patients. 

Flying is a concept that continues to amaze me. I thoroughly enjoy the view of God's wonderful creation. The sky is so beautiful and captivating. I love when the horizon is skewed from the blue waters and adjacent sky as they become one. Then there's the clouds that add a colorful contrast as the sun casts shadows on the waters. A few hours later we were walking the jetway into the warm weather of Guatemala City, Guatemala. I took a deep breath and let the heat expand my lungs and fill them with the sweet scent of non-airplane-circulated air. 

Time slipped by, reunions came and went, and soon enough we were on a bus headed toward Clinica Ezell. New faces became new friends. As we arrived at the clinic grounds, we were welcomed with various individuals smiling and waving in our direction. Little did I know that these faces would bring me laughter as well as tears. One lady on the bus said, "Look at those kids. Do you know what that look is? ... It is the look of hope and THAT is what we are here to try and fulfill."A tear slipped out of my eye, down my cheek, and into my lap. Then I said this prayer:

Lord, help us share your love to these people. Help us bring them fulfillment to the anticipated hope that is screaming from within their beautiful eyes. These are my brothers and sisters in Christ. Show me their pain and let me use the gifts that you have given me to ease that pain.  Help us touch their lives by portraying your Light.