Ivanrest Impact Ministries – Guatemala

After a long night’s rest, Saturday started with sorting meds and preparing for the medical clinic. We began our two and a half hour drive to a remote plantation on top of a mountain where two villages would come together.

            The ride there was interesting for the red van, while going down the narrow and bumpy dirt road, one of the benches came unattached. The ride was beautiful as we rode up the mountain, winding down the narrow road. This road was barely wide enough for our van let alone the two trucks, Guatemalan semi, and bulldozer we passed on the way.

            Once we finally arrived to the plantation we noticed the people were very shy and kept their distance. Once we took out all the toys and started to play, the kids joined right in. The kids took us to the soccer field, which we thought would be just around the corner, but it was quite the hike. The kids really opened up here and began to play and have fun. When we returned to the village square, we started a couple games involving marbles, gave out stickers, and, of course, passed out dulces! Since the kids were so excited about the candy, we had to do it from a safe distance: the top of a van. After all of the candy was passed out, we held a little concert for the people. Carley, Amber, and Kelsey entertained the people with songs such as Alabre, Ain’t No Mountain High, and He’s Got the Whole World. The girls received many blank stares until laughter erupted because Kelsey fell on the top of the van.

            Meanwhile in the medical clinic, things were going well. We had a much bigger turn out than expected, but we made due. Everything went really smooth and everyone worked really well together. Erin, the intern, even got to do a pregnancy test for a young woman. It felt so good to be helping out the people who were in need.

            Since the medical clinic went so long, the Jesus video started later than hoped, but no worries. Hermano was still able to give a beautiful sermon after we sang praise songs and Nate gave his testimony. The Holy Spirit started to move in people to come forward and except Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. The interesting thing was the turn out in men that came forward, as usually the turn out is more women than men. All the people that came forward were given copies of the new testament.

            As we loaded up the vans, we noticed the volcano, El Fuego, spewing. It was amazing to see and hear. The volcano spews three times every minute and is the most active volcano in Central America, now you know. The van ride was smoother than the ride in and we made better time, getting in at around one twenty in the am.

            We ask for your prayers as we present the gospel to another village today. Thanks for all your prayers and support. See you in two days!!! =]

                                                                                  Love,

                                                                       Team Four- The Simply Smashing Six

                                                           Alexa, Brenda, Chad, Kelsey, Larry, Lindsey