These are the feet that are now walking the cobblestone streets of Antigua. In the last three weeks, these feet have taken me to some pretty amazing places and reminded me of some important lessons.

First, it was the Oasis in San Lucas where I spent my first few days. Kids Alive is doing remarkable work there rescuing girls from abusive situations and providing the avenues for healing, restoration and physical/mental/ emotional/spiritual growth. Jesus loves these girls and here they find a safe place to learn to know Him. How essential it is for us to get involved, to be the hands and feet of Jesus while we are here on this earth.

Then it was on to my host family in Antigua. Rosa and Joaquin are warm and friendly – and very patient with those of us who are just beginning to learn Spanish. Right now, two other students, Kate and Julian, are also living with us.

 

 



 

Here is the street where I live.

 

This is the "door".

 

But when you open that door - Wow! What beauty and warmth!

Most of the houses, stores and restaurants are like this – stern and somewhat foreboding on the outside, but when you take a chance and come in, exquisite loveliness awaits you. That we would all take that chance with people too….and discover the loveliness that exists in each person because they are created in God’s image.

More walks these feet have taken –



to the ruins of old cathedrals, to the central park, to stores and markets, to the macadamia farm (okay, I will admit we drove to that one).





These feet have strolled past indigenous vendors and street performers, down narrow sidewalks and under The Arch.

Often they take me past buildings older than I can imagine that have stood the test of time on their strong foundations. I am reminded of the importance of a firm foundation on which to build a faith that will last all the years of my life and perhaps even beyond.

 

Each day, my feet bring me to CSA (Christian Spanish Academy) where I meet with my tutor, Merle, for conversation and instruction. For five hours my feet are still while my ears, eyes and brain struggle to keep up with the flood of information. So many words, so many expressions, so many tenses and uses and terms. My head literally aches some days by the time we are finished. But, I am learning. Instead of totally listening to Merle talk, I can actually put a sentence together to contribute to the conversation. I can answer simple questions. I can conjugate present, past and now future tenses. And I can make Merle laugh with my sometimes ridiculous answers. So many things in life require little steps, one at a time, but eventually, if we don’t give up, great things will be accomplished. And, it’s best to laugh a little along the way.

Finally, at the end of each day, my feet bring me back to my room. As they rest from their labors on a comfortable bed, I am reminded that no matter what the day has brought – happy or sad, easy or difficult – this is not my final destination. God has a future in store for me that is more than I can ever think or imagine – heaven and eternity with Him.