I thought last week would be a week of rest. Maybe even boring and lonely. Actually it felt like the opposite. I am learning that I have to schedule my time and prioritize or I get too busy.
Tuesday morning I had a meeting/coffee with a lady from Iglesia en Transformación. She wanted to make sure that I knew I could meet with her or with my small group any time. Since I have only met my small group once before, I told her I think this is not the best time for me to be sharing things with them. Not that they are untrustworthy. But I think I need to be prudent in who I discuss things with out of respect for the church. She said she understands and in any case she would be available to meet if I need her, which is nice.
Wednesday I went to a prayer group. The group meets weekly to pray for people's needs, healing, political things, the country and the world. It was really fun to participate in that group. This week they will pray over me. I am a little nervous. I had homework to read in order to prepare myself. I know the end result will be good, but getting there might be a struggle.
Thursday I met with the people from Honduran Fellowship and started the process of enrolling with them - something I should have done a long time ago. They have a really cool organization that unites missionaries in Honduras. They keep people informed about security issues, help get things done, like renewing US passports or drivers licenses, and help with residency for those who don't have it yet. They offer prayer, networking, and even a singles group. I am not sure about that. I was assured it is not about dating. It is because single people have different needs than people who have family here.
Friday I helped Fany with some things she had to do and attended my first ever Honduran Happy Hour. Not quite like a happy hour in the US, as no alcoholic drinks were consumed. It was a budgetary thing, they said. I met one lady for the first time and enjoyed the company of two others whom I am getting to know better. More than anything, it was nice to be thought of and included. Good company, fun conversation, and 2x1 chicken wings at TGI Fridays.
Saturday I started a class in Evangelism. I was not thrilled with the idea at first, but am feeling very hungry to learn and I figured if I am going to call myself a missionary this is something I should know. The class turned out to be fun and interesting. I met some super nice people. We had pan de pan (bread pudding), coffee and doughnuts afterward.
Sunday I attended two church services. I loved, loved, loved the first service from start to finish. I didn't know all of the music, but it was fun and uplifting. Stuff that really gets you in the mood to worship God. The Holy Spirit was flowing through that place while we gave praise in song. There was even a part where the worship leader said, "Jump!" and we were all jumping to the music. (Note to self: Next time don't wear high heels to that church.) I was called up in front and presented to the church. Many people got out of their seats and came forward to hug and welcome me. That felt great. The message was about wrong decisions, how to repent, and reconciliation. I learned a lot. Afterward there were more hugs and welcoming. The people there were genuinely nice. I really felt accepted and very welcome, even like the people were excited to have me there.
The second service is the English service. I ran into a boy I know from Colorado. He is here for two weeks teaching music at a private school. It was great to see him. The service was about anointing. Afterward I was invited to have Thanksgiving dinner with the pastor and his wife. They are both super nice. So I will celebrate Thanksgiving this year after all! I really love Thanksgiving and am looking forward to being with a family on that day, even if it is not my own.
Since everyone thinks I am "on vacation" I have been given 3 books to read, as well as an exam to study for on Saturday and 2 written assignments to complete. One is about vision mapping. I am having a hard time with that one. It seems like most of my interests and dream jobs have nothing in common with each other. Hopefully the lady who is meeting with me over this can see things more clearly than I do. I cannot find a common thread between dreams of being an olympic swimmer, a hot shot (fire fighter who jumps out of planes to control forest fires), a photographer and a therapist. The lady who is working with me is said to be very gifted in this area. I think she will have to be to figure me out.
Today and tomorrow will be days of rest and study time. If it is sunny I may get some laundry done too. Guess I did not have to worry about feeling bored or lonely!
