Written by: Shelby Craft
 
Day 3 in El Salvador and it was such a testimony of the goodness of the Lord. We started the day with going to church with Humberto to "Tabernaculo de Biblico Bautisa". As we showed up, they welcomed us with open arms and honored us greatly. After the service, we took a tour of the special needs program, facilities, and Sunday school, as well as ate pupusa's together! It felt so ironic to come to El Salvador expecting to pour out our love, but the people here extended it to us even more so. It brought us the revelation that the Lord has been moving here long before we showed up, we are just simply partnering with Him. 
 
After church we went back to the SOI offices to prepare food, toys, and clothes for the neighborhoods surrounding the San Salvador City. With every bag filled, we prayed and hoped that a blessing would be found with it. Then, we packed the van up and headed to the Thomas Rodriquez community, a neighborhood known for being underserved and unrecognized. However, when we showed up, all we found was life. The streets were filled with smiling boys and girls, toddler giggles, "mika" (a.k.a. tag), hand holding, and dancing. We engaged in activities with the residents and kicked the dust up (quite literally) with our childlike playing. 
 
I can't help but reflect on the presence of the Holy Spirit everywhere we go. I recognize how blessed we are in America, and I realize how many people in El Salvador would give up everything to have what we have. But as we interact with the people, I find myself wanting to give up what I have to have what they have in their hearts. The Pastor, Toby, spoke at Church and reminded us that we are only guaranteed one day at a time—our "help comes from the Lord" (Psalm 121: 1-2) and God will bring the blessing with or without us. So, then, we get to decide what to shift our gaze upon. Do we focus on the worries about tomorrow, or do we decide to narrow our attention on the miraculous presence of the Lord today?
 
I know one thing for sure, the people of El Salvador that we have spent time with "do not worry about tomorrow for tomorrow has troubles of its own" (Matthew 6:33) and it is so evident through their joy, love, and unrelenting faith. I can't help but feel grateful to be here. The Lord has shown me a picture of His heart, a heart that comes without a price tag or accomplishment.