Spiritual Formation | 12/18/2025 7:21:00 AM

Written by: Regan Watts
 
Today was one of those days that sits heavily on your heart in the best way—the kind of day that reminds you why you came and how deeply God is moving, even when you don't have the words for it yet. We spent part of the morning finishing painting Angelica's house, and hearing her and her family's testimony was so powerful. Sitting there, listening to their story, their faith, and their gratitude completely humbled me.
 
Angelica has three granddaughters, and at one point, I stepped away from painting to give her some relief and went outside to play with the girls. We laughed, ran around, and just enjoyed being together. I even learned their version of rock, paper, scissors. In that moment, I felt God's presence so clearly. No distractions, no rush—just joy. It felt like a quiet reminder that God meets us in the simplest moments.
 
We then had lunch at Wendy's, and it was full of laughs, but one of my favorite parts of the day came when Lucy and I got so cold and went outside to sit in the sun with Lauren and Maggie. What started as us getting warm turned into a meaningful moment with deep conversations, lots of laughter, a mini worship concert, and ended with prayer over the things we had talked about. It felt so safe, so real, and so full of God.
 
Later, we went to the supermarket. This was my second time being there, but watching my friends experience it for the first time made it feel brand new. Seeing their faces light up as they picked out gifts for their families and got excited to share a piece of El Salvador with them was so special. It honestly filled my heart. And yes, of course, some of us got matching jerseys lol, which made the moment even sweeter.
 
When we got back to the hotel, we had some time to chill before dinner. When we arrived for dinner, we were welcomed with a slideshow that Humberto, Hilda, and Mirna put together, featuring pictures from the week. It was such a sweet moment—laughing, reminiscing, and just being together as one big happy family. After dinner, we had a small celebration, and Humberto gave a speech that genuinely moved me. Everything he spoke about felt like confirmation of what God has been teaching us—and me—these past few days about the Great Commission, loving others deeply, and not comparing ourselves to anyone else. I felt God's presence so strongly in that moment, like a gentle but powerful reminder of our purpose.
 
After the speech, we were gifted diplomas that also served as calendars, and we each received a different El Salvador magnet. I love this team so deeply. The vulnerability, the love, and the way we show up for one another remind me just how seen and loved I am. On the way back to the hotel, Humberto asked us to pray for his team as they prepared for their Christmas celebration. We all wanted to help so they wouldn't be up late, but because of the driving schedule, we couldn't. Even so, that moment showed the heart of this team—so much love, joy, and willingness to serve without being asked.
 
"Work at everything you do with all your heart. Work as if you were working for the Lord, not for human masters." Colossians 3:23
 
I also wanted to share this verse that has been stuck with me on this trip. It reminds me that every moment here matters. Whether it's painting a house, playing soccer with the kids, praying, laughing over lunch, or simply being present, none of it is done for human recognition. It's not about being seen, doing the most, or comparing myself to anyone else. It's about serving with my whole heart and trusting that God is using it, even when I don't fully see how.
 
So beyond grateful :))
 
Much love,
Regan Watts