Let me begin this blog by saying that I have seen butterflies everywhere since arriving in Bolivia. From real butterflies in La Paz to a blanket in our accommodations, I have seen them all over the place. The Lord is reminding me that I am supposed to be here.
To be perfectly honest about how things are going presently, it has been rough. Our living accommodations are quite simple and very cold. There is going to be a great deal of adjusting to the physical realm. Fortunately, while my physical discomfort is at a high, my spiritual well-being is also high. Opening the Bible has been a pleasure because everything I read feels like it has such relevance right now. As an example:
Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. James 1:2-3
Based upon our circumstances, it is difficult to not see the relevance of that verse!
I’ve already begun learning a number of lessons. There are two that are particularly clear. The first has to do with humbleness. I am not fluent in Spanish and consequently have not been able to communicate in the manner that I am used to. This has been extremely frustrating and humbling because I have had to rely on others for speaking. At the same time, I have been learning about being bold. I think that is going to be a theme for me this year: BOLDNESS. While I may not feel comfortable speaking in Spanish because I’m not sure if it is correct I still need to be bold, step out, and try. If I’m wrong, I’m wrong and I’ll learn to be better. The boldness also comes from needing to be bold in who I am. I am Casey Baxter and that is a wonderful thing. Sure, I have a lot of growing to do but the foundation of who I am is something worth being bold about. We shall see how that plays out.
There is nothing quite like brushing your teeth outside under the stars, or walking everywhere you go, or seeing stray dogs constantly, or realizing you haven’t showered in almost a week. These are some of the events that have happened thus far and it is making the experience all the richer.
The Lord has a lot for us here. I’m excited to see what all is in store, especially with ministry starting soon. Prayers, as always, are much appreciated.
