"I have a beef with you" Doesn't Translate...

Last night was the farewell dinner, which is always one of the sweetest times on the trip, but also the hardest. It almost sneaks up on you, but for me, at that dinner I realize that we've built friendships with the FH staff that ought to take longer than 6 days to build, but that The Lord accelerates for His purpose. Based on the decibel levels, you'd think it was a group of old friends that go back a lifetime. It's difficult because we know the hasta luegos are coming soon. We also learned that when you tell someone in Bolivia that you have a beef with them (as a joke) it doesn't quite translate, and will take at least 15 minutes of explanation:) We talk a lot about the relationships with the community, the sponsored children, and FH, but I think maybe the most foundational relationship is between the people at MCC and the staff that works in Sucre. For a week or two per year we spend time "in the trenches" working together. Now, our efforts are so small compared to the long hours and complete dedication that the FH staff has to the families, churches, and communities they work in, but the relationship between us is one of the strongest any of us has ever experienced. It is a privilege for us to have the opportunity to spend time with this group, and they really teach us how to serve, love, and support each other. What makes the relationship so strong? A lot of it has to do with alignment to a common goal. Whether you speak English or Spanish there is no doubt what you are in Sucre for. We all have the same goal, the same vision, and The Lord uses that commonality to create an incredible bond. You can't leave here without really understanding how critical it is to have the same vision. Everyone can work in different ways, with different skills and passions, but when the destination is the same the results are powerful. Praise The Lord that he works this way! We are headed to the airport in a few minutes...get your tissues:)