A few months ago, someone asked me who are "my people"? I gave her a horrified, confused look. My people? I answered very slowly. I.. don’t.. think.. I have any people!
We had been talking about how I give a lot of myself to others and the person I was talking to was asking me to whom I belong or have similar things in common.
I stuttered and thought hard. Maybe my friend Mike Penny. He seems to accept me no matter what. And maybe the person I have run with once a week for the last 8 years. But honestly, I couldn't think of a group to whom I belonged.
It occurred to me in the last few weeks that, at least in part, my people are the mission teams with which I have served. This past week I had a chance to reconnect with the group who served with me in Ecuador. What follows are some of their reflections from the trip.
Building relationships with the people of this church and orphanage was an amazing experience, and even though we may never see them again, the impact we made on each other’s hearts will last forever. ~Lily
I loved meeting people that were different from us and learning from them. I was inspired by seeing the passion they had for serving Christ. I am so thankful for the opportunity to go on this trip. ~Isabel
It was an incredible experience to see the heart of Jesus alive and active in the church in Quito. I feel so blessed to have had the opportunity to serve God in Ecuador. ~Sam C.
It was a blessing for me to see the people embody what it means to BE the church, loving their neighbors, and giving what they have to serve God and others. ~Jenna
I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve in the beautiful country of Ecuador. The Christians down there truly live out what Scriptures say the church should be. They wanted to learn from us and wanted to teach us as well. ~Carista
We experienced the Ecuadorian culture & shared the love of Christ. I am beyond blessed for the opportunity to serve our brothers and sisters in Christ. ~Alexis
We felt the love and community of those around us. Through God, we made these kids feel good and special. I know they have a place in our hearts. ~ Katie
For me, I learned that love and kindness are universal and “my people” communicate in that way, no matter the language they speak.
With their permission, I am adding most the individuals with whom I served to the fundraising team. We are raising money for the church in Quito while I prepare for the Chicago Marathon in October.
If “your people” use love and kindness as their universal language, please consider donating today by clicking the link below.
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