Submitted by Carla Cottrell:

13417622_982213968558938_3826809866284253799_nToday we woke to a spectacular view of the lake, celebratory firecrackers going off (we do not know why), birds that could double for emergency vehicle sounds in Europe, and dogs barking that made us, for just one minute, think we were still at home.

We walked down to the beautiful lakeside cafe and feasted on omelets and pancakes and native fruits, and, really, anything else one could imagine for breakfast.

The whole group was treated to a wonderful overview of our week,and the work of AIR, by Juan and Luis. It started with beautiful remarks by Luis offering condolences and solidarity in the wake of the horrible tragedy in Orlando. So caring, this Guatemala…I pray we learn deep empathy with the world as is modeled here.

Peter and I were fortunate to ride with Anne and Luis to our farming location today. During the ride we learned what a sweet, dedicated technico Luis truly is.You see, his 10 year old son had an emergency appendectomy just hours before, yet he said he could not let down his AIR family and the work is too important. We were awed by this deep commitment even though Luis was clearly saddened at the thought of not being with his son.

13423841_982214011892267_2309760271272286551_nWhen we reached the farming location, we had a talk with all of the group members who became determined to get Luis back to his son. We decided to work a half day and then return. We had a prayer together and then began the steep descent to the field where we were planting. For anyone that wonders, post hole diggers make excellent walking sticks!

The day was cool and the work was steady and steep…We can’t wait to share the photos! The village women prepared a delicious lunch of soup and rice and chicken and tomatillos…and a homemade 13427945_10205325108322318_2830944453969991771_napple cider. We all sat in the field and ate together…a band of God’s children being servants to each other.

We returned to our hotel, and in a few minutes we will venture out to shop and fellowship. We will dine together once more…and have a devotional. What peace there is in sharing God’s creation and His grace.

13423906_982214071892261_1459260759771646492_nWe continue to pray for Orlando and for each of you, and we ask you to pray for us and for Luis and for his son, Daniel.

God bless you!