What a way to kick off our time in Panama. After resting up after a day of traveling, our team made its way up the Chagres River to spend the night with the Embera Tribe. While we were there, we swam and played games with the kids, enjoyed some great food, and spent some time learning about their culture and the traditions that are still very much a part of how they live today. We also had an opportunity to run their first ever student ministry program. As fun as it was watching them destroy us in soccer, it was so special to see kids respond to Jesus after hearing the Good News of Jesus Christ. In the evening, myself and co-leader Mike Short got the opportunity to share our stories with the men of the village. Talk about a humbling moment as we shared our testimonies through a translator. God for sure was moving that night as men came forward wanting to hear more about us and our stories. As the night came to an end, we made our way to our hammocks to fall asleep under the stars. The following morning, we were woken to the sweet yet terrifying sound of Howler Monkeys. There was no way we were falling back to sleep, so we cleaned up, had some breakfast, and made our way back down to our boats to return to camp.
The Lord opened my eyes to so many things these past few days. One of the biggest take always is choosing to be present in the moments he gives us. It’s so easy to focus on the end goal or returning home in just a few days. And as important as they are, we end up missing out on what’s right in front of us when our focus is else ware. The Embera are all about slowing down and focusing on what’s most important…their family and others. I think I will take some notes from our friends in the Embera village and choose to slow down and celebrate a little more what the Lord is doing in my family, as well as my time here in Panama.
Let’s have some fun!