Love Goes to Costa Rica – Day 4

Love Goes to Costa Rica – Day Four
By Isaac Vargas

I love the beautiful view of the beach during sunsets, the clear air in the morning, and seeing all the trees move with the breeze on the beach.

Returning to Costa Rica after a year and a half is definitely a new feeling again, but a better feeling, especially since I get to work with my favorite people and for God. I was a little out of it at first and didn’t want to come and just started regretting it, but then I realized I was not doing it for just myself; I was doing it for God.

VBS day one was one of the best experiences so far. I loved getting to know each of the kids, their interests, and how they mostly think the same. Seeing their enthusiasm in each activity brings my mood up more and more, allowing me to see their excitement, doing their best, and using teamwork to their advantage. Seeing how they get along so well and their smiles and laughs while having fun makes me smile and feel like we are doing something right, to be able to spread the love God gives us with the world, with our group, with our kids, most importantly with our friends we love the most. I will take with me the memory and excitement of showing kids that it’s wonderful to show your energy and allow others to see the real you.

I encountered Jesus today in many ways, mostly in how the kids were so happy to learn more about God and Jesus. It is definitely something to remember. Also, seeing how happy the kids were every time we went to a new activity, whether Bible storytelling, games, or snacks, was amazing. We would make an effort as a team to celebrate someone who did super well; we celebrated as if it was our accomplishment as well. Their excitement and desire to do better was contagious.

Out of this trip, seeing God work through all of us in what we say and do 100% impacted me. We wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for God. He allowed this to happen, and the love he gave us allows us to give in return to others and show others to love and appreciate one another no matter the distraction or circumstance we may be in.

Our day will end by sitting next to the beautiful view of the beach at night, enjoying dinner with our friends or, as I say, my second family. I can’t think of anyone else than this team to have by my side as we work for God and increase our faith. I thank God for the opportunity to be on this trip today and make these beautiful memories with these amazing people.

Pray for Mission to Costa Rica

Prayers are requested as Minister for Youth Marcia Quintanilla leads Cathedral youth on a mission to Costa Rica July 2 -10. Follow their journey and learn more through daily updates while they are away at: www.christchurchcathedral.org/costarica2024