Costa Rica was a wonderful experience. I went with the anticipation of finding a deeper connection with God; I found that and more. While in Costa Rica, I was able to see God’s grace and mercy with such clarity. The Costa Ricans were so appreciative of everything they had. Even those that lived in poverty were pleased with their dirt floors and tin roof. They realize that everything and every moment in their lives are given to them. They don’t feel entitled or feel that they have “earned” anything. It’s all a gift from Him. My goal is to bring that clarity home with me. I want to be as appreciative as the Costa Ricans are.
God Bless,
Jason Carlson
Jeff Herzet writes
I went to Costa Rica with only selfish expectations. I went for me, as a way to get out of town for awhile and escape whatever issues I was facing in Kansas. Knew that I would have a great time, do a bit of good work, play some, meet new people, but mainly, I would get away.
I came for me. I came to make me feel good and to get away. I did not come for God, or the people of Costa Rica, or our missionaries. Then something happened. Don’t know what, but I realized that I came for the wrong reasons. Pretty obvious to most people, but then again I can be stubborn.
God started to work on me, slowly, patiently. I changed. I realized that everything is not about me. It was not about me escaping, or running away, or whatever you want to call it. It was not about me. It was about God. It was about the people of Costa Rica. It was about a million different things, but it was definitely not about me.
It was the work that changed me. It was the people of Costa Rica that changed me. It was the EHUMC mission team that changed me.
God is truly amazing. He has a plan for us. He knows that we are better when we give of ourselves. He knows me and he knows how to make me see a bigger picture that includes me, but is not about me.
It is an amazing journey I am on with God leading the way, and if I let Him direct the journey, I now understand that even though it is not about me, I will be filled with Him as He and I continue this journey together. He brings wonderful, amazing, loving people into my life and through these people, He shows just how much He cares about me!
Let’s hold hands!
