Sunday morning in Costa Rica was incredible! We had the
privilege of attending church service in Linda Vista with the people in the
neighborhood. Everyone was so kind and welcoming! We were greeted with big
smiles, high fives, hugs, and kisses on the cheeks.
As we walked in, one of the men was on stage praying over
the room. The way they prayed stuck out to many of us – they pray with their
whole beings and it is intermixed throughout the entire service. Prayer was
baked in to that gathering room!
Cindy kicked off the main portion of the service with
worship. When she began to sing in Spanish, all of the Costa Ricans in the room
erupted in shouts of delight because they expected her to sing in English. They
were clapping and singing so loudly, and their joy was infectious. We were able
to partake in communion with the congregation as a part of worship, which I was
super appreciative of. I love everything about communion, but to do it during
my first mission trip was so special! And while I only understood a few words
Pastor Luis was speaking, the Spirit was so present in that room that
translation was completely unnecessary.
Danny gave the sermon with Kellie, the missionary associate,
translating. It went really well and was well received as he posed the
question, “What kind of Christ follower will you be?”. When the kids came back
into the main gathering room from Children’s Church, everyone was able to take pictures
with a frame they made for Father’s day coming up that said “My family is in
God.” We stood back, watching and waiting, but they wouldn’t have any of that!
They welcomed us right in to their family photos the way they welcomed us into
the service – with big smiles and open arms! It was incredibly apparent that
they truly viewed each other as family, were delighted that we were with them
and wanted to show us that we had family in them as well!
One thing is for sure, these people love God out loud! And I
don’t think this will be my only trip here!
- Amber Fusselman
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