Today was our last full day in Peru. After two very full weeks of ministry, travel, and new experiences, our team enjoyed a day to rest, spend time together, and explore more of Lima.
We began the morning in Miraflores, where the team enjoyed a delicious breakfast before visiting the Inca Market to shop for souvenirs and gifts. Several of the young adults from Iglesia Vida Nueva who have served alongside us during our ministry activities over the past two weeks joined us for the day. It was a special opportunity to enjoy fellowship, share memories from the trip, and continue building the friendships that have become so meaningful to our team.
In the afternoon, we explored the beautiful Barranco district and walked down toward the beach. Along the way, our team was able to take in a breathtaking panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean. Standing above the coastline and looking out over the water was a wonderful reminder of the beauty and greatness of God’s creation.
Our team has greatly appreciated the opportunity to experience Peruvian culture, enjoy new foods, practice our Spanish, and meet so many kind and welcoming people. We are especially thankful for the many new friendships God has allowed us to form during our time here.
One of the greatest blessings of any short-term missions trip is the opportunity to see a foreign mission field through new eyes. Traveling to another country and becoming immersed in its culture, language, food, and daily life broadens our perspective and reminds us that the body of Christ is much larger than what we see in our own churches and hometowns. Although we may speak different languages and come from different backgrounds, we are united by our shared faith in Christ and our desire to make Him known.
Tomorrow morning, we will attend one final church service with Iglesia Vida Nueva before heading to the airport and beginning our journey back to the United States. It will be difficult to say goodbye to the friends who have welcomed us, served with us, and cared for our team so faithfully.
Thank you so much for praying for us throughout these past two weeks. We have seen God provide, guide, protect, and work in many wonderful ways. We are grateful for every opportunity He has given us to serve, encourage others, and share the hope of the gospel. Only eternity will fully reveal the impact of the seeds that have been planted, both in the lives of those we served and in the hearts of our own team members.