Today was our final day in Leon. We left the hotel for the last time and headed into the city's square. There, we visited one of their cathedrals and even got access to the roof for an amazing view of the city and surrounding countryside. It was beautiful. After the cathedral, we spent some time at the market. Imagining what grocery shopping might look like here, or how some people make their money, was a neat experience. Vendors are tightly packed together in an open market, selling anything from bananas or rice to t-shirts or hammocks.
From the square, we rode to Verbo Leon for our final opportunity to participate in their feeding center. It was once again a great reminder of how grateful we should be as we watched these kids at the same rice and beans and bread for the fifth time. It has been a challenge all week wrestling with the differences in our lifestyles, but at the same time, it has been motivating and inspiring to continue our support and partnership for the ministry in Leon.
After their lunch, we were able to spend a final hour or so playing tag and soccer with the kids we had built relationships with all week. Many people on our team left sad knowing this may be the last time they see some of these kids for a long time, but we're thankful for the leaders at the church who are accessible and who can care for these kids long after we've left. It's been a life-altering experience for our team this week, and we're excited for you to hear personal stories from our team when we return.
On our way to our debrief site, we had a team lunch at a local restaurant with some of the church leaders. Then we packed up the bus and traveled back through Managua to Apoyo Resort. This resort rests on a lagoon that was formed by an old volcano that is now inactive. We use this resort as "middle ground" for the team to process all that was seen and experienced before returning to the affluence of America. We will use our time here to have multiple small group discussions, worship music, alone time, and some fun as we let our encounters with God shape us for the future.
During our first evening here, the team did not struggle to appreciate the beautiful view of the water. Dinner was served as the sun set and we got settled down before Porch Time. Abbey shared about what we call "the secret of the poor," and how we often choose competition or comparison over compassion. With a challenge to grow in gratitude and generosity, Abbey reflected on the lack of possessions but the strength of relationships between the Nicaraguans. Our desire for more possessions can often distract us from the relational investments God is asking us to make. Small groups met to reflect on the joy they witnessed in those who have so much less, and we got ready for bed. We're excited for a full day at the resort tomorrow, and we'll share more then! Please be praying for our final Porch Time, and that God would solidify the lessons in our hearts and minds that He may be trying to teach us.
