I have now been in Guatemala for three weeks, and from the very first moment of stepping onto base, this country has been filled with joy and the presence of the Lord.

My team works alongside a ministry called Hope. This ministry focuses on worship, prayer and intercession, and working with kids. We partner with them Tuesday through Saturday, and each day begins with either a Bible study, worship, or both.

Tuesdays are filled with house visits and VBS with the kids. On Wednesdays, we clean the garden, our main ministry area, and gather for a women’s Bible study. Thursdays we do not have ministry with Hope, but Fridays are sports days. This means lots of soccer and laughter with the kids. Saturdays look different each week, we simply do whatever needs to be done that day.

The team we work with has truly become like family to us. This past weekend, we were able to stay at their house for a time of extended prayer and worship. On Thursday night, there was a worship night that lasted a couple hours. Then on Friday night, they held a prayer burn, which means there is someone praying continuously throughout the entire night.

We began the evening with a big family dinner together, then worshipped, prayed, and read the Bible throughout the night until 6 a.m. Saturday morning. This night was my favorite night of the race so far.

Life on base is just as full. On Monday nights we have Bible study/teaching. Wednesday nights are set aside for worship. Thursdays include worship, teaching, and something called activation. Activation is when we are taught a concept, shown how it applies to everyday life, and then sent out to actually practice what we have learned. Friday mornings we have a deep dive Bible study that challenges us to go even further.

Since being here in Guatemala, I have been learning what it truly means that life itself is ministry. Ministry is not just something that happens during scheduled outreach times or organized events. It is found in conversations, shared meals, laughter, prayer, and simply showing up for people. It is in the ordinary moments just as much as the intentional ones. I am learning that loving others well, being present, and walking in obedience day by day is just as much ministry as scheduled events and outreach. This season has been teaching me that following Jesus is truly a lifestyle. Living life itself as ministry is about allowing every part of life to reflect Him.