Hello!

Plane: Travel days are exciting! There was great joy, even in the late hour, in arriving to Costa Rica! Our squad has spent intentional time praying over the country and each other. All 31 of us will be together in Jaco, Costa Rica for the next two months! 

Paint: Ocean's Edge is our ministry partner for the month! Our largest project so far has been painting murals for the city! This is a large mural in a local park. We have also started painting murals on lampposts. :) The concept is to have these murals be similar to stained glass and depict the natural animals and plants of Costa Rica. All creation points back to Jesus!!! Already people are passing by and expressing delight in these murals!  

Peace: Our bodies, souls, and spirits are so interconnected. This first week has had challenges with our bodies becoming accustomed to the heat & humidity, tightly scheduled days, spiritual darkness over Jaco, and an early 8pm curfew for safety. Nearly everyone has gotten sunburned, some to the point of blisters. A praise to God is that I have not burned! I have been reapplying sunscreen every 2 hours and wearing my big hat has helped!

Bodily discomfort can lead to emotional depletion and spiritual dehydration. My team and squad has been intentional in looking for times of rest, refreshment, and renewal. I am choosing to seek peace rather than sit, and sweat, in the challenges. I'm grateful for the ocean and sweet times worshiping with my squad to help refill my soul and tank of peace! 

My body, mind, and spirit are exhausted most days. However, I am delighted to share a bit of our first week with you! Please watch the video below! 

I live a generous life! Thanks to your generosity I have shared an even greater abundance of sunscreen, food, Gatorade mix, and transportation costs for others. I am grateful for your financial gifts!

Please continue praying for us to have strength, endurance, and peace everywhere we step. Our God is moving in our lives and on the streets of Jaco!

{HUGS}
Rachel