That's a Switch!

We just spend an amazing week in Texas, but I was grateful to set foot again in the more familiar country of Guatemala.  That's a switch!  Y'all would think we'd be more comfortable in the US culture, eh?  Well, we have spent the better part of 3 years here and the longer we are in Guate, the more this place feels like home.  We are becoming accustomed to the culture, the sounds, and the wonderful people.  Of course, sleeping in our own bed is always a relief after being away, even if my feet hang off the end by about 6"! 
Travelling to the US reminded me of the many differences between developing countries and those countries which lead the world in economic stature. 
In the Guatemalan airport, after you go through customs and security (take off your shoes, empty your pockets, remove your belt, go through the scanner, get patted down, open up your carry-on luggage for inspection, re-dress), a very sudden change takes place.  As soon as you leave this area, there is a high-end perfume, liquour and tobacco shop and the majority of the magazines and books are now in English.
The transition from those who don't have to those who do (including us), boggles my mind.  Don't get me wrong; I am grateful to the Lord for His amazing provision in my life, but it really is a shock to the senses when you travel from here to North America. 
The purpose of our trip was to attend an orientation session with our support team and sending agency, CTEN (Commission to Every Nation).  We, along with 25 other missionaries from around the world received teaching, council, encouragement, Texas hospitality and food, and were commissioned to fulfill the calling of God on our lives. 

 CTEN really focuses on pastoral care and helping ordinary people like us accomplish extraordinary things with God.  We worshipped and prayed together and enjoyed great fellowship.  We thank the Lord for another part of His body stepping up to see His Kingdom move forward.
We also took time in Texas to replenish our depleted supply of North American goods and picked up some items for Arryn's wedding.  We maxed out the weight on our two duffle bags and our carry-ons were stuffed to the top!  I know we will be thankful for the non-stick frying pan (which I carried on the plane!), the jar of peanut butter, brown sugar for baking and essential toiletry items. 
Karren is putting the final touches on our next newsletter.  If you don't receive our ministry updates and would like to, please send us an email with your contact information (karrenchupa@hotmail.ca).  Maybe you do receive our newsletters, but you know of someone who doesn't, but would like to.  Just sent us their info and we'll get them on the list before this next mailing takes place. 
Blessings,
Rocky