A Whirlwind of Emotions: From Minnesota to South Asia and the Dominican Republic
These past six weeks have been a whirlwind of travel and emotion for me. It all began in Minnesota, where we found ourselves at a fundraising event where Ellen Abramson’s journey started many years ago. Many people came together to lend a hand for this event - to make a difference. We visited several homes, and reconnected with long-term supporters of our ministry. We are deeply grateful for all of the love, and the heartfelt and vulnerable conversations we had while sitting around your tables.
Just a week later, we were in the heart of South Asia, on a mission trip that would challenge my perspectives and touch my soul. The contrast between the shores of Florida and the bustling streets of this vibrant region couldn't have been starker.
Returning to the United States for a brief respite, my mind was still consumed by the vivid sights and sounds of South Asia. It was difficult to imagine that anything could compare to the powerful experiences we had shared there. Then came the annual Child Sponsorship Christmas mission trip to the Dominican Republic, and my expectations were about to be shattered.
A dozen dedicated individuals from various corners of the United States joined us for a heartwarming endeavor - to organize a Christmas party for nearly 200 sponsored children. This was my first time in the DR, and after the profound impressions of South Asia, I couldn't fathom what awaited us.
Our base was a villa, nestled about 30 minutes away from our ministry in Los Guaricanos. This villa, surrounded by 10-foot walls topped with razor wire, served as both an oasis and a refuge in a rough neighborhood.
As we approached Adonai Church & School on Day 1, the initial impression was a stark departure from our first-world standards. The roads were in extreme disrepair, the recent relentless rain and flash flooding adding insult to injury just one week prior to our arrival. The power lines resembled a fusion of birds' nests and spider webs, a testament to the daily challenges faced by the local community. Uncountable unfinished buildings and bars on windows and doors left no doubt that we were in one of the poorest neighborhoods in the DR. The setup was stark, and my spirit felt heavy as I entered the church/school for breakfast, served out of a makeshift kitchen on the fourth floor due to safety concerns at the previous location.
But then, something magical happened. The intoxicating beat of Merengue Music filled the air, and the energizing chatter and laughter of children at play greeted us. Their faces lit up when they saw our mission team enter the building. Overwhelmed by the joy that surrounded me, I couldn't help but capture this moment with a short video. One of the students approached me with a big smile and gave me a welcome hug. In just the first hour of the first day of this mission trip, I went from sadness to extreme joy in a way that overwhelmed my first-world senses. I fought back tears as we climbed the stairs on our way to breakfast.
The church, on the second floor, was just getting out of service, and another wave of smiling faces met us in the stairwell, welcoming us in the most profound way. "Only two more floors to go, Martin," I told myself, "gather yourself, and suck it up!" At that very moment, I realized that regardless of the destination, whether it's a 40-hour journey from door to door to South Asia or a short hop from Florida to the DR, God has a way of chiseling away at our souls whenever and wherever possible.
Many ask, "Why spend the money to send people? Why not just send the money instead?" It's in this act of service, in everything we're exposed to during these missions, that the ripple effects transcend borders, cultures, and even time and space itself. We may never know whose lives will be touched by the ripple effects of our actions, but we press on because we've seen the transformation it brings.
Pastor Marino embarked on his ministry in the DR over 40 years ago, and back then, poverty was a pervasive reality. Now, four decades and several generations later, many families have ascended to the middle class, all thanks to the education and opportunities provided by his ministry. None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of our generous donors. You should take pride in the fact that your impact has been immeasurable, and the legacy of positive change continues to flourish.
On our way home, Ellen and I discussed this impact, and Ellen brought up the parable of “Cracked Earthen Vessels according to the apostle Paul. I’ve come to see ourselves as cracked clay jars, imperfect vessels, carrying the precious water of love and compassion on our journey with God. As we walk, the water leaks out, nourishing the lives of people we encounter along the way. The effect ripples outward, touching hearts and souls.
I was profoundly touched during this mission trip, as were each of the 12 people who joined us. The journey continues, and we carry the light of hope and compassion with us, one mission at a time. Stay tuned as I will continue to release more content in the form or blogs, and videos over the holidays - God bless you! Dios te bendiga!
