In the middle of a long, hot day serving in Lxcan, Guatemala, our team experienced one of the most meaningful gifts of the trip—not medical supplies, not financial donations, but a simple, heartfelt meal prepared by the women of a small local church.
After a long morning of ministry, we weren’t just tired. We were hungry. Temperatures soared (as they often do in this region), and yet, despite the heat, these faithful women chose to bless us in the most tangible way possible: by cooking a meal with what they had.
They served us turkey, fresh tomatoes, and a type of local squash that most of us had never seen outside Guatemala, all lovingly simmered together and served over fluffy white rice. Of course, no Guatemalan meal would be complete without fresh corn tortillas, which they made by hand. What they presented us wasn’t just a meal—it was a feast.
Sitting down to hot soup in the midst of a sweltering afternoon is something you grow used to after years of mission work in this part of the world. Still, there was something different about this meal. Maybe it was the humility behind it. Maybe it was the joy these women found in serving others. Or maybe it was the simple reminder that hospitality is a ministry in itself.
For our team, every bite was more than just physical nourishment. It was a reminder of the love, generosity, and partnership we’ve found among the local churches here in Guatemala. They serve with what they have, giving with full hearts—even when resources are scarce.
We couldn’t stop working until late in the afternoon, and by the time lunch came, we were ready. And yet, as full as our stomachs became, our hearts were filled even more.
To the women of the church in Lxcan: thank you. Your kindness touched us more deeply than you know.
Scroll through the photos below to see the faces behind the meal—and the joy of shared community in action.
