Many of you know I feel God called me into the field of physical therapy specifically with a heart to serve in some capacity overseas at some point (see previous blog for a synopsis). I am writing to tell you about an exciting opportunity I and several medical students from the University of Florida have over our spring break, March 6-14th, to join students and medical professionals from around the country to participate in a medical mission trip to Masachapa, Nicaragua with an organization called the Christiam Medical and Dental Association along with the Global Health Outreach. I am very excited to have a chance so early in my education to use the gifts God has given me to serve other nations for the advancement of the gospel, and also to see how God uses this trip to guide my steps in the future.
Nicaragua is the 2nd poorest country in the Western hemisphere. Hudson Taylor, a medical missionary to China, "found his medical equipment of the greatest value in opening the way to people's hearts." We will have a chance to meet even the most basic medical needs of a community of people while offering them eternal life in Christ. Last year, the team had over 40 people from all over the country from Oregon to Florida. They had many physicians including surgeons, an anesthesiologist, dentists, a pharmacist, a nursing staff, a cardiologist, a chiropractor, an optometrist, and students in all healthcare fields. They had triage, a medical clinic, pharmacy, dental clinic, an ultrasound, two surgical suites, and an optometry clinic with hundreds of pairs of donated glasses. Overall, they saw almost 2000 people during the week. But more importantly, they were able to minister to the people, praying and sharing the Gospel with them. They went to local church services and walked around the town with pastors. Those who went on the trip described it as "life changing."
I ask you to come alongside of our team in prayer as we prepare and go overseas. In addition to praying for our team, our fundraising efforts, unity with one another in Christ, safety, etc., please pray that God would be preparing a way for us and softening hearts for our short time there. Pray that He will give us spirits of power and boldness and words to speak tobring His awesome and marvelous name glory in Central America, that people will see and experience not our medical expertise, but the love of Christ and a life-changing relationship with Him.
Rather than send out mass e-mails, I will try to continue to post updates here as we prepare as well as on/after the trip itself. So check here if you'd like info :)
Also, feel free to e-mail me with questions/encouragement :) l.cameron.taylor@gmail.com
No comments:
Post a Comment