MY CHIQUIMULA
- Thirst No More Corporation
- Nov 11
- 4 min read
A Journey of Faith, Home, and Unexpected Beauty
Leaving the United States to make a permanent home in Chiquimula, Guatemala wasn’t a decision made lightly — but it was a decision made with peace, purpose, and a whole lot of love. After months of praying, planning, packing, and leaping into our new normal, Myra and I finally stepped into the life God had been preparing for us. And let me tell you…I have no regrets.
But this is more than a relocation story.
This is a celebration — of life in Guatemala, of the calling of Christ in my adopted country, of the land and people that have shaped us immeasurably, challenged us immensely, and embraced us incredibly.
Celebrating Myra’s 78th Birthday 🎂 in the Country of Her Calling
Chiquimula is not new for Myra — she has surrendered her heart to Guatemala for over 30 years as a missionary. So when we celebrated her 78th birthday in September, it felt like a divine full circle. Watching her smile as I did my best to spoil her with a spa day, and intimate lunch, I was thrilled to see her enjoy her special day. She would continue to celebrate her birthday surrounded by friends and the familiar warmth of Guatemalan hospitality; reminding me that this is exactly where she belongs… where we belong.
Her joy is my joy, and beginning our new chapter by celebrating her life here made everything feel extra special.
A Place Where Beauty Walks Freely — Literally 🐮🐴🐶
Chiquimula has its own rhythm, its own heartbeat.
Where else can you:
Step outside and see cows, horses, and dogs casually owning the road like they pay rent there? 🐮🐴🐶
Live in a secured residential community, only to walk 10 steps outside the gate and see families living in homes with no walls, greeting you with the biggest smiles you’ve ever seen?
It’s a contrast that humbles you. It reminds you that life isn’t about what’s in your house — it’s about who’s in your heart.
And the mountains… oh, the mountains. It’s like God painted them just to remind us He’s still creating, still revealing beauty, still calling us higher.
LivingSent Ministries — Hands & Feet of Christ 🙌👣
One of the sweetest gifts since moving here has been reconnecting with Steven and Kelly Smith, who lead the impactful LivingSent Ministries. Their hearts for this region, their compassion, and their relentless commitment to serving God’s people inspire me daily.
When their mission team arrived recently, the atmosphere shifted — worship, shovels, laughter, shared meals, and the sound of faith in action filled the air. They helped build a home, ministered to families, prayed with the hurting, and showed the love of Christ with every breath.
Walking the Streets with Steven — Two Brothers on Mission 👨🏼🤝👨🏿
Steven and I quickly discovered something important: if two willing hearts step outside, God will do the rest. We began walking from home to home, talking to anyone we could about the love of Christ. We have been joined in these endeavors by my son Angel and my wife's administrator, Gilma. No agenda, no script. Just two men, with others who refuse to let a moment pass without offering hope. And the doors God opened… Amazing! We’ve met families hungry for prayer, neighbors longing for connection, and strangers who have become friends.
Friday Night Bible Studies — A Home Turned Sanctuary 📖⛪
One of the biggest blessings has been the generous hospitality of our new friend Raul and his wife. They opened their home to us — and every Friday evening, it transforms into a place of worship, learning, fellowship, and joy.
People gather, Bibles open, hearts open, ready to receive. Kids laugh. Adults share. The Spirit moves. And every week, I am reminded how powerful it is when a simple home becomes holy ground for teaching and prayer
A Mountain Celebration — Miguelito’s Birthday🎁
Then came one of my favorite moments so far: celebrating Miguelito’s birthday up in the mountains with missionaries Nancy Sheldon, Randy and Ruth Pettinger, and the Pettinger's wonderful children.
There’s something special about warm fellowship surrounded by mountains that stretch higher than your voice can reach, watching children beaming with joy, and realizing that God brings together the right people at the right time, for the right purpose. It was a day full of laughter, gratitude, and pure, simple happiness for all.
My Special Friend Esvin 🦽👥
I can’t talk about “My Chiquimula” without mentioning Esvin — a beautiful young man who has been in my life for nine years. He is totally disabled, but his spirit…his spirit is pure hope.
Every time I see him, I’m reminded that love is not limited, and value is not measured by one's physical abilities. Esvin is my friend. He is family to me. And being able to visit him again is one of the greatest blessings since returning to Chiquimula.
⛰️The Mountains, the Mission, and the Miracle of Home🏡
Chiquimula is rugged and gentle, loud and peaceful, humble and breathtaking all at once. The mountains frame every sunrise and every prayer. The streets teach you gratitude of community. The people teach you kindness without prejudice.
But the greatest miracle, you may ask? Living here with my wife Myra. Sharing this chapter with her. as we head towards our 9th year of holy matrimony. Watching God continue to write our story in a place full of beauty, contrast, mission, and grace.
We don’t just live in Chiquimula —we love Chiquimula.
Deeply.
Fully.
Joyfully.
And this is only the beginning.
Amen and Amen, my love.