‘It’s our honor to pray’

LAS TRAMPAS, Guatemala — This was a short walk, unlike many others.

We were conducting a medical and dental clinic in the meeting place of the Las Trampas Iglesia de Cristo when some of the locals invited us to visit Maria, an elderly lady who lives in a lush valley down the hill from the church building. She suffers from a chronic respiratory illness, one that has left her debilitated. Many women suffer from this due to cooking over an open fire for so many years.

A Health Talents International medical and dental clinic, conducted in the meeting place of the Las Trampas Iglesia de Cristo. (PHOTO BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD)

When we visit patients in their homes, we make it clear that we don’t charge money for prayer, as some groups in Guatemala do. It’s our honor to pray, share the Gospel and be of service.

When we enter a house, we do so with respect. Many times I feel inadequate. We are their guests. I am sure that, in many situations, I am the only person from the United States that has ever entered their home.
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With Maria, we listened as she and her family told us about the struggles and difficulties she has had for many years. I examined her, gave her some medication and explained how to use it. She is a Christian, a member of the local congregation, so we know that she has a relationship with God.

Corn, soon to be made into tortillas and other Guatemalan staples, hangs from the roof of Maria’s home near Las Trampas. (PHOTO BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD) 

We prayed that Maria would have peace and comfort during this time. We prayed that her family will have the strength to care for her. The medications will give some comfort, but greater comfort and peace will come from the Father. What strength and power there is in prayer. The God that created this universe listens and responds. We give him all the glory.

Each patient is different. The common factors are that we want to serve, God is always with us, and our prayers are answered.

Sheri Kretzschmar prays with Maria. (PHOTO BY ERIK TRYGGESTAD)

Sheri Kretzschmar is a registered nurse from Winston-Salem, N.C. She lives in Chichicastenango, Guatemala, and serves with Health Talents International. She blogs at sheriinguate.blogspot.com.