A Day for Colombian Culture

Monday, March 8This morning was sad! We had to say goodbye to Pastor Salazar. He is pretty much a favorite of our group and we took many pictures with him before his departure to his homeland of Peru. (Editor's note: Pastor Salazar actually lives in the US, but is originally from Peru. He organized many of the details of this trip through his own ministry "The World Needs Christ." Our time here in Colombia would not have been possible without him.) After our sad goodbye we visited the beautiful mountain of Montserrata which overlooks the entire city of Bogota. I don’t remember the exact amount, but let me tell you it is a lot of feet in the air! I do not take to heights very well. So for me to arrive at the top, via a rocking cable car ride which lasted entirely too long, was quite an adventure. I must be completely honest about the view: it was breathtaking and I stood in awe. At the top, awaiting our arrival, was a Cathedral and an assortment of buildings and walkways surrounding it. We spent some time taking pictures and enjoying the architectural work that had been accomplished so many years before our arrival. We climbed rocks that surrounded the mountain and took more pictures of the beautiful scenery. To my delight we finally descended and I welcomed the opportunity to show my gratitude by embracing the ground.Today was a day for shopping as well. We ate lunch in a little café and enjoyed some very good soup that is typical of Colombia. Visiting the square of downtown Bogota where they have the different branches of government and the President's home was a neat experience. I am so taken not only with the beauty we are seeing here in Bogota but also the beauty of the opportunity to be light to the world whether we are in our hometown in America or Colombia, South America. What an awesome position God has given us to fulfill by saving our souls!Tonight we visited our very favorite restaurant Crepes and Waffles. We all enjoyed the exquisite cuisine that seems to be a permanent fixture in this city! I have always believed that good food is not necessary to be effective for the Lord, but it is nice when He provides it.We are all so grateful for our Lord's many provisions and the blessings He is pouring out on our time here. Unfortunately it is drawing to a close all to soon. I am asking my Heavenly Father to inspire our team and you who read this to be salt and light in your world, whether you travel to Colombia, another country, or just immerse yourself in prayer and live your life for the One who gave His for your salvation and sanctification.Micah, for the teamThe whole team with Pastor SalazarGlimpses of downtown in the almost daily downpour. Fortunately, the rain never lasts for long.The rain provided some beautiful reflections, captured by Amber. This is one of the cathedrals in the old downtown area known as Candelaria.Bogota is full of vibrant color once the rain clears up.So graffiti provides some of the extra color, but it adds a unique flavor.The team takes to the streets of Bogota with Pablo as our friend, guide, and translator. Thanks for the all the help, Pablo!This is the original central square of Bogota. Now it's a quiet little courtyard with cobblestone streets and quaint restaurants.Police, military, and security guards are another common site of downtown, but they were very friendly to the visiting Americans.Inside the cathedral at the top of the mountain.A team on top of the world.More views at the top.It has been an incredible day and we are blessed to get to see the beauty of Bogota - both in the scenery and the work God is doing here.