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Today was another deeply meaningful day at El Jordán in Santa Cruz, Bolivia. Our morning began with a four-hour roundtable discussion with the entire staff. It was a privilege to hear each person share their role within the ministry, the challenges they face, the victories they've witnessed, and the lessons God has been teaching them. We also learned about the history of El Jordán and how the Lord has faithfully grown this ministry over the years, and how the ministry continues to pivot due to learnings and new needs.
The conversation quickly became a two-way exchange as they asked us questions about leadership, handling and resolving conflict, and various situations we've encountered through our experience in missions in other parts of the world. Together we brainstormed ideas, discussed possible solutions, and shared a few perspectives from outside their day-to-day context. It was an encouraging and constructive time.
We gained a much deeper appreciation for the work being done with both the women and the boys they serve. Many of the boys, ages 12 to 18, have grown up surrounded by addiction, abuse, neglect, and absent fathers. They have learned to survive, but often haven't learned self-control, trust, honesty, or healthy ways to deal with anger and frustration. One of the ministry's most effective tools they've found is soccer. On the field they learn discipline, teamwork, emotional control, and respect—lessons that carry into everyday life. We encouraged the staff that lasting change takes time. Throughout history, biblical morals and values have shaped cultures over generations, and it takes patience, faithfulness and perseverance as they sow the seeds and the Lord works in their hearts and lives.
This afternoon we visited one of the women who has recently returned to the program after leaving an abusive relationship. On the way we stopped at a bustling fruit and vegetable market and filled bags with a variety of fresh fruit for her family.
She warmly welcomed us, and we saw where she lives with her five daughters and her father in a single small room. Through tears she shared parts of her life story—one marked by deep suffering, loss, desperation, guilt, shame and incredible hardship. Much of it is hers alone to tell, but through it all God's preserving hand was unmistakable. Today she is a believer who is clinging to Christ and finding hope again through the love and support of her El Jordan family.
As we listened, we encouraged her that in Christ she is forgiven, loved, and never abandoned and to lean on the women & staff in the program, especially during the lonely moments. Though she faces new health concerns and an uncertain road ahead, her home quietly reflected where her hope is found. Psalm 23 was written across one wall, and Philippians 4:6 on another—a beautiful testimony that even in the darkest seasons, God's Word remains her anchor.
It was an absolute privilege to spend those hours with her. Seeing firsthand the difference El Jordán is making in the lives of vulnerable women and children reminds us that true ministry is often quiet, personal, and patient. Please pray for this dear sister, for her children, and for the faithful staff at El Jordán as they continue to point broken people to the hope found in Christ alone.
