Epperly Adventures: Technology is advancing in Guatemala!

Gracie taking care of Kiera

.....unfortunately, this blog site has never advanced...so please, once again, excuse the crazy photo layouts, the blog has a mind of its own!!

Over half of our time in Guatemala has past, as our work here has gone by rapidly. We've been lucky to have several visitors over the last 4-5 weeks, and they've all been a blessing to Shea and I, and especially our kids.

Pastor Corey and Pastor John....fun visit

One of the many ways our hospital project has advanced is technology. We now have many automated lab tests, a digital X ray, an ever increasing electronic medical record system, and much more reliable, and higher speed internet. This internet has allowed us to stay connected with family and friends more then ever. Its also allowed us the opportunity to send digital images for second opinions, and keep up to date on the latest medical information. The flip side is, it is also easier then ever to stay "distracted" by news, sports, social media, and other internet distractions. The days where I could come here to "unplug" are no more, for better or worse.

Colossians 3:1-2
Since, then you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.

Technology is not our enemy, in fact it is a valuable tool. Unfortunately, the "enemy" uses this tool to keep our eyes off of the one who desires an intimate relationship with us. There is a God-sized void in all of us that we have come to think can be filled through technology. To live life to the fullest in this digital age, we must prayerfully plead with God to help us turn our eyes away from the gigabytes of digital imagery and distraction, and instead turn our eyes to the glory of Jesus, and the true joy that can only arise in Him.

An example of this true joy happened the other day. We had a lady, at one of our clinics in San Andres, decide to follow Christ! She is no longer setting her mind on earthly worries. She now understands that there is a God who loves her, who desires to give her the free gift of salvation, and who now wants a relationship with her.

We are so excited for her decision, which not only affects her life here, and now, her children, but also her eternity. This is her first step in "setting her mind on things above", and this is what makes our time in Guatemala so important!!