If you are new here, let me introduce myself. My name is Madison and since October 26, 2022, I have called Guatemala my home!
In Case You Missed It
For three years, I partnered with another organization as their program coordinator. In September, the founders reached out to me and shared that they felt their time in ministry was slowly coming to an end. Of course, it wasn’t news I wanted to hear, and I was deeply saddened. One of the biggest questions I began asking myself was, “What’s next? What does this mean for my future?”
From September to October, I thought deeply about what I wanted to do… During that time, I didn’t share much about what was going on with others because I didn’t want anyone to try to influence my decision.
I had several options!
- Move back to the U.S, get a job, and rent or buy a home.
- Stay in Guatemala and find another job or organization to partner with.
- Stay in Guatemala and start my own ministry/nonprofit organization.
After thinking and praying about the decision, my heart was leaning toward option number three.
From October 26th to November 6th, I traveled to the United States. It was exactly what I needed- to gather information about what it would take to start a new nonprofit organization.
Voices of Others
While I was home, I started telling friends and family about what was happening and what my future might look like. Some people didn’t fully understand why I wanted to start a new nonprofit organization and continue living in Guatemala. They would ask, “Are you sure you want to do this? Just come home, this is starting to become too much. It’s not as easy as you think.”
Genuinely, people offered their opinions out of love, and of course, they wanted the best for me. I think many of them spoke out of fear, thinking, “If she does this, she may never come home.” I know this might be difficult for some to understand, but I am truly happy in Guatemala and passionate about impacting the lives of others.
Timeline of Events
On November 2nd, I was able to attend First Christian Church- my home church, which has been supportive since the very beginning. A few days before that Sunday, I felt God was telling me to get up and share with the congregation what was happening and ask for prayer… I wrestled with that decision and tried to find every excuse of why I shouldn’t speak. But God gave me the courage and I decided to speak to the congregation. I was nervous, but I spoke sincerely, from the bottom of my heart.
On November 4th, I met with an attorney in Greenville who helps people start nonprofit organizations. On the way there, my mom and I made a list of what the monthly expenses might be and, ideally, how much I would need to “bring in”. We tried to think of every possible cost, and to be honest, it was overwhelming… Way more money than I had expected and I wondered how I could possibly make it work.
On Thursday, November 6th, I traveled back to Guatemala. My mind was racing, and of course, I started worrying about the monthly expenses of running a nonprofit organization. I shared my concerns with a friend, including what I estimated the expenses would be per month.
But God knew exactly what He was doing.
A Small Seed was Planted
On Saturday, November 8th, my mom called me. She had been at church, participating in an event, and asked if I was busy. I told her no- I was at a store buying a new water filter for my house. Then she shared something that completely caught me off guard.
A deacon from our church had approached her and asked, “How serious is Madison starting a new nonprofit organization?”
My mom replied, “Very serious- 200%.”
Then he said, “Well, there is an anonymous donor who wants to set up a challenge for FCC members…. If the members can help raise money for Madison (to help cover the startup costs and fees), the donor would match dollar for dollar, up to $5,000.”
I honestly couldn’t believe it. I was in shock, with tears in my eyes, overwhelmed with gratitude and awe at God’s perfect timing. You know, what if I hadn’t shared what was happening at church on November 2nd?
The Challenge
For about a month, the Madison-Match Challenge was announced at church.
The response was incredible- overwhelming to say the least. I was amazed how many people were supportive and donated toward this challenge. Week after week, I was in awe of God’s goodness and faithfulness.
By the end of the challenge, the money had multiplied. It all began with one person who believed in me, and I am forever grateful. Thank you for taking a chance on me- and thank you to everyone else who contributed to the challenge.
Conclusion
I still look back and think, what a crazy past few months.
What if I had let the opinions of others get to me and second-guess my choices? What if I hadn’t shared at church on November 2nd? Ultimately, what if I had let fear overcome my faith?
God has confirmed in many ways that I’m right where I’m supposed to be- not only to me, but to my family and friends as well. He has also provided many mentors who are supportive and willing to help in any way they can.
I’m so grateful to continue this journey in Guatemala. All the glory goes to Him, and as always, His timing is perfect. Please make sure to read the next blog post, “A Fresh Start”.
2 Corinthians 5:7- “For we walk by faith, not by sight.”
XOXO,
Madison Archer
