Costa Rica: It Takes a Village

At Joshua Expeditions, we love everything travel. Our dedicated team of travel-obsessed employees works tirelessly to provide the best experiences worldwide. But more than that, they love combining their love of travel with their mission to share the life-changing good news with the world. Below is a story from Beth Andersen, our Costa Rica Coordinator, highlighting some unsung heroes who partner with us on our house-build tours.

  ————————————————————————————————————————-

As we look back on the past months, from January 2024 to March 2024, we are grateful for the incredible journey we’ve embarked on with the Joshua Expeditions (JE) community. Your collective efforts have shown the transformative power of community, faith, and compassion as we strive to build homes and futures in Pavas.

In these short months, the JE groups have achieved remarkable feats, driven by determination and guided by a shared purpose. Your unwavering dedication has led to the construction of 29 homes, each a testament to the resilience and spirit of the people of Pavas. But our mission is far from over; there are still 15 more homes awaiting their foundations, their walls, and their stories of hope.

At the heart of this endeavor are the unsung heroes, the pillars of strength and support who make it all possible. From Pedro, our House Build Coordinator, to Gonzalo, the steadfast Pastor who leads with compassion and conviction, to the teams of women and builders who labor tirelessly behind the scenes, their commitment knows no bounds. Together, they form the backbone of our mission, turning dreams of shelter and security into tangible realities.

But a home is more than just bricks and mortar; it’s a sanctuary, a refuge from life’s storms, a place to belong. And this vision drives us forward, igniting a passion to build houses and create homes filled with love, warmth, and possibility. From pouring floors to preparing properties, teaching skills, and sharing meals, every aspect of the building process is infused with purpose and meaning.

Yet, our mission extends beyond the physical act of construction. It’s about planting hope, nurturing faith, and fostering community. Pavas is no exception in a world marked by adversity and uncertainty. But amidst the challenges lie opportunities for growth, redemption, and transformation. As our groups work alongside families and local workers, we pray for hearts to be opened, lives to be changed, and the Kingdom to take root and flourish.

For many in Pavas, this journey represents a second chance, a glimmer of hope in adversity. It’s a chance to break free from poverty, addiction, and despair and embrace a future filled with promise and potential. For this, we are profoundly grateful to every member of our JE community—from tour directors to travelers—for their unwavering support and commitment to making a difference.

As we continue this journey together, let us hold fast to the belief that every home we build is built on an unshakable foundation—the foundation of love, faith, and community. May each brick laid, each nail hammered, symbolize the countless lives transformed and the boundless hope that can only be found in Jesus.

In Pavas and communities worldwide, let us continue to build not just houses but futures filled with promise, purpose, and the everlasting presence of God’s grace. This is our shared vision and our collective mission, and we are grateful for your continued support and commitment.