This week, it’s all about family and a Hamilton update! Life has been a whirlwind lately, and once again, God is nudging us to take a leap of faith.
My initial two-year contract in La Paz felt like it might be too short towards the end of 2017. We started wondering if staying a bit longer was an option. But, as the Proverbs say, “We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps.” It turns out, God has different plans for our family!
One of my main objectives here was to train a local Bolivian to take over my role, as I strongly believe in empowering communities from within (a topic I’ll explore further in a separate post!). Due to recent developments with the government and their financial impact on our foundation, it’s become evident that stepping down from my position earlier than expected is the right move.
So, this summer, we’re preparing to return to the United States. While we’re thrilled about the foundation’s future under local leadership, our hearts are heavy. We’ve grown to love La Paz, its people, mountains, and culture. The church has become family, the kids’ school exceeded our hopes, and I’ve cherished the work I’ve been privileged to do.
The uncertainty of our destination weighs differently on each family member. We’re having daily conversations about trust and what it means to rely on God.
Recently, during prayer, I wrestled with my anxiety. I asked myself if I truly believe in God’s trustworthiness, and my immediate response was “of course.”
So, why the lingering anxiety?
It dawned on me that I’m clinging to control. I want things to unfold on my schedule. I want to know where we’ll live and how it’ll all work out. Then it hit me: Do I genuinely think I could plan our family’s future better than God? Could I navigate the next 5, 10, 15 years perfectly? I realized I don’t want that kind of control. I’d much rather surrender, finding peace in the present’s uncertainty, knowing God remains in control.
I was reminded today that what truly matters is our family’s love for God and people. Job or no job, abundance or scarcity, these circumstances won’t prevent us from fulfilling our purpose.
So, wherever God leads us next, I find comfort in surrender, knowing we can continue to love God and our neighbors, no matter where we land.
We will be praying as God reveals His plan for your family. His promises are real, so rest in what He is saying to you. For one, I would love to give you a hug sooner than later. And have coffee with you!
Will be praying for God’s direction on where you should be. (I’m a tad biased in my opinion, but know He knows best) Hope we get to you you all sooner rather than later. Much love! ❤
Carmen, your family’s willingness to be used by God as He sees it is sooo inspirational and admirable. My thoughts and prayers are with you and can’t wait to hear of your next adventure. Love you, Sandy
Hamilton Family….this is the hardest part of being in La Paz – all the goodbyes. One day, that will be us. We don’t know when, but we have to trust in God’s perfect plan and love for us. I can’t even think about this goodbye with you guys yet, so I can’t imagine how deeply you must be feeling this. -R
It’s been a privilege to follow your adventures. God will bless your efforts to go anywhere he wants you to go. You are all so inspiring. Thank you for loving God and loving people the way you do.
Love
Kela
Thin Air, High Hope 
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