Lustrabotas

Since our host in Bolivia is the head of the lustrabota (shoeshiner) ministry called Kayuparu, we spent lots of time with shoeshiners. I loved hanging out with these guys because these are people that I spent so much time with during my internship with Youth for Christ in 2006. Since this last stint of ministry in Bolivia, God has done an incredible work of redemption among this population of men. The shoeshiner population in Bolivia is an often overlooked and/or condemned people. Their work is often seen as lowly or shameful and many shoeshiners wear ski masks to conceal their identity and protect themselves and their families from shame. Often, shoeshiners are viewed as drunks, thieves, and a general nuisance to society. These are the guys that I really grew to know and love during my time in Bolivia. I felt loved and protected by these new friends of mine and longed for the redemption of their reputations and their souls.

When we first started studying the bible with shoeshiners in La Paz in 2006, there was one self-professed Christian in the bunch - David. My missionary friend, Randy, dedicated his ministry to this population of shoeshiners and was an incredible example of Christ's love for these guys. Randy started discipling a small group of shoeshiners, but saw very little fruit from his long, hard labor of love before he returned to the States for a season. But the seeds were most definitely planted. Our host, Ramiro, was one of Randy's disciples and has been completely transformed by the love of Christ. It's absolutely incredible to witness this changed soul. And now, Ramiro is acting as the leader of the ministry to the shoeshiners. His heart is to see the redemption and salvation of his friends and brothers. Though the strongholds of darkness are many in this population, transformation is occurring and light is pouring in.

On Tuesday evenings Ramiro leads a group of the guys and friends in ministry on a prayer walk around the city. They cry out and intercede for their friends - on the soccer court, at the shoeshiner project, on the streets where the guys shine, etc. Ramiro is leading them to boldly proclaim the promises of Christ and plead for the salvation of their friends. What an incredible experience to prayer with these guys! I was overwhelmed with joy while witnessing my old friends interact with the Almighty and cry out to him without shame or doubt. Praise God for the incredible work he has and is doing among these men. The fields are ripe for harvest and I eagerly await to see the Lord continue to move in a powerful way.

It was also a great joy to introduce Keo to this wonderful group of people. In addition to hanging out with the guys, playing soccer with them, sharing meals with them, travelling with them, we were able to truly experience the world of a shoeshiner by putting on a mask and going to the streets to work. A friend, Rafa, acted as our guide and teacher. He taught us how to properly shine, how to interact with the clients, and gave us many opportunities to practice our new skills. I had shined once or twice before, but it was great to get more experience. And it was so cool to hear more of Rafa's testimony. He left shoeshining for a while, but felt like God was calling him back to it. God has given him a renewed passion and has redeemed this work for him, calling all good work holy in the eyes of the Lord. What a blessing to work with such a pro! He really enjoys his work and delights in his customers. God has given this man great joy in his work and has made him a great example for others.

The shoeshiner population is still very near and dear to my heart. If the opportunity arises, I would love to continue working alongside this ministry. There is a great need also for people to labor in ministry among the female shoeshiners. This need will remain in my heart and prayers as I discern the Lord's will for my future work in Bolivia.