Everyday Life in Costa Rica

Some have asked about our weekly rhythms in Costa Rica. So, we thought we’d provide a brief overview.

Almost every day we wake up at 5:15 AM to the chatter of the wild parrots that live in our backyard. They are bright green with red under their wings. Parrots live in pairs and they make quite a racket. Alarm clocks are definitely not needed!

After a brief time of prayer, Pam and I go about our morning routines. This invariably involves me taking Millie on a walk through the trails in our neighborhood. I have met dozens of people during these walks…most are native English-speakers. Pam and I are amazed at how many “Gringos” live in our development. A gaggle of English-speaking girls have “adopted” Pam as their “grandma.” Once or twice a week they stop by unannounced to chat with Pam and she loves it!

Pam and I leave the house at 8:15 AM four mornings a week for the gym and/or pool. After we exercise, I often have recurring ministry meetings at a spectacular outdoor restaurant. Pam heads home while I walk to the restaurant for my meetings. I wear shorts all year long. The idyllic restaurant setting is gorgeous and never gets old.

I have my office at home. So, once I get back to the house, I have emails to respond to, EFC communications to write, dates to calendarize and general office work. This is the first time in many years I do not have a full-time administrative assistant. As a result, I have learned to do many things for myself that used to be done for me. This has been a humbling learning process that has been healthy for my soul.

Usually, I work on messages on Tuesday and Wednesday. I normally have our worship planning meeting on Thursday. Friday and Saturday we intentionally schedule free time as we rest-up for Sunday.

Pam, of course, has plenty to keep her busy throughout the week. In addition to ministry appointments, she keeps to house running smoothly with groceries, meals, managing occasional workmen and seemingly forever buying plants to add to the backyard Shangri-La she is creating.

Occasionally, in the evening we have people over for ministry. But most evenings are quiet. It gets dark in Costa Rica by 6:00 PM all year long. As the sun sets, Pam and I enjoy sitting in the backyard in our pergola talking about the day before we have dinner.  

On Sunday, I leave for the Aloft Hotel at 8:15 AM. We have a team of four people that arrive early to set up our equipment. We have our service “run-through” at 10:00 AM. By 10:30 AM our goal is to have everything ready for people to arrive. Our service begins at 11:05 AM and finishes at 12:10 PM. Following the service, we offer free pastries, snacks and coffee during a fellowship time. Most people stick around for this and “the buzz” in the room is exhilarating.

After the service, we pack everything up, load it into vehicles and head home. Pam and I usually get back to the house about 1:15 PM or so. Sunday afternoon is mostly quiet. Even though we “only” have one service at ECF, Pam and I are still tuckered out once we get back to the house.

However, not a day goes by when we are not thankful for honor of serving the Lord in Costa Rica during this chapter of our lives. We deeply appreciate your ongoing prayers and support. God is at work and we are having the time of our lives!

Warmly,

Steve and Pam