I am overdue on writing this post, but I thought it was worth sharing. Back in November, we had a lot of things on the to do list the weekend after Thanksgiving. We traditionally decorate the house for Christmas that Saturday and Rich was just getting back from a conference and trip to the capital, in addition to a last minute trip to our town by a pastor from a neighboring country. As if all that were not enough, we had our regular time of letting the kids go out to play with the neighborhood children and the ensuing refereeing of arguments, etc., with other children.
Some children had been playing in front of the house and had come into the courtyard to get a drink of water. That was not a problem until our children had gone back out side but the neighbor kids were still in the courtyard. I stepped outside our door to ask them politely to go outside the gate. Most were understanding but one decided to be sassy/ cheeky towards me. He went a step too far. I tried to talk with him and he ran away. I foolishly tried to catch him, since I was wearing a long snug skirt, so it was no surprise when I tripped and fell scraping my elbow. It was also foolish to try to chase a boy whose parents I knew. It was my foolish thinking to try to catch him, but his foolishness to be rude to someone who knows his parents. I dusted myself off and went directly to visit his parents.
I hated to wake his mother who was sleeping because she was sick. I asked to speak to his father, and one of the older children went to get him. He entered the living room and woke his wife. I told them what he had done. I told them that I would want to know if my child had done something like that, so I felt sure they would want to know as well. I know they try to be good parents and would not want their child behaving that way. They apologized. Then the father began going on about how much television the children watch and what type of shows they should not be allowed to watch. I was not going to speak on that but rather let them make their own minds up about that. I left their house with the air being clear and our relationship as neighbors in tact. I guess television is an issue no matter which side of the ocean one lives on.
As a side note, the mother sent over a bunch of grapefruits a few days later. Good neighbors!
About Me
- Lisa
- Hello, I am a mother of three living with my husband in Africa. I have been blogging for seven years but still find myself very technologically challenged. I make lots of mistakes, but life is a journey. Come join me on the journey!
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Giving to the Poor at Christmas
Last week, I had decided to deliver some food staples to a few people as preparation for giving to others in celebration of the gift of God in the giving of His Son Jesus. Actually I had decided a few months ago that I was wanting to give to a couple of ladies in particular. Unfortunately, whenever it worked out that I was going to do it, it was very close to one of the local holidays and I did not want there to be any confusion about why I was giving the items. I did not want to be thought of as anything other than a follower of Jesus nor that my gift was a sacrifice to gain bonus points with God. In addition, most of the people around us would be considered poor by American standards and giving to anyone at those holidays opens a can of worms for others that are in need. It was just easier to say that we were not giving at all at those holidays because we are not of that religion.
Last Friday I finally delivered on something God had laid upon my heart to do. The first house was a widow whose husband died just a few months ago and she is still in her time of mourning, meaning she does not leave the house. I took some rice and a few others items that are basics for cooking along with a package of cookies for the children. The kids were excited and I got to pray with the widow. I shared with her why we celebrate Christmas, the birth of the promised Savior, and that Jesus had also taught us to give to others as well. They were very appreciative and kind. The widow was fasting that day but was going to go out later to get food, but now she did not have to go searching for food. God provides just in time.
The other stop was made that afternoon. It had been a while since I had been to the house, so I thought I was lost when a house was being built in the way of the route I had gone before. I did not recognize the way, but eventually just kept driving from what I remembered and found the house. I was trying to be inconspicuous but that is impossible for a white person to do around here, especially one caring a rather heavy bag of rice, etc. This house was the residence of my lettuce lady from the market whose husband had died about the end of February. I gave them the items for which they too were grateful. I met some other members of the family, including the widow's mother who is paralyzed from the waist down, as best I can understand it. I shared with them like I did at the other house, about the real meaning of Christmas and how we are taught to care for others as well. A male family member was there visiting who interjected that Jesus had no father, a comment which took me a bit off guard. The comment is not uncommon in this setting, but I was just not anticipating it right then. So as to expound though on what he had said, I turned to the story of the angel's appearing to Mary. It would both explain that he had no earthly biological father and thus the reason that Jesus is called the Son of God. I ended my time with them by praying for the elderly mother's health and the children's school as well as peace for the family. Before I left, they gave me some lettuce and tomatoes to bring home.
How strange it feels sometimes to be given when one goes to give. I was giving out of my abundance, while they were giving out of their poverty. Of course that brings to mind how much God has given to me, and how little I have to give back to Him. Oh that I would be as grateful as that family and as ready to give back to Him as they were to give to me.
Last Friday I finally delivered on something God had laid upon my heart to do. The first house was a widow whose husband died just a few months ago and she is still in her time of mourning, meaning she does not leave the house. I took some rice and a few others items that are basics for cooking along with a package of cookies for the children. The kids were excited and I got to pray with the widow. I shared with her why we celebrate Christmas, the birth of the promised Savior, and that Jesus had also taught us to give to others as well. They were very appreciative and kind. The widow was fasting that day but was going to go out later to get food, but now she did not have to go searching for food. God provides just in time.
The other stop was made that afternoon. It had been a while since I had been to the house, so I thought I was lost when a house was being built in the way of the route I had gone before. I did not recognize the way, but eventually just kept driving from what I remembered and found the house. I was trying to be inconspicuous but that is impossible for a white person to do around here, especially one caring a rather heavy bag of rice, etc. This house was the residence of my lettuce lady from the market whose husband had died about the end of February. I gave them the items for which they too were grateful. I met some other members of the family, including the widow's mother who is paralyzed from the waist down, as best I can understand it. I shared with them like I did at the other house, about the real meaning of Christmas and how we are taught to care for others as well. A male family member was there visiting who interjected that Jesus had no father, a comment which took me a bit off guard. The comment is not uncommon in this setting, but I was just not anticipating it right then. So as to expound though on what he had said, I turned to the story of the angel's appearing to Mary. It would both explain that he had no earthly biological father and thus the reason that Jesus is called the Son of God. I ended my time with them by praying for the elderly mother's health and the children's school as well as peace for the family. Before I left, they gave me some lettuce and tomatoes to bring home.
How strange it feels sometimes to be given when one goes to give. I was giving out of my abundance, while they were giving out of their poverty. Of course that brings to mind how much God has given to me, and how little I have to give back to Him. Oh that I would be as grateful as that family and as ready to give back to Him as they were to give to me.
Monday, October 3, 2011
World Hunger Day!
Sunday, October 9, 2011 is World Hunger Day. It may seem a little overwhelming to think about that concept and how much hunger is actually in the world. Let me share a story with you that might bring the idea a little closer to home.
Back in April a nearby village had a fire. It destroyed many homes and a large chunk of their stored food. It was not yet time for planting and the rains were still at least a month away, so a long time remained before the harvest would be ready. Some of our team went to survey the damage and see what could possibly be done to help. The government had done the same thing and brought staples out quickly but then left and seemingly forgot about the people. Our team continued to visit and check on them. After close evaluation, petition was made to the World Hunger Relief to help this village. Funds were provided. Rice and grain were purchased and delivered. A door was open!
A team member shared the Good News. Some were not interested, but others were. Tapes were handed out. Team members continued to go out to check on the village.
Somewhere along the way a tape got into the hands of others from another village. They came to our town seeking out someone to come tell them the Good News as well.
A few team members went out to share more at each of these two villages. As they shared at the second village, a visitor from yet another village heard and wanted someone to come to tell their village these stories as well.
Now these team members are going out to story in three villages over the course of two days every week. These people may not have heard had it not been for a fire and World Hunger Relief.
The sad news is that the World Hunger Relief Fund is very low. It may only be able to operate another couple of months, unless something drastically changes. Giving to this fund has not been able to keep up with droughts, famines, hurricanes, tsunamis, and the like.
Please consider how you can be a part of bringing the Good News to hurting people.
Back in April a nearby village had a fire. It destroyed many homes and a large chunk of their stored food. It was not yet time for planting and the rains were still at least a month away, so a long time remained before the harvest would be ready. Some of our team went to survey the damage and see what could possibly be done to help. The government had done the same thing and brought staples out quickly but then left and seemingly forgot about the people. Our team continued to visit and check on them. After close evaluation, petition was made to the World Hunger Relief to help this village. Funds were provided. Rice and grain were purchased and delivered. A door was open!
A team member shared the Good News. Some were not interested, but others were. Tapes were handed out. Team members continued to go out to check on the village.
Somewhere along the way a tape got into the hands of others from another village. They came to our town seeking out someone to come tell them the Good News as well.
A few team members went out to share more at each of these two villages. As they shared at the second village, a visitor from yet another village heard and wanted someone to come to tell their village these stories as well.
Now these team members are going out to story in three villages over the course of two days every week. These people may not have heard had it not been for a fire and World Hunger Relief.
The sad news is that the World Hunger Relief Fund is very low. It may only be able to operate another couple of months, unless something drastically changes. Giving to this fund has not been able to keep up with droughts, famines, hurricanes, tsunamis, and the like.
Please consider how you can be a part of bringing the Good News to hurting people.
Saturday, September 3, 2011
This is too much!!
Recently, I came to the point of saying, "This is too much!!" I didn't just say it once, but actually came to that point at least 3 different times in one month.
I am a people-pleaser by nature. I struggle terribly if I know someone is upset about something. I think of every reason in the world why someone may be upset. I have been freed from this by the love of the Father and freed to please just Him, but it does not mean that it does not still run through my mind. The longer it goes unresolved, the worse it is.
Working with other people and personalities can be difficult. Trying to communicate is a challenge because you have stuff going on in the speaker, stuff in the hearer, and stuff going on around that clouds things. I had done something that had offended a team mate. Due to various circumstances, we were not able to resolve things for a time, waiting for us to be in the same place to talk. In the end I had offended in spite of trying to not offend in a different way. I love the foot-in-mouth taste!
Then I had to sit down with a local sister. Over the course of the last year, I had made a number of cultural mistakes that had offended her and others. I have no idea how many others I had offended because I was culturally unaware. It is a reminder that it is not enough to learn another language. Language is the least of our differences. It hurt my heart to know that I had offended her and that she had been bearing all of this so long.
As if all that had not been enough, I had spent so much time getting ready for and starting home school that I admittedly gave scraps to my husband. When we did spend time together, I was so tired and grumpy that I was not pleasant to be around. I had a terrible case of cabin fever as well from focusing on it so much as well. As a result our marriage relationship was strained, though I was trying my best with what I had left over. But that was just it, leftovers.
In just about every relationship possible, I had come to the point of it just being too much. In every instance, too, it was almost completely me. I needed to get out of my tunnel vision. I needed to set my sights on the One above all of those little things. "Be Thou My Vision" When I am worried about my stuff, I inevitably fall. When I focus too much on others and worry about saying or doing every little thing just right, I fail. When my eyes are set on Him, my paths are made smooth. Help me, Father, to seek You and Your Kingdom first.
I am a people-pleaser by nature. I struggle terribly if I know someone is upset about something. I think of every reason in the world why someone may be upset. I have been freed from this by the love of the Father and freed to please just Him, but it does not mean that it does not still run through my mind. The longer it goes unresolved, the worse it is.
Working with other people and personalities can be difficult. Trying to communicate is a challenge because you have stuff going on in the speaker, stuff in the hearer, and stuff going on around that clouds things. I had done something that had offended a team mate. Due to various circumstances, we were not able to resolve things for a time, waiting for us to be in the same place to talk. In the end I had offended in spite of trying to not offend in a different way. I love the foot-in-mouth taste!
Then I had to sit down with a local sister. Over the course of the last year, I had made a number of cultural mistakes that had offended her and others. I have no idea how many others I had offended because I was culturally unaware. It is a reminder that it is not enough to learn another language. Language is the least of our differences. It hurt my heart to know that I had offended her and that she had been bearing all of this so long.
As if all that had not been enough, I had spent so much time getting ready for and starting home school that I admittedly gave scraps to my husband. When we did spend time together, I was so tired and grumpy that I was not pleasant to be around. I had a terrible case of cabin fever as well from focusing on it so much as well. As a result our marriage relationship was strained, though I was trying my best with what I had left over. But that was just it, leftovers.
In just about every relationship possible, I had come to the point of it just being too much. In every instance, too, it was almost completely me. I needed to get out of my tunnel vision. I needed to set my sights on the One above all of those little things. "Be Thou My Vision" When I am worried about my stuff, I inevitably fall. When I focus too much on others and worry about saying or doing every little thing just right, I fail. When my eyes are set on Him, my paths are made smooth. Help me, Father, to seek You and Your Kingdom first.
We have abandoned....
This is the follow up to "This is why we are here" and "Some who have never heard have now heard."
I had gone with a local sister on a Thursday in May and answered a lot of questions for a gentleman. Then we went back as a family to share with the entire village the following Tuesday in June. The response had been, "Thanks but no thanks. Don't call us; we'll call you." So we waited. We waited for four weeks. Then out of a need to just check on them, we called on a Tuesday.
The response was "I am so glad you called. I wanted to call but had no phone credit. Please come back and share more."
So we went back on the first Saturday in July. We were running a little later than we had planned and saw storm clouds as we approached the village. We were afraid we would have to excuse ourselves after just arriving if the rain actually began to fall. Before we could say anything, the people gathered were quick to tell us we would have to leave if the rain came. The only good road to get there would be covered over if too much rain came. They asked us to please get started quickly before the rains did. We got through the story and covered a comprehension question or two. The rain began. They thanked us and told us we needed to leave. As we left a little boy "greeted" our truck by running into it while running. Thankfully God kept the little boy from getting seriously injured.
We returned the next week. We planned to review the story from the previous week and were ready with a new one as well. Those gathered listened politely enough but still seemed distracted. They asked if we had any tapes or books in their language. We had a few. We gave them what we had. Then they asked about us having people from other villages come to meet with them, but it would mean changing the time we were going out there normally. That was no problem for us. However there was a problem. They were wanting to invite the people to come mid-morning. But then the group that was meeting would be expected to provide lunch for the guests. The house we have been meeting at though is headed by a widow and her son who is a youth. The men most faithful to meeting do not have the means to provide food for so many people, especially at this time of the year. (Last year's crops have run out and this year's have not yet come.) They were asking for us to provide the food. It would take too much space in this already long blog to explain, but the short version is that we were uncomfortable providing for everyone. We would provide for ourselves and a little more. We suggested that maybe everyone that came could bring a little to be cooked together there. We promised to pray about it and get back with them later in the week.
We called them to say that we could not help at this point but that we would be there on Saturday to talk with them. Once again we went prepared to review the stories of the previous weeks. Before we could even begin, the men that gathered obviously had something on their minds.
They asked us the same question they had asked us every other time. We thought we had answered the question but obviously not if they were asking it again. "How do we enter The Road?" We talked about believing and praying and having faith. We thought they were asking for the 5 things they had to do, as they were used to doing. We said they had to choose to follow just one way because you have two feet but can only be on one road. They agreed. We told them there was not a quick list to check off. Rich drew two parallel lines in the sand to show the idea of them not being the same and choosing. One of the men, politely, changed Rich's picture to perpendicular lines. He then wiped away the other one saying, "We have abandoned the other way. We are on this road."
So the question actually was not about entering but rather how or what it means to be on it. We answered a lot of questions and read a lot from The Book about what it means to be Family. They have already been out sharing but were having problems with taking care of their fields as well. We explained that they could share the load of sharing at other villages. If each agreed to go to a different village, none would have to leave their fields for more than an afternoon or so. They agreed that this was doable.
The rains have now come and the road to get to this village is barely above water, at our last visit. In addition, when it isn't raining they are needing to be at their field. Please lift up these men to be bold in the time until we can get out to them again. Lift up the literal and spiritual fields to be abundant in harvest. Also lift these men up that they may not be swayed nor distracted from the Truth.
I had gone with a local sister on a Thursday in May and answered a lot of questions for a gentleman. Then we went back as a family to share with the entire village the following Tuesday in June. The response had been, "Thanks but no thanks. Don't call us; we'll call you." So we waited. We waited for four weeks. Then out of a need to just check on them, we called on a Tuesday.
The response was "I am so glad you called. I wanted to call but had no phone credit. Please come back and share more."
So we went back on the first Saturday in July. We were running a little later than we had planned and saw storm clouds as we approached the village. We were afraid we would have to excuse ourselves after just arriving if the rain actually began to fall. Before we could say anything, the people gathered were quick to tell us we would have to leave if the rain came. The only good road to get there would be covered over if too much rain came. They asked us to please get started quickly before the rains did. We got through the story and covered a comprehension question or two. The rain began. They thanked us and told us we needed to leave. As we left a little boy "greeted" our truck by running into it while running. Thankfully God kept the little boy from getting seriously injured.
We returned the next week. We planned to review the story from the previous week and were ready with a new one as well. Those gathered listened politely enough but still seemed distracted. They asked if we had any tapes or books in their language. We had a few. We gave them what we had. Then they asked about us having people from other villages come to meet with them, but it would mean changing the time we were going out there normally. That was no problem for us. However there was a problem. They were wanting to invite the people to come mid-morning. But then the group that was meeting would be expected to provide lunch for the guests. The house we have been meeting at though is headed by a widow and her son who is a youth. The men most faithful to meeting do not have the means to provide food for so many people, especially at this time of the year. (Last year's crops have run out and this year's have not yet come.) They were asking for us to provide the food. It would take too much space in this already long blog to explain, but the short version is that we were uncomfortable providing for everyone. We would provide for ourselves and a little more. We suggested that maybe everyone that came could bring a little to be cooked together there. We promised to pray about it and get back with them later in the week.
We called them to say that we could not help at this point but that we would be there on Saturday to talk with them. Once again we went prepared to review the stories of the previous weeks. Before we could even begin, the men that gathered obviously had something on their minds.
They asked us the same question they had asked us every other time. We thought we had answered the question but obviously not if they were asking it again. "How do we enter The Road?" We talked about believing and praying and having faith. We thought they were asking for the 5 things they had to do, as they were used to doing. We said they had to choose to follow just one way because you have two feet but can only be on one road. They agreed. We told them there was not a quick list to check off. Rich drew two parallel lines in the sand to show the idea of them not being the same and choosing. One of the men, politely, changed Rich's picture to perpendicular lines. He then wiped away the other one saying, "We have abandoned the other way. We are on this road."
So the question actually was not about entering but rather how or what it means to be on it. We answered a lot of questions and read a lot from The Book about what it means to be Family. They have already been out sharing but were having problems with taking care of their fields as well. We explained that they could share the load of sharing at other villages. If each agreed to go to a different village, none would have to leave their fields for more than an afternoon or so. They agreed that this was doable.
The rains have now come and the road to get to this village is barely above water, at our last visit. In addition, when it isn't raining they are needing to be at their field. Please lift up these men to be bold in the time until we can get out to them again. Lift up the literal and spiritual fields to be abundant in harvest. Also lift these men up that they may not be swayed nor distracted from the Truth.
A broken and contrite heart.
Today's lesson came through my child, although I guess a lot of my lessons do. Yesterday Mariama had a hard time obeying, specifically her daddy. It was not new stuff but a handful of things all on the same day. Daddy had given her a direct order, but then she disobeyed as soon as daddy stepped inside. She has specific boundaries of where she can play outside and she is only to be out there when one of us is there to watch her. She ran from the back courtyard to the front and out the door. I stepped out to say she needed to come back since we were not out there. Not only had she gone outside, but she had gone beyond the boundaries. Then last night as they went to bed, she was playing as Rich put them to bed. He told her to stop but she did not. After a couple of warnings, she was made to get in her bed rather than sleep on the cushions they had laid on the floor. She had her immediate punishment, but something more needed to be done after the repeated disobedience of the day.
A few weeks ago Mariama and Lydia-Ann had gone over to our househelper's house to play. Mariama had asked if they could go again sometime. I told our househelper how much Mariama was wanting to go again. Thursday our househelper said she wanted to take all three of the children on Saturday morning. We agreed as long as all of them were well. However, after yesterday's behavior, we just could not trust Mariama to behave out of our sight if she could not do so in our sight. Thus we allowed William and Lydia-Ann to go today but Mariama stayed home.
I had to make it clear to Mariama that this was not going to be playtime with Mommy and Daddy. This was a consequence of her actions. No buying treats at the market run which needed to be made. No going to drive on the airport runway when going to dump the bag of dirty diapers. No tea parties. No fun. Chores and playing by herself were on the agenda. Even at that, I started to worry that the point was not being made. As lunch time approached though, she fell into tears about missing William. She was lonely without him, and she was having to do chores while he was having fun. I asked her if it felt good to be as sad as she was. She said that it was not good. I told her that her daddy and I felt just that bad if not worse yesterday when she disobeyed. She seemed to understand then, but only time will tell.
As hard as it was for me to see my little girl hurting, I knew that it would take a moment of brokenness for her to be truly repentant. Isn't that the way it is for me though? If I am in my sin and I get a slap on the wrist or even a little "spanking" that hurts for brief moment, I em quick to return to it. However if the pain I feel brings me to tears and brokenness, I am more likely to actually change my ways. Some people mistakenly think God relishes the times that we are broken. I think instead that His heart breaks just as mine did to see Mariama so sad. Rather it is the restoration of relationship that He relishes. (As a disclaimer, I am not saying that all times that we are broken and come to tears is due to our sin. Sometimes it is due to the sin of others. But sometimes it is our sin, and it is this that I am speaking of now.)
A few weeks ago Mariama and Lydia-Ann had gone over to our househelper's house to play. Mariama had asked if they could go again sometime. I told our househelper how much Mariama was wanting to go again. Thursday our househelper said she wanted to take all three of the children on Saturday morning. We agreed as long as all of them were well. However, after yesterday's behavior, we just could not trust Mariama to behave out of our sight if she could not do so in our sight. Thus we allowed William and Lydia-Ann to go today but Mariama stayed home.
I had to make it clear to Mariama that this was not going to be playtime with Mommy and Daddy. This was a consequence of her actions. No buying treats at the market run which needed to be made. No going to drive on the airport runway when going to dump the bag of dirty diapers. No tea parties. No fun. Chores and playing by herself were on the agenda. Even at that, I started to worry that the point was not being made. As lunch time approached though, she fell into tears about missing William. She was lonely without him, and she was having to do chores while he was having fun. I asked her if it felt good to be as sad as she was. She said that it was not good. I told her that her daddy and I felt just that bad if not worse yesterday when she disobeyed. She seemed to understand then, but only time will tell.
As hard as it was for me to see my little girl hurting, I knew that it would take a moment of brokenness for her to be truly repentant. Isn't that the way it is for me though? If I am in my sin and I get a slap on the wrist or even a little "spanking" that hurts for brief moment, I em quick to return to it. However if the pain I feel brings me to tears and brokenness, I am more likely to actually change my ways. Some people mistakenly think God relishes the times that we are broken. I think instead that His heart breaks just as mine did to see Mariama so sad. Rather it is the restoration of relationship that He relishes. (As a disclaimer, I am not saying that all times that we are broken and come to tears is due to our sin. Sometimes it is due to the sin of others. But sometimes it is our sin, and it is this that I am speaking of now.)
Monday, June 6, 2011
Some who have never heard have begun to hear!
This blog is the sequel to "This is why we are here". We went as a family the day after that post to the village where I had gone the week before. We called as we were on the way to let them know we were indeed coming. We arrived and the gentleman that I had spoken with the time before began gathering everyone.
When everyone was gathered, our language helper and friend introduced us and our work. I prayed for us as we began. Afterwards, Rich shared an overview of the Word, from creation to the Son. When he was done, he invited those listening to ask questions. Some really great questions were asked. Rich did a great job of answering, though at times having help from our friend to make sure the words were very clear.
Overall the response was, "Thank you; we're happy. But don't call us, we'll call you." It was left open-ended in case anyone there was interested, though most did not seem so. However, one could sense the Helper working in some of their hearts. Now we wait to hear from them and for the Father to bring the fruit. Our responsibility is to be obedient. Join us in petitioning Dad to give dreams and visions of what is true to those who heard.
When everyone was gathered, our language helper and friend introduced us and our work. I prayed for us as we began. Afterwards, Rich shared an overview of the Word, from creation to the Son. When he was done, he invited those listening to ask questions. Some really great questions were asked. Rich did a great job of answering, though at times having help from our friend to make sure the words were very clear.
Overall the response was, "Thank you; we're happy. But don't call us, we'll call you." It was left open-ended in case anyone there was interested, though most did not seem so. However, one could sense the Helper working in some of their hearts. Now we wait to hear from them and for the Father to bring the fruit. Our responsibility is to be obedient. Join us in petitioning Dad to give dreams and visions of what is true to those who heard.
Monday, May 30, 2011
This is why we are here!
Lately, it seems that I am constantly striving to find balance in my life. One week I hardly get out of the house for anything, and cabin fever quickly sets in on me. Another week, I get out more than I expected, but then I find myself getting way behind on the kids' home school. Recently, Rich has begun to help me do some of the teaching for home school a few hours at a time, so that I can get other things accomplished and he can do what he needs to as well.
Last week, it came to my attention that a trip needed to be made to a village to which I have gone once. I was going to have language class early that morning, but then I could go---if Rich would cover a whole day of home school. That was going to be more than he had done before, but I was confident that he could do it.
After class, I came by the house to pick up Lydia-Ann, and then we headed out to pick up a local "sister". We headed out to the village, but the day was quickly getting away from us. We arrived and did the usual greeting. A gentleman arrived and after a while inquired why no one had come back to teach them. A volunteer team had come last year and taught a few stories, but they have not returned yet. This "sister" translates for most of our teams, so she explained that she had not returned because the volunteers had not. I explained that we have work here in town, but that we would be glad to come teach if someone was waiting.
The gentleman then began asking questions, some really good questions. Our "sister" let me answer and then would help me know what needed to be clearer based on the expression the man showed in response to my words. He asked for clarification on who wrote the Book, what the cross was, and from where the Son came. I tried my best to answer all of these and explain the virgin birth. Wow! "Sister" said we would ask the ladies for questions after lunch. Before we could do that though, he asked for Rich and I to come back to teach the people there, about twenty to twenty-five people on the next Tuesday.
Wow! This is why we are here. To share the Truth with those that are hungry. This man was hungry and had gotten just enough from the volunteers to whet his appetite. I still feel so inadequate to share the Word, because I just do not know if I can answer all the questions that will arise in a way that he can understand clearly. However, the Spirit filled and spoke on that day, and He is faithful to be there the next time. Tomorrow we go to the village to share with them all. Our "sister" will be going with us to serve as back up. Lift up our family as we go to share, because the enemy does not let go of his territory without a fight and the road to get there is rough.
Last week, it came to my attention that a trip needed to be made to a village to which I have gone once. I was going to have language class early that morning, but then I could go---if Rich would cover a whole day of home school. That was going to be more than he had done before, but I was confident that he could do it.
After class, I came by the house to pick up Lydia-Ann, and then we headed out to pick up a local "sister". We headed out to the village, but the day was quickly getting away from us. We arrived and did the usual greeting. A gentleman arrived and after a while inquired why no one had come back to teach them. A volunteer team had come last year and taught a few stories, but they have not returned yet. This "sister" translates for most of our teams, so she explained that she had not returned because the volunteers had not. I explained that we have work here in town, but that we would be glad to come teach if someone was waiting.
The gentleman then began asking questions, some really good questions. Our "sister" let me answer and then would help me know what needed to be clearer based on the expression the man showed in response to my words. He asked for clarification on who wrote the Book, what the cross was, and from where the Son came. I tried my best to answer all of these and explain the virgin birth. Wow! "Sister" said we would ask the ladies for questions after lunch. Before we could do that though, he asked for Rich and I to come back to teach the people there, about twenty to twenty-five people on the next Tuesday.
Wow! This is why we are here. To share the Truth with those that are hungry. This man was hungry and had gotten just enough from the volunteers to whet his appetite. I still feel so inadequate to share the Word, because I just do not know if I can answer all the questions that will arise in a way that he can understand clearly. However, the Spirit filled and spoke on that day, and He is faithful to be there the next time. Tomorrow we go to the village to share with them all. Our "sister" will be going with us to serve as back up. Lift up our family as we go to share, because the enemy does not let go of his territory without a fight and the road to get there is rough.
Trying to help can get someone into trouble.
A few weeks ago, we were getting ready to go out to the village with a friend. We were running a little late, so my friend came by to see what was taking us so long. I was so glad she did because a girl came by while she was at the door. The teenage girl came to me with a sob story. It was one you could hardly believe was true, but it would break your heart if it was. I wanted to help but we were on our way to the village. I asked my friend if the girl could stay at our house until we returned and could figure out what to do for her. We took the girl to my friend's house. We explained the situation to her husband, who agreed to let the girl stay there for the day. After spending the day at the village, I went to visit my friend and her husband. I said i wanted to help the girl but that it was not prudent for her to stay at our house. I asked if she could stay at their house, while we figured out where the girl belonged. I took them some food to help out in caring for the girl.
The next day the girl came to visit me at my house. She had originally asked for a teammate, so I let the teammate talk to the girl. I thought the teammate would know her, but she did not. We got a little more of the story, but I also realized that some of the details changed. I decided to investigate the next day, when I would be going to language class.
I went to language class on day 3 of the saga. My language teacher informed me that it was not wise to have a minor stay in the house without going to the police first, because the police could come after the person sheltering the child. I planned to go to my friend's family to suggest we take the girl to the police, once my class was over.
Before I headed home, though, I decided to check out more of the girl's story. My teacher went with me to ask a neighbor that the girl mentioned if the girl had ever worked for her. The neighbor had never even heard of a girl by that name. We explained the situation. A neighbor across the way heard us talking. She said that the story sounded like the daughter of another neighbor of theirs who had run away a few days before. My teacher went to see the other neighbor. The father and the mother of the runaway girl agreed that they thought this was their daughter. I brought the mother and my teacher to my house.
I went to get my friend and the girl from my friend's house. As we neared my house, the girl got increasingly more nervous about what was happening. As we approached the gate, she took off running. We searched all over for her to no avail. I took the mom over to my friend's house to talk out what had happened. The mother reaffirmed that this behavior was normal for her daughter. I took the mother and my teacher home, just as I had said I would.
That afternoon the father and mother of the girl came to see my friend and her husband. Understandably the father was upset about the situation. When emotions are high, things can be said or taken in a way that one does not intend. When there is a problem, individuals are supposed to go to a mediator, who might be the chief, to get things straightened out. If that does not work, then one proceeds to the police or court. The father went to the police and came back with an order for my friend's husband to appear at the police station the next day.
Since I was the one who took the girl to the house and asked my friend's husband to let the girl stay there, I could not very well leave him to take the fall for everything. I resolved to go with him to give my testimony to the police, as did my teammate. Though the town we live in is a good size and is what we might call a county seat, the police have only one officer in charge of listening to and recording testimonies. A more pressing incident happened, so our case was put on hold until the officer finally asked us to come back the next day.
Our langauge teacher had come and we were standing outside the police station with her. She is well known in our town. A gentleman from the government building came over to greet her. She told him a bit of the situation, but he wanted to hear the whole story in his office. We went to his office to discuss the situation. He understood but also understood where both sides had made errors. He asked us all to return with the father to fully address the situation. We did. The gentleman asked the father to please forgive the situation and to release the police papers.
Often it is about who you know. It is also about following proper protocol on handling situations.
"In all things, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone."
The next day the girl came to visit me at my house. She had originally asked for a teammate, so I let the teammate talk to the girl. I thought the teammate would know her, but she did not. We got a little more of the story, but I also realized that some of the details changed. I decided to investigate the next day, when I would be going to language class.
I went to language class on day 3 of the saga. My language teacher informed me that it was not wise to have a minor stay in the house without going to the police first, because the police could come after the person sheltering the child. I planned to go to my friend's family to suggest we take the girl to the police, once my class was over.
Before I headed home, though, I decided to check out more of the girl's story. My teacher went with me to ask a neighbor that the girl mentioned if the girl had ever worked for her. The neighbor had never even heard of a girl by that name. We explained the situation. A neighbor across the way heard us talking. She said that the story sounded like the daughter of another neighbor of theirs who had run away a few days before. My teacher went to see the other neighbor. The father and the mother of the runaway girl agreed that they thought this was their daughter. I brought the mother and my teacher to my house.
I went to get my friend and the girl from my friend's house. As we neared my house, the girl got increasingly more nervous about what was happening. As we approached the gate, she took off running. We searched all over for her to no avail. I took the mom over to my friend's house to talk out what had happened. The mother reaffirmed that this behavior was normal for her daughter. I took the mother and my teacher home, just as I had said I would.
That afternoon the father and mother of the girl came to see my friend and her husband. Understandably the father was upset about the situation. When emotions are high, things can be said or taken in a way that one does not intend. When there is a problem, individuals are supposed to go to a mediator, who might be the chief, to get things straightened out. If that does not work, then one proceeds to the police or court. The father went to the police and came back with an order for my friend's husband to appear at the police station the next day.
Since I was the one who took the girl to the house and asked my friend's husband to let the girl stay there, I could not very well leave him to take the fall for everything. I resolved to go with him to give my testimony to the police, as did my teammate. Though the town we live in is a good size and is what we might call a county seat, the police have only one officer in charge of listening to and recording testimonies. A more pressing incident happened, so our case was put on hold until the officer finally asked us to come back the next day.
Our langauge teacher had come and we were standing outside the police station with her. She is well known in our town. A gentleman from the government building came over to greet her. She told him a bit of the situation, but he wanted to hear the whole story in his office. We went to his office to discuss the situation. He understood but also understood where both sides had made errors. He asked us all to return with the father to fully address the situation. We did. The gentleman asked the father to please forgive the situation and to release the police papers.
Often it is about who you know. It is also about following proper protocol on handling situations.
"In all things, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone."
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Mariama the Evangelist part 2
Mariama went outside when she got done with her home school work on Friday. She was visiting with our day guard and a friend of his who spoke English. I thought Mariama was telling the other young man about teaching him English. She was also telling him that she would be willing to study the Word with him if he wanted to learn more about the Truth. She was almost overwhelmed that she now had several people to whom she would teach the Word.
The following day a man came by that I did not recognize and was asking for Mariama. It seemed very strange to me, so Rich went out with her. It was the young man from the previous day.
Today, I was visiting with a teammate, who also has our day guard work once a week at her house. She said he was retelling what had happened with Mariama the day before. Mariama was talking with the friend and then the friend was translating for our guard. She said that they questioned whether it was really Mariama or some spirit, because she was talking so seriously about things much too advanced for a 5 year old. My reaction was that it was indeed a spirit--the Holy Spirit. The Author promises that His word will not return void and that no speaking of the Truth is wasted.
Mariama has a clear vision for what we are supposed to be doing. She also has quite a personality, but this is an example of that personality being channeled in the right direction. She is a little ball of fire!
The following day a man came by that I did not recognize and was asking for Mariama. It seemed very strange to me, so Rich went out with her. It was the young man from the previous day.
Today, I was visiting with a teammate, who also has our day guard work once a week at her house. She said he was retelling what had happened with Mariama the day before. Mariama was talking with the friend and then the friend was translating for our guard. She said that they questioned whether it was really Mariama or some spirit, because she was talking so seriously about things much too advanced for a 5 year old. My reaction was that it was indeed a spirit--the Holy Spirit. The Author promises that His word will not return void and that no speaking of the Truth is wasted.
Mariama has a clear vision for what we are supposed to be doing. She also has quite a personality, but this is an example of that personality being channeled in the right direction. She is a little ball of fire!
How do you handle problems with neighbors?
In April, we had an incident with some neighborhood girls. We often struggle against neighborhood kids who think that normal rules of politeness in this culture do not apply to us, because of our skin color. For instance, one must always greet properly, especially before asking for something. But often youth will come to us asking or even demanding something from us, having never respected us enough to greet us. They quickly find out that we actually do know the culture around here, and do not try it again. But in April, we had a different type of incident. It is not important to retell to all of you the incident, but I wanted to share with you how we got it resolved.
I told our house helper about the situation two days later. She was very upset and said we needed to go talk to them. We needed to let the girls and their families know that we would take them to the police if this ever occurred again. Her initial reaction was echoed by our language teacher, who said she would have chased them down and beat them. Our language teacher agreed with the house helper but took it a step further, in that we also needed to go talk to the chief of the neighborhood to let him know about the event, because the chief knows about everything that goes on in the neighborhood and is the step before the police. In the event we had to go to the police, the police would go to the chief for more information.
That afternoon our house helper went with us to track down a lead to find the girls that were involved and address them. To start with, the girls denied being any part of it. But Mariama was sure she recognized them and someone else came in to confirm it. Finally a girl confessed to being a part of it. She began to show signs of guilt and repented. She begged for forgiveness. We said we forgave her but also warned her if it was to happen again. She and a friend begged us not to go to the chief, but we insisted we must.
We went to the chief's home. Unfortunately he was out, so we left a message and asked him to come visit us. Our house helper went by to remind him as well. He did not show. We waited another day, and then we went back to the chief's house. We explained what happened and how we handled it. He wanted to make sure from what house the girls were. He understood the situation and thanked us for coming to him.
We want to feel at home in the place where we live, but I wonder if we will ever really feel like we belong.
I told our house helper about the situation two days later. She was very upset and said we needed to go talk to them. We needed to let the girls and their families know that we would take them to the police if this ever occurred again. Her initial reaction was echoed by our language teacher, who said she would have chased them down and beat them. Our language teacher agreed with the house helper but took it a step further, in that we also needed to go talk to the chief of the neighborhood to let him know about the event, because the chief knows about everything that goes on in the neighborhood and is the step before the police. In the event we had to go to the police, the police would go to the chief for more information.
That afternoon our house helper went with us to track down a lead to find the girls that were involved and address them. To start with, the girls denied being any part of it. But Mariama was sure she recognized them and someone else came in to confirm it. Finally a girl confessed to being a part of it. She began to show signs of guilt and repented. She begged for forgiveness. We said we forgave her but also warned her if it was to happen again. She and a friend begged us not to go to the chief, but we insisted we must.
We went to the chief's home. Unfortunately he was out, so we left a message and asked him to come visit us. Our house helper went by to remind him as well. He did not show. We waited another day, and then we went back to the chief's house. We explained what happened and how we handled it. He wanted to make sure from what house the girls were. He understood the situation and thanked us for coming to him.
We want to feel at home in the place where we live, but I wonder if we will ever really feel like we belong.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
William the Evangelist part 3
Since some time has passed by and I have very few details on the following events, I will group them together.
Once again in November, we were in our neighboring country doing some shopping. As often happens, some who work with those like us are believers and sometimes they are not yet believers. William found an opportunity to talk with a man who was working at the guest house at which we stayed. He was sharing with the man about Jesus and about getting to be a church if he told his friends. Later on, I came to find out that this man had at one time claimed to follow the Road but had since turned back to his old way because of many pressures from his family life. My prayer is that this man would be challenged by the words of this very bold, very young man to not forsake the Truth.
On this same trip, I am not exactly sure what, but I know that both William and Mariama were sharing with another man who was also working at the place at which we were staying.
Some time later back in our hometown, I had sent the children out to play, and then later I decided to go out to greet a friend as well. I saw them running by and asked where they were going. William said, "To tell someone about Jesus." "OK," was all I could get out. I did not know who nor how it had come about. Later I found out that the young man who spoke some English had told William that he wanted to learn more about the Jesus road. So he was going to tell him. William has since made several visits to this young man. Maybe Rich or one of the young men here who have been following the Truth will get to visit with this young man soon.
Both William and Mariama have told our house helper about Jesus in English. Unfortunately her English is not nearly as good. I know she has not understood most if any of what they have said. I pray though that I will soon be able to water whatever seeds they have planted and see fruit abundant.
Sometimes we who have been in the Family for too long get caught up in saying just the right words or even if we know enough to share. Sometimes those of us overseas get caught up in whether we know the language well enough yet to communicate clearly. As William and Mariama remind me, the important thing is to get the Good News out and then let the Almighty do the rest. We have told them that we are hear to tell the people about Jesus. When they ask how long we will be here, we tell them until the people have heard. So they are doing their part to make sure the people hear. Am I making the most of every opportunity like they are?? I need to get busy.
Once again in November, we were in our neighboring country doing some shopping. As often happens, some who work with those like us are believers and sometimes they are not yet believers. William found an opportunity to talk with a man who was working at the guest house at which we stayed. He was sharing with the man about Jesus and about getting to be a church if he told his friends. Later on, I came to find out that this man had at one time claimed to follow the Road but had since turned back to his old way because of many pressures from his family life. My prayer is that this man would be challenged by the words of this very bold, very young man to not forsake the Truth.
On this same trip, I am not exactly sure what, but I know that both William and Mariama were sharing with another man who was also working at the place at which we were staying.
Some time later back in our hometown, I had sent the children out to play, and then later I decided to go out to greet a friend as well. I saw them running by and asked where they were going. William said, "To tell someone about Jesus." "OK," was all I could get out. I did not know who nor how it had come about. Later I found out that the young man who spoke some English had told William that he wanted to learn more about the Jesus road. So he was going to tell him. William has since made several visits to this young man. Maybe Rich or one of the young men here who have been following the Truth will get to visit with this young man soon.
Both William and Mariama have told our house helper about Jesus in English. Unfortunately her English is not nearly as good. I know she has not understood most if any of what they have said. I pray though that I will soon be able to water whatever seeds they have planted and see fruit abundant.
Sometimes we who have been in the Family for too long get caught up in saying just the right words or even if we know enough to share. Sometimes those of us overseas get caught up in whether we know the language well enough yet to communicate clearly. As William and Mariama remind me, the important thing is to get the Good News out and then let the Almighty do the rest. We have told them that we are hear to tell the people about Jesus. When they ask how long we will be here, we tell them until the people have heard. So they are doing their part to make sure the people hear. Am I making the most of every opportunity like they are?? I need to get busy.
William the Evanglist part 2
Most of our team has either had or has the same language teacher that Rich and I have. She invites all of us to spend the day on all their major holidays. Last September was one of those days. The ladies sat near where the cooking was taking place. The men chatted. The children watched TV. From that aspect, it was not much different from holidays in the states.
Many times holidays can be good times for spiritual conversations. However, because it is our teacher's house, we all know that she has heard the Good News multiple times and it is likely that others in the home have as well. William had watched TV and played with the kids long enough I suppose. After lunch, the older boys/ young men had gone into the courtyard to make tea. William went out to join them. Among them was a young man that spoke some English. William told him that Jesus was not (just) a prophet and went on to tell more of the Good News. When he was done, he instructed the young man to tell his friends, so that they could have a church.
Not having been there, I do not know exactly what William told him nor of the young man's reaction, but I am sure seeds were planted that day in his heart. William is not going to let his age stop him from sharing. He is taking every opportunity to share. He has not gotten the local language down yet, but no one who knows English will get away from him without knowing the Good News if he can help it. He has the plan for church planting down pretty well.
Many times holidays can be good times for spiritual conversations. However, because it is our teacher's house, we all know that she has heard the Good News multiple times and it is likely that others in the home have as well. William had watched TV and played with the kids long enough I suppose. After lunch, the older boys/ young men had gone into the courtyard to make tea. William went out to join them. Among them was a young man that spoke some English. William told him that Jesus was not (just) a prophet and went on to tell more of the Good News. When he was done, he instructed the young man to tell his friends, so that they could have a church.
Not having been there, I do not know exactly what William told him nor of the young man's reaction, but I am sure seeds were planted that day in his heart. William is not going to let his age stop him from sharing. He is taking every opportunity to share. He has not gotten the local language down yet, but no one who knows English will get away from him without knowing the Good News if he can help it. He has the plan for church planting down pretty well.
William the Evangelist part 1
I am way overdue for starting this series. I will try to catch up without missing too much. The first in this series actually took place May of last year. We were on our shopping trip to a neighboring country where English is the first language.
We had gone to a restaurant our first night there. This restaurant is especially nice because they have a fabulous play area out front. You can sit on the patio in front of the restaurant and watch the kids play. William and Mariama were out playing of course and busy making new friends. One of the girls they played with was named Christina. That night as they were getting ready for bed, they told me that Christina had been sick that day and they said they wanted to pray for her to feel better. I said ok, and was praying inwardly that they did not get sick as well. William also prayed that she would tell other people about Jesus. Since it was late, I left well enough alone.
The next day, we went to a grocery store and as we were checking out, who should come in?? Christina with her mother and a sibling, I think. William and Mariama yelled across half of the store that they had prayed for her. I asked them not to yell across the store, but because they did so, conversation was initiated with the workers hanging around the cash registers. Christina and her mom came over and they shared once again that they had prayed for her. William's retelling of his prayer lead to him laying it out there that those hearing needed to follow Jesus.
As we got into the truck when we left, I took the opportunity to remind him that we needed to pray th atthe person knows Jesus personally before we pray that they tell others. Because of the yelling across the store, I wanted to shrink in embarrassment. However, I could not have hidden anymore than a Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade balloon could have. I am still so filled with pride at how bold they were and are.
We had gone to a restaurant our first night there. This restaurant is especially nice because they have a fabulous play area out front. You can sit on the patio in front of the restaurant and watch the kids play. William and Mariama were out playing of course and busy making new friends. One of the girls they played with was named Christina. That night as they were getting ready for bed, they told me that Christina had been sick that day and they said they wanted to pray for her to feel better. I said ok, and was praying inwardly that they did not get sick as well. William also prayed that she would tell other people about Jesus. Since it was late, I left well enough alone.
The next day, we went to a grocery store and as we were checking out, who should come in?? Christina with her mother and a sibling, I think. William and Mariama yelled across half of the store that they had prayed for her. I asked them not to yell across the store, but because they did so, conversation was initiated with the workers hanging around the cash registers. Christina and her mom came over and they shared once again that they had prayed for her. William's retelling of his prayer lead to him laying it out there that those hearing needed to follow Jesus.
As we got into the truck when we left, I took the opportunity to remind him that we needed to pray th atthe person knows Jesus personally before we pray that they tell others. Because of the yelling across the store, I wanted to shrink in embarrassment. However, I could not have hidden anymore than a Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade balloon could have. I am still so filled with pride at how bold they were and are.
Mariama the Evangelist part 1
Mariama is such a sweet girl! She has that sweet, innocent childlike faith. We have at times had people visit our home. Often she would go get her bear that says the Lord's Prayer or sings "Jesus Loves Me", but I really was not sure why. I thought she just wanted to show them something nice. Well, we saw one of Rich's friends at the market a few days after he had come by the house. She said, "I like him. He knows Jesus." I said, "Really, how do you know?" She replied rather matter of factly, "Because I showed my bear to him that sings about Jesus. Now he is a follower of Jesus too." I was touched and yet sadly replied, "If only it were that easy honey. Knowing about Jesus does not mean that he has accepted who Jesus is and chosen to follow Him."
Well she has continued to learn and grow spiritually and been listening to her brother, who will have his own blog series soon. So a couple of weeks ago, on a Friday night, I heard her outside talking to our guard. Rephrase, not talking, but rather singing to him. She sang "Jesus loves the little children," "Jesus loves me", and "Victory in Jesus" followed by some conversation that could not be heard from where I was. When she same inside, she seemed rather proud of herself. She said that our guard was a Christian now. Really?? She has told him that Jesus was not just a prophet, but our High Priest. She told him he needed to pray to Jesus. Then he was about to pray, as he does 5 times a day, and she thought he was going to pray to Jesus. She had been speaking to him in English, which he does understand somewhat, but it is not totally clear to him. I had to tell her that he might take a while to really understand, and someone might have to talk with him in his language for him to fully understand. I hated to squelch her optimism, but I was quick to praise her for the seeds she planted and her effort.
A week or so after this Rich and I were getting the family ready for family movie night. I do not even remember how we got to talking about this again, but she began talking about that night from above. She was wanting to go follow up with the guard and ask him if he had asked Jesus to come into his heart yet. We talked about what that meant and that we should do something before asking someone else if they have. She said she had not done that yet. We talked about what was involved and then she said she needed a minute "alone". Then she bowed her head in front of us and prayed the simplest but most important prayer of her life.
Because she is so smart and she hears us talking about these things all the time, we wanted to be sure that she really understood. A few days later at lunch or dinner, something came up about Jesus forgiving our sins and becoming the boss of our lives. She said that she had done that. Playing a little silly, I asked, "when?" She said, "You know the other night before family movie night." I said, "O yes, I remember, I just wanted to make sure you did." Then she shared this news with Grandma as we skyped on Sunday.
Oh, my sweet girl! What precious childlike faith!
Well she has continued to learn and grow spiritually and been listening to her brother, who will have his own blog series soon. So a couple of weeks ago, on a Friday night, I heard her outside talking to our guard. Rephrase, not talking, but rather singing to him. She sang "Jesus loves the little children," "Jesus loves me", and "Victory in Jesus" followed by some conversation that could not be heard from where I was. When she same inside, she seemed rather proud of herself. She said that our guard was a Christian now. Really?? She has told him that Jesus was not just a prophet, but our High Priest. She told him he needed to pray to Jesus. Then he was about to pray, as he does 5 times a day, and she thought he was going to pray to Jesus. She had been speaking to him in English, which he does understand somewhat, but it is not totally clear to him. I had to tell her that he might take a while to really understand, and someone might have to talk with him in his language for him to fully understand. I hated to squelch her optimism, but I was quick to praise her for the seeds she planted and her effort.
A week or so after this Rich and I were getting the family ready for family movie night. I do not even remember how we got to talking about this again, but she began talking about that night from above. She was wanting to go follow up with the guard and ask him if he had asked Jesus to come into his heart yet. We talked about what that meant and that we should do something before asking someone else if they have. She said she had not done that yet. We talked about what was involved and then she said she needed a minute "alone". Then she bowed her head in front of us and prayed the simplest but most important prayer of her life.
Because she is so smart and she hears us talking about these things all the time, we wanted to be sure that she really understood. A few days later at lunch or dinner, something came up about Jesus forgiving our sins and becoming the boss of our lives. She said that she had done that. Playing a little silly, I asked, "when?" She said, "You know the other night before family movie night." I said, "O yes, I remember, I just wanted to make sure you did." Then she shared this news with Grandma as we skyped on Sunday.
Oh, my sweet girl! What precious childlike faith!
Sunday, January 30, 2011
I don't belong here!!!!
Ok, don't get scared by the title. I am not freaking out. I am not saying we are moving back to the states. Just keep reading.
It often happens here as we are driving along roads, especially long drives. We say to one another or just to ourselves, "We live in Africa!" You would think after the preparation it took to get here and the 16 months that we have lived here that we would be passed this. But I have heard of others who asked veteran workers here when that feeling goes away, to which the veterans responded, "I don't know. When it does, I'll let you know."
Not too long ago, I had one of those moments, but it was more specific. It was the "I am in the minority" realization. As I drive through neighborhoods here, I find myself surprised to see pale faces, especially ones that I do not know. I am used to driving and walking amongst a sea of dark faces, most of the time. I can dress like they do, speak as they do, and even carry my baby on my back like they do, and still I will be the object of stares. In fact when I carry the baby on my back, I get corrected if she just slips an inch, where as the local women can have their babies practically hanging down to their knees with no one correcting them. No matter how much I try to be as one of them, my skin color will always give me away.
On that note, it is difficult being stereotyped for one's skin color. Because I am white, I "am rich, speak French, do not speak a local language, am unreligious and do not pray or know God." All of the above things are untrue. It is assumed that we do not know the culture or customs here. People may come when they need help expecting us to give them all they need because we are "rich", when the culture is to only give some of what is needed thus sharing the burden of providing with others. It is assumed that strangers can come begging for something from us, without greeting properly, which is thoroughly improper.
Sorry for that rabbit trail. Back to my point. As I drove our truck through a sea of dark-faced children, I was reminded that I do not belong here. But it is more than skin color that separates me. Many of those around me are not followers of Jesus. Many of those that claim to be Christians are catholic and are only so by birth, because they were born into a catholic family. In fact, most of the people here are their religion because of the family that they are born into. There is very little personal belief. For example, the religious myth I touched on earlier. I am American and thus I am a Christian for that reason. TV shows from America must also be Christian. So what is seen on TV is what I am like. Wrong!
"My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by your truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world." John 17:15-18
I do not belong in this world, much less in this specific place. I pray that you will know the Father's presence when you do not belong.
It often happens here as we are driving along roads, especially long drives. We say to one another or just to ourselves, "We live in Africa!" You would think after the preparation it took to get here and the 16 months that we have lived here that we would be passed this. But I have heard of others who asked veteran workers here when that feeling goes away, to which the veterans responded, "I don't know. When it does, I'll let you know."
Not too long ago, I had one of those moments, but it was more specific. It was the "I am in the minority" realization. As I drive through neighborhoods here, I find myself surprised to see pale faces, especially ones that I do not know. I am used to driving and walking amongst a sea of dark faces, most of the time. I can dress like they do, speak as they do, and even carry my baby on my back like they do, and still I will be the object of stares. In fact when I carry the baby on my back, I get corrected if she just slips an inch, where as the local women can have their babies practically hanging down to their knees with no one correcting them. No matter how much I try to be as one of them, my skin color will always give me away.
On that note, it is difficult being stereotyped for one's skin color. Because I am white, I "am rich, speak French, do not speak a local language, am unreligious and do not pray or know God." All of the above things are untrue. It is assumed that we do not know the culture or customs here. People may come when they need help expecting us to give them all they need because we are "rich", when the culture is to only give some of what is needed thus sharing the burden of providing with others. It is assumed that strangers can come begging for something from us, without greeting properly, which is thoroughly improper.
Sorry for that rabbit trail. Back to my point. As I drove our truck through a sea of dark-faced children, I was reminded that I do not belong here. But it is more than skin color that separates me. Many of those around me are not followers of Jesus. Many of those that claim to be Christians are catholic and are only so by birth, because they were born into a catholic family. In fact, most of the people here are their religion because of the family that they are born into. There is very little personal belief. For example, the religious myth I touched on earlier. I am American and thus I am a Christian for that reason. TV shows from America must also be Christian. So what is seen on TV is what I am like. Wrong!
"My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by your truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world." John 17:15-18
I do not belong in this world, much less in this specific place. I pray that you will know the Father's presence when you do not belong.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)