Well, it looks like we’re sending out all of today’s e-mails in one bundle at the end of the day, so you’re getting two updates at the same time…
We spent the afternoon at the Project Hope & Charite’ orphan care center.
Two words: Amazing. Amazing.
After about a 20-minute drive and some nasty roads with huge potholes… we made it to the center. Kids were running after our white SUV/Bus to greet us, and then – no joke – about 200 kids in the playground area welcomed us… All wanted to shake hands, say hello, smile, take pictures, sing, and make conversation.
At first, one of their teachers led them all in a rally with some shouts and claps in rhythm… very cool. Yes, I have video. No, I cannot post it from here.
Yes, it was surreal – 200-300 orphans there today at the school. Amazing to see this… to meet them… to talk with the teachers… to take lots of pictures…
It’s not just something we show pictures or read about.. these are real kids, with real families, real lives, real stories, real needs, real eyes.
Each one has a story… a testimony… being orphans, many of the stories are tragic.
One of the teachers introduced us to a group of the high-performing students. We went into their classroom and each one was introduced. We asked the kids some questions too. The questions evolved from “what’s your favorite game?” … to “what’s your favorite Bible story?” …. to… kids just standing up to share how grateful they are for us…
One girl shared that she lives with her aunt and uncle, and they have their own kids as well, and that they don’t ever have much food. When they have food, it goes to their immediate children first, and sometimes there is nothing left to feed this girl or the others who are not part of the immediate family. She asked us to pray for her and for her family. Not a dry eye in the place – from our team members…
Several other kids shared similar stories.
Maybe this trip will help some of my desires become burning passions. Maybe it will fuel a flame for future ministry or help in different places in the world.
I love seeing Project Hope & Charite’ actually do BOTH – give actual water (physical needs) and also living water (spiritual needs).
Quite honestly, I am tired of the criticism and bickering between Christians in the
I’ve even heard some of that feedback on the “Beatitudes” series… as if “Blessed are the poor in spirit” is only a reference to spiritual. Luke 6 seems to indicate otherwise – the same sermon quoted by Jesus with just “blessed are the poor.” Please stop acting like it’s one or the other, and start doing both. Our Christian faith is not just teaching truth, it is LIVING that truth with our good-deeds life as well. I think we all have time to do both. Do we have time not to?
Okay, enough venting… but it is great to be on the front lines and see heroes of the faith loving and teaching these kids about Christ. Feed them, clothe them, love them, pray for them, give them a family… do it all in the name of Jesus. Don’t waste time criticizing people who don’t do it like you would. Spend that time, instead, making a difference while you can, where you can.
I am so serious. =). I love you guys and am praying for you… thanks for praying for me on this great adventure! More tomorrow… heading to Sakpa, and can’t wait… Can’t hardly stand to wait.
Before I close, an update on logistics here: Note to large mosquito flying by as I type – get outta here, buddy.
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