Thursday, July 12, 2012

Providential Perspective July 12, 2012

The sound of birds, the chill of the morning air, and the mosquito net around me; tell me that I’m here. The language barrier, cold weather, and myriad of cultural differences frustrate me. Why am I really here? Why did I give up time, money, energy, comfort; and why did I underestimate the sacrifice all that would be? Why?

Because of an inexpressibly constant and powerful tug on my heart. Because my father loves me perfectly. Because he paid the ultimate sacrifice to show the depth of his heart and redeem me—the chief of sinners. I am here because of His provision and timing. He works and wills for his pleasure. Out of His abundant love he uses his chosen to reveal Christ.

I have joy. I have joy in the midst of a foreign culture and language because it reminds me that this world is not my home. I have joy in the meal times of different food because Christ is the bread of life. I have joy when the children run with laughter and awe toward me because I am being like Jesus, letting the little children come to him. I have joy when I am confronted by my white skin—the stares of the community, the fear of a little child, hundreds of fingers running through my hair—because in a small tangible way I am being used to unite the body of Christ which has no racial or cultural barriers. I have joy in the midst of sorrow—of having a beautiful 10 year old girl as my personal face of the HIV/AIDS epidemic because it forces me to fall on my face in prayer to my Savior, and reminds me He is our hope, healer, and sustainer.

I have hope. I have hope in my Savior who provides. I have hope when  I am privileged to hear the dreams of the children here. I have hope for this country of hospitable, welcoming, and curious people. I have hope because HE is sovereign. He is my hope , joy, comfort, and peace. He has chosen this season to reveal more of Himself, His love, His body, and His world to me.  

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