After a 9 hour bus ride from Nha Trang I got to my room, dropped my stuff on the floor, and fell asleep to the screeching sounds of Vietnamese Karaoke. A few short hours later I awoke to trumpets, trombones, and more. A marching band of sorts, right outside my window; merely part of a funeral procession on the streets of Ho Chi Minh!
I would describe this month and this city as chaotic, not necessarily in a bad way, but interesting I guess. Usually we have a set ministry or two that we stick with the whole month. But this time it was different. I worked and visited with kids in orphanages, Aids children, street children, youth groups, lepers, a house for the blind, and multiple churches. A few overnight bus rides and a wide array of experiences would describe my travels this month.
The first place I was able to go was up in the highlands. We spoke in their church service, worshiped with the congregation, played games, and loved on the kids at a nearby school. It was a great trip and really beautiful. Taking 21 hours to drive there it was a little intense for a weekend trip (it takes less time to drive to Colorado from Cali), but definitely quality bonding time with those in the car along the way!
The second trip I was able to make was 9 hours or so outside of Ho Chi Minh. It was in Nha Trang, a beautiful beach area. While there, we talked, worshipped, and prayed with lepers that have been alienated by their families and villages. They are amazing people who love and trust the Lord. They also probably encouraged us as much if not more than we encouraged them. I love the time spent with them and the opportunity to have a few more days outside the hustle and bustle of the city. The views of the water weren’t that bad either.
All in all my time in Vietnam has been a little random and chaotic. It’s kind of like crossing the streets of Ho Chi Minh. I could never tell you the timing of it, or how we do it without getting hit; but somehow we keep walking and always make it across. Though this month was a bit crazy here and there I know God led us to the right places at the right times, all we had to do was keep walking.
