By the numbers:
2 – # of times I got to wear a Sari
3 – # of musical performances by The Wellspring Band
4 – # of times I wore makeup
6 – # of beds/floor spaces I occupied
200ish – # of ceiling tiles painted
Playing Tourist:
Ever since ‘Entrapment’ came out in the late 90’s I’ve always wanted to see the Petronas Twin Towers! Previously I dreamed of parachuting down them like Catherine Zeta Jones, but I ended up settling for just staring up at them. When did I become one of those people that is fascinated by architecture? I don’t know, but I loved it.
Best Unexpected Opportunity:
You really just never know when you’re going to be asked to give a musical performance in front of an undisclosed amount of people. Saying no is never an option, so it’s good to have some go-to songs ready. We were a little sick of our usuals, so I got nominated to lead for our first service in the new church. I'm not exactly a musical prodigy, but it was surprisingly fun and freeing to play in front of people. All chords were hit and no one threw tomatoes. Success!
Ministry Moment:
I absolutely loved spending time with the women of TOG. They were so gracious and loving towards us. In a culture of arranged marriages and male supremacy, I guess I wonder if these women really know how needed they are in their churches, families and community. My biggest hope in spending time with them was that I could affirm how strong, beautiful and important they are. They are pouring themselves out for the Lord and their church every single day here – such an inspiration!
Cozy Confines:
The Wellspring ladies got a little closer this month in more ways than one. The 7 of us shared this living space in one of the churches extra rooms. We probably would have had more than enough room if we didn’t all bring backpacks the size of humans with us. But it worked out because we had a 24/7 slumber party and it inspired me to bring ½ as much stuff with me next time I travel. All good stuff.
Culturizing My Life:
Some of the sweet women in the congregation let us borrow their Sari’s to wear for church! They had to come over an hour early to help us tie them. Apparently strategically wrapping yourself in yards upon yards of fabric is not an easy task. I felt like I was a little girl playing dress up! It’s just hard to not feel like an Indian Princess wearing a beautiful Sari. So much fun!!!
What God is Teaching Me:
This month God showed me so much about dedication. The people we were working with were so dedicated to their church and living a lifestyle that glorifies God. They would be at 5am prayer meetings, go to work and then be back again for worship practice that went well past midnight. They were constantly searching for ways to help us and their community. Of course you don't have to be at church every day of your life to glorify God, but their desire to be there and serve as much as possible was so inspiring to me.
Vacation Station:
At the end of our month of ministry we were blessed to take a 2 day vacation to Pangkor Island! Pretty much anything that involves the combo of sun, beach and sand is my idea of perfection. I read some books, slept on the most glorious pillow of my life and enjoyed time with my incredible team. Such a great time!
After 4 months in Asia we are now headed to our last continent of the race – AFRICA!!!! Our first country there, Kenya, is one that has captured my heart for many years. I am so ready to be reunited with that amazing place and see what God has planned for us!
