The soul survivor retreat has been quite the
experience. In some ways, I feel like I am at home still. Life here is pretty
comfortable really…I’m coming to think they are breaking us in easy in New
Zealand and Australia, it just makes me wonder what is in store in the poorer
countries we are visiting!
the café preparing food for everyone. It’s actually been quite fun… We had to
learn how to prepare some interesting foods we have never heard of, such as a
cream corn and cheese sandwich! The other members of our team have been involved
in all the sporting activities and security, etc.
The teenagers here have such a positive attitude and
demeanor. They appear to be more respectful than I would have imagined. They
are open and receptive to our teams and seem thirsty for our love and
attention. It’s funny to be referred to as “the Americans,” but everyone has
welcomed us with open arms. I’ve noticed with the culture in general, everyone
is so positive and helpful. The lady at McDonalds even made a special batch of
French fries at 8:30am, just for us! Ha! …but on a more serious note, after
numerous discussions with locals…I have come to conclude that because the
lifestyle here is so laid back and comfortable, people don’t feel much need for
reliance on God. They “believe” in Him, but don’t know the grace and peace that
comes from complete surrender and a personal relationship with their savior. My
prayer for these teenagers is that they would have an open mind to the
capabilities of God….and that a desire for something deeper would be birthed
inside of each of them and they would have an encounter with God. I ask that
you partner with me in prayers for the youth of New Zealand… I love each of
you, blessings!
Update: We have decided that we
will be spending our third month in the Philippines instead of Malaysia!
