The thought of leading Zumba in front of a group of 50 Chinese college NEVER crossed my imagination as an option of ministry. But there I was glistening with sweat while beaming from ear to ear because I got to share my joy of Zumba.
What in the heck does Zumba have to do with honoring Iris??
After we got done with Zumba we were mingling with the students and this young man and woman came up to me. He introduced himself as Pasi (English name) but the young lady was SUPER shy and didn’t really say much.
When asked what her name was she told me her Chinese name was Sun Ray (but I don’t know how to write it). She was so timid so I asked if she would like an English name. She nodded with enthusiasm and was beaming from ear to ear. With the help of Pasi I found out that Ray in Chinese means flower. Iris flashed across my mind. What a beautiful flower… What a symbol of beauty… What a unique and delicate name…
Iris… A memory of my 103 year old great grandma flashes across my mind… Iris…
How many times in your life do you get to give someone a name. Names carry such meaning. Weight.
Iris: A beautiful flower known to have large showy petals
That first day with Iris bonded us deeply. We were able to share four more encounters throughout the rest of our time in Harbin (sharing meals together, hanging out at the bus stop). Watching her blossom as an individual was such a blessing to my spirit.
It is only the Lord working through me that can grow a relationship so deep so quickly.
Honored. That is what I feel about Iris. Honored.
Honored to meet her.
Honored to give her an English name.
Honored to grow so deeply so quickly.
Honored to share my Jesus with her.
Honored to continue praying for her blossoming heart.
Honored.
