After singing what I could remember of the song, which only lasted about 20 seconds, I sat down to a clapping bunch of Tibetan/Chinese Buddhists/Muslims. The government official, Jimmy, was clearly inebriated as he took every liberty to toast, sing, and play drinking games. I felt very out of place.
Jimmy’s secretary wore a large, silver cross necklace with small diamonds outlining it. I looked at it and asked if she was a Christian.
“No she just thinks it looks good,” the official replied. A pause. He toasted his beer to the reporter and gulped it down. “Tell us about this cross,” he said pointing to the necklace.
My heart leapt within me. “Wow!” I thought. “Here’s my opportunity…and a government official is actually translating for me! Crap… there’s so much to say.” I said a quick prayer. Jimmy looked at me expectantly. Everyone looked at me.
“Well, the cross is what a perfect man, Jesus Christ, died on to save us from eternity in hell. Christians believe that Jesus lived a perfect life…” I went on. Jimmy translated and looked back at me for more. It was short. I wanted to tell them more – of the love he has for them, his healing power, and forgiveness. I wish I were more ready. I only pray that the Lord uses this and the witness I was with them; that they ask questions and probe deeper.
After dinner we took off to see the Tibetan dancing. Jimmy insisted on asking me every minute or two (literally) if I was feeling good and enjoying myself, telling me frequently that I needed to relax. Oh the pressure to put on a smile!
Overall, these five days turned out to be the greatest cultural experience of the whole World Race thus far for me. It challenged me to turn conversations to God and gave me a greater desire for the lost to receive hope.
Looking ahead…
I am currently in Dubai on a 9 hour layover as we travel to Johannesburg. We will be in Swaziland learning from the genius minds of Tom Davis and Gary Black, among others, for a week before dispersing into our various ministry locations. Please pray that I am obedient to the Lord when he calls me to action. God bless you all.
Here’s us feeding each other oreos atop the great wall.
side note: oreos with peanut butter have become a favorite snack and should be tried by all
Hey look! We’re standing on the great wall. I had the privilege of seeing the very place where my sister ran into it. It turns out that it is an easy mistake to make at this particular location. I have a picture somewhere on someone’s camera (mine broke).
How bout that hat? I lost it.
Playing Rocky on the great wall.
