Canaan,
Girl you’ve got it; the servant heart, the passion and pursuit of the Lord that others admire. You influence the kids in the village-the refugees, the Karen people, each day with your love and care, gentleness and kindness. But, girl you’ve got the boldness and courage to speak up with authority. You know when things need to be said and you address them as such. The young ones run towards you, the older ones are lead to Jesus by you, and the adults look to you for influence and guidance. At just 19 years old, you have become a bold woman of God. Don’t quit, don’t stop, and don’t be afraid.
From the moment I arrived in this Long Neck Karen village, I knew you. You ran up to the pickup truck and grabbed a bag of mine in either hand. You introduced yourself, greeted us. I was tired from 5 days of travel and the rocky ride over the river and dirt roads in the back of a pick-up, but you were there. You inspired me then and each day since to choose joy, to choose to love. It’s a choice and what I sit with each day is a matter of where I let my heart stray. The days you choose a smile and I choose my selfish heart, you encourage me to re-evaluate. Am I choosing joy, love, generosity, or anger, my annoyance, my complaints? Through you girl, I see His goodness.
I know some of your dreams, your dream to be a medical missionary. You want to travel- tell others about Jesus, show them His love. But, you’ve already began your journey and you don’t even realize. You are a missionary to your people, to these children. Showing that love doesn’t only happen overseas, it can happen right in your own living room or bamboo hut. But, you live that.
I sat the other day and wondered about your future. Where you would go, what you would do. I think of all the ways the Lord has moved and worked in your life. He has brought you here, to this school and this home for children without one. No family close by, but even when a earthly father is not available to you, you lean on your heavenly one. He taught you about prayer, about relationship, about evangelism. I thought of all the ways I have learned about the Lord in my own walk-church bible studies, small groups, church youth groups and retreats, college ministries, podcasts, Youtube videos, books upon books. And you, wise and wonderful you, had simply your bible and the sweet Lord to guide you.
Your faith is deep and wide and your wisdom comes from the Lord. When I look at you, I see not the summation of the teachings or devotionals you have done, but I see Him. How much I can learn from you, how much you have already influenced me. He can work and move the hearts of people without them. How much power and assurance I put on those things. Oh, you’ve taught me the power of the Lord.
I am thankful for you, for your smiles, your hugs, your giggles and prayers. Your patience with our language differences and your courage to speak with us. You’re welcome as we discuss cultural differences and laughter when I get them all wrong. Your grace when my mornings are grouchy and your constant love even when I am silent. You are humility when I compliment your dress. You are a wonder, dear one, a exquisite creation. No other is like you.
I will leave this Long Neck Karen village on the border of Burma knowing the Lord is moving. I came thinking I would instill that change, but oh, I am humbled again. He is already moving mountains. I see that in you. I could tell you, teach you so many things, so much that I’ve learned. I want to teach it all to you, but in reality you could teach me a thing or two or three. Your wisdom stretches beyond your years.
You have the influence to move lives. Strive greatly, pray radically. I am truly inspired by you.
Love always and always,
Ally
