On Monday my team and I arrived at our ministry site for the
month. We are in General Santos, Philippines
working with International Care Ministries (ICM) which serves the poorest of
the poor through livelihood programs, preschool programs, and healthy living.
We’ve been assisting them in different tasks like handing out rice, singing
with preschoolers, praying, and helping out at medical clinics. For the past
few day’s we’ve been helping ICM prepare for a pastor’s conference by building
cabins and mowing the lawn with machetes.
We’ve been having a ton of fun yet my heart is breaking.
This place is slowly tearing my heart apart. I’ve never seen so much poverty in
my life. I’ve seen poverty in places like the US,
Jamaica, and Romania but nothing compares to what I’ve been
witnessing in the Philippines.
We can’t get away from it. Yet, the residents I’ve visited are filled with so
much hope. They encompass such a great love for God that clearly shines on
their faces. And what amazes me the most is that they are so appreciative for
us being there. They give us so much. I have such a hard time accepting their
gifts when I know it’s all they have. This week I’ve been learning to honor
them and be grateful for their generosity and hospitality.
Out of the most severe
trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich
generosity. For I testify that they gave as much they were able, and even
beyond their ability. I Corinthians 8:2-3
young poverty stricken Filipino girl when she tells you that her home is not
great at all compared to the homes in America? Yeah, you’re right. We have it very well off. Beds. Running water. Hot
water. Chairs. Carpet. Stuff I haven’t touched in years. That’s what I
wanted to say to her but I was embarrassed. I thought back to when I was living
in a studio apartment and complaining because it was too small. Her entire
house was half the size of my bedroom. God is really working in the lives of
these amazing Filipino people. How else could someone live with such hope?
