11 Moments in China
*By far my favorite month on the race so far. Even though it has been the hardest month, God has stretched my faith so much. Enjoy the sneak peek into the month!
1. Train Ride to Yanji: Many memories happened on this 27-hour journey to Yanji. My favorite part was at the very end, the last few hours of the trip. We were able to talk with several of the locals and the workers of the trip. I loved the opportunity the Lord brought to share with and learn from these people.
2. Easter: Celebrating the resurrection of my Savior in a closed country was truly special. To know that even though there are restrictions on religion and how people can participate, it was a unique experience to still have the freedom to worship His sacrifice. Both teams that were serving here this month were able to commune together as well.
3. Playground Moments: Team time on the playground reminds me of my childhood, but also allows for great team growth. Spreading joy and carefree spirits.
4. Feet Washing: I’ve never had my feet washed by anyone as Jesus washed the disciples feet. I was so humbled to watch my teammate, Debbie, serve each of us by washing our feet. It was a great reminder of our purpose here: to serve, and to serve with humility.
5. Meeting Old Friends: I was able to meet up with a friend, Kenny, I made 4 years ago in Peru. He is working in Beijing now, and of all places for our paths to cross again…it was in China.
6. Tumen Visit: Our team went on a tour of Tumen. This city is on the border of China and North Korea. We were able to see across the Tumen River to see the villages of North Korea. This experience was moving. To think under the same sky such different worlds are occurring.
7. Birthday Celebration: Celebrating my 26th birthday with my family here was fantastic! I received so much love throughout the day. It was a beautiful display of His love in each of their hearts.
8. Sunsets: He is a beautiful creator. Each sunset I’ve seen this month has completely taken my breath away.
9. Hot Pot Dinner: Our last night in Yanji, we went to a hot pot dinner with some of the students in the program and with our leaders. We were able to fellowship but also experience more of the culture and creative foods. I loved relaxing with the students—hearing their stories, teaching me how to (correctly) use chopsticks, and laugh at the jokes from the month.
10. Park View of Forbidden City: We traveled up to the Jingshan Park to see into the Forbidden City. We didn’t realize how beautiful it would be from there though. You could see a 360 view of the city from the temple at the top of the hill in the park. It was stunning. To see the culture and the history of the city mixed with the beauty of His creation and how His created have used their creativity to build a unique skyline.
11. Great Wall: Even though I typically don’t enjoy man made things, the wall is built among the most beautiful scenery. There are many mountains that hold the wall. Such beautiful trees and flower throughout the valleys. It is breathtaking from the tops of the mountains. The power of the wind is amazing.
