Thursday, August 30, 2018
How are you today?
Stop and think a little.
Think some more.
Stopping to think before you answer a question as common as ‘How are you’ is a hard thing for most of us. We give the easy answer of ‘Oh, I’m doing fine’ so we can go on with the next question or task.
I’m also slightly subdued in my spirit. There has been a lot of spiritual warfare happening here recently and we are all emotionally worn out. A few people have gotten messages from home about deaths in the family or a sickness that requires surgery. This morning in our prayer time we had quite a lot of prayer requests. Some for situations at home, but also for physical strength and vigor for our group here. Our last adventure day (which doubles as a rest day from ministry) was last Thursday, almost a week ago; the next rest or adventure day is Saturday. We all feel like that’s a long time away and think maybe we won’t make it there physically. There’s also the fact that while we are so tired, our energy towards making relationships work within our team and the squad seems to be at a low. We find ourselves digging deep for energy and courage to have those hard conversations.
I also have realized recently what an introvert I am. I always knew I don’t like crowds, but I didn’t realize how much I crave being alone. Completely alone. Not just alone in the bathroom or alone in my bed (still surrounded by 15 other girls). So my reaction to this revelation has been a rather strong one. I just don’t talk much. Or I decide to hide behind earbuds and my phone.
How am I today, God? I lean into Your strength today and realize once again that I am Your child and You give me permission to feel how I feel. You also understand the heaviness I feel for the hurting people on my squad. And You give me the strength to love my teammates when we get in each others hair or we don’t agree with each other. And I love You, Lord! You saved me, Lord, not just for me, but to glorify Your name more. Let me glorify You today; show me Your will and allow me to be a vessel to serve You.
Do yourself a favor. The next time someone asks you how you’re doing, think on it a bit and give an honest answer.
A few photos:
My team and I after a team time we had together. James is one of the leaders and he had joined us for a week or two.
Worship time. We gather three times a day (8 am, 2 pm, and 7 pm) to pray. Sometimes we simply lay on the floor and have a worship session.
The other day we went to the school to help teach English!
