A Reflection of Debrief:
So I know I just posted a blog about India at least a day ago, but today I am writing to tell you about my time in debrief, here in Kathmandu, Nepal.
We stayed at a nice hostel called Alobar 1000, a place where the backpackers and hipsters of the world stay when visiting the region of Thamel. I loved Alobar, as the top floor/rooftop had little sections on the ground where we could sit on cushions around a table, it had a bar which served amazing food, real coffee, cokes, and some of the best eggs I’ve ever had. There were lots of hang out areas and there were many people from various places around the world. I met someone from Germany, a couple from the U.S. living in Thailand, a few New Zealanders, some from Israel, and three girls from the Netherlands, and more of course.
Yes it was hard to be around much of the time, as the general population smoked cigarettes and weed, drank most of the nights, and about 100% of the time differed in my beliefs… but that was okay. I spoke to quite a few about the squads mission here and what I believe, and if anything, we definitely changed any negative perspective they had of Christians before hand. Seeds were planted, and I pray there is a harvest soon.
But aside from the culture of the area and the people in Alobar 1000, I found much growth for myself during the debrief, as it was a time of reflection and rest in the Lord. I spent most of my time in the book of Isaiah, as that has been on my heart and mind of recently. If anything I have connected more with the heart of the Lord while in prayer and reading these scriptures, something I have often struggled with. To whoever is reading, I highly encourage you read the book of Isaiah (yes you can spare some of your Netflix time). Also I found some strength and encouragement in the book of Philippians, as Paul talks of surrendering ourselves to the Lord’s authority, for we are nothing to the Body without the Lord being our ultimate authority. So that has been on my heart as of recently, for evangelism is not done by ourselves, but through the Spirit working in us, which is only possible when we let go and let God.
So debrief was quite the adventure, as there was much eating and buying of touristy things, and there were so many people I met form all different parts of the world. I explored/ got lost in the region of Thamel, and it was a joy all through out. My highlight of the debrief was probably my amazing opportunity to take a flight around Mt. Everest and back, along with a few friends of mine. I got to see the greatest mountain in all the world through a plane, and it was beautiful and beyond words. While I flew by it, I could only think of the creation behind it, as I think that even this magnificent mountain is nothing but a hill for our God. On another note, that was probably one of the few times I will ever see snow on the Race, so that was nice. Also, I have a newfound distaste towards monkeys, now that I have encountered them a few times and they have been quite the unfriendly creatures thus far. I can guarantee Curious George was an utter lie, because no monkey is that nice. Not to mention, last night I was attacked by a cow whilst I was minding my own business.. It’s been a crazy ride here in Nepal, and I’ll write more of these things in due time.
I am so so excited to continue my ministry here and see what this week brings. Hopefully I can get some pictures on here, but in the mean time, my words will have to suffice.
That is my immediate reflection of debrief, and I will be posting more in regards to my mission here in Kathmandu now, and what life has been like for the past week or so. Thank you for your support and prayer. God Bless!
Garrett Stoecker
