I consider myself pretty well-traveled, but this time its different. I have never had so much purpose behind my itinerary nor nor been anywhere I am headed- but despite all these differences, God is the same.
Four days of ministry down and I never know what to expect, but God is the same.
The first ministry day we traveled to a women’s shelter. These women were either sold into human trafficking, trying to merely provide for their families or had their husbands sell them to provide. Some were joyful and some had mental abuse. We sang with them, painted each other fingernails, drew pictures and just did what girls do. We were told when we got into the country that women here are not affectionate towards one another like American women, and we should consider it an honor to receive a hug.
I received a hug from every woman in the home for recovering prostitutes- God is the same.
The same day we tutored in a school and the children were so excited to hear they had new teachers or “aunties” from ‘A-MED-ICA.’ These children are just like all other kids- joyful, playful and itching for attention. God is the same.
The following day we were told to go to a homeless ward for men. This is unlike anything I have seen in the states. I have worked in homeless shelters in the US before, however these men were covered in infections and hungry for prayer. We prayed over them- prayed for healing, prayed that they would know God, prayed for relationships with others, prayed for fellowship, prayed that they would be renewed in the spirit of God.
One man in particular had a way about him. As I was wandering around the shelter with my new friend Jojo- we stopped at this one man who was swatting at us. He had a look in his eye, and wouldn’t speak to us. He continued to swat at us and we asked him if he would like to receive prayer. We didn’t understand, but figured it was another prayer to be prayed. Just as I was putting my hand on his shoulder. Jojo told me there is something in this man. He had a way that seemed negative as if there was an evil spirit manifesting in him- so we prayed with one hand on each shoulder. As we ended- his demeanor had changed. Suddenly a smile had come over his face and he began to speak. Of course we didn’t understand his native language, but I will choose to think by faith we cast a spirit out of him. God is the same.
Outside of ministry we have been to three churches- the worship is the same, the joy is the same and the songs are for the most part the same. This is a true testament to the faithfulness of God’s love.
Double rainbow from our rooftop yesterday 🙂
I saw Jesus in the grin of a school girl with braided hair to her waist, a Hello Kitty shirt and blue backpack.
I saw Jesus in the hand clapping game I played with a victim of sex trafficking who would have preferred I painted her nails red.
I saw Jesus in the eyes of a homeless man who waved me over in desperation that I pray over the scabbed infections on his body.
I saw Jesus in the incredible deep dimples of one of our house ladies who laughs at me every time I burn myself on a hot potato skin.
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Hebrews 13:8 ESV
