When I walk around these countries I’m not seeing conditions of poverty. It is more just the way of life here. However, I’m seeing conditions of the heart. My compassion in the past was often focused on the visual, impoverished children, hungry eyes, swollen bellies, rusty huts filled will rodents. Not saying those things don’t touch me still, but those conditions are temporary. Their hearts are eternal. Our Father wants those hearts, he loves those hearts. He offers healing for those hearts.
The world may deal us a hand but our God bets on us. He knows the game because he’s won it.
I look into eyes everyday and see pain, stress, confusion, hopelessness, and a desire for more. The people here in Vietnam are so hungry! Our first day of ministry I have already been asked, “what is your religion?” And “tell me more about your God.” I was floored. I’ll take that invitation!
At first I found myself struggling not to explain Jesus story in a cookie cutter fashion. He’s too beautifully complex for that. But then I began explaining how overwhelmingly awesome His love is for us all. That he doesn’t want anything from us but our love. Love love love. That was easy to talk about. I ended saying “It’s like scoring the best deal ever!” I got a little pumped up. Their eyes began to sparkle.
Anyways that was day one of ministry. Haha we aren’t just teaching English in 3 different areas of Ho Chi Minh, we are building relationship, sharing some legit love we receive from our Pops and He’s doing the rest. Can’t wait to jump into all He’s doing here.
I love my life.
Prayer request:
1) More Jesus convos
2) For the Holy Spirit to do the talking. Lord knows I talk in circles.
3) Energy for the team, our ministry is conversations all day, through language barriers. It can be draining.
4) For the fire in my team to continue to ignite.
