What is the meaning of life?
A Vietnamese woman asked this question today in our english discussion group at the coffee shop where my team is doing ministry this month.
A Vietnamese man answered, "It's about what I like, what I want to do."
While this communicates just one man's response, it reveals the general attitude of dependence on self in Ho Chi Minh City. The customers at the coffee shop come specifically to practice speaking English with foreigners. The majority are either university students pursuing a lucrative career or business professionals. To speak English is to gain credential and earn a higher income.
The heart of God is for these people. Though they're on the right track according to standards and expectations of their culture, they're lost. They are dangerously LOST.
In many ways my current circumstances could make you believe that I am living in the States. My living accommodations are comfortable, and I'm surrounded by people who are materially rich when compared with the majority world. The pursuit of the "American dream" is just as prevalent in this city as it is in North America. Faith is in self. The need for something greater is unrecognized.
It would be easy for me to live this month as if I'd never gone on the race. It would be easy to forget that I am desperately dependent on Christ. But I'm asking to see my dependence increase. I see the great need for the gospel in this city. It is on the faces of the customers. It is in their words. Their pursuit is material security and abundance. They are unsatisfied.
My heart is on the verge of breaking for these people. My mind understands their depravity, but my heart is not yet there. I want not only to be broken for the orphans and widows, but for the world. I want to live a lifestyle of brokenness. I want my heart to break so much so that I am on my knees interceding for the lives of my new friends; that I am crying out to God morning and night for the truth of the gospel to reign in their lives.
Jesus, break me for these people. Reveal truth. Bring freedom. By your grace may they experience true abundance. And peace. Reign in this place.
Amen
