Just a few days ago, my squad left the dirt roads and mud huts of Africa behind and hopped on a plane for our next continent- ASIA.
Our first stop – Hong Kong.
Our squad was scheduled to stay here for a few days, while we wait for our Chinese visas to get processed. This has given us the amazing opportunity to be able to explore the big city and enjoy some sightseeing in the meantime.
To say that I’m experiencing culture shock would be a bit of an understatement. There are malls on almost every corner… along with a Starbucks or McDonalds. The crowds of people that surround me on the subway system are constantly on their iPhones, iPads, Samsungs, or any other type of smart technology that they can get their hands on. The simple way of life that I got used to over the past three months was completely stripped away within minutes of walking off the plane.
However, despite the hustle and bustle of big city life and the jump to a 13-hour time difference from my family… I’ve been extremely blessed by these few days that we’ve had to rest and enjoy some of God’s beautiful scenery- before traveling to our MONTH TEN location!! And even though the adventures have been extremely fun and exciting; I’ve also been able learn a few tough… but crucial lessons along the way… that will only continue to further refine me in my walk with the Lord.
I learned how quickly and easily “normal” society- where shopping and luxuries play a part of everyday life- could potentially distract me from pursuing the Lord. And when I realized this… it hurt my heart. Especially knowing that in just 62 more days- I’ll be returning back to the States which could potentially be just as hard as it has been these past few days in Hong Kong. With no scheduled ministry assignments, I was given the first hand opportunity to utilize what I've learned all year and incorporate ministry as a way of life… that I'm called to be a witness to the Lord every single day, in everything that I do. I realized how important it is to put God first each and every day. And most importantly- I realized how important it is to remain STEADFAST in my FAITH and PURSUIT in the Lord- despite what is going on around me…
And with that being said- I’m SO THANKFUL for everything that I’ve been able to experience and learn over the past few days. I've literally had to pinch myself a few times, especially while sightseeing in a cable car over the beautiful mountains…I've had an incredible time bonding with the girls on my team- and there’s absolutely no other place I’d rather be!!!
Being that China has strict guidelines on Internet usage and such- I probably won’t be able to write a blog until the beginning of November, when we head to the Philippines for our FINAL MONTH!!! However, please keep my team in your prayers throughout the month, as we minister to the people of Northern China!!! I have no doubt in my mind that God is going to do some AMAZING work through us and in us during our time appointed here.
May God Bless!
Pamela
