Since entering into Nepal several days ago, my mind’s been going non-stop… thinking about our recent team “adjustments” (we added two new members, Leah Malone & Sam Walter, and said goodbye to Matt Blair, who is now leading another team on our squad)…. reminiscing on last month’s ministry in India [I’ve already felt a bit “home sick” after leaving and can’t wait for God to send me back!]… contemplating future plans after the Race, as we have only 3 months before finishing this crazy adventure… and oh so much more…
Contributing to all of the above, I’ve been meditating lots about our ministry month in Nepal. First of all, as the World Race is classically known for its never-ending “surprises”, my team’s ministry month is far different than expected. Instead of our initial agenda- doing door-to-door ministry in a jungle- my team’s hands are full in a different way. We are about an hour outside of Katmandu, partnering with Asha Nepal, an orphanage for women/children rescued from sex trafficking.
A safe haven for broken lives to be
restored and renewed
through the love of Christ.
After a stirring excursion of traveling across India last month, viewing new places and people everywhere where went, I am more than happy to remain in one place. I love that I can unpack my few, treasured belongings and breathe in a relaxing sigh, knowing that for this month, this is my home. I don’t have to be constantly “on the go” (as much as I love that sometimes, it’s definitely time for a break). I don’t have to say goodbye in a couple days to my new friends- I get an entire month with them! This allows me to enter into the comfortable family dynamic of Asha Nepal, giving every drop of love I have to these women and children who have faced tragic events that would take a lifetime for me to comprehend.
Asha Nepal is a faith based non-profit organization with the vision of repairing abused and neglected women & children’s lives, giving them a lasting hope for their future. While offering counseling and emotional stability, Asha Nepal also takes care of additional needs of their family members, including education, health care, career training, and guided support with the goal of re-entering society.
Since arriving 5 days ago, I have already felt the welcoming embrace of this family through their hugs and sparkling smiles. I can see God’s hope defeating the heartache they have encountered. I'm excited to invest my time and energy into their lives. Whether teaching English to the ladies, helping the kids with homework, cleaning & cooking, or holding a 15-day old baby in my arms [not to mention doing this in a home overlooking the beautiful valleys and Himalayan mountains of Nepal], my soul is soaring. I am happy, I am loved, and I am in awe of God’s faithfulness, because….
He always works for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purposes.
