​Don’t you just love it when God convicts you of something? It’s even better when He chooses several things in one day….. The best, yet, is when He uses an entire chapter of the Bible and addresses all of these things at the same time.
*I’m being sarcastic, by the way.*
When I can, I’ve really enjoyed grabbing one of our drivers and making the 30 minute trip to Saintard to go to church, where I’ve gone most of my previous trips to Haiti. I have lots of friends there, and it’s nice to get away for a few hours. When I went last Sunday, one of the texts was Romans 12. When I got home, I decided I was going to look at it further….. Wow. That chapter addresses so many things with which I’ve been struggling.
- “Do not confirm to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – His good, pleasing, and perfect will.” Vs 2
It’s not only ok to be different, it’s GOOD! One of the things about which I’m tempted to worry is, “Where does He want me next? Is there a place for me here at Children’s Lifeline? Is there another organization where I’m supposed to spend some time? Or does He have another plan, altogether?” If I allow God to work in me and form me, I’ll be able to discern His plan for my life!
- “Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgement, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” Vs 3-4
While sometimes I have to be careful not to become proud and think I’m the only one who could have taken care of something, more often I think I need to be reminded that I’m part of a body. I have as much of a role in this place and at this time, as each of the other people here.
- “We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.” Vs 6-8
God gave me gifts and I need to be using them for His glory, even if it takes every speck of courage I have. I need to walk over to the orphanage and spend time with the kids, even though I don’t like walking through the village by myself because everyone stares at the one white person. Ugh.
I also like the part that says not only to show mercy, but to do it cheerfully, not begrudgingly. Wow.
- “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Vs 11-12
Every situation I face is an opportunity to draw closer to God. Please pray for me that my first reaction is to go to Him in prayer!
- “Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” Vs 13
Regardless of how tired I am, how emotional I am, or how many things are on my list to accomplish, God has placed me here at this time to host groups of people who have come to love on my friends and family. My job is to practice hospitality.
- “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” Vs 15
Even though I don’t like to show emotions, as a Christian, it’s one of the things I’m called to do.
- “Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.” Vs 16
Even those who are incredibly difficult people with whom to get along……
- “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Vs 18
It’s my job to be a peacemaker! Even when it’s so hard!
Every day God is teaching me something new. One of my absolute favorite things about Haiti is how I’m forced to rely completely on Him for everything.
I’ve watched as my daily journaling has gone from listing the day’s events at the beginning of this journey, to now telling stories, sharing emotions, and praying for/about so many situations, all mixed up together. It’s like an ongoing conversation with Jesus. It’s so sweet to be able to talk to Him like I would any of my friends sitting next to me. I can ask questions, share disappointments, pray for friends and family, and just talk through situations. As I grow closer to Him, I can feel Him gently nudging me in different directions. And I’m finding, once again, what a blessing “His mercies are new every morning” is.
Living in Haiti is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. This place is physically beautiful, yes, but it’s also beautiful because of the lessons it teaches. My sister wrote to me, today, “Not many people are able to follow their passion like you have. You’re pretty lucky.” I’m not only lucky, I’m blessed. Thank you for walking this journey with me, friends!
Fruit Worthy 