The past three days we have been sharing stories and hanging out with the kids and adults at “the Hill,” a collection of hills tucked into the center of the city. Nestled amongst the hills is a village surrounded by palms and goats grazing on the rolling sides of the slopes. Although it looks quiet and serene, the people come flooding out when the sun falls behind the hill and casts a nice shade over the flat area below. And this is when we climb on up and begin to share Jesus.
Every day I come home exhausted, hungry, dehydrated, soaked in sweat, smelly and with a pounding headache. And yet, so full of abundant, overflowing, overwhelming joy! The Lord has completely surrounded our team this week with a special sense of his presence and an overflowing well of his strength. When we arrive in the afternoon the kids come running toward us, yelling and smiling. As we reach the top of the first hill and round the corner, there is already a small crowd of people gathered in the place where we share. What an encouragement that is!
Just as a Bengali pastor said to Chelsea B. and I a few weeks ago, “The fields are ready here in Bangladesh, the harvest is ripe! Now, we only need those willing to come and harvest it!” I pray that we could see that harvest. But even if we don’t, there are so many seeds to be planted here. So many haven’t even heard yet! To think that we are sharing the most important truth in the world to people who have never heard before is mind-boggling. And such an amazing privilege.
We have been able to have a Bengali pastor with us the past few days as a male presence to help with any problems and be a minster to the men while we focus on the women and children. It has been so wonderful to feel better protected and respected by the men in the community because of him. But most of all, to have someone there who can share the good news with the men and boys, answer their questions and demonstrate Christ’s love to them. When we were first told about this pastor, we were told that he is an awesome man, “Quick to share his faith to whoever will listen.” That struck me right away. What a reputation! What a legacy!
Is that what is said about us? So often we are striving to be ‘the guy who can dominate any obstacle’ or ‘the most beautiful girl you’ve ever seen’ or ‘the one who everyone likes.’ I don’t know what it is for each of us. But we are so quick to put worth in the reputation that brings no glory to the King of all Kings! Why are we not so passionately in love with Jesus that we jump to tell anyone about him who will listen? Why do we hesitate when we believe without a doubt that He is the only way they will ever find true joy? This pastor we have had the privilege of working with is a true picture of how, in humility, we can fulfill our true calling as believers. This calling is such a part of his daily life that when his name is mentioned, his faith and boldness are first to be spoken of. What greater purpose is there worth living for? Mmmm, there isn’t one. So let’s do it!
Praise Him.
Wow, Em! It looks absolutely FANtastic. I’m so glad the people respond as easily as they do to y’all. Also very grateful that a male Christian leader was/ is around some… men need to know how important it is for them to be so deeply rooted in Christ, to be good strong leaders.
Very AWEsome- inspiring awe….
Hey Emily!
So great to hear your stories and SO odd to hear that your struggles, joys, and discomforts were the same as mine two years ago! It’s amazing to hear how God is working in and through you. SO Glad to hear of God’s work in a place that I LOVE so dearly. You have helped awaken my love and passion for the lost in South Asia again, thank you!! Hope you know that even though I don’t know you or your team that you are all constantly in my prayers. I know the difficulties and struggles, and I can only tell you that it is ALL worth it for the hope that one person might come to know Christ. Use EVERY moment you are there, it goes by SO fast and before you know it you’re leaving your heart behind in a place you never even heard of a year ago. Thanks for your encouragement and the reminder of the place I love!
Megan