We knew of the poverty. We read all we really could. Well, I guess we probably could have read more, you can never be too prepared right? But seeing the reality of the facts was one of the saddest things I have ever seen. I could barely believe my eyes. I was hit with a sense of defeat, as if the fight here was already lost.
How can we actually make a difference? How can anyone ever make a difference?
We prayed, and not long after that we arrived at the place we will be staying and working at. We ate dinner, had orientation, and then played hours of basketball. Somewhere during this that sense of defeat was dispelled and I had hope once again. For “with men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible” (Mt. 19:26).
After we finished up playing basketball and it began to get late, we had the chance to talk to some of the locals. Casually telling stories and having a genuinely good time chatting, I found it was not hard at all to get along with them. I invited the guys we played with to Zak and I’s teaching Tuesday night, and the guy I called Shaq sounded as if he will be there. The other guy I talked to, the one I call Nike, was fun to speak with as well; hopefully Shaq brings Nike with him, as they drove together to the building.
Although I am pretty excited for the rest of the week, I am actually quite scared. I’m thankful for this opportunity, especially to get to teach (and even more thankful that I get to share this opportunity with Zak), but I’m starting to get more nervous as time passes.
All in all, I know “I can do all things through God who strengthens me”. And that goes for everyone else we came all this way with. (Phil. 4:13)
Prayers appreciated!