Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Not an empty word

Today was a lot like yesterday, only in a different location. Today we taught our classes to children in a school near the beach, and I led the exercise portion of our lesson. At lunch, as we talked with a woman washing her family’s clothes in the river, I was reminded once again of how fortunate I am that God placed me where He did. I am a United States citizen with all of the freedom and privileges that endows. I have an excellent education, opportunity to pursue any career I choose, safety in my home and town, “luxuries” like a washer/dryer and air conditioner, and basic necessities like food, clean running water, and septic systems.

So many of those rights and privileges we take for granted, but that is not where our happiness resides. If it were, we would not have been graced with the joy we saw on people’s faces today. Students and teachers at this school are not blessed often with visitors of any kind, and were especially grateful for our presence. They just glowed as they welcomed us. As Paul said, he had found the secret to being satisfied with what he had, whether it was much or little. Am I as at peace with my life as that woman doing laundry in the river? Are you?
On the ride home tonight, God pointed out in Isaiah 55:11, “The words I speak…will not return to me without producing results. They will accomplish what I want them to. They will do exactly what I sent them to do.” What words have we spoken to these children today and yesterday for God that will come back to them as they grow up and have to make more difficult decisions about their lives? When confronted with a choice, will they choose the right way, God’s way, because we came and told them how God wants to clean their heart? I pray that they will, because God says that His word produces results.
Stacey B

4 comments:

  1. I am praying for you mission down thre daily and sharing God's love through his Word & Actions. It is his joy & love that fills our hearts through His Son. Thank you for sharing it is not stuff or things that make us content it is Him. Blessings always,

    Kevin Mackin

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  2. Well said Stacy! You pray and I will pray with you that you have an effect on these children and they will remember some of the things you taught them today. At the same time I think God taught you something today that you will not soon forget.
    Sounds like God has worked both sides on this day. Our God is amazing and is blessing you through all of these people you meet.

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  3. Great testimony. Continuing to pray for you guys.

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  4. you are one of his words Stacey. accomplishing exactly he sent you to do.

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