How do I even begin to write a reflection on a week that has changed me forever… I must start by giving thanks and praise to our God, and creator, for he orchestrated the whole event.
When I committed to going on this trip I wondered what I had gotten myself into. I was excited and apprehensive at the same time. On so many levels, the trip was way out of my comfort zone - I didn’t really know anyone else going; I have never been to a foreign country or where English wasn’t the primary, or even secondary language; and at 53, I’m pretty use to the comforts of air-conditioning, electricity, hot water & toilets… I tried to assure myself that this was God’s will and everything else would to fall in place. It did.
As we exist the airplane in Port au Prince the phrase, “Toto, I have a feeling we're not in Kansas anymore” hit me. Not because of the beauty, as in the Wizard of Oz, but because of the chaos, congestion, noise and lack of any language I recognized. As we drove through PAP, an overwhelming feeling of despair and sadness went through me. Our focus for the week was suppose to be ‘hope’ but with what I was seeing; I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to feel it. Children walking barefoot over piles of debris, tents everywhere amongst the ruble, and people bathing or fixing a meal right on the edge of the street; even during the pouring down rain. Feeling this way is why I think the events over the next couple of hours were so crucial to our spiritual journey.
As we continued on the wild bus ride toward Les Cayes, a ride that would rival the most adventurous theme parks; we encountered the now infamous river crossing. We found ourselves stuck in the middle of a flash flood, pitch black except for the lights from other trucks and buses plowing past us. Our van dies halfway through the river, water up to the floor, sparks flying up in the cabin. We didn’t know if it would continue to rise and cause the van to topple over or not, so we decided it was best to evacuate. One by one we cautiously (with help) made it through the rushing water and up to the bridge that had been condemned due to the earthquake. We stood there amazed, confused and thoroughly convicted of the fact that things were totally out of our control. In an instant our group truly became a team at God’s mercy. A short time later, after we had joined hands in praise & prayer, a woman called me over to her car – in English- and asked if we needed help. The rest is now history, but for me, this was a crucial part of our trip. God was telling me unmistakably: TRUST ME, I AM IN CHARGE- NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE!
The people we met in Haiti were amazing. From Marie and her family that worked so hard at a moment’s notice to make us comfortable (even taking the mattress off of their bed), to the women at Pastor Louis’ in Les Cayes, that went above and beyond to feed and care for us, to the children and their caregivers… Oh the children. These kids live in conditions that we couldn’t even imagine, yet they have so much joy and love. Their smiling faces, their laugh, their touch, and their absolute trust, just made you love them instantly.
We were able to see how our support was allowing these children to survive and helping to teach them about God. Though God was working through us; he was also working through them. God worked through the children to teach us the simplicity of true faith without all of the distractions. Trust in God for all of your daily needs. They live this way every moment of their lives.
We didn’t completely understand each other through language, but that didn’t alter the bond we felt. Each of us in our team made special connections. It was like God placed a child in our heart and they will never be forgotten (whether we say their name right or not). Josue was mine. I love him so much and I believe I will think about him the rest of my life. But there was also Roseline (hopefully she will either be a teacher or the next president of Haiti), Jeny, Judson, Dorson, Andersline, Jerry, Benson, Rodrigson, John, Jeff, Dieunika... too many to name and each have a special place in my heart. I can’t wait to see and hold them again.
The work our church and others are doing in Haiti is not in vain. God’s spirit there is strong and he is working through Christians to help make things right. Through the Haitian plight, God has called us to step out of our comfort zone and look at what really matters. Maybe not by ‘our’ standards, but Gods. Not in our timeframe, but His.
I learned that like the Haitians, I too need to become skilled at trusting God with all of my needs and concerns… To simply make myself available to Him.
Jody Fowler
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Reflections - Travis
“I never worry about tomorrow, it will be good because it’s in God’s hands,”-Haiti Project Director Moise Vaval w/Global Orphans Project.
If only we could live by that principle more often; we get caught up in what the world has to offer and what we have to get done.
My first day back I feel like the world is ran by a watch. So many things to do, so little time. Haiti- so much time, seemingly so little for these children of God to do. We are not much different then them. We both hunger, one for worldly possessions, one for something to eat. That is... for food or more of God’s love. It’s not hard to decide what category I fall into most of the time.
The children of St Louis de Sud are pure. Little of the world’s distractions allow them to steer off their ability to feel God’s love for them. They just want to be touched. They want to touch you, the hair on your head, the smoothness of your skin, the shape of your nose, the hair on your arms, the color your skin makes when it’s pushed with a forceful finger. They brush the slightest speck of dirt off my skin when it shouldn’t be there. They are eager to get water from the well to wash my hands when I get them dirty AND THEY DON’T EVEN KNOW ME. I think “I am different then them”
Upon returning, I noticed most prominently the feel of the soft carpet between my toes. Flipping a light switch, turning the knob for some warm running shower water. Clean sheets and surfaces that I’m certain are free from possible harmful bacteria and bugs. A comfortable seat, cool air and the warm breeze available at my discretion. Eating whatever, whenever I want. Nothing at all common with our kids at St Louis de Sud. They have each other. Most importantly they have the Hope of eternal life with God.
Shame on us and all our wants. God will bless those who bless others. I have been blessed by children who can’t speak MY language, don’t know when to smile at a camera or laugh when I’m trying to be funny. By our measure, they have very little. I believe I couldn’t be any more wrong. How is that possible? All things are possible through Christ. They truly have everything because their hope is placed in their savior Jesus Christ and not the promise this world has to offer. I never want to forget that; what little but how much they truly have. Love, Hope, Mercy, Peace, Provision. They’ve taught me to count my blessings. I knew I was much more fortunate than them but I see now that as they wake up every day, they need a meal or two and water and the rest is in God’s hands. They have very few worries (so I think), God has provided for them without the need of idols and things we love to gather. That is something far more powerful then I may ever understand in my lifetime.
I met a little girl, her simplicity, her innocence, her smile, her openness to just be loved touched me for the rest of my life. Rose Darling. I think of her often. I layed her down in a bed after she fell asleep in my arms Sunday before we left. She wouldn’t wake up. That was our goodbye. I think it was better that way. I believe God intended for her to be at peace sleeping instead of watching us all drive off into the world they do not know about.
I will not forget the closeness of our team. I was fortunate to experience this mission alongside my wife. I will miss you all and the experiences we had together! We relied on each other, lifted each other up, became vulnerable to one another, endured together, prayed together and loved together. Thank you for the laughs and the memories I’ll have forever.
Travis
If only we could live by that principle more often; we get caught up in what the world has to offer and what we have to get done.
My first day back I feel like the world is ran by a watch. So many things to do, so little time. Haiti- so much time, seemingly so little for these children of God to do. We are not much different then them. We both hunger, one for worldly possessions, one for something to eat. That is... for food or more of God’s love. It’s not hard to decide what category I fall into most of the time.
The children of St Louis de Sud are pure. Little of the world’s distractions allow them to steer off their ability to feel God’s love for them. They just want to be touched. They want to touch you, the hair on your head, the smoothness of your skin, the shape of your nose, the hair on your arms, the color your skin makes when it’s pushed with a forceful finger. They brush the slightest speck of dirt off my skin when it shouldn’t be there. They are eager to get water from the well to wash my hands when I get them dirty AND THEY DON’T EVEN KNOW ME. I think “I am different then them”
Upon returning, I noticed most prominently the feel of the soft carpet between my toes. Flipping a light switch, turning the knob for some warm running shower water. Clean sheets and surfaces that I’m certain are free from possible harmful bacteria and bugs. A comfortable seat, cool air and the warm breeze available at my discretion. Eating whatever, whenever I want. Nothing at all common with our kids at St Louis de Sud. They have each other. Most importantly they have the Hope of eternal life with God.
Shame on us and all our wants. God will bless those who bless others. I have been blessed by children who can’t speak MY language, don’t know when to smile at a camera or laugh when I’m trying to be funny. By our measure, they have very little. I believe I couldn’t be any more wrong. How is that possible? All things are possible through Christ. They truly have everything because their hope is placed in their savior Jesus Christ and not the promise this world has to offer. I never want to forget that; what little but how much they truly have. Love, Hope, Mercy, Peace, Provision. They’ve taught me to count my blessings. I knew I was much more fortunate than them but I see now that as they wake up every day, they need a meal or two and water and the rest is in God’s hands. They have very few worries (so I think), God has provided for them without the need of idols and things we love to gather. That is something far more powerful then I may ever understand in my lifetime.
I met a little girl, her simplicity, her innocence, her smile, her openness to just be loved touched me for the rest of my life. Rose Darling. I think of her often. I layed her down in a bed after she fell asleep in my arms Sunday before we left. She wouldn’t wake up. That was our goodbye. I think it was better that way. I believe God intended for her to be at peace sleeping instead of watching us all drive off into the world they do not know about.
I will not forget the closeness of our team. I was fortunate to experience this mission alongside my wife. I will miss you all and the experiences we had together! We relied on each other, lifted each other up, became vulnerable to one another, endured together, prayed together and loved together. Thank you for the laughs and the memories I’ll have forever.
Travis
Reflections - Heather
It’s so hard to explain a different world. I was only there 4 days ago, and I feel memories slipping away. While in Haiti, I wouldn’t have thought that possible. The sights, smells and sounds seemed too vivid to fade. My window to their world was small, but they seem to be such kind, beautiful people. I was overwhelmed with the chaos of transportation, the endless poverty, the destruction of the earthquake, the mountains of trash, seeming idleness, but at the same time the landscape is breathtaking, their buildings, vehicles, clothing are all in vibrant colors, and their overall disposition seemed like one of peace.
We had such a dramatic story the first night. I’m surprised by people’s lack of enthusiasm when I retell it, but God really did mean it for us. If anyone had any doubts about the trip, God stepped in on day one to strip those away. His mighty hand was so evident in each detail of that evening. As the men were pushing our waterlogged bus down the road, I remember just giggling because I felt so loved!
Our time at the orphanage was slow and sweet. Slow doesn’t mean boring because the time moved quickly. We just were able to BE with them all week. Working, singing, playing, holding, hugging. I have no doubt that God places His love in our hearts to pass out. I wasn’t sure how I could spend 5 days with strangers with whom I could barely communicate. But upon arrival, I knew it wouldn’t be a problem, especially for the kids. They long to be held and touched. I love how they looked into our faces. It felt really important. Our interaction with the adults came slower, but it came! I left feeling like I could easily return as a friend.
Our team arrived as an eclectic, randomly gathered bunch, and we left loving eachother. You know that’s only by God’s hand as well. We all came together desiring somehow to please Him, and he truly blessed all our time together. It was wonderful! We had a lot of fun.
You know how it’s hard to explain God? Maybe that’s why I’m having a hard time explaining this trip to people. It was kinda other-worldly. Not because I was overtaken by the Holy Spirit and saw white lights or anything. God is still working with me as it relates to the trip. I don’t have the right words or enough knowledge to describe what He’s doing in Haiti or in me. I was able to see a glimpse of His power and care, so now it feels so much easier to trust his mighty power and perfect care for Haiti and me.
Heather
We had such a dramatic story the first night. I’m surprised by people’s lack of enthusiasm when I retell it, but God really did mean it for us. If anyone had any doubts about the trip, God stepped in on day one to strip those away. His mighty hand was so evident in each detail of that evening. As the men were pushing our waterlogged bus down the road, I remember just giggling because I felt so loved!
Our time at the orphanage was slow and sweet. Slow doesn’t mean boring because the time moved quickly. We just were able to BE with them all week. Working, singing, playing, holding, hugging. I have no doubt that God places His love in our hearts to pass out. I wasn’t sure how I could spend 5 days with strangers with whom I could barely communicate. But upon arrival, I knew it wouldn’t be a problem, especially for the kids. They long to be held and touched. I love how they looked into our faces. It felt really important. Our interaction with the adults came slower, but it came! I left feeling like I could easily return as a friend.
Our team arrived as an eclectic, randomly gathered bunch, and we left loving eachother. You know that’s only by God’s hand as well. We all came together desiring somehow to please Him, and he truly blessed all our time together. It was wonderful! We had a lot of fun.
You know how it’s hard to explain God? Maybe that’s why I’m having a hard time explaining this trip to people. It was kinda other-worldly. Not because I was overtaken by the Holy Spirit and saw white lights or anything. God is still working with me as it relates to the trip. I don’t have the right words or enough knowledge to describe what He’s doing in Haiti or in me. I was able to see a glimpse of His power and care, so now it feels so much easier to trust his mighty power and perfect care for Haiti and me.
Heather
Reflections - Jake
This was my first overseas mission trip, and I had no idea what I was getting in to. I really had no idea what is was going to be like in Haiti, and had no expectations. For me, it had always been tough to look at pictures of people in poverty or orphans and really think of them as people, sacred to God (Psalm 49:7). But that week made everything so real to me. The devastation in Port au Prince hit me hard, and our orphans were so human and longed for affection like I've never seen. Just a smile in their direction would make their faces light up with joy, and to hold them in your arms meant so much to them.
In that way, they're like us. We share their desire for love, and we all must turn to God to satisfy it fully. But, the main difference is that here in America, we can turn to many things to take the place of God in our lives, such as sports, TV, school, or even our own family.
However, most Hatians have nothing to turn to besides Him, which produces devout followers and radical Christians.
I want to thank LCF for providing me this opportunity. This was huge for my faith and very encouraging, and I hope that you have an opportunity to go. You won't come back the same person. God bless!
Jake
In that way, they're like us. We share their desire for love, and we all must turn to God to satisfy it fully. But, the main difference is that here in America, we can turn to many things to take the place of God in our lives, such as sports, TV, school, or even our own family.
However, most Hatians have nothing to turn to besides Him, which produces devout followers and radical Christians.
I want to thank LCF for providing me this opportunity. This was huge for my faith and very encouraging, and I hope that you have an opportunity to go. You won't come back the same person. God bless!
Jake
Reflections - Cameron
What a trip! God was so providential, blessed us in so many ways, and gave us the pleasure of being agents of his love and mercy over and over! One thing that I will probably never forget about the trip is, of course, the river incident. God was so sovereign and amazing there, it was such a humbling experience to be under his hand! The orphans will always hold a special place in my heart. I hope one day, LORD willing, I can go back to see them again. The love I feel so deeply for them is so inadequate compared to the love with which God loves us, which has been very encouraging to me these last few days. The things that are standing out in my memory right now are the contentedness that the Haitian people have, and how amazing the body of Haitian believers is. The Haitians have nothing. Absolutely nothing, and yet, those who know and love Jesus there are some of the happiest people in the world due to the treasure they have in Him. We would do well to follow their example and break our bondage to prosperity and stuff by following Paul’s example when he said, “Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ.” (Phil. 3:8) Too often we fall into the snare of being satisfied with our stuff, instead of solely in Christ. We fulfill the words of God in Deuteronomy 31:20 far too often. We are blinded to and forgetful of the glory of Christ because of all our stuff. The Haitian body of believers is so simple, yet so joyful. For worship we simply clapped, raised hands, and sung loudly. Not many American churches would be sustained by such simple, yet wondrous, praise. We would tend to complain that the lights, sound, instruments, or whatever isn’t working the way we think it should be. Still processing a lot, and I’m sure this is just the beginning, but God is providential and will bring light in the darkness and much discernment! Thanks for all the prayers!
Cam
Cam
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