You'll never forget their faces.
I couldn't go on the Mission: Bolivia trip last summer. It's been almost nine years since I've been there. But as I read the blog posts and saw the photos of last year's team, their faces were still right there in my memory.
The first year I went to Bolivia, I didn't know what I would actually do, or why I was actually going...I just knew I was supposed to go. I worried about the fact that I spoke no Spanish, I certainly was not trained in bricklaying, I wasn't a doctor, and I had never tried my hand at digging ditches. I worried that I would be the dead weight of the team. I knew nothing about shooting video or taking photos, but I grabbed a few cameras and packed my bags. I didn't know what I was going to have to offer this little church or these people so far from home.
None of those doubts and fears mattered the moment I stepped off that plane. From the first hugs we were greeted with...to the many meals we were served...to the shared songs and prayers exchanged in a language that was not understood but was deeply felt...I discovered that I was, in fact, right...I had nothing to give this little church or these people...but they had so very much to give me!
Over the next ten days, I worked side-by-side with people with whom I could only communicate through hand gestures, smiles, and hugs. Bricks were laid, children were laughed with, and bonds were formed. I learned firsthand that the power of Christ's love truly transcends cultures and miles. Watching the way they worked tirelessly and gave sacrificially gave me an entirely new perspective on the so-called obstacles that I faced at home.
And mostly it reminded me that it wasn't about me...it was about Us...because it was about Him.
Everyone can't go on this year's trip. But everyone can take a little time to see those faces. And some will feel that tug to go. Don't take it lightly. Pray about it. Talk about it. If you can't go, think about how you can help someone else go. Connecting to the love of Christ around the world is about Us...because it's about Him. It's a mystery, it's simple, and it's very real.
Mission: Bolivia. July 18 - August 1, 2012.
Posted on
Sun, April 15, 2012
by Cyndi Roberts
filed under