Its very hard to describe to those at home exactly what I am seeing here in Les Cayes. To me this is a country already devastated, having to once again grab only those belongings most valued to them and migrate to a place of refuge. When is enough enough for those still trying to settle themselves into a safe place that wont collapse or be washed away in a flood. Yet as I look at the faces of those carrying their youngest children on their shoulders and the only food and money they have in their arms, I don't see a look of despair in their eyes, I see hope. How amazing is that?! Some still praise God as they wade through muddy trenches alongside the road.
Hallelujah! They chant for they have survived another travesty. The people of this country never cease to amaze me and their faith in God continues to grow even in their most desperate hours. I am so privileged to be here and I wish all those at home could share in this experience with me. God Bless, from Haiti.
Today as usual we spent Sunday morning in church. We attended the Bethesda Evangelical Church of Les Cayes and were welcomed by the congregation. During the service the congregation was asked to individually tell God what we are thankful for. I bow my head and begin to find myself finished within 5 minutes or less. As I listen to the congregation still in prayer I look upon the Haitians and watch how they continue to thank God for what they have. As the clock continued the Haitians were still actively thanking God and all I could do was think "how could they possibly have that much to be thankful for after this earthquake last month, flood yesterday, and extreme poverty daily?" I have so much more than they and yet my prayers were finished, how can this be? The devastation in this country is nothing to be thankful for and they are. I complained when my basement flooded and lost very little and yet lives were among the lost in yesterday's flood.
I come here to Haiti so much wealthier than they and I find that they are richer in spirit than I could ever imagine. I am honored to be here serving those who teach me to be humble in everything you have and do.
To all my US friends, look around and be thankful!
We were fortunate enough to have worship services, one in french creole then in English. Pastor William Heugel preached at the first service. He makes clear that God's actions are to bless, bring hope, joy, life, and salvation to all, not destruction. The curse came from way back when the first couple disobeyed the instructions of God. And he closed by reminding the people of the good things Jesus did and therefore we need to always sing songs of joy such as "loue, loue, glwa a Jezi peche mwen efase." Translation: praise, praise to Jesus my sins are all erased. It was a moment of joy.
Then the English service starts with great hymns, Pastor John's English students really enjoy this one, because this is a great occasion to practice their English.
Pastor Tom Walsh of Crossroads Community Church of Vernon, CT spoke about being free from sins. He uses one of the Haitian heroes, Toussaint Louverture who led the Haitian slaves to their freedom from both the French and Spain. Then he reflected on Romans 8 and Luke 15 that's the story of the prodigal son. He explained that no one can be free alone, the son of God has to set you free and if therefore the Son set you free, then you are free indeed. He uses a Haitian as an illustration by tying him up to show how a slave is prohibited from his freedom.
We are now at Gelle Beach having a great time, its the first for half of the team.We have fresh coconut and many crabs visiting often.
We never underestimate the power of your prayers on our behalf, keep the prayer lines open.
Until the next update, with the BEM mission team in Les Cayes, Haiti,
Comments
I would love to meet u,guys but i am in New York for the past 3 years.Hopefully,one day i can visit the congregation in Connecticut.
God Bless u all and love u!
Ms.Kedna