Haiti, my friends, is a country full of joy and pain. Its people are strong in spirit and weak in power. A legacy of betrayal, corruption and need take, like a thief in the night, the grace that begs to be found.
I don’t understand why people have to suffer to live. I can’t understand why those who try to make a difference for the better are found lying in their own blood. I will never understand why millions of dollars that were raised to help have never made it to the people who need it the most.
I am realistic enough to realize that a one week mission trip creates more of an impact in my own heart and life than it does for those I seek to encounter. Experience has taught me that seven short days can upend my world to a point of no return.
Still, I beg that what little I gave can be found in one heart.
This trip was a celebration of a school completed where one only existed in trees and tarps. Where red clay dirt clung like barnacles on all it touched. Where children learn and futures are pondered.
Dare I hope that a new building will harbor new dreams? Dare I believe that one day a child who sits in this new building will bring a new and better future to Haiti?
Yes, my friends, I dare to believe and hope. For I know that the God who moved people here in Maryland to build a school on top of a mountain in Haiti is the God who can change the heart and future of one small child and one hurting nation.
Do not build towers without a foundation, for our Lord does not care so much for the importance of our works as for the love with which they are done.
-Teresa of Avila
Oh, Denise...I can't imagine the gamut of emotions you've experienced! The pictures themselves just about did me in. The faces of the little children say it all, don't they? My heart is full.
ReplyDeleteBless you, friend, for hearing God's call and ministering to the people of Haiti...
Linked here from Beth's.
ReplyDeleteIt is sad that so many people in this world have to live in such horrid conditions. And it certainly isn't fair, either. Thanks for making more of us aware of the need there.
Bless you. Bless you, my friend. Your heart for others (and for Christ!) shines through this post. Praying for those whose lives you touched. Thanks for inspiring others to serve. xoxo
ReplyDeleteBeautiful my dear friend...
ReplyDeleteDearest Denise,
ReplyDeleteThis post brought tears to my eyes.
I don't have many words to say at the moment...
except these:
- thank you for daring to believe.
I too will dare to believe with you. In your pictures I saw hope reflected in the eyes of the children.
God, You said that those who put their hope in you will never be ashamed.
So be it, our Father.
Love to you dear Denise...
Lidj
Amen, praise God for how he is using your life in Haiti. Thanks for sharing with us.
ReplyDelete