Friday, November 7, 2014

Fog

A few of us sit here in the midst of the long night service. A long day of painting was followed by children’s service at 3:30 pm, and then we set up a new sound board and did some training. We came back tonight to oversee the first run of the system, and it is working great. A thousand voices in a-cappella drowns away the frustrations of the day. It empowers, and renews the spirit. These committed people are going to pray the night away. A praying church is a growing church, and this church is growing! Tonights topic was the third week in a study on faith. My adopted sister’s brother was teaching, and I was astounded. He began with a song and his deep voice carried over the PA system to the hungry faces of the congregation who in rapt attention began to sing with him. The harmony of their spirits is a most compelling and convicting symphony of worship. Then he commenced quoting scripture by memory for about 15 minutes straight. As Rob sat translating, and I watched the faces of the crowd, I marveled they could actually sit for teaching at 9:30 at night. They are packed in so tight, their legs and bodies literally intertwine. I think if someone jumped upright, ten other people would probably fall over. Beth and Lee stationed themselves on the stairs, and it was so packed that every time someone went up or down Beth had to stand. She said it was like musical chairs for the hour and a half we were there. There are really no words that can describe the long night service setting. The needs of these poor people are so great, the only hope they have is in God. At least their vision and understanding is clear. I still struggle with the fog of prosperity, and while I am fully aware of the financial needs represented in our country and the terrible struggle of many, I am also aware that the recourses we have are much more promising than anything these dear people will ever realize in their lifetimes. But they have riches we know nothing of, and they are of the spiritual kind. I would feel squeamish in trying to preach to them about faith. For goodness sake, I am harboring snacks in my tent, 10 inches from my knee, what kind of faith does that take. A little boy who had not come into children’s service attempted to force his way through the gate as the children were being dismissed and hastened out and home. I had to be very firm with this young violater to keep him from entering and stealing from another child. After the dust settled and the kids where gone, he showed back up, and I had to recognize his bravery. In spite of my stern reprimands to keep him at bay, he showed up by my side 30 minutes later begging for something. I remembered I had a couple snacks in my backpack, so I made haste and got him a couple. It was as if I had given him a hundred dollar bill. He was so grateful, I and felt bad for all those who didn’t make it into the Childrens’ service. We cared for 500 kids, and it was a taxing job this time around. So now I’m back the house, the day is done, and my eyelids are refusing cooperation to stay open and focused.  We gave everything we had covered with one coat of paint a second coat, and tomorrow, some of that will get a third coat. Time to rest for tonight. Greetings and blessings from St. Marc!

4 comments:

Alexis gallo said...

Hi every one. Hope you are having lots of fun with the orphans and the family. I miss you all and can't wait to see you when you get back and hear all your stories. It sound like you have gotten a lot done. Keep going strong and helping the wonderful people of Haiti.

Love you all so much,
Alexis Gallo :)

Jake T said...

First Thessalonians 1:2-3 “We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ

Love you all and appreciate your sacrifices that you are making on behalf of the kingdom of God. Keep in mind all the prayer, hard work, planning, and personal sacrifices you all made just to be there. God bless you!

Anonymous said...

I can only imagine the smiles on the children's faces and I am sure a bit of laughter as well, after seeing David and Goliath in a whole new way! I would love to see the recording! We serve a big big God who transcends time. Just as David conquered Goliath for the Isrealities, I am always amazed at how Jesus helps us conquer our giants. What ever that giant is Jesus is there to help us conquer it. We just have to be willing to give it over. Wow, you didn't think you were going to get a Sunday morning message, it just seemed to poor out. :). Speaking of Sun. It will be here soon. This is the day I love in Haiti. Everyone in their Sunday best waking early to praise the Lord no matter their circumstances, it warms my heart and puts a smile on my face as do all of you! Soak it in you will be home way to soon, it will seem. Praying for you all, love you all and sending you Hugs! May God amaze you!!!! In ways you can not imagine!!! Blessings, Karen
PS. Will you all give Pastor Rob a hug for me and his lovely wife! Thank you.

Anonymous said...

Hello from cold MI!!! yup... we got snow today.... Thought of you Kelly! ;) Spoke with Darlene and her iphone for the elderly book has her stuck! So I will help her tomorrow at church! She said to tell you that she did not take off to some foreign nation! We went to the white tiger today and had a GREAT time! Learn some really good things! The instructor was wonderful, fun and very down to earth and related to the kids well! I look forward to taking the kids back again! Deloris you would have been so happy seeing the kids interacting and doing the exercises! I am sure seeing all the people for the night service is awesome! We do have a lot to learn from the Haitian people! Relationships are so important! I imagine the painting is going well and looking amazing! shelves are getting created and the house is transforming very well! Enjoy church tomorrow! give out a few hugs for me and a big hug to My Dad and Deloris! I love you all and we are praying for you all! God bless and sweet dreams tonight! Love ya! Alisa