I found it hard returning to my 'normal' after Jamaica, and even more so now after Cambodia. Pouring your heart, mind, spirit and energy into others does a soul well, and the greatest gift is feeling the love and joy extended in return. It is such an amazing blessing being surrounded by a group of strangers ('so great a cloud of witnesses') who soon become close friends. Especially since all share the same faith, the same passion, and are of one mind.
As we were enjoying our 'send-off' ceremony on our last day in the Ratanakiri province, I leaned over and whispered in my translator's ear, "I imagine this is what Heaven is going to be like." He nodded, a contented and serene smile on his face. The tears shed were many that afternoon, as all knew our time to say good-bye (never really good-bye...more of a 'see you later') was imminent. The culture shock hits with the realization that folks in Korea rarely make eye contact, and upon hearing the somewhat vulgar music blasting into the corridor in the Minneapolis International Airport. I read just this morning that the more we seek to follow after the Lord's will, the more we realize that this world is not our home. But while we are still earth-bound, we are called to be lights in this present darkness...cities on a hill. As the darkness grows ever darker, we must strive to shine even brighter. Easy to do if you allow the Holy Spirit to fill you anew each moment of every day.💛
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12: 1-3
I'll post more of the beauty and blessing that was Cambodia...
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