Those Precious Boys (Day Sixteen)

     June 26th, 2012 - Pokhara, Nepal
     Today is a travel day! We got up at five and packed up, trudged down the stairs and got all of our stuff packed. WE ate and then got on our bus for Pokhara. We've been on the bus all day. We stopped for bathrooms and snacks but then piled back on the bus. It has been a really good day for me because I have gotten to rest, listen to Andrew Peterson music and let the Lord renew me. I have a lot of time left on this trip, but God is so faithful, and I trust He will carry me through July and renew me every morning.
     For lunch we had an option to eat at a buffet, but I chose PB&J instead. We ate our sandwiches outside the restaurant and there were these four boys there who suffered from MS. We gave them a bunch of food and prayed for them. They were 16, 14, 12 and I am unsure of the other boy's age, but they looked so much younger because of their size. It felt so good to give them something when they have so little.  
     I love these mountains and the vast beauty of God's creation. He made this beautiful country and He did such a marvelous job. Thank you, Jesus!
     To pass the time on our road trip, Marissa hosted a 'game-show'. We all wrote questions and everyone had to answer five. A question that go asked a lot was 'Where do you see yourself in five years?' My favorite answer to that was, 'A mirror.'
     We made it to Pokhara pretty quickly. Our room is so nice, and a hot shower made me feel so much better. I sat down and listened to Naomi read some of her poetry. I started to feel homesick, just missing home, and I have found that talking about it helps me. So I talked about Kayla, how she is getting married and I don't have much time left with her as a single lady. But this is worth it- I am sharing the Gospel and doing the work of the Lord!
     Last night during worship I promised the Lord that if He wants me back here, I'll come. I'll go, I'll leave my family and I will go because the Gospel is most important. Jesus- I will go!
     Not only do I want to be willing, but I want to have great joy in it. Jesus is faithful. Where He wants me is where I want to be. Absolutely. 
     Tonight our session was about family. All of our leaders and a couple missionaries shared their testimonies and family lives. Then we went to talk with whoever we identified with the most. I definetely went to Meg, who grew up in a Christian home. She talked to us about forgiveness, about how we don't need to pretend things are alright. We prayed for a family memeber to come to our minds. Someone came to mind, and I remembered the ways they had hurt me which they probably didn't even realize. Christ has already forgiven them and washed them clean. I cannot burry the pain, I must recognize it and forgive it. I have held it against them for far too long- it is time to forgive as Christ has forgiven me. 
     Sierra came to me after we prayed and said she felt like she needed to share with me the struggles she had. I felt similarly to how she felt. 
     Sierra encouraged me. Christ has already forgiven them- now it is my turn.

     Highlights of the day:
     *Sonny (the Nepali photographer) telling us about the boys and their MS condition. He worked on a documentary that they saw, I believe, and he met them on another trip to Pokhara. His love for these boys is so genuine. He took a picture and they asked him to find their brother in Pokhara and show it to him.
     *Naomi singing to me in order to cheer me up. I make the choice to be joyful but it helps to have good friends to lift me up. :)
     *Sierra coming to me and pouring out her story. The forgiveness that she had to give. 




     On this day the Lord did less through me, and more in me. He changed my heart and continued to guide me. I need to learn to extend forgiveness easily and freely, just as He has done the same to me. I want to love like He lives. He is teaching me and I am learning, but I have a long way to go.
     Oh, and those boys were so precious!

I loved the trucks that would pass us, even if driving can be scary!

I love this. Streets of Nepal right here!

The boys! 

This was before we got lunch for them.

God made many beautiful things!

Excitement over not eating rice.

We made it to Pokhara! Sarah and I had to celebrate with pictures!

My Treasure Hunt (Day Fifteen)

     June 25th, 2012 - Kathmandu, Nepal
     'If a commission by an earthly King is considered an honor, how can a commission by a Heavenly King be considered a sacrifice?' - David Livingstone
     I feel like I have sacrificed my summer for Christ- sort of. Sometimes I feel like this is a huge privilege  and I know it is, but the difficulties that accompany it make it feel like a sacrifice  Jesus has rewards for me that I cannot see- I believe it! It is going to be so worth coming here, but right now I cannot fully see the truth of it. This is why I must have faith- I am keeping my eyes on Jesus and trusting this is all worth it!
     Today was our last day of ministry in Kathmandu. Our TL's told us to really push for making this day count. Just because it is our last day before Pokhara doesn't mean we can be slackers. We must share the Gospel with urgency. We are 'treasure hunting' today. Individually we all prayed for clothing type, color and names that the LORD lays on our hearts. I kept thinking of a netted type of shirt and the color red, but I didn't understand because the style here does no have much 'netted' clothing. But I went out, did our drama, and followed my MIG to two men. But the two men didn't want to talk to us and they walked away.
     Then up came four girls who actually spoke English. One of them, named Depah, wore a netted shirt and in her hand was an SAT prep book that was bright red. I instantly knew the LORD wanted me to speak with her- so I jumped in. She is hoping to pass exams that will get her to the US. I am so glad that we got to talk to her and her friends before they go to the States. 
     Depah is very 'scientific', but we were able to explain our views to her. She kept arguing. At one point she had so much to say that she started spouting it off in Nepali and I had no idea what she was saying. She laughed at herself and then said it in English. Our conversation ended with her saying, 'If something is truth, will I not eventually believe it? If I told you your god was false, would you believe it at first?' The answer is no, but I also serve the one true God. But her question made me understand her culture a little better, and the message we are bringing. I will continue to pray for Depah because I believe now that she has heard the Truth, it will not leave her alone or give her peace until she accepts it. " ...and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” [John 8:32]
     We didn't do our drama at our next site, we just shared the Gospel. So many men crowded in that we 'needed a drink of water.' [Our code word for asking the guys in our group to protect us.] I turned around and saw Andy and was relieved that he was watching over us. But above all, I am so glad Christ was preached in this city on our last official day of ministry here before Pokhara.
     After we were done, we came back to our hotel, ate out PB&J and then went to pack for Pokhara. After we cleaned our room, we were allowed to go shopping again. I stayed back because I wasn't feeling well. I sent money with Sarah and she got a few things for me that I wanted to give to my family. 
     While they shopped, I talked with Aystyn, who has also been homeschooled her whole life and is going to be a Senior. She just encouraged me to persevere because this is SO worth it. I totally agree and it was lovely chatting with her. The Lord is so good to bless me with these amazing girls as sisters.
     Tonight we served the guys dinner to show them we appreciate them. We gave them pringles, coke, got their food and a candy bar for dessert. We all wrote them encouraging notes and put them in a cup by each of their plates. They really enjoyed it. =) I am pretty sure Andy cried, but I don't think he will ever admit it.
     I talked with Sierra about the future, and we are both excited to see what God has for us for the next school year and just in our lives. When I go home, I want to be bold like I am here and very Spirit filled.
     We had worship tonight and I just prayed for this country, that a fire will be ignited that will never go out. Lord- set this country on fire for You. If the Lord wants me to come back, I will. Whatever He has for me, even if it is an idea that scares and downright terrifies me, I'll go. Lord- I'll go!
     We had MAG time before bed and I got to talk about my family, my relationships with them and the love they have for me and I have for them. I have a new appreciation and love for them because of the separation this trip has brought. I want to serve my family like I serve my team here. Lord, mold my heart to always be ready to serve you!  

     Highlights of the day:
     *Praying for specifics to look for on ministry- our treasure hunt. Jesus gave me this: Netted shirt, Red and the name Maria. I am still looking for Maria. 
     *Heroes! My MIG's group is the 'superheroes'. Christ is Mr. Fantastic, Megan is Iron Woman, Meg is Violet (Incredibles), Rachel is Batman, I am Captain America and our translator, Anooch, is Spiderman. Today we got a group picture! I love my ministry group!
     *Serving the guys supper and waiting their table. They have done so much of serving us on this trip. It is nice to do something for them. It also reminds me a little of staff parties at camp.
     *Talking about my family- I love them so much! Thank you Jesus so much for my family and the love that flows between us all!





     I am so amazed by what the Lord did. I mean, a netted shirt in Nepal? Really? It was so crazy that I thought it was my own mind that created the whole thought in the first place. And yet, the Lord showed me how He worked. I am praying for Depah as I write this. I hope she is in the US and I hope she is seeking truth and I am praying that it sets her free from the chains she is entangled in. Thank you, Lord, for giving me this opportunity!
     I also am thinking about how the Lord gave me the name 'Maria' and I am beginning to pray about if I am supposed to look for her in Africa. I never found her in Nepal or India. 
     Pray with me for Depah and Maria.

A god of fear.

  I am talking to Depah. Such a precious moment.

My fantastic Superhero MIG!

We surprised the boys!

They loved it. =)

     

Rest and Safety (Day Fourteen)

     June 24th, 2012 -Kathmandu, Nepal
     Today was a free day! We got to tour, shop, and relax. It was so good to have a break. I was really struggling because we haven't rested at all, and it is Biblical to have a day of resting.
     We went to a few temples and one of them was a temple for monkeys. It was interesting, but every time I witness the depth of this idol worship, it breaks my heart. Some people from India came all the way to Nepal to worship false gods. They don't even know truth.
     It poured most of the time we were touring. We were all soaked when we were done, from the rain. It is monsoon season here, but it has only sprinkled in the last week. I have never known what it truly means to be soaked from head to toe until today.
     The monkey temple was up 365 steps, which were slippery in the rain, but it was still fun to go up, even if the steps were so crazy uneven. Andy said, "Whenever you have to do bleacher steps for PE, you'll think it's nothing. You'll tell your friends, 'I climbed 365 uneven steps to a monkey temple.'"
     We looked around to a while and then met back at our designated spot at the designated time. The only problem was that there were only two out of four groups at the meeting spot. We waited and time dragged on. We sent a group to look for the others, but they did not find them. Andy had said to meet and we were so certain he wouldn't go down the steps without us. The second time that we sent a group to look for them, some sketchy guy said our group was somewhere, upstairs in a cafe. The MA said, 'No. We are not going up there.'
     At this point, half an hour had passed and all of us were getting worried. Our tour guide insisted they had gone down without us, and told us to go to our bus. Taylor made the final decision and we all followed her down. We got to the bus and told Marissa what had happened. She then got in touch with Andy and we picked him and his groups up. I am certain many people are praying for us today because all the things that could have gone wrong after that point, didn't. 
     We came back to the Hotel and then we got to go out for lunch! No PB&J today! Pizza, french fries and a milkshake! It was a Nepali version, but still tasty! After lunch, my MIG went to a bakery and I got a doughnut! It was so yummy and I am so thankful for it!
     Then we shopped- We bartered all day! I got a lot of things for my family, and some for friends. It makes me excited to go home and share with them all that is happening!
     After we were done, we went to a little 'super market' and bought an electrolyte drink for Andy, as a joke. We wrote him a note that said, 'Senior Poppy, "Because you first loved us..." we bought you this gift. Hebrews 12:6.' Then we all signed it. He laughed when we gave it to him, but I don't think he drank it...
     Then we had free time, where we packed, talked about home and decided what to give certain people. It is so refreshing to just rest and think about home. 
     God is holding me and I get to make the choice about whether or not to be homesick. I choose to enjoy today.

     Highlights of the day:
     *Resting time. Being cute instead of going with 'missionary style'! Cute clothes are a blessing. Scarves and jewelry and comfy, cute outfits. No tie dyed shirts today!
     *Being left behind! It was actually quite scary and worrisome, but God is taking care of us. As long as wise decisions continue to be made, we are all good. God is great for keeping us safe!
     *"American Food!" I have missed American food so much. I was glad to be able to enjoy it again while I am in Nepal. I have such an appreciation for home food now. I wonder what mom will make me when I get home!
     *Shopping, bartering and convincing one man to give me a good price because I was cute. It worked but of course they say to everyone, 'For you, I give you good price.'



     As I type this up, I am just remembering how surreal it is to be surrounded by temples and idols and to just realize how the chains are not yet gone from this place. Jesus died once, for all, but these people are still blinded and in darkness. Sometimes I get so upset just thinking about it because how can they worship anything or anyone other that our Lord!? He is the only one who can satisfy them, ever!
     I needed this rest day, and I also needed the Lord just as much on this tour day as on a ministry day. We could have been in serious trouble, but the Lord protected us. I know many must have been praying. How many moms were praying for safety on that day? I'm guessing most of them.
     My heart is broken because of these chains. Jesus has broken them and yet they do not know.

My MIG dressed in nice clothes! :)

Part of the monkey temple.

The streets of Nepal.

We were so soaked and the rain ponchos didn't really help.

The Monkey Temple

The monkey temple.

The women from India worshiping at the Nepali temples.

The Monkey temple.

Beginning the climb up the stairs.

Prayer wheels.

The Monkey Temple

So steep and so many slick steps!

Journeys

January 4th, 2013

     It's a new year! Not a day goes past that I don't think about Nepal, or India, or both. They are always right there in my mind and heart, waiting for me to just think of them. God did so much and changed so many lives and I cannot put into words what the feeling inside of me is because of it. But I know I am thankful, oh so thankful.
     Now, this year I get to go Africa. It isn't Asia, and that always kind of stumps me. Like maybe Jesus doesn't know what He's doing. "Lord, did you forget I left my heart in Nepal?" The slum ministry in South Africa and the student ministry in Uganda sounds amazing! I am excited to be able to be a part of it and to join with so many awesome brothers and sisters to do the Lords work on the other side of the world, once again.
     But I don't understand why I am not returning to Nepal and India, why I don't just find a trip to take me back to Asia. What I do know is that this is Jesus' leading and not my own. He must have something amazing in store if He chooses to break my heart for Nepal and then direct me to Africa this year. I am so excited to see what it is, what He does in me and how many lives He changes this summer! No, I still don't understand, but I am excited and I am always blessed by Him to be used.
     I'm halfway in this crazy fundraising adventure, and am still in need of $3,000! I know Jesus is faithful, and He doesn't ask us to do something and then not provide for us. I am trusting that the way He takes care of me is going to be crazy.

June 2nd, 2013

     I am leaving in 12 days for training and then I will be off to South Africa, followed by Uganda. This has been a crazy adventure and journey. I wanted to post this, even though the other post was from January, because that has been my heart through this.
     I had a very dear friend remind me of the ways I had obeyed Jesus and encourage me to continue to obey Him. I struggle and disobey in so many ways, and yet she reminded me of when I have obeyed, even when I lack understanding. I still lack understanding. Why Africa? My heart is yearning for Nepal, for India. But the Lord has been working on my heart and while my heart still yearns for those people, He is putting new desires inside of me and giving me a desire for these people I'll minister to this summer. Praise Him for that! He is good. He is the only One who is good. I am so eager to see all that He has.
     Please pray for my homesickness. It is a blessing to love my family so much that I miss them so bad when I leave, but please pray that I will not waste a second and that the Lord would cover me in His peace. I am so thankful for Him. And I am so thankful for all of you.

Though all the peoples walk Each in the name of his god, As for us, we will walk In the name of the LORD our God forever and ever. Micah 4:5

God's Promise (Day Thirteen)

     June 23rd, 2012     Kathmandu, Nepal

     I woke up homesick. It is never good when that happens. I cried while brushing my teeth because of how much I missed my family. Sarah prayed with me, but I still felt like going home, or just curling up and crying.
     During quiet time, the Lord told me ot trust Him. Over and over- I need to trust Him, because He had brought me here and loves me. I was feeling a lot better at breakfast, and then I had to call home. I talked to mom and she said she wanted to know which team I was on, so she asked on the facebook page and Candace (my Project Director) replied, 'We love Leigha!'
     I lost it and started crying. I miss them so much- but this love, it is a blessing. A huge blessing!
     We went to church and it was beautiful. I went to teach a Children's program and the kids were SO well behaved. They were five years old and under and were great at singing! They sund for over an hour! We taught them songs, shared a lesson and then gave them toys and purses. Then we took pictures and left for home. It was raining when we left and it reflected my emotions. We at PB&J as always and then I went with Beka to her room and we laid down to talk and rest. We didn't sleep but we had a good time resting and talking. Steph came in and laid down with us for a while. I have really been struggling with not ever getting to rest  enough. We are always going or doing something. We have every detail and minute scheduled for us. It is hard to not be able to just sit, but today was nice to finally be able to do just that.
     We had one ministry site for the day, a home for women and children whose husbands and fathers are in prison. We did our drama and sand for them the Papya sond! the boys were so sweet and we broke out into a dance party! They gave us tea and we colored pictures together. We took our shoes off coming in and had to put them back on as we left. It is so encouraging to see them and play with them!
     On the drive home we saw a HUGE rainbow, the whole thing, suspended right over the slums. God is speaking to me, 'My promise is true even in Nepal, even here.' God is so faithful- we can never lose hope with Him!
     Dinner was amazing! We were so hungry and ate so much! My team invited girls from the other team to eat with us and we all shared about how everything is going for each of us. We got messages tonight! We were all so stoked to hear from family and friends and we shared our notes with each other.
     Then Candace told us such exciting news that we all freaked out! Tomorrow is a free day! We are all so exausted and we are looking forward to a day of rest. God is so good, to bless us with this!
     Tonight was our last part of the relationship talk, from Candace for the girls. She is almost forty and no man is in her life. she told us, "Now I don't want you to start praying, 'Lord, don't put me on the forty year plan!'" It is really a trust issue! If God has a man for any of us, He will be faithful to bring this man to each of us at the perfect time. I should above all, seek the will of God for my life. Candace shared a great analogy... (and here is where I cut my journal entry because only the girls should know about this analogy. Lets just say... some of us want cheesecake.) ...God has such great things planned for me in my life- when I trust Him, those things are revealed.
     I am learning each day, more and more, what it means to fully depend on the Lord.

     Highlights of the day!
     *Nap time with Beka and Steph. Those two girls are so sweet! I am surrounded by believers who not only love the Lord, but are living like it. Express your love for Jesus by OBEDIENCE!
     *The Papya song (For the benefit of those who have not sung it all summer)
     I like Bananas. (Wooo!) I think that mangos are sweet. I like papyas. Papyas? But nothing can beat the sweet... -clapping- love. of. God.
     I was walking roung in circles going five miles an hour, trying to find my way back to the Heavenly Father. The world tasted sweet, but soon turned sour. But then I let Him in and I received His power! I..I...I...I. I... I. I. I. eyeyeyeyeye! (Repeat Begining.) 
     *Putting funny questions in the 'question box' for the TL's. 'Can we order pizza?' 'Can we have chocolate?' 'Could we make ice?' 'When do we get some more messages?'


     The thing about being homesick is that even when I missed home, my time in Nepal was still amazing. I was just remembering that childrens home we went to. All my memories from the summer are a little jumbled because it seems like they all kind of mush together. What day did each thing happen? Sometimes I can't even remembered all of the amazing things that God did, which should NEVER happen!
    I love Nepal, so much. That rainbow, suspended over the slums... I forgot about it. I forgot about God's promise, how He spoke to my heart and reminded me that His promise is not forgotten in Nepal. Here, back in the US for so many months, I sometimes seem to forget the important things. But I am never getting over Nepal, and I look to the rainbows and will remember God's promise for Nepal.

All of the lovely children!

Family dinners. ah. =)

Sweet Lauren! I loved getting to spend time with her!

Steph, Beka and I all had lovely scarves and needed to take a picture, like we were a club. :p

Our water bottles all have names. And where is Waldo?