On the Horizon

Well, Christmas is over. It’s time to put the music, tree, ornaments, gifts, and movies away and get back to serious business, for we are serious people . God was good to us this year to give us a “second family” to celebrate with. For the Barneys, Millers, and Apsleys please know how much you were missed and thought of. We look forward to coming home and celebrating holidays with you again soon…

As I was sitting in church about to preach on Christmas Eve it dawned on me … Uncle Jeff would be preaching that morning, Dad would be conducting and leading the choir, Jeff was probably playing organ, Stacey was probably singing and or playing bell choir, Jennifer was probably taking care of power point, Casey might be doing music in Big Bear; I realized that there in church I was with family by extension - as each of us was with the family of God, so also we were together.

Preaching went well on Sunday and Monday. By “well” I mean I didn’t faint, and I learned a lot all week while I was studying. A few of you have asked what I preached on and for those who asked I will send you a copy of my notes. But for this blog I wanted to highlight one point I taught on Christmas day.

We were looking at the responses given in scripture to the Birth of Christ. I have always thought of it as Shepherds, Wise men, and Herod. For whatever reason, this was the first time I realized that Herod called together the Jewish Scribes and Priests to ask them where the King was to be born when the wise men show up at his palace. They answer him with the prophecy listed in Micah 5. And then the wise men go to find him, and the Priests stay home? Men who have devoted their lives to teaching Israel about the Messiah choose to ignore the truth when He comes. Even Herod believes the truth about the Messiah being born as seen in the drastic action he takes in killing the baby boys in Bethlehem. This struck me with the question, “Are we willing to allow the change that comes when God moves in our life, or would we rather ignore the truth to stay comfortable?”

We’ll be BUSY for the next two months here … we’re so excited … kids’ club, pastor’s seminars, women’s seminars, village trips … and two of the bigger projects we expect to be working on will be to get a fledgling Bible college off the ground and prepare to establish a youth camp here in Keseke.

Youth Camp … most of you have heard us talk about Eagle Ridge, the camp project we have been working intensively with for the past year. Once again, it “just so happens” that while the camp Board was praying and seeking ways to engage with international youth and use camping as a tool to reach them with the Gospel, that Harold & Coni were provided with land for a youth camp. As far as we know, there is no other ministry focused on the youth here, so we are very excited to explore the potential and connect as many dots as possible for Eagle Ridge to partner in this.

Bible College … the building has been found and rented, and now come the nitty-gritty details to prepare for students. The purpose of this school is to teach current African pastors in high-impact short term classes so they can go back into their areas and disciple their own flock. Africa has shallow spiritual roots because they have very few people to help them grow in depth and maturity. The need for discipleship has become very apparent in the past few years. While we work on this, their top translator and right hand man, Gabriel, will be leaving for the States late January/early February to study for a year at Calvary Chapel Bible College in Murrieta. For the year this is a big loss to them, but with a year of intensive study, Gabe will be an invaluable part of the ministry here. He is hilarious and hopefully when we get back we can introduce him to many of you; he is a joy to know. He will have a few months off in the summer, and we are hoping to take him to many of the churches that support Harold and Coni, so they can meet him and hear his heart about the work Harold and Coni are doing in this region, and the work the Father is doing throughout Africa.

In the meantime, here’s to sweating in 85 degree temperature with 75 percent humidity.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

This is the first Christmas either of us has been away from home … or as we’ve decided, “home” just has a new definition now. This year that means no snow or mistletoe, and dearly missed kin, but what a gift to still be sharing it with family here. Harold & Coni made it home (without needing surgery!) on Saturday, so we resumed the celebrations.

Today’s festivities included a Christmas Day service where Jason delivered the morning message, a baptism at the lake, card games and dominoes, a true feast compliments of Coni’s creativity and the electricity lasting long enough to finish cooking it, and even a few surprise gifts!

Merry Christmas, everyone. Know you are loved and missed …

Santa Claus & The Easter Bunny

A fat man who lives at the North Pole with elves who make toys all year long … yeah, try explaining that one to a native African. Moses is an extremely inquisitive young man who wasn’t going to waste the opportunity to ask this American girl staying in his friends’ home all about who Santa Claus is, why people celebrate Christmas if they don’t believe in the One it celebrates, what the Christmas tree is all about, and somehow we got to the Easter bunny.

And here’s the best I could boil it all down to – that all these things, notwithstanding the fun and silliness that we can all enjoy (I have happy memories of my Pa stomping on the roof with jingle bells, confirming that jolly St. Nick was visiting), are just ways to ignore what it would mean to encounter Truth. Jason has been preparing his Christmas message for Monday’s service, and I’ll give it away to those who won’t make it to the service in person …

There are four responses in Matthew & Luke to our Savior’s birth. Those who hear the glory and immediately respond with joy and celebration. Those who study and search and find Him at the end of a long journey. Those who have devoted their whole lives to looking for Him but refuse to change their lives when they have the chance to encounter Him. And those who recognize the Truth and do everything in their power to oppose it.

Different cultures may approach this holiday differently, but those responses can still be found, whether they’re disguised as Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny or something else a bit easier to describe.

Africa the Beautiful

Only three days in and we’re quite taken with the corner of Africa known as Tanzania. Particularly the Kigoma region, on the shore of Lake Tanganyika. We still have much to learn and explore among the red-dirt lanes, straw-thatched roofs, and lush green fields.

Harold & Coni greeted us with the perfect amount of TLC, including Christmas music playing, a wonderful warm dinner, and an evening to just talk and laugh and share about our Father’s work in each of our lives since we were with them in Cape Town. The next morning Jason & I attended our first Sunday service in Swahili. The accapella music, accompanied only by the amazingly rhythmic hands and feet of the clapping and dancing congregation, was refreshing to the soul, to say the least. Jason did a fabulous job as he presented the morning message on Colossians 3 – the difference the world should see in those who have been redeemed. His first – but not last – time with a Swahili interpreter . They asked to hear from me as well and I was able to tell my brief memory of the first Christmas I learned what it was all about … when I was 5, my mom and dad (Mama & Babe – only Swahili words I know yet) gave me a storybook called “The Christmas Donkey” – my personal treasure, and I still remember the innocent awe I had when I realized why we celebrated.

Yesterday brought an unexpected change of plans. Harold has been in quite a lot of pain from a kidney stone, and had to be hospitalized night before last. He and Coni left yesterday for Nairobi, Kenya, the nearest facility that has the means to care for him. Internet and power's been down so we don't have more news yet, but we’re hopeful to hear that he won’t require surgery. For them, this means the obvious pain and set-back of whatever it takes to get well. For us, it means we’ve found ourselves the unsuspecting master and mistress of a home in Africa until they return. Jason will likely be teaching on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and we hope to be involved in Christmas preparations this week with the local community of believers, but with that does come the internal challenge of seeking creative and pro-active means of using our week in a place that is still so new. So, soon it will be our turn to welcome the weary travelers with some TLC … until then, we will be immersed in this new world and look forward to our Father being glorified despite/through this turn in the road.

The Silver Cup

There once was a magnificent Kingdom ruled by a great King. The King’s son was soon to be married and the King wanted to give him a gift worthy of a Princely wedding. The King was a master craftsman gifted in shaping lumps of precious material into the most beautiful objects. He decided to create silver cups for each of the guests to drink from at the wedding feast. He set to work on finishing 1,000 silver cups. When he finished, though very tired, he smiled with satisfaction knowing this was a good gift for the Prince’s wedding. The King wrapped each cup individually and then covered them over in the cellar to protect them until the wedding.

Now this King was not without an enemy. Upon learning of the Prince’s wedding, the King’s enemy sought a way to ruin the gift the King prepared for his son. He knew the cups were made of such quality that nothing would be able to destroy them – the workmanship was too fine and the superiority of the metal to any of his own weapons that any attempt to damage the cups would be futile. However, he knew their value and purpose would be lost if he only uncovered them and exposed them to the elements of nature. Several weeks before the great wedding feast, this enemy made his way to the cellar through cover of shadow and darkness, and unwrapped each precious cup.

The eve of the wedding came and the King took his son to the cellar to present him with his gift. But as they arrived they saw the cover had been pulled back and each cup exposed. The enemy had thrown dirt and oil upon them and the silver had begun to tarnish. The King cried at the loss and then called his servants to take the cups away as they were no longer worthy to be drunk from by even the lowliest of men, let alone used at a royal wedding. But the son looked at his father with a soft and quiet heart and said, “Father, let me take the cups, and each one will I carefully take time with. The quality of the cup is good; I will remove the tarnish and redeem the cups. I will restore them to their original value.”

The Prince did just that. All night long he washed and scrubbed each cup. Removing all of the sludge and dirt, he scrubbed so hard his hands bled. The blood mingled with the water was the perfect combination to scrub away the dirt. On the morning of the wedding the sun peaked over the hill and gleamed over 1000 perfect silver cups.

The King came to the Prince and rejoiced with him. “You have restored my gift, you have redeemed the cups. Truly they are once again worthy for the royal guests to drink the royal wine.”

Leaving Rajkot

We spent the weekend in Delhi with Peter & Heather Malakar, then took a 21+ hour train ride back here to Rajkot. Now it’s time to say goodbye and head to Tanzania. We are both sad to say goodbye to the Dave family, but also excited to be in Kigoma and part of the Kneppers’ life there for a couple months.

Hard to believe Christmas is just around the corner. Devsmita decorated her first Christmas tree this week and it was great fun to be part of it with her – including a shining star at the top, reminding us of the manger where our King was born.

It would be impossible to explain how dear the Dave family has become to us. Their friendship is a new treasure, and we look forward to continuing it despite the miles.

Inquiries

Everywhere we’ve gone in India and Nepal the question is “From which country?”. Most of the time it’s out of pure curiosity and nothing more. It’s like our question of “What do you do?” – but here in the East, it’s more important where you come from. When it’s a sweet giggling child who just wants to practice their English, or a young teenager who has honest wide-eyed fascination about where we come from, it can be endearing. In fact, one of the cutest things is the young teenage girls who practice their “Hello”, and then when I say it back, they giggle like they’ve been caught.

But unfortunately, many have also been tainted and jaded to see Americans as a source to take from. In one neighborhood, the children said “Hello-one-Rupee” as if it was all one word – a standard greeting. Another unabashed boy (and I’m not talking about the street begging children, mind you, but well dressed school children) TOLD me to give him ten rupees. An intellectual/emotional battle rages each time a young hand begs, especially in light of Scripture that tells us to give freely as we have freely received. Emotionally you want to believe that giving will help, but intellectually you know it will not. This was proven to us when we went to the Nepali village that as of yet remains un-jaded by tourism. We could see in living person the fresh innocence that these children still had and how zealously it needs to be guarded.

Perhaps the most interesting inquiry of all, though, was a Tibetan monk who stopped us and asked “From which country?”. When Jason said “USA”, he said “Oh, a rich country.” We instinctively bristled for what he would then ask for, but instead he said “I am from Tibet, so I have no country. You are twice blessed. You both have a country and it is a rich country.” He spoke with a toothy smile and then just walked away leaving us humbly chagrined.

Fun with B&J

We leave Kathmandu tomorrow - back to India for a week before heading to Tanzania! A week that is already full and promises to go by as fast as this one did. It feels like we just arrived, taking in the mountains and the valleys that accentuate their heights.

We simply can not leave here without telling you about our friends Bea & Jan (pronounced Bay-ah and Yon). They are such fun and we have had a tremendous week with them as they've fit us in to their very full work weeks! They both work in Human Rights - Bea works for the UN and Jan for Peace Brigade International. Bea's work is focused specifically on the recruitment of children by the Maoist militia. Before that she investigated detention and torture. We have had several fascinating discussions with her in learning about the work she does, including travelling to remote villages to interview families whose children "volunteered" to join the Maoists. It can be frustrating to hear about the UN as a whole and wonder how much effect they can truly have when for the most part their decisions come with little or no enforcement. But as Bea shared, if even a few lives are better/saved because of the work they do, it is worth it. Hearing the real-life encounters brings a totally new dimension.

But they're not all work and no play ... oh no, we have had so much fun exploring the city by night, laughing over fabulous dinners, talking through life and faith and relationships, hiking out to Changu Narayan, and flying up to see Mt. Everest ... we are so grateful for all this week has brought, both in new experiences and new friendships.

Perspectives

Bhandipur is a little village on top of a hill ridge facing the Himalayan mountains. A four hour bus ride and 30 min jeep drive (by this I mean standing on a tail gate holding on for dear life while the wind splashes your face with reminders you’re alive) away from Kathmandu, this quaint little village remains relatively untouched and unaffected by the tourist culture so rampant in Kathmandu. Here Brooke and I were able to retreat for a day and night away.

The beauty of this little paradise, “where the jungle meets the Himalayas”, is remarkable. Here is the antithesis of the smog filled and noise polluted capital city. Our room boasted a view over the entire valley facing the snow capped mountains.

That evening we climbed up a mountain to a local Buddhist shrine to watch the sunset. While sitting atop the mountain we used our time singing praise and Christmas songs. We were both mesmerized by the beauty before our eyes and by the words of Psalm 95, “He melts the mountains like wax”. Hard to believe when what is in front of you towers 8000+ kilometers. Other passages like “God above all gods” likewise take on new meaning when you are sitting aside a now replaced shrine to another.

The next morning we awoke before sunrise and bundled ourselves out on our patio to watch the mountains change color across a sea of clouds covering the valley. We have indulged in time of contemplation and prayer over who He is and who He has made us to be.

And then … CRASH! and SWISH! in the trees nearby. Our eager eyes soon found that the cause were 3 jumping monkeys, perhaps also out to get a good view of their valley so early in the morning. Brooke spent at least 30 minutes silently willing them back into view. They eventually left and on a whim, Brooke decided to go out the front door for a “just in case they went this way” peak. What met her there brought her running back to get me. Just outside our room, amid tall and thin pine trees, was a true MYRIAD of monkeys (30 or more?) … playing, swinging, chattering to one another … and eventually getting away from us as fast as possible. All ages, looked like a family group. They mesmerized us as their only audience for the rest of the early morning. It was … “totally wicked!” (Incredibles).

We then took a hike from the village down – a steep, nearly vertical down - to the town where we picked up the jeep the day before. The hike took a few hours and led us through all kinds of green plants and trees. Again, stunningly beautiful and spiritually contemplative:

Most of the contemplation has centered on the bold nature by which Christianity has claimed itself as the only path to God. This stands in stark contrast to the many religions that share a “many paths lead to the same place” view. Thus leaving itself in the position of either being totally true or totally false. We have both been reading Ravi Zacharias’ book “Jesus Among Other Gods”. So far, much food for thought.

A second line of thought has focused on the concept of m-work. I think we both have a new conviction about it within our own culture, as well as the importance of strengthening home grown m-work abroad. No one understands a culture better than one born in it. Granted the message of Truth transcends culture but who better to share that message than your family? (family: a concept somewhat lost in the West. This includes but is not limited to brother, sister, cousin, uncle, aunt, nephew, niece, neighbor, friend, stranger in need, etc., but I digress.)

After scrambling down the jungle-mountain and contemplating He who made it all, we hailed a bus to Kathmandu and begin the trek back. My spiritually calm world shattered with the blaring bus stereo of the same repeating bad songs for the next few hours. We then got stuck in a traffic jam on the mountain road. Next was the return to the choking smog filling our lungs and permeating our clothes. Finally we drove past 2 motorcyclists lying on the pavement. It was a fresh accident – likely fatal. One of them was probably 18.

Life is loud, it traps you from where you want to go, it clogs your senses, it abruptly ends. But we who know the truth know that our home is on the mountain. It SHOULD shock us to leave our home and make way for the city in the valley. We are called to live there for a time, but to remember from whence we came. Perhaps more shocking is when the city feels as comfortable to us as our own bedroom.

Indigenous-ness

Pretty sure that's not a proper word, but it nonetheless encapsulates a new realization for me. I am reading Steve Saint’s book “The Great Omission”, which presents a challenging and honest re-evaluation of m-work. My response and thoughts are still in progress, but I can say this much – I have never before recognized myself as an indigenous person. Never before pondered that as one who is indigenous to North America, I am thereby the most natural to reach my fellow North Americans. The Father already has my “yes” to anywhere He wants me to be, even with my wider-open eyes of how hard it would be in certain places, so this is not a cop-out that would allow me to stay in my cozy home in America. It’s truly a brand-new thought for me – I am uniquely equipped to reach someone across a Starbucks table … I’d just never seen it that way before.

What follows is nothing more and nothing less than a stream of consciousness that my reading and experiences have recently generated (by the way, I haven’t finished Steve’s book, but do recommend it).

Somehow, our faith has become seen as a “western” religion. But in fact we are among those who were once un-reached and now are, are we not? I wonder if forgetting this has not allowed for a bit of arrogance (did the chicken or the egg come first?) in how the American Ch approaches “reaching the un-reached”. How is “un-reached” even determined? I don’t know the answer to this. Does it mean we have no recorded proof that the Good News was delivered to that region? People? Isn’t even that a bit arrogant to think that if we don’t know whether they’ve ever been reached, then for sure it means they have not? He said His Word WILL be taught to all nations. What is a nation? And does He mean all at the same time period in history? And what about the knowledge that so many will hear and yet reject? Are the places and people I now consider un-reached actually people who have heard and already rejected? For those who truly never have heard the Good News, how best can that be delivered? Is it through the models I’ve been accustomed to? And as a result of Paul’s journeys to the Gentiles (is that not what the American Ch ultimately is?), what advice would he now offer us if he were to pen the book of “Americans”? I expect I will step on a lot of toes with these ramblings, but mine are getting the first bruises. The Father’s heart for the lost is unquestionable, and as His child, there is no question of IF, but HOW to then seek ways to bring His Truth and Relationship to this world. So chime in …

Oh wow

Flew into Kathmandu, Nepal, today. The Himalayas spread out before us in full glory and sharp clarity - something Bea says she's never seen from the plane because the air is usually clouded by pollution. By the time we exited the airport, the setting sun was turning the peaks pink and all I could think was "Oh wow."

Plans & Steps

“A man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” Proverbs 16:9.

Sovereignty. Freedom. Responsibility. Choice. Will. Desire. How does He lead? Is it through one, another, or all of the above? This year we’ve really been learning that He is either sovereign in everything, or sovereign in nothing. The very term ‘sovereign’ does not leave room for any other option. Yet we decide what time to get up each morning, what activities to invest our time into, and what attitude to bring to it all.

For us this week, we faced a few curveballs in our plans. First, we hit many roadblocks in making our way to Nepal – the frustration turned into comedy as we hit dead end after dead end and finally stopped, wondering if Someone was trying to get our attention and send our steps another direction. Well, it turns out that we ARE still going to Nepal, just a few days later than planned, which “just so happens” to have allowed us to physically rest, take care of visas at embassies here in Delhi, and actually get tickets at a cheaper rate than we first were trying in vain to plan. Second, when we got our visa to China this morning, we discovered it will only be valid for 3 months, not the 6 we had applied for. So, we called our friends in China and it “just so happens” that it is actually far better for them to have us come in that window of time instead of when we were trying to coordinate it.

Are these matters of the Father’s “will”? Would we have been “out of His will” if we had pushed through and forced a way to Nepal earlier, or if we had re-applied for another visa when it fit our time schedule? Not according to His Word. But still time and time again we can all attest to making plans and then having our steps “diverted”, often in ways we can identify as being for good. Tonight Heather Malakar gave a study on understanding what the Word says about the Father’s will in situations where it’s not a matter of moral/immoral … a lesson in the freedom we have to make decisions and choices based on the wisdom He provides and resting in the security of His sovereignty. A worldview that is based on the Word will recognize that the Father’s ultimate will reaches far beyond what physical steps we take (i.e., His eternal plan), and yet He is not far removed from our daily lives. He has not abandoned our physical steps and choices – while often it is not a matter of “right” or “wrong”, nonetheless His hand can often be seen through interruptions or derailments of our plans. This is not an excuse to live as though we’re not responsible for our choices, because clearly scripture teaches we are. But it is a gift in this world where changes can be frustrating, tiring, even disillusioning, to recognize we serve a Father who is detail-oriented.

"God's sovereignty and man’s responsibility are asserted side by side in scripture (Acts 2:23; 4:27-28). Whether or not we can put them together in our minds, we must accept both truths.” - Heather Malakar

Forts, Camels, & Rooftops

This week we explored Rajasthan with Rhishi, Hetal, Devsmita & Lata. We started in Rajkot and traveled overnight by bus to Jodphur, where we visited an incredible fort that is about 500 years old. Check out the pictures – we wonder whether people who lived in structures like this realized tourists would someday swarm through with cameras.

We then went to Jasilmer (sp?), which is about 100 km or less from the Pakistan border. It was odd to trade cows, tractors, and motorcycles for military convoys, tanks, etc. as our roadside companions. There another fort, accurately compared to a giant sand castle, dominates the desert town.

In Jasilmer, we celebrated Rhishi & Hetal’s 11th wedding anniversary by taking an overnight camel safari. We were granted special permission to go on the “non-tourist” version … they set up safaris for all the foreigners, but the Indian travelers have their own. So we set out to the sand dunes via camel to catch the sunset before turning into camp where we were treated to Rajasthani music, dancing and dinner. We were even convinced to try a dance or two … Hetal is a good teacher! We had such fun with Rhishi & Hetal, laughing (both at those dancing around us and then at ourselves) and playing & ending the evening gazing up at an incredible display of stars … an entire canopy, stretching from horizon to horizon, teasing you with the impression that if you just went far enough to the “edge”, you could simply reach up and grab a star in your hand.

Perhaps to the surprise of our hosts, some of our favorite times have been late nights out on the rooftops of the hotels … just getting to talk through life and faith. The other night we were privileged to share the good news with our new but already dear friends. We explained to them that it’s been difficult for our hearts to watch man made images receive worship. To see religion swarm around us without the personal relationship we know the Father desires with each one of His children. We’ve been committing Acts 17:22-31 to memory, where Paul lays such a strong connection between ways in which man seeks God, and the Truth by which He has made himself known.

Traffic

“You know how it feels when you just crossed six lanes of dangerous traffic – exhilaration, relief, & a bit of nervousness that you actually made it. Well, I feel like I’m standing in a torrent of traffic with about 50 lanes on either side. Something to dodge at every move, & at times near paralysis. The cars that dart by at seemingly reckless speeds are discomfort, fear, disease, bugs, filth, idol worship - & every few minutes a semi-truck with the power packed question of “Could you allow this to be your life if I asked it of you?”. Of course, I know the answer … I dare not have any answer but yes. I’m not going to lie, I don't want to spend my life in a developing country, but I DARE NOT prioritize the comforts of this world in exchange for the next. And so I stand in the middle of the insane traffic, willing myself to remember that yes, I may get hit by one or many cars, or even flattened by the semi, but that if I focus on that, I will indeed lose my mind. I MUST focus on the One who wants to hold my hand in the midst of the torrent. He can only have my hand if my arms aren’t wrapped snugly around myself … but ah, even then He can still hold me, can’t He?”

This was my journal of Nov. 23. Many, myself included, might look at it and say “A bit dramatic, Brooke, don’t you think? You’ve only been in a developing country for a week, you’re being spoiled with care and attention from your hosts, and SO many have faced SO much worse.” All true. India has struck my weaknesses and left me humbled. I can hardly express how much more I respect those who are dedicating their lives to foreign fields for our Father’s sake. With Him all things are possible. But not all things are easy. Please, think of those you know who are workers overseas – write them, call them, be on your knees for them, read books about their location/people group … just don’t forget them.

Just Diu (do) It

Where South Africa was beautiful landscape everywhere you turned, India’s beauty lies within it’s people. The streets are often littered with trash. Cows, pigs, dogs, and other animals roam the streets at will. Big cities intent on modernizing the country clash with the surrounding slums and countryside. Don’t misunderstand, there is some beautiful countryside here. But the countryside is upstaged by the people. Everywhere you look the people show determination, pride, joy, and contentment. The clothes are colorful, matching the personalities that wear them. And never before have we had so many people sincerely concerned for our satisfaction and enjoyment - not just those we count as friends, but complete strangers, bus drivers, etc.

Our time with Rhishi’s family has been wonderful. There is such warmth here, they have done every thing they can to make us comfortable and at home. They have included us in their birthday celebrations and mourning rituals. They make two kinds of food each meal - one spicy and one not so Brooke can eat without sweating. They have been beyond generous with their time, money, and patience. What a joy it is to be here spending time with them.

This weekend we went to a Hindu temple in Somnath (4 hours away by bus – on the coast) and watched the morning service for waking one of their gods, Shiva. The temple was really beautiful set on the beach, with very intricate design. We have pictures of it on the link. Both Brooke and I were left with some curiosity about serving a god you have to wake up – it’s one thing to hear or read about it, but entirely another to watch it. We have talked a bit with Rhishi about his personal views. He is a good communicator and it is interesting to hear him talk about what he believes. He gave me a book that is one of the doctrines of the Hindu faith. It is very moral, and similar in essence to much of the Sermon on the Mount. We look forward to many more conversations of belief with Rhishi and his family…

From there we traveled to Diu, where you will see pictures of a few Portuguese Catholic churches and a Portuguese Fort. The churches where built in the 1600’s. It was interesting for us to look at them and all the statues of Mary and Jesus and the Apostles etc How would someone who is Hindu and prays to a Hindu idol recognize any difference when they see a “Christian” bowing and praying to a Christian idol? It opened up a place for us to discuss the difference in our personal belief from the belief shown in these churches.

You haven’t lived until you ride a state bus in India. There is no way to describe it but I will attempt. Take a 1972 church bus, rip out the suspension, then take nearly all of the paved roads in the U.S. and make them dirt roads that have been bombed for three or four days. Now while you are reading this have someone throw dirt on you and punch your kidney’s over and over. You haven’t lived until you ride a state bus in India.

Please keep praying for us. We begin the family vacation part tomorrow and Rhishi and I are both feeling ill. Head, chest cold stuff. We have had many late nights here and need some rest, but there is also much to see. Pray that Brooke will stay well. Pray for our next leg of our journey. After 5 more days traveling with Rhishi we go to Delhi to visit friends working there. On the 28th or 29th we travel to Nepal. We return to India around the 8th of December and then leave here probably on the 13th for Tanzania.

India

After 40 hours of travel (3 flights, several rikshaws, a motorcycle, a state bus and a private bus), we are here in Rajkot. Thankfully, Rhishi was with us to navigate within India, and we have been warmly welcomed by his family. The original plan to go immediately with them on their family holiday has been changed due to a death in the family. Rhishi's uncle passed away on Nov. 8, and for about 13 days after a death there are no travels or celebrations. We will be travelling with his family to Somnats for a service in a few days.

What have we found in our short time here? Extremely warm people, most of whom don't speak English and aren't used to white faces, but still freely offer smiles. Delicious food - sigh of relief, the "Indian" food in America doesn't come close :)! Cows everywhere. New smells and sights have assaulted our senses - some pleasant, some not so much. It will be an interesting challenge to understand our Father's extravagance in a place that is so far removed from what we've known before. A place that I can already tell will bring many lessons, whether through hardship or pleasure.

Briefly, let's introduce you to Rhishi's family: 4 year old Devsmita (who at this moment is still a bit scared of us, but likes the chocolates we brought :), his wife Hetal (an excellent cook and gracious host), brother-in-law Vishal (who gave up his room), mother Lata (with her kind smile, bits of english, and a gentleness that can be easily seen) and father Narendra have opened their home to us and we are looking forward to getting to know them as we are here. Rhishi found it strange that we would ask you all for prayer for this segment of our trip because, how did he put it, we are in for the best stay with friends we have ever had, which of course we know would be the very answer to those prayers :)!

“I got worms! ... That’s what we’re going to call it.” (Dumb and Dumber, Jim Carey)

For any of you looking for a place to travel, don’t leave South Africa off the agenda. It is beautiful and the people are such gracious hosts. Take a look at the pictures on the dot photo link; I think they speak much louder than I can.

It is crazy to me that we are already on the plane to India. Our ten days in South Africa were jam packed with sightseeing (Table Mountain, Hermanus whale watching, Cape Town proper, Helderberg Reserve, Stellenbosch Wine Country), fellowship (conversations with Pieter and Maven, visiting Cotlands Children’s Hospice, going to church at NewGen, teaching the South African mates a bit of poker, getting killed by the South African mates in a bit of poker, sitting around Estelle’s house sipping coffee and talking for hours on end) and wedding preparation (making table numbers, putting together party favors, setting up tables, lighting candles, eating wedding cake, etc. …), all of which made for a lightning quick visit to our new second home. Three things deserve special attention:

Hermanus was a beautiful drive on the coast but I want to highlight it now for our Father’s glory. The point was to surprise Brooke with a Whale watching Horseback ride on the beach (riding on the beach is on her “Things to do before I die” list). When I called the place they told me nearly every ride had been cancelled that month because of the wind. But we were going to Hermanus for the drive (similar to driving Big Sur) so they said to take a shot at it. When we were driving out, the wind on the bay was probably 40 miles an hour. When we reached Hermanus it was equally as strong. The guide said she didn’t think it would calm but we could ride up on the mountainside and if it calmed then come down to the beach (the horses get real jumpy in the wind and they don’t hear her whistle well). So before leaving for the ride we prayed that the Father would do His will whatever that might be, but that we his children were hopeful to ride along the beach. 10 min. on the mountainside the wind died down. We rode the beach for an hour and a half. We watched whales breach out of the water and land with an eruption of spray and whitewash. We marveled that He would give us such a gift - seemingly insignificant in the whole of the world, but treasured by us that day as He answered. That He would choose to lavish love upon his children in such a direct way. When we returned to the stable the wind howled before we drove the 3 minutes back to the harbor to eat. It never let up the rest of the day.

Cotlands is an Aids hospice for children. They work to stabilize a child’s life, connect with the child’s family, and help the family and child be brought back together with knowledge of how to care for the little one properly as they live (or die) at home. A bleak place one would think, but the smiles remained on the children’s faces when we were allowed a visit. They seemed both aware of their situation and blissfully ignorant of the ramifications. Today was the important thing. Nothing but the balloon in their hand and the swing they were being pushed on mattered. Pieter and Maven both volunteer time there, and the moment Pieter walks through the door little giggling cling-on’s appear from nowhere and attach to his legs and arms. I am reminded of my own need to focus on today with the same enthusiasm. To take the balloon and swing my Creator has given me and enjoy it to it’s fullest. I pray that I run to Him as He walks through the door. I long to give Him the same delight and pleasure that Pieter and I experienced as these ragged little faces ran to him.

The wedding was a wonderfully ostentatious affair from top to bottom, save one thing: the people. Nestled away on a beautiful farm in De Doorns, in the heart of wine country, a garden full of pink and white roses, floating candles on the water, guests in shades of white, a cake made of chocolate truffles served in the wine cellar - it was a wedding right out of a magazine. But the show stopper was the speech given by the father of the bride at the reception. This is a quiet man, one who doesn’t show emotion, one who speaks carefully only what he means when he speaks at all. But on this occasion he apologized to his girls and wife for where he has not been fully who he should have been, told them each that he loved them, and welcomed the groom home as a son (I pray that this man is not far from Sonship himself). I wish you could have been there to understand; out of all we saw on this trip that moment was breath taking.

Leaving brings a dualism of excitement and sadness. Excitement to go to India, a place where we know so little and have few expectations. Sadness to leave His community, a band of believers who both believe and act with consistency. Excitement to know that after thirty years a flower has begun to bloom on a rock wall. Sadness to not see the flower fully open. Excitement to see a young country with so much potential. Sadness to see how many growing pains still await this place. South Africa you have won our hearts, thank you for beauty and grace.

Oh and yes, I got worms, but “I got better” (Monty Python and the Holy Grail).

Extravagance

Last night (11/11), Jono & Simone were wed in the most extravagant setting. The site, the cake, the dress ... all of it would suggest that money was no object. And in many ways, that was true - but not because of their own wealth. Friends offered their vineyard ... they won a custom-made designer dress and tuxedo (not to mention the honeymoon in the Maldeves!) ... and friends and family came together to put together a wedding that most people will only ever dream of.

For us - and I know for the bride and groom, too - it was just one more lesson of our Father's extravagance. His desire to ABUNDANTLY bless, more than we even ask or imagine.

This whole week, really, has felt like a time of receiving such richness from Him. Psalm 24:1 says "The earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof; the world and all those who dwell therein." I love the phrase "fullness thereof".

Our hearts have definitely found a home here in South Africa even in this short time, both in the natural beauty and the people we've been surrounded with.

Do be on your knees for us as we head to India tomorrow ... no idea what to expect ...

53 ... 52 ...

The other day we took a morning to ourselves and headed for Hermanus - the drive follows the coast, and the destination lures you with whale watching. The season is just ending, so we were hoping to catch a glimpse of one or two.

We had just about one hour exactly to spend in Hermanus and I was so excited to soak up the time just staring out into the ocean for any glimpses. Then Jason just casually drove through town, passing numerous good options to stop, park, and let me go play ... but nooo, he wanted to "see the town". So, as a total and complete brat, I started to count down the minutes I was losing of whale watching ... 53 ... 52 ... then he turns AWAY from the beach (I thought to look at a golf course), and then I was of course convinced he didn't care at all that "my time" was now dwindling into the 40s. Oh my goodness, I am such a brat - how does he put up with me?

Turns out he wasn't pulling up to a golf course, nor were my minutes ticking away quite as fast as I had thought. He had booked us for a horseback trip along the beach (AH, DREAM to ride in the waves finally come true!) - and yes, for whale watching from horseback. Who thinks of those two things going together? Only a man who knows his wife's heart and figures out a creative way to match two things at once. And we had the whole day - he had prearranged it with the people I thought we were hurrying back to meet up with. I responded with that lovely stunned silence when you feel about as stupid as you should.

At any rate, it was simply gorgeous. The wind died down just enough for us to spend most of the ride out on the sand (THANK YOU, LORD - the wind seriously was heavy all day except those two hours), and there were SO MANY whales! They were a bit lazy that day, our guide said, but they were still there, and we could still see them. I'm used to whale watching meaning you'll be lucky to see a few ... but there were at least 10 you could pick out at any moment, just past the breakers. Nearly every direction you looked you could see one - and this is at the LOW end of the whale season. Just near the end of our ride, one a ways off jumped for us a few times ... yay.

What's not in the pictures

Okay, this is interesting. Apartheid was just abolished here about 12 years ago, so it’s as if we have stepped backwards into some of our own country’s history as we experience the still-new integration of races. Terms like “blacks, whites and coloreds” don’t refer to the laundry, but to the faces that make up this Cape. There is still great separation, primarily due to wealth or lack thereof, but in general that has separated the blacks from the whites.

Violence and thievery don’t abound per se, but it’s certainly more common than our sheltered lives are used to. People only pause at stop signs or red lights after dark due to the high number of car jackings. Lock your doors at all times and don’t leave valuables visible in the car.

As we’re driving along in this picturesque place, we pass “Townships”, where MILLIONS of people live in shacks constructed of whatever could be found – mostly tin. Aids is raging, and they say one infected person in a Township is expected to transfer the disease to 200 people within a township because of the lack of hygiene and monogamy. Wow. On Thursday afternoon we plan to visit a Children’s Hospice with our hosts, Peter and Maven, who volunteer there every week. Most of the children have aids, some have worse, but this home provides love for them.

These aren’t things you process right away, but they’re the part we don’t have pictures for you to see, but want you to know nonetheless.

Truth be Told

We sure are learning a lot as we continue through this journey. Spending 24 hours a day together is sure to bring lessons, right? Well, they’re comin’!! Some funny, some very hard. All good. Today, truth be told, was a hard day as we faced elements of life and marriage. It’s almost as if the Father is graduating us into a new level of depth and intimacy, which we’re excited for, but that means more of the rough edges are being smoothed.

The Cape

We’re here, we’re here! And it’s ‘perty! Oh my goodness, all the rumors of the Cape of South Africa’s beauty are TRUE. The ocean waters are vibrant and rich with varied shades of blue. But then as you turn around you are surrounded on each side by cliffs and mountains that again make your jaw drop.

We’re here to celebrate the wedding of Jonathan Knepper and Simone Du Plessis. We’re staying in Somerset West, which is where Simone grew up, and it’s lovely – as I type the word “lovely”, I can hear Simone’s mother, Estelle, saying it with her wonderful South African accent. Estelle has been the essence of hospitality – we have honestly and truly already learned so much from her as she has joyfully cared for all of us here.

And Simone … well, “lovely” would fall short. It has been so much fun getting to known the girl who won Jono’s heart and will become his wife this Saturday. She is full of life and smiles, with the same grace that her mother shows to a house-full of obnoxious Americans .

First time to the Continent

We’re sitting on the Tarmac in Johannesburg, South Africa, it’s raining with thunder and lightning and the weather has caused our flight to be delayed. We flew the nine hours from Israel to here with little difficulty. It’s hard to comprehend how we have actually been gone from home for a month.

My head seems to full of thoughts and information. I definitely need to blog every other day or I get overwhelmed by all that we see and are a part of…

Israel is amazing. If you have the opportunity to go you should. It is a beautiful country full of history, tradition, and beauty. In some ways it is hard to leave it. But I am excited to see the African continent for the first time.

Climbin’ & Floatin’

Climbin’ Masada and Floatin’ in the Dead Sea.

Masada is a mountain-top fortress and palace of yore. The only way up/down in those times (which of course is how WE went up/down) is what’s called the “Snake Path”. Not because there are snakes on it, but because it is like a long, windy, switchback-ey snake itself. Oh, and it goes straight up. Herod built Masada as one of his strongest defenses, and it withstood the test – but not to protect Herod. It was the last stand of the Jewish forces against Rome. It fell to Rome in 73 A.D., three years after the Temple fell in Jerusalem. Outlines of the original Roman camps surrounding it for a months-long siege are still visible to this day – the best preserved ones around. They are phenomenal. And once on the hilltop, there is time to reflect on the 900 or so people that took their own lives the night before Rome succeeded in their siege, because they chose death over slavery.



The Dead Sea is just below Masada, so naturally a relaxing float would follow the climb. We decided it feels like sitting in a vat of baby oil – and as you might guess, it’s hard to decide whether that’s a good or bad thing as you float around. But it’s quite a fascinating experience no matter how many times you’ve done it before. It is absolutely impossible to not float, because your body has more water in it than the “sea”. We also found some of the mineral mud and the pictures are available for your entertainment.



We leave Israel tomorrow night, and can only be grateful for our time here. Not just in seeing parts of this amazing Land, but also exulting in the time with Wendy and her mom. We’ve had such fun sharing life through work and play – and pastries!

Nothing new

I’m not going to pretend this is some new and phenomenal realization, but these last few weeks I’ve really been struck with how “serving” is still so often about ourselves. For me, this has come out because I’ve asked myself whether I’m finding pleasure in serving because a) it’s actually with a heart for the person I’m trying to serve, or b) it’s because it makes me feel like I’m “accomplishing a goal”. Even this morning as I was reading in Matthew, I was struck by the disciples’ argument about who would be first, where they would sit in the kingdom, etc. The Son told them to get where they wanted they had to be servants to all. But he still knew their motivation was “If I put myself last now, I’ll be first later.” Haven’t we all had that thought at one time or another? Which, of course, means we’re really not putting ourselves last at all … just delaying what we still hope for as first place. So, this made me think again about the bottom-line of existing to bring Glory to the Father. To “bring glory” is not something I readily grasp – it’s not a phrase I use in other parts of life. But one of the definitions I once read did help me a bit with the tangibility of this idea – to “bring glory” is to do what I/we can to protect/honor/uphold another’s reputation. A reputation is something I can wrap my mind around a bit more. And so I came to the beginning of a conclusion … simply that I have been starting with incomplete questions. Do I do what I do to uphold the reputation of my Creator? Right now I can’t say that I even hold this question consciously before me often enough to say “yes” …

Hmmm, He really does …

Yes, we know that our Father guides our footsteps, but every now and then He provides reminders to really know that to be true. This is one of those times for me. When we were first planning this trip, we went back and forth about whether to include a stop here in Israel, particularly with everything going on with Hezbollah. We opted to leave it out of the itinerary until about two days before we bought our flight tickets, when I (Brooke) realized that I had left my dear friend, Wendy, out of the equation. I must admit I dismissed the idea that a visit to my strong, independent friend would be anything but a selfishly enjoyable time. But the Father lovingly chided my heart and prompted us to add Israel back onto the itinerary. His timing could not be more evident. It has been the selfishly enjoyable time I expected, as my heart has simply rejoiced to be with Wendy and back in this Land. But it’s more, too … He knew that my Wendy would need some good friends this week - reminders of His grace and the freedom that comes with that; reasons to laugh and play and be distracted from tears. She left her job this week (her last day was Monday), which is never an easy choice and comes with a whole new set of decisions. Her mom is here this week, too, and we’ve all marveled at the Father’s coordination. He knew. He cares about the details … He really does.

Dirt, sweat and really old stuff

The day after my birthday Brooke and I joined the IBEX crew (a study abroad program through The Master’s College) to help with an archeological dig in the City of David just outside of the Old City Walls of Jerusalem. Yeah, we were sifting through dirt that is believed to be where David’s palace was - just off the Kidron valley. Now I realize that for some of you back breaking work moving dirt around doesn’t sound real enjoyable. But when you realize that you might be touching an artifact that people all the way back to David’s time period may have touched it makes the work go easier. We found hundreds of pieces of clay pots, and dozens of small square mosaic stones used for making floors in homes. I found a horseshoe that our supervisor thinks would have been worn by a donkey. The square next to us found women’s jewelry and a coin. They also found the first artifact that the “dig” feels it can date to the second temple time period. This would be after the temple was destroyed the first time but before it was destroyed again by the Romans in 70 A.D. After the dig, Brooke and I walked around Jerusalem. We spent time at the Second Temple Excavations and at the Western Wall, then walked through the Jewish Quarter. When you realize that you are looking at stones from the original temple that Solomon built, when you see the stone rubble from when the Romans tore the temple down what you have read and believed takes on a visual reality of dare I say Biblical Proportion.



As I was standing at the Wailing Wall, touching the stones and praying, it struck me how thankful I was that the beginning started here at the temple, but didn’t end here. That Yahweh called us all, not just the Jews, and that he freed us from the burden of the Jewish Law through His Son. I am thankful for spiritual roots deep in Jerusalem, and thankful that those roots lead to the heart of He who redeemed us.

Getting Older in a Place that knows all about OLD.

So I turned 30 the other day. Hey I know I still look like I should be finishing college, but thirty is what I am. My brother told me I couldn’t hide from it even if I left the states, and he was right. 30; it sounds so old. Don’t get me wrong, plenty of you reading this are far older than me … (My pastor who only looks 35ish is easily 70 years old, my wise father who gained wisdom with age, my older brother who is by very definition “older”) … but for me it’s 3 decades of life that leave me feeling a little contemplative. The Father has given me a significant portion of years and I wonder what I have done with it? It’s the hay, straw, silver and gold question. What of my life to date would burn away, and what would withstand the fire of His holiness? I know the basis of my life is not founded on works, yet “life” by definition implies an active, carried out thing. So what have I carried out so far? What have you?

Then, just when I thought 30 was old I went to Caesarea and walked along the ruins of the great port that Herod built. It was in this city that Cornelius the Centurion called Peter to his household (Acts 12?). This is where Paul stood witness before Festus and Agrippa (Acts 24-26). This is old. 2000 years old. It’s hard to explain how something like this hits you, it comes gradually. At first is the impending excitement, “I’m going to see something really old.” Then the awe of knowing that this is where the stories took place. Then the disillusioning, “cool, but is that it?”. Finally a steady contemplativeness that realizes His Word is accurate and historical, and a thankfulness that He would allow me to spend time here seeking His face in the ruins of many centuries.

On my Birthday Brooke took me to Old Jaffa. This is the city where Peter was staying with Simon the Tanner when he received the invitation from the centurion in Caesarea. After walking through this village we went to a local beach near Tel Aviv and relaxed together for a while. The day was beautiful and the water of the Mediterranean was cool but not cold. Thanks for each of you who wished me a happy birthday, it was much appreciated.

All I gotta say ...

... is it's SO GOOD to be back in this Land o' Israel.

Toenails are supposed to stay on

So it’s Friday. The weather after a refreshingly sunny day yesterday is cold again, Brooke is with Ally at her Turkish language class and I am at home nursing a toe injury I incurred last night. For the overly curious, I stubbed my toe on a marble edge and peeled a toenail nearly completely off. Walking around this morning I am perhaps able to show a bit more empathy to professional athletes when they sit out of numerous games due to turf toe, or some other kind of toe injury.

Speaking of sports, I know Brooke updated you about the “football’ game we went to Wednesday night. Amazing! 40,000 fans all chanting the same songs, yelling the same words, echoing each other, applauding their team and whistling against the injustices perceived from their opponents. It was like a youth group function for all the Southern California churches. Amazing! If you check our pictures you will see the wall of fans in Red and Yellow. Equally amazing is that when they scored their first goal people lit up road flares. (Andy Hegg if you’re reading this, remind me to show you the video when we get home) 2-1 final score, 20 rows off the field, champions league match, road flares, riot police and 7 yellow cards. Amazing!

Equally as impressive was the trip we took to the Aya Sofya and Blue Mosque on Tuesday. The Aya Sofya was built in the Justinian era of Rome at 537 AD. It was a Christian church and a magnificent work that took 5 years to complete. The huge dome was built without pillars underneath for support. It was taken over by the Muslim Sultans in 1434, who covered over all the pictures on the wall and ceiling, and attempted to shave off and remove all the crosses from the interior of the building. Interestingly enough the coverings that were used actually worked to embalm the paintings and as some have been uncovered they are shown to be in excellent condition. The Blue Mosque was built around 1610 directly across from the Aya Sofya. It was an attempt to copy the dome architecture. However they were unable to copy it’s likeness without using four large pillars to hold the dome in place. A friend pointed out how Christianity is to the Aya Sofya what the Muslim world is to the Blue Mosque. Both buildings are truly beautiful works of architecture. The blue mosque is still a working mosque, while the Aya Sofya is now a museum.

Last night we accompanied Ally to Cay (Chai) House, a place where Turkish university students go to practice their English with their western friends. This may have been the best reminder for me what the vision is for working in Turkey. While at one table I learned of a Turkish slang saying, “Let the horse die of eating barley” (loosely this translates let me die eating what I like); at another table a conversation discussing whether or not Christians and Muslims believe in the same God arose. The important conversations are sparse here but they do take place. I shouldn’t wonder that God has meant for something significant to occur here down the road. It reminds me of a book I was just reading about the church in China. For 150 years the Protestant mission was large but the number of converts small. Then upon that foundation God built a church of exponential size and growth. Now those who had workers coming to them are themselves sending workers out to other countries. Oh that God would do the same for Turkey, and use the foundation laid here through toil and persistence to kindle an unquenchable flame.

We will leave Turkey tomorrow but our friends will remain. Outnumbered, overwhelmed, they will continue to give sacrificially of themselves desperately seeking to open the eyes of a lost and complacent generation whose impending future knows not an eternity spent in relationship with the Father.

"This is the Country [they] live in."

Last night we ventured out to a soccer game at the Olympiat Stadium … GalataySarat (sp?) played PSV. We waited on the public service bus for about 45 minutes before taking off for the Stadium. And the Turks on board were NOT happy. Me? I was just glad we were inside and warm, and it’s quite a phenomenon how you don’t get as riled up about stuff when you can’t understand the argument . But here’s a synopsis as translated to us: The bus wasn’t leaving because the driver didn’t know how to get to the Stadium! Now, let me remind you – this was the public service bus FOR THE GAME. We had to show our tickets just to get on the bus. But they didn’t know how to get there. Alif, a local friend, explained: “This is the country we live in. They build a Stadium that can hold 72,000 people, and they forget to build roads to it.” This became quite a comical time for all of us, perhaps climaxing when Ally realized “We’re protesting with the Turks!”.



Well, eventually we did pull out of the station and somehow the driver found his way to the Stadium – right in time for kick off (which was at 9:45 PM!). The Turks don’t mess around when it comes to soccer. As we walked towards the Stadium, it sounded like we were walking into a crowd of Orcs on Lord of the Rings – just the sheer power in their voices and preparatory cheering. And it didn’t slow down … they remained passionate throughout the entire game, and when it became clear they were going to lose, it also became clear why the hundreds of police officers had been stationed around. As they brought out their riot gear, we took that as our exit cue.

Sigh (the good kind)

So, the other night we joined Ally in a study of the Word, and were going over the two greatest commands: to love God with all our heart, soul and mind, and to love our neighbors as ourselves. Though it seems so simple, I had truly thought of those commands as near equal, and had glossed right over the order in which they were given. Perhaps it’s easier to focus on the love your neighbor part because we can grasp the tangible nature of that. And it’s a tough challenge – anytime this passage is addressed, the discussion is generally about how much we all love ourselves and how it’s hard to love a neighbor at the same level. But if I were to actually love God with all my heart, than there would not be this high level of selfish love remaining in me, and thus the challenge of loving someone else wouldn’t seem like such a chasm to cross.

I (Brooke) have really appreciated the various encouragement I’ve received, from people and the Word, this week, to just get over myself and relax. To not feel like I have to justify everything I do (or don’t do). To just be. Not the first time I’ve had to receive this kind of encouragement  - not likely to be the last, either, but important everytime.

Tonight, we got to join Ally at “Chai House” – a make-shift coffee shop environment where Turkish friends are invited to come and meet and chat informally. It was really a blessing. Both to be able to engage through halted English/Turkish, and to watch Ally share and continue building relationships here. Her passion for the Father is evident despite the pragmatic obstacles here. She told me tonight that she’s here because the Father is not receiving the glory He is worthy of from this part of the world. Wow, perspective.

More on Istanbul

Today is Monday, October 16th, and we have been in Turkey since Friday. Let me catch up on what has happened:

From D.C.: Flight departure time: 5:18 p.m.

1:30 p.m. (all times in “ish”) – leave Medefinds' for Metro station
3:35 p.m.– arrive at Dulles airport via MetroBus (25 min. behind schedule)
3:45 p.m. – after being sent to the wrong line, arrive at correct check-in counter only to be told we’re too late to make the flight … hearts sink.
3:46 p.m. – agent realizes he misread the departure time and we CAN make the flight.
3:47 p.m. – agent’s printer jams.
3:57 p.m. – still at the counter, but reminded it could be worse: the girl behind us left her purse (yes, with credit cards, cell phone and passport) in her friend’s car that just dropped her off.
4:05 p.m. – Brooke is required to go through special screening. J takes his bags one direction, Brooke another.
4:15 p.m. – Jason and Brooke scramble to find each other in a security line of what is, no joke, more than 1,000 people deep.
4:45 p.m. – no way we’re going to make it through security in time. Encouraged to see if a United agent will walk us through.
4:46 p.m. – Brooke runs to opposite end of terminal to find United Rep. Rep. is frustrated and walks away mid-conversation, thankfully to return with a kind Supervisor who gives the nod.
4:50 p.m. – Brooke runs back across the terminal to get Jason out of line. J & B both run back to Supervisor (are you keeping track? Brooke has now run the length of this terminal THREE times!). And remember, there are THOUSANDS to navigate between. NEVER seen an airport so jammed before.
4:55 p.m. – walked through thanks to kind-hearted Supervisor. Split again for separate security checks. Brooke in line for special screening (aka puff air in your clothes and check EVERY compartment of your bag) – interesting and reassuring if you’re not watching your departure time tick closer.
5:10 p.m. – J&B both make it through security and end up on the same shuttle to our gate.
5:14 p.m. – arrive at Terminal C – gate is on opposite end. Start running again …
5:16 p.m. – arrive at gate, where agents say, “Miller?” (hmm, nice to be known) and we board as the doors close.
5:18 p.m. – we sit down, hold hands, and take off.

Only with God’s help did we make the plane. Strong reminder at the BEGINNING of this trip: all we can do is be along for the ride.

We arrived in Istanbul after a quick layover in Frankfurt. Ally met us with her friend Lisa and they drove us back through the city of Istanbul and across the Bosphorus via ferry to Ally’s pad, a 9th floor 3 bedroom apartment she shares with a roommate. The city is huge, estimates of 17-20 million people. The country is 99% Muslim . The city is split on 2 continents: Asia/Europe. Western culture and influence, predominantly materialism, shows itself everywhere. These are a proud people, passionate about their beliefs, religious and otherwise. Obviously a difficult place to encourage discussion. In the past 20 years they know approximately 2800 who have accepted Truth. 2800 out of 17-20 million. Success here is not determined by numbers.

Friday night we take a bus 45 min. across the bridge from Asia to Europe to meet friends for a birthday party. It is during the month of Ramadan; fasting during the day, eating only after the sun goes down. As the sun sets people move more purposefully to get home. Their “hunger” drives them to their homes (more on this later). After getting off the bus we attempt to get a cab, but no luck - 25 cabbies pass us and tell us no, they are going to eat. We finally get there. This part of Turkey catches you off guard. It looks like any major metropolitan area. Many shops, restuarants, cars, taxis, and people.

Saturday we slept for 13 hours. Finally we feel rested. Went to the largest “walmart” -esq store I have ever been in called Carrefor. Unbelievable the amount of stuff they had. Modern Istanbul seems obsessed with stuff. Tried a couple different Turkish foods, and so far I like them all. Food is good, price is better.

Ally … ah, she’s a strong girl. This is a tough world for her to be in. Tough for us to see someone we love in a hard world. Today she said something important – just because it’s hard doesn’t mean it’s bad. Though we can see her weariness, she is strong. Confident. Not in herself (though she is far better at Turkish than she gives herself credit for!), but strong in her purpose and calling here.

Sunday we went to their morning gathering. How good it is to worship with fellow believers. I talked with one of the guys there about the whole definition of success in this situation. He said “many come with grand ideas and they burnout fast. This is a slow place where only relationship breaks these barriers and then not often.” He compared it to China. “In China, everyone had open ears for truth but shied away from relationship. Here, everyone is open to relationship but shies away from truth.” I wonder if this isn’t what we in America are becoming? Open to people but closed to ideas outside of what we have pre-determined? Father I still don’t fully understand your will for Brooke and I both here and on the trip itself. I am afraid of a language I don’t understand, and a people who hate my background. Deliver me from fear. Give us purpose. Help us to really know you and your people.

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As Jason wrote a petition for deliverance from fear, I (Brooke) was journaling my very struggle with the same:

I am scared. Scared of being purposeless. Scared of not having anything to give. Scared of invading and being a burden rather than a blessing.

So I must again identify what is true, right, noble, etc. When Jason asked, my tongue was stuck – will my fingers do any better?

True … the Father never rejected anyone for feeling weak, lost, or broken.
Right … the broken who didn’t reject Him, either.
Noble … the battle for my heart.
Pure … the instruction to be on my knees. Why do I feel so inept in this so often?
Lovely … Jason’s tender care of me when I hit these battles.
Excellent … the hearts of those that have encouraged us in this endeavor.
Praiseworthy … that He is on the throne. There was a song about that at this morning’s gathering, and it’s chorus is reverberating in my head … want it to echo true in my heart as well.

Istanbul, Days 1 & 2

We're here! After a tremendous run-for-the-plane and make it within minutes (seconds, maybe?), we took off from Dulles on Thursday evening and arrived here in Istanbul on Friday.

Istanbul is a BUSY city. Fast, crowded, and a few times the sun has poked through the clouds to reveal the beautiful blue of the water. Despite our jet-lag, we are soaking up the time with Ally and loving just experiencing her world at her side ... and it's a crazy world. Ally has a beautiful apartment on the 9th floor overlooking a busy neighborhood on the Asian side of Istanbul. It's the middle of Ramadan here, so the early morning and late evenings are particularly busy as locals rush to/from their feasts in preparation for "fasting" throughout the day.

We'll definitely take the time to write more soon, but wanted to at least let you all know we made our first flight - even though just barely :).

Life with the Medefinds

We have been spoiled with grace as we've invaded the Medefind home here in D.C.. Jedd, Rachel, Siena & Marin have a beautiful home just a block south-east of the Capitol, so it's been a wonderful time of bouncing between visiting and sight-seeing. Best of all has been the time of fellowship and reflection, perhaps topped only by the time with their delightful girls. We were lucky enough to be invited into their world quickly and had such fun listening to Siena sing (JOYOUS spirit!) and watching Marin crawl around with a giggling smile. Check out the pictures ... you'll see why they have been so easy to fall in love with!

Contemplation

Yesterday provided many times of contemplation. We spent part of the day at Arlington Cemetery, which is sobering on so many counts. I read so many notes of the soldier’s deaths not being in vain and I wondered honestly if I could assent if it was my Jason, my Casey/Cory/Grant. That led me to think through the only guaranteed assent I could offer to know that life OR death could not be in vain: the one that is for the Father’s glory. As we walked the rows of tombstones I wondered what a cemetery of the martyrs would look like – if they were honored as our nation’s heroes are. How many miles and acres would they consume?

And earlier this week, amidst historical treasures of our nation’s history, we were fortunate enough to come upon the “Illumination of the Word” exhibit at the Library of Congress. It is a display of a hand-written and hand-illustrated copy of the Word – beautifully done, and a strong reminder to us of the most important history to be preserved and told. Nearly incomprehensible to think that the early pioneers of printing the Word in English lost their lives for taking that stand.

So, while wandering this beautiful Capitol and soaking in our young history, the Father has continued to prompt our minds to Him.

Deep and valuable conversations have been shared with our good friends Jedd & Rachel Medefind, furthering our heart’s preparation for this endeavor. Last night we were able to sit and go through our itinerary and hopes/ideas/questions for all that is to come, and it was so exciting to break away from the pragmatic planning and prepare to leave today with a renewed passion.

Leaving Denver

This has been a fun stop. Simple, mellow, awesome times of just catching up and sharing life. These girls have played such a significant role in my life that it's just right to start this trip with them.

Preparing to say goodbye always reminds me of the fears I have to re-submit to the Father. They tell me I'm brave. I tell them I'm stubborn.

Three lessons

We spent the last 2 days in Lafayette, Indiana. My (Jason’s) friend, Jeff, who I have grown up with basically my entire life, lives there and is trying to establish a church plant. Originally I assumed we were going to Indiana just to hang out, but if there is anything I have learned over the past few months of planning for this trip, it is that the Father’s sovereignty extends to everything. As it turns out I needed 3 things that this short stop provided.

First, I needed rest: emotional, spiritual, and physical. I slept at least 9 hours each night (Brooke slept 12 hours the first night, even through an intense mid-west thunderstorm!). We got to slow down and walk around Purdue University, hang out at a coffee shop, and try Indian cuisine at the Bombay restaurant. We played at the park with their kids, Charlie and Katie. We focused on one single family for the first time in a long time, and didn’t worry about planning and preparing.

Second, we got to baby-sit. Now that may sound odd to many of you that baby-sitting was somehow fulfilling to our world, but it signifies the purpose of our next nine months. Even here in the states we hope we were able to bring refreshment to His workers. They have been working on this church plant for about 8 months and don’t get a lot of alone time. SO we were thrilled to watch the kids (who are amazing, by the way) for an evening and give Jeff and Jen time together.

Third, we had a conversation the first night that has kept me thinking since. The question posed involved the inherent tension involved in living in the physical world, while living for spiritual significance. Specifically, what standard of results gives evidence of spiritual success within our current culture? It has been my tendency to harp on the modern day pervasiveness to use numbers as the ultimate standard of effectiveness and success. Such a standard seems cold, impersonal, and full of “look at us” arrogance. But if not numbers then what? What does the man who truly desires to live a life of significance do to understand the measure of his success? How should my friend know that he is being effective with the time and resources the Father has given him as this plant has not yet fully developed? How should I assess the work he has done before the Father? How will you assess the value of the trip Brooke and I are taking from the question of Kingdom significance?

I am interested to hear what some of your responses are. For me, at least at the moment I see a personal responsibility that may not result in corporate acknowledgement. We may be faithful to serve Him where he has called us, doing what he has asked us to do, and yet see no favorable response from it. Success may indeed be measured solely at times in the quietness of my own heart, regardless of the visible results. This is not to say that the outward manifestation of someone’s work is somehow unimportant, but that it may not be the most accurate indication of the success the Father desires. Take for instance many of the Minor Prophets doing His work and taking a beating for it. Or some of the small churches that may never grow physically across America, but have zeal, depth, and passion that is unmistakable yet are regarded lightly due to size alone.

I want this trip to be meaningful and significant within the Kingdom, and I believe these next 9 months will require a new standard to hold us accountable to. I believe we are currently seeking out this standard to give us direction within our trip. What about you? At the end of these 9 months what standard will you use to determine if your life has been lived significantly these past 9 months? Hopeful that each of us will live the life He has called us to diligently and fully ...

"Before"

Here you have it - the "before" going-around-the-world shot.

We left So. Cal. this morning for Indianapolis, where we're reuniting with Jason's lifetime friend Jeff Mikels and his family. They are in the process of planting a new fellowship in Lafayette, and as I (Brooke) write this, I can overhear the conversation below me and the heart-catch-ups. The lessons of the past few years, the encouragement of ongoing purpose, and reflection on our great Father.

Leaving today was very surreal. We would be lying if we said we felt prepared for all that is ahead, but we know the One who is.

Adjustment of the day: Separating ourselves from our cell phones! Odd because we're so used to immediate and unrestricted access to our friends and family. Sure it's only a tiny drop in a big bucket of adjustments away from our cozy lifestyle :).

Petition for the day: Wherever we are, to be all there.

In answer to a friend's question ...

Several friends have asked us how we're paying for this, and have asked us to put the answer here on this site. So here 'tis ...

To finance this adventure, we've significantly down-sized our material possessions :). We've also been able to put away all our dimes this summer as Brooke's brother has provided a place to live rent-free.

But we wouldn't be able to do this alone. Our Father has placed it on the hearts of some family and friends to give to us without our even asking. This is a new position for us - to be the receivers. It has been humbling and AMAZING to watch the Father provide through His children's generosity.

While we're away, if anyone feels led to give, it can be sent to our good friends, Kris & JP Dorn, and they will deposit it for us. Their address is 8432 Magnolia Ave. #1208, Riverside, CA 92504.

First Steps

We bought our first set of tickets yesterday!!! Wow.

We leave So. Cal. on October 2, and head straight to .... drum-roll please ... Lafayette, Indiana. Not quite as exotic as you expected? Well, some dear friends that Jason's known since he was two are there to plant a Fellowship of believers. We will then bounce through Denver, CO and Washington, DC to connect with friends and further prepare for all that is ahead.

And then ...
October 12 - 22: Istanbul, Turkey
October 22 - 29: Israel
October 30 - November 13: Cape Town, South Africa
November 14 - December 4: Ahmedabad, India
December 4 - ??: Kigoma, Tanzania

2 weeks out: His take

I spoke in a junior high/high school chapel this week on the topic of significant living. I was challenged with what makes our upcoming trip significant? Is it the many people both believing and non that we are going to share life with? Is it the fact that we are traveling in one direction around the world? Is it that we have given up our jobs and sacrificed many of the luxuries we are accustomed to in order to attempt this trip?

The answer was surprising to me. I was stuck with the question of what makes my life on any day significant. The answer when all is said and done is my relationship to the Father. Not my actions, not my accomplishments, not my ideals. Simply my relationship. This being the case, then the significance of this trip is solely based on the One who has called us to go. To be in relationship with Him is to be significant to this life whether in the States or around the world.

As we are three weeks as we are 3 weeks away from beginning this new saga of life, I share the challenge with you as well:

What is your significance based on? What is significant about where you have been called to go? When you recognize your worth lies in the One who is in fact Worthy and respond to this undeserved offer of daily relationship with humility, your significance will be defined with clarity.

2 weeks out: Her take

Questions swamp my mind, tasks consume much of my waking time, but thankfully, peace remains dominant as we gaze into the unknown. And really, whatever is ahead in life is always unknown, but maybe when you're getting ready to live out of a backpack and enter cities you can't even properly pronounce, you're just more aware of it.

This summer has brought me through many lessons already. I've been re-reading 'Hinds' Feet on High Places' and sadly recognized how closely I resemble little "Much-Afraid." But my Shepherd tenderly, and sometimes laughingly, continues to guide in the path He has chosen. He is teaching me to fear Him alone. To recognize His sovereignty in EVERYTHING. Because it really is all or nothing when you're talking about Him - either He is all He says He is, or He is none of it.

Beyond this, He is teaching my heart to receive and even indulge in the simple enjoyment of anticipating this trip. I am amazed that we have this opportunity, grateful that even as lil' Much-Afraid, He has opened doors for Jason and I to explore, to serve, to play, and to risk.

A Matter of Sensitivity ...

Preparation is continuing, and one thing that has weighed heavy on our hearts is to do everything we can to protect those we will be visiting. Many of the countries we will be visiting do not share the same freedoms that we do here in America. Specifically, language is highly sensitive.

So, out of respect and for the safety of those we will be visiting, we will make every effort to avoid “sensitive language” on this blog so that we can still access it within those countries without causing any concern.

By no means do we intend to discount the precious name of our Father by using alternative language on this site. We are going in His power alone, to be sure. This is simply one of the smallest means by which we can minister to those who are spreading the Truth in closed countries.

We trust that any of you who comment on this site will also be sensitive. Thanks so much for your partnership.

If you logged on, it means you care ... Thanks :).

So now here's what you need to know ...

We’ve moved! And we’re just gonna keep on movin’ …

The Father has put it upon our hearts to spend this next year (Oct. 2006- June 2007) exploring His work around the World … so in just a few short months, we will be setting off for a journey that is yet to be fully defined, but goes something like this:

Ø Bouncing from country to country staying with those who are there to share the Passion that lives within us. We will also be visiting several friends who are national locals and we are hopeful to introduce them to our best Friend and Brother!

Ø Once there, joining in life and work, with the hope of bringing some love and refreshment to those who have dedicated their lives to a foreign country for the sake of the Truth.

Ø Yet unknown goodness from our Father's hands …

While we're away, our family will be receiving mail for us at PO Box 2927, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315.

A rough sketch of our itinerary ...

Nothing is "for sure" until we have tickets in our hands, but here's an idea of where we think we'll be over the next year:

• Istanbul, Turkey
  
• Cape Town, South Africa
  
• Kigoma, Tanzania
• Bombay, India
• Delhi, India
• Kathmandu, Nepal
• Dhaka, Bangladesh
• Bangkok, Thailand
• Vietnam
  
• China
• Brisbane, Australia

Why are we doing this?

We have been asked by many whether this is a vacation or a trip with greater purpose, especially to share the Truth of our Father. It is both.

We don't see the two as exclusive; living in light of the mission our Father has given us is the same no matter where we are!

We would be lying if we said we weren't excited about breaking away from American culture for a bit and exploring this great world, but it would be empty for just that. For a long time now we've wanted to be able to connect with those who have left home and family to spread the Truth, and so this journey developed. Our purpose and activities will be different in each place and with each person, but we have been AMAZED at the itinerary our Father is opening doors for!

When all is said and done, it boils down to this: To take the adventure that the Father brings, and to pour into those who are constantly pouring out.