6/24/02 (Monday)

We watched the “Ambon’s Silent Scream” video during one of the morning sessions today.  I saw some disturbing images-the results of Islamic persecution in this Christian Indonesian community.  Amazingly, the believers did not express bitterness towards their attackers.  “God bless those who burned this building” was written on a charred column in what once was a house of worship. 

Father, please strengthen those who worship you in Muslim nations.

6/25/02

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.”
Matthew 5:8

We spent this morning talking about moral purity/lifestyle issues.  The singles divided into small groups (based on age/sex) and discussed the temptations and stresses of living on the mission field. 

Lord, please guard my heart as I "take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ." (2 Corinthians 10:5).

6/26/02

”There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven”
Ecclesiastes 3:1

Everything was about closure today.  We met for the last time as a whole group and in our small groups.  “Goodbye” is now a state of being rather than a closing salutation.

I am ready to end this brief put powerful chapter of my life.  My experience here has been wonderful, but I am emotionally drained.  Time has crept in this routine of groups and lectures. 

Thank you, Father, for preparing me for your work. 

6/27/02

Our MLC experience ended today with two final ceremonies.  We had another map ceremony, taking down the pictures we put up our first week.  The commissioning ceremony took place this afternoon.  Jerry Rankin challenged us to faithfully follow Christ as we travel all over the world. 

I’m usually not a big fan of ceremonies, but today was different.  Every word and gesture was intensely personal and meaningful. 

I can only dream of what God will do through all of us.

I will fly back to Birmingham tomorrow.  I will miss the people I’ve encountered here--I’ve met a lifetime’s worth of friends in only seven weeks.    

Lord, may we all be found faithful.



TO BE CONTINUED . . .

back to the Insomnia Files