May 7 - Do You Like My Country?
Psalm 24:1-2 "The earth is the Lord's and everything in it, the
world, and all who live in it; for he founded it upon the seas and established
it upon the waters."
Proverbs 25:25 "Like cold water to a weary soul is good news
from a distant land."
They are such innocent questions and ones that I have grown accustomed to
hearing over the years. "Do you like my country?" "What do you think of my
church? Is it OK?" For a while I did not realize what the real question was
behind these questions, but as relationships were strengthened, I knew and it
kind of broke my heart.
The questions are filled with unintentional potential traps for short term
missions teams and are born out of heart-rending worries by those who are
asking. Do you know that we are highly honored in Guatemala (and around the
world) because we have traveled so far to get there and because we are believed
to be wealthy people that should be respected?
Quick illustration: What would you do if the president announced that he
would visit you at your home? I imagine you would make sure that all of your
landscaping was perfect and your house spotless. You would put on the best
clothes in your closet, make sure your kids understood that they had to be on
their best behavior and serve what you believe to the best meal. When he
arrived, you would make him as comfortable as possible. Even if you disagree
with him on certain issues, you would pull out all the stops because he is an
important, respected person. For some people in Guatemala, your visit with them
is as significant as the president's visit to your house would be.
In Guatemala you will experience a wide range of treatment. Some will show
no emotion around you. Some will show signs of fear due to rumors that have been
passed down for generations. But most will show you the sweetest hospitality and
want nothing more than to make you comfortable. You go to Guatemala to serve,
but in return you will be served by many. Handling such hospitality and honor
with grace can be difficult. If you are asked, "Do you like my country?" Or,
"What do you think of.....", I believe the core issue tugging at the heart of
these precious people is, "Am I OK?" They have heard so many stories about the
United States. They are often struggling for survival, travel little and have
limited interactions with others from outside their own communities, let alone
from another country. They honestly wonder how they measure up.
So be ready, not to issue a comparison or an evaluation, but a word of
encouragement. Take time to ponder and discuss with your team what strengths of
character God has put into the lives of your national hosts and the beauty of
the country. Guatemala is a country of great beauty. From the views to the
people, there is magnificent beauty throughout. All of the earth is God's
creation...from the most beautiful to the eye to the starkest parts. In
Guatemala, you will see both and find beauty in both. The earth is full of his
glory. Take time to notice it and soak it in as you go. And always be ready with
words of encouragement for that ponderer, "Am I good enough in your eyes?"
Lord, help me to appreciate the beauty you created in Guatemala. Give
me eyes to see your image expressed in the lives of the people You love there.
Create in me a source of encouragement and affirmation wherever I can express
your kindness. Let good news flow out of my life through my words and actions to
all that I meet.
With Gratitude,
Sondra
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