Changing

Changing. That's the one word I would use to describe this week in Colombia. I think the experiences we had this week are changing me and I dare to say are changing everyone that came with me. Often when we hear about missions, we tend to think that as Americans we will go out and bless those in another country by doing things for them that they cannot do for themselves. I tell you my experience was quite the opposite. We are the ones who received the blessing. God really showed up in a big way this week. I saw the Lord's blessing poured out right before my eyes. This community sees Jesus in a way that I have never seen. The simplicity of their lives gives them a connection with God that most in America have never experienced. You see...that is the goal of the enemy...keep us distracted so we cannot focus our attention on the one true God and hear his voice. Jeremiah 29:11 says, "For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord. "They are plans for good and not disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen.". The part of that verse that grabs me is the last part..."when you pray, I will listen.". The truth of the matter is He will listen and He does hear our prayers. We have to ask and we have to have a relationship with Him. The people of Mesalondia understand this and God connects with people in the simplicity of their lives in this place. How else can you explain tears flowing down my face as prayer filled the room for the two pastors in this community? Those prayers were in a language I cannot understand, but the Spirit of God was present here. He is working...he is changing the hearts of these people and He is changing me.