Hope

(1.7.13)

Where do I even begin?!

• Josh and Megan got back Monday after being gone nearly two weeks.
• I’ve spent my first full week in K-2. Words to describe that… chaotic, energy, cuteness, exhausting, frustrating, encouraging, hope. These young four(ish) year olds have hope, though they may not know or recognize it, for a future of freedom if they continue on this path of education; hope that their parents are learning that their lives are valuable and worth fighting for, that with education come options, options other than becoming a restavek (child slave). I pray these children never know the life of a restavek.
• There’s a song I heard here for the first time and it’s perfect for Haiti. So many times I’ve thought, oh, that is so applicable/appropriate  right now, I’m declaring that in this situation. The lyrics talk about plundering the gates of hell and taking back what the enemy has stolen.                                                                           I was not there but that is literally what happened today as some of our American and Haitian staff found themselves standing in a voodoo temple fighting for a young girl. They went thinking they’d start the process by just visiting her (she hadn't returned to school, or home, after leaving to visit family for Christmas), and talking with the family but as things went from okay/so-so to not good they definitely weren’t expecting to leave with her. God had other plans and that is exactly what happened! It was a total Spirit-filled God moment and now J is sleeping on the floor (on a mattress) between our bunk beds.
• There are a lot of things to think and pray about as we prepare the Freedom House and consider the long-term plans for Robertline and J. Pray with us for wisdom and clarity in all that needs to be decided.
• If I had three wishes right now one of them would be to annihilate ants!
• It’s been pouring steady rain for a good couple hours! This resulted in a wet, cold run from one house to the other, and that resulted in the “warmest” bucket bath I’ve had to date.
• As I lay here in bed writing by lantern light I can’t help but think the rain is a perfect example of cleansing, redemption, a fresh start. Hope.
• Tomorrow is the last day of school before a five day break!!! I am so ready! We’re heading to the beach Tuesday morning, renting a house on the beach until Wednesday evening (for $35!!!). It is going to be so much fun! American staff, Haitian staff, staff kids, the girls, and Jessi’s family; eating lobster and fish, snorkeling, swimming, laying out, worship on the beach, sleeping under the stars, family time, bonding time, time for relaxation and renewal. So needed and so ready.

These words are from Set a Fire by Will Reagan and United Pursuit and haven become my prayer. Pray it with and for me.

Set a fire down in my soul that I can’t contain and I can’t control

I want more of You God, I want more of You God

No place I’d rather be than here in Your love

But Jesus said, "Let the children come to me. Don't stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children." Matthew 19:14