One year ago today I moved to Haiti. Little did I know at the time that I would still be here calling Haiti home. In some ways it feels like I've only been here for months, while in others it feels like I've experienced years of emotions and events since January 1, 2013.
I witnessed Josh & Megan's marriage, and the multiplying of their family from 3 to 6. I was privileged to be there when the girls moved into Freedom House, I was here when one of those sweet girls transitioned out; I've seen the opening of our secondary building and Cafe, watched the bathrooms, direction office, walls and medical clinic go up, and the garden expand; I've watched our English students grow as they have weekly Bible study and ask many questions, they are so hungry for truth.
I was privileged to assist in kindergarten, help with summer tutoring and form relationships with "our kids," I'm blessed to live and serve with a house full of amazing people. I've seen physical and spiritual healing take place.
We've had teams from all over come and go, helping in so many ways. I've assisted in clinics doing things I never would have imagined.
God is good!
I've also been tired, frustrated and worn down, seen and experienced some tough things.
Children "disappearing" from school, some we find and some we don't; senseless preventable deaths, watching cancer take over a body, seeing students suffer because they need what would be a "simple" procedure in the States but can't get it here, screams of children being beaten, young people so confused by legalism, hearing the words "I'm okay being on Satan's side, he needs more people."
Dealing with disunity and manipulation, frustration with learning a new language and not being able to fully communicate. Having to personally abandon a child at a police station, forcing them to do their job instead of continue giving us the run around. BUT in these situations I can look back and still say God is good!
Without some of these difficult situations I wouldn't be able to list some of the joys and privileges that I have. These difficult situations have led to the opportunity for truth to be spoken, for God's name to be made famous, for His work and power to be put on display. It has caused me to see my deep need for Him, that He is the only one who can sustain me.
I am blessed, humbled and privileged to be serving with Respire and calling Haiti home for this season of life. I look forward to seeing God continue to move in Gressier, making His name known among the people here, and among our team.
I am thankful for every one of you who have kept up with me, sending encouragement, praying, supporting me financially, sending care packages, reading my blogs and newsletters and sharing them with your friends and family. You are a big part of this journey as well.
I pray that in this new year you will see God's blessing not only in the good times but also in the difficult times because no matter the situation God is good!
Behold I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.
Isaiah 43:19
If you would like to support me financially on this journey contact me at respiresharon@gmail.com
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