The destination this January was Chotebor, Czech Republic for a team of 16 students and three sponsors where we shared our lives and Christian faith on a great God-assigned adventure. It is hard to describe these very busy 3 weeks or to convey in a few words the significance of our efforts there. But I'll try.
What we did.
We were invited into several schools to teach English and PE and to engage students in conversational English. We invited those students to a number of after-school activities for follow-up and intentional conversations over coffee or tea at the local coffee shop. We participated in youth group and invited kids there, spent time hanging out with kids of all ages: at a couple of state run children's homes, a nursing home and some local Gypsy kids (the boys are great at beat boxing). All of our efforts were to provide links for the local ministry and draw them into relationships with local Believers.
We hosted two bigger community events where the Americans provided desserts* (one of my roles was to bake about 9 dozen, mostly peanut butter, cookies as well as several dozen muffins. Since peanut butter is relatively unavailable the peanut butter cookies were quite popular! We also made a chicken enchilada meal to serve 70 people as part of an outreach. Relationships we made have continued through Facebook, Skype, and e-mail. And we heard that many new kids are attending the youth meetings. Since we've been back on campus a few girls on the team are meeting at my home weekly to pray for the ministry and people in Czech Republic, especially for the planting of a church in Chotebor where there is currently no Protestant church.
A few reflections
A few things I learned have to do with keeping my eyes and heart open for God's work, being a willing and obedient servant, and participationg fully in the moments I've been given. Perhaps these aren't very profound thoughts, but God has reminded me that it is the small things that matter. Frequently He reminds me that in my weakness He will do what I cannot, but that I need to do my best for Him even when I don't see the bigger picture or my role. Even though 3 weeks is a short time, I am reminded that time is in God's hands, and He alone chooses to do what He will with our moments, a minute or a lifetime. And His work goes beyond our vision or knowledge. The truth that reassures me is that our lives, even the mundane moments living in Indiana, have an impact to further His Kingdom.
In short, my attempt to write a reflection is a form of verifying and thanking God for His work. I am grateful for this awareness. It is a great day to be alive! And now whenever I make peanut butter cookies I will remember Chotebor, the friends I made, and the outstanding team of students who shared the experiences. God will build His church and save people using small things. I'm blessed to play a small part in it.
