Outta the Sand

Part of the Honeymoon of the Heart series, originally published October 11, 2012

We had a wonderful, joyous morning in Bethlehem and are now preparing for a day of festivities. Our brother is joining us for a BBQ hosted by the family who own the building where Father's House Bethlehem is located. Then in the evening, we are hosting a dinner for the family of the man who was martyred in Gaza Strip five years ago. One last full day in Bethlehem, and what better way would there be to spend it than with the families we love?

God beckoned me to join Him on this trip, and I was not sure why. I only knew that He'd spoken to my heart that there was "something He wanted to show me." I will process for days, weeks, years, all that I have seen about Him, His land, His people, and His creation. I have learned about His heart and I have seen His word come to life.

I have also been reminded that in some ways I am an ostrich with my head in the sand when it comes to world politics and world cultures. I have made several mistakes (even on this side of the world, it is not normal for women to walk into a men's restroom) and I have learned from those mistakes--learned about the world and about my own illiteracy. Recognizing this, I come back to the same conclusion I had in Africa:

American friends, we are greatly blessed. I did nothing to be born into a free country during a time of prosperity and peace. If you have a computer in your home, you are among the most elite 1% in the world. As part of that 1% we have a grave responsibility to stand for the edification, development, and care for the other 99. With great blessing comes great responsibility.

Widening my heart, my mind, and my understanding; praying for peace in this place.

--R