Sometimes it is good to refocus again and rethink why we're here. The main reason we are here is because God wants us here and we are following Him in obedience. We are here because of God's heart for all of humanity. We are here because Jesus died for all people. It is not our drive that keeps us here, after four years we would have given up already. It is not our love for the Mongolian people that keeps us here. It is HIS love and HIS alone.
Sometimes with our human eyes it is difficult for us to see that us being here actually accomplishes anything. But Christ uses people to reach others, right? He doesn't have to do it that way. He could have the rocks speak out. He could open the heavens and declare His greatness and Christ's saving power to all. But that is not how He chose to save mankind.
Our job title is "church planter." Christ reaches out from person to person worldwide in the church. The church is not a building or a group of rules. It is a mass of people that believe in faith without sight, that Jesus is the way the truth and the light. So here we are an arm of the worldwide church- helping to start a new group of people that believe in Jesus.
The word of Jesus are so encouraging. He said, "I will build my church." He will do it. It is His work. What great news for us who have no idea what we are doing sometimes!
Here are some pictures that speak a thousand words about why Christ's love is needed here.
This is the Mother Tree. I hate it! This is where people go to worship the tree's spirit.
It is where manyMongolians go when they are in trouble They offer scarves, matches, milk, vodka, money, tea, grain candy- it is not just a cultural thing to do.
They believe will help them.
This boy is laying on the ground amongst all of the offerings.
He is praying at the stump of the tree.
On this day the shaman (kind of like witch doctors) were there
dressed up in full costume and drumming.
They were trying to contact the souls of the dead.
All of these people are here worshiping and giving sacrifices... it is not a cultural show.
It is truly a act of faith that the spirit will help them.
This is the Mother Tree. I hate it! This is where people go to worship the tree's spirit.It is where manyMongolians go when they are in trouble They offer scarves, matches, milk, vodka, money, tea, grain candy- it is not just a cultural thing to do.
They believe will help them.
This boy is laying on the ground amongst all of the offerings.He is praying at the stump of the tree.
On this day the shaman (kind of like witch doctors) were theredressed up in full costume and drumming.
They were trying to contact the souls of the dead.
All of these people are here worshiping and giving sacrifices... it is not a cultural show.
It is truly a act of faith that the spirit will help them.
3 comments:
these pictures are so sad. I could not imagine worshiping a tree. That seems so hopeless, so non dynamic, so lost. How privileged we are to worship a living God, to have an actual relationship with Him. It is my prayer that God will continue to move among your neighbors so that they can experience the peace and hope of a living God.
Pastor Mark, our associate pastor is always mentioning how people will go out and cut down a tree, and with one half of it, go and cook their dinner--burning it up in the process, and with the other half, will fashion an idol that they will worship. It is a sad idea that is unfortunately all too true.
These pictures speak volumes about the battle we are in.
Ephesians 6:10-12
Finally, my brethren be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of wickedness in the heavenly places.
He is mighty and it's His battle for the souls of the Mongolians.
Thank you for your obedience to go and share the love of Christ to set the captives free.
It also shows us to pray for you all because you are in the heat of the battle. No matter what you see or feel you are soldiers for Christ and we stand with you in spirit and truth.
You are right it's His work and He will finish what He started.
Love Mom
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