Light and Darkness

The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

John 1:5

As we have been speaking at different places since our return from Africa we often get a response of awe. People say, “I could never do that” or “It is amazing what you guys are doing.” To be honest this is usually the most awkward part of any presentation. Only because Liz and I see what we are doing as perfectly normal, at least as far as our faith in concerned. Now I don’t want to downplay the struggles of mission work or other people who have sacrificed much to do mission work. However, the only thing I see as special about what we do is that we wholeheartedly follow our calling or vocation in life, which granted not everyone does. It is really that simple though, not always easy, but yes, simple.

What has really impressed me during our time back though is the multiple ways in which the people we have encountered have been lights during our travels. Friends that have sat, listened, and provided good advice. Family and friends that have given us lodging, food, transportation, and been helpful in a dozen other ways as we live as nomads in the land of our birth. People have even gotten involved in helping us raise funds and awareness about Angel House. People may be amazed by what we do, but I am constantly amazed at the number of different ways the light can break through the darkness, where caring wins out over self-interest and interest over apathy. I am amazed and very thankful, because even a small project like Angel House needs a lot of people to make it work and the things Grassroots Ministry is looking into doing in the future will take even more involvement by different people and organizations. This is something that at times makes me very nervous, but after the last few weeks, I have a greater feeling assurance than ever before that the community of people who will really end up making the differences in the world have, are, and will step up, unafraid of the darkness because of their belief in the light.