I have mentioned this before, but as we walk the streets here in Pucallpa or ride in the taxis to our different clinic locations, a lot of eyes are upon us. Heads turn, conversations stop, and we are met with a gaze of curious wonder. Who are they? Why are they here in Peru?? We are noticed because we look different, and honestly we really don't have a choice but to look different. We stand out in the crowd because of the color of our skin and the language we speak.
As followers of Christ we are called to look different, not on the outside, but on the inside. Noah, Abraham, and David were all chosen because of what was on the inside. Just as I believe we were created as an overflow of God's love, this is how we are to live our lives. What is in us overflows into the lives of others and makes us look different. The difference, that is seen, is the overflow. We should not look different for the sake of being different, but should have no choice but to be different because of what is in us. It is no secret that what ever you put in you will overflow out. For believers in Christ this overflow, this difference must be Christ.
So the following are questions that I must ask myself and I am asking you. When you don't naturally stand out, when physically you look the same, do people see a difference? If they do, what is the difference? be blessed
Hi Joe, whenever I start to feel that "blah" feeling, I just read the blogs several of you have posted(have read them over several times) and realize just how good I have it here. I cannot put into words how the story "Boots?" have made me feel as a father and as a follower. I am so thankful for the time you guys have been putting into this mission and keeping us updated here at home. God is truly working over there, it can be felt here just from the pictures alone. Looking forward to seeing you home again, unless you decide to stay and be a basketball star I've been reading about. Oh yea, ran outside today in shorts....I was a little bit tougher than Nick...lol..jk.. Will get back to you on your questions about differences. As usual, it takes me longer to think about your deep questions. Continued prayers, Ron.
ReplyDeleteHey Joe,
ReplyDeleteThanks for the thoughts. It strikes me about God's perfect timing. You are all there in response to God's perfect timing in your life. It is all part of the journey to fulfilling His purpose in you and your purpose in Him. On this last stretch when the everyday gets harder my prayer for all of you is that you will embrace all that He is filling you with there and finish the race strong.
Final note: love the picture above! I told Gary come look and tell me if you can tell Joe is in Peru. Blessings on all of you.
the other Jen