Reflections from Ethiopia by Pastor Jared. Day 7. Tomorrow - TopicsExpress

Reflections from Ethiopia by Pastor Jared. Day 7. Tomorrow is our last day. The most common reflection Ive heard from people on this trip is We need more time. I think while we are all certainly ready to return to our families, no one really wants to leave. There is so much to process from this trip and we need more time to take it all in. For instance, the beggar children in the streets. How does this happen? What can be done? What should we do - those of us who are asked for money by a child? Obviously giving them something only encourages more begging and can prevent them from growing into productive workers, but then we just feel impotent. But thats about us isnt it? But the thing is, through this partnership, we are helping. Through the gifts we send, whether it is sponsorship dollars or capital investment, we are helping to gradually change the culture. The next generation will be stronger, more educated, and most importantly they will have dignity. The single most important thing we can give to any needy person is dignity. A handout does not accomplish that. A relationship does that. I told Sofis father today how much his family means to us. When I visited his home, taking my shoes off at the door, I respected him. I told him that we pray for them and that knowing them has helped change our lives. I meant it too. I guess I am not GIVING anyone dignity. God does that. I only hope to help them see the dignity their maker has instilled in them. This is the only way to alter lives and cultures. The question I want to answer is - How can I help broken people in my home culture discover their God-given dignity? That is the one thing that will change their lives, our lives, and our world. Be Loved. Go Deeper. Live It Out. Pastor Jared P.S. Here is a video of Sofi whistling. https://facebook/photo.php?v=10152554961029734&set=vb.503579733&type=2&theater