"Perhaps They Will Listen..."

These words come from the Scripture Jeremiah 26:1-3 and were passed on to me by a friend after an exceptionally difficult Bible study we had with some of the older orphanage girls. It was quite appropriate, helpful and inspiring because many days here, I feel like I am talking to the walls or to the numerous pine trees around Emmanuel.

I used to think and worry that I had chosen the "easy" mission field by coming to this Christianity-based orphanage. I no longer think so.

The danger of growing up in a Christian community is that it becomes routine--things that are done because they have to be done and not because there is a joy and zeal for the Lord. Of course, God can use all things, and I am sure that He is planting seeds through the 5-times-a-week morning devotions and the tri-weekly afternoon Bible studies, but when I see the glazed, unfocused looks and hear the half-heartedly we-do-this-all-the-time sung songs, it frustrates me. My desire is for these kids to be on fire for our Lord, and I just don't see it.

So, as I continue to allow God to speak through me in Monday morning circles and Monday and Wednesday afternoon Bible studies, I will keep in mind the verse that says God's word that goes out will not return empty (Isaiah 55:11), and pray that..."perhaps they will listen."

**Please pray for a refreshing anointing of the Holy Spirit to rain down on Emmanuel and fill all of us with God's joy and peace. Thank you!