I'll have to admit that I was a bit skeptical when the notion of a pastor/elder mission trip to Nicaragua came up. What in the world did we have to offer these Nicaraguan pastors? Some high-minded advice from rich American gringos who didn't even speak the local language? For only three days? It seemed like a big waste of time and resources. Right?
I was wrong. We *are* making a positive difference -- a big one, as best I can tell.
Our presence has created a compelling event -- enough to inspire many pastors from the whole region to come to the conference. (In some cases, it included surmounting great travel hardships even before the bus breakdown.)
The most important things they are learning are some important and essential truths about Christianity. But along the way, they are also learning some "cool" new tools (not sure how "cool" might translate into Miskito). For example, today we showed them the Bridge diagram as a way to explain the Gospel to someone. They had never seen it before, and were excited to get it. Of course, we had to adapt it to a culture where paper may be completely unavailable in a small village. (What, no Starbucks napkin to draw on?) I described how they could draw the bridge in the dirt with a stick if needed, and they can verbally share the relevant Bible verses as appropriate.
They got it -- their mental light bulbs could almost illuminate the room! In fact, they understood just about everything we we were trying to teach, including the wheel diagram showing the stages of Christian maturity, and how useful it can be to understand where someone is on that scale -- to best know how to help them along on their spiritual journey.
We are making a positive difference, despite the language challenges, the relatively brief time period, and the cross-cultural adjustments. Our group has told us several times already how much they appreciate us coming all the way from Oregon to teach them these things.
There is still one more day, and it has already been worth the price of admission! :-)
-- John Harms
P.S. My large-group story presentation went well, IMHO. Thanks for your prayers!
And I bet you're already thinking of coming back ... Now you understand why Kathy and I wanted to join you this week. Thanks John for your honesty and willingness to think outside of the box to help these pastors draw a bridge in the dirt to share how Christ connects us to God! It is exciting to see that light bulb go on. I love that you could see it illuminate the room.
ReplyDeletePraying for your last day.
Thank you God for what you are doing in the hearts and minds of the pastors and gringos in Nicaragua.
John...It was so encouraging to read your post and hear your perspective on the difference that a team can make in a short period of time. Your faithfulness, diligence and perseverance will bear fruit.... even if not immediately evident. So delighted to hear the prayers for the 2 Kings 2 story were answered. Praise God.
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