I returned from Papua New Guinea about 4 months ago. It seems like so much longer ago. I have moments where I miss PNG terribly and the wonderful friends I made there. I find my heart hurting at times for those friends who have been going through such trials and I wished I could be there to encourage them or give them a hug. Lately there has been intense fighting in the villages surround the Ukarumpa Center. Many have been killed and many houses have been burned. Things like this happened when I was there and it is amazing the peace God gives amongst such tension. I never felt unsafe during those times. As I am here though many miles away, my heart hurts for this place. I do not know whether God wants me back there again, but I do know that Papua New Guinea will always be a part of who I am and who I will become.
Like the unrest in this country, I found much unrest in my soul as I returned to the states. The conflict inside myself that keeps me from being who God desires me to become. I wanted to return and wanted people to know I was different, but that required more than me just saying it, I truly needed and desired to become more of who I was created to become.
I was met with many trials financially, spiritually, relationally, and physically. There was a war going on in my soul. Now was the time to decide did I really want to take my relationship with Christ to the next level. Did I really believe God could do these things in me that I have believed for so long for other people. Was I going to allow the power of God to take over or was I going to continue to let fear suppress my soul.
As I walked through this tough transition, more and more I found my God saying FIGHT!! I felt like God was showing me I was going to have to fight to get to where He wanted me to be. I was going to have to persevere through things that didn't make sense. I learned many things and am thankful to say that I did fight and I did persevere. Honestly, it wasn't without a bad attitude at times or tears. I was several times overcome with fear and doubt, doubt if I would ever overcome.
I am glad to say because of Christ I have overcome. I once again learned that fear was not an option. I learned that I am not out of my mind and yes I can hear God correctly!! Just because things aren't easy does not mean God did not call me to them. I learned that I have to take care of myself. I have to know who it is God created me to be and go after it, not worrying what others may think or say or even if they believe I can do it or not. I have to go after what I know God desires. God can call us to certain things, but there is a perfect timing for these things as well. If we try to run ahead it can be quite painful and dangerous.
So for now, I continue to persevere in the things I know God has specifically called me to in this season. Sometimes it seems dull and a little boring, but in this time I am learning discipline. I am learning how to stick with something knowing that this something brings so much freedom. No, I'm not off planning another mission trip or moving to another state, but I am enjoying everyday life, searching for ways that I can be used. For now it is encouraging friends in Africa, friends after surgery, friends getting married, or having babies. These things may seem small compared to going and doing, but I have found peace in these things. So while my life seems a little less exciting to those on the outside. I am seeing God do some amazing things by allowing me to build stronger relationships with others and also building confidence in who I am to become.
While this transition back to this side of the planet has been one of the toughest transitions I have ever made, it also has a sweet side!! Because God is still here. He is why I persevere. I am able to find sweet rest in Him, the God who saves!!!
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Saturday, May 2, 2009
See the Lord is doing a New thing!
I returned from PNG almost 2 weeks ago. I was welcomed to Arkansas with much pollen and extreme allergies. Not really something I was hoping for, but it happens once a year at this time, and glad it's run its course.
I was greeted in the airport on 21st of April by family and friends. My nieces have grown so much. Analee is now one and her birthday was the 16th. Mercedes will be starting kindergarten in August. Wow!! I must admit there is nothing more precious than a 5 year old greeting you with her special name for you (she calls me G), jumping up and down and telling you how much they missed you, I truly am so blessed. It wasn't long before she started asking me for her stuffed crocodile she had requested on my return trip from Australia. The bliss lasted for only a moment. HAHA!
I found it so difficult at first to answer all the questions. I was asked what was best and worst part about the trip and I was speechless. Hold up guys I gotta process this and I will get back to you. I never usually struggle with words. I was surprised at how difficult if was to answer questions. I will admit it was one of the greatest experiences of my life and hands down most challenging experience. More details later on that!
So now I am back in Little Rock. Now what? I began my search here in Little Rock and was planning on staying here, but the Lord is doing a new thing. I am so thankful that I have had the time to read, pray, and drink Starbucks:) In my search I am acutely aware that God desires me elsewhere. I am so excited how clearly he speaks when I ask and once again a little less excited that He still desires to speak to me early in the morning.
I will reveal more of that move later when it all is finalized, but I can't begin to tell you just how faithful My God has been every step of the way. It's nothing for me to pray and petition God about my concerns and questions and the next morning the phone rings to confirm the direction is clear. I am ecstatic about this next step and I can't begin to tell you how much joy and peace overwhelms my life in the smallest steps of obedience.
Thank you all for your prayers during these last 3 months and keeping up with my blog. I think I will continue blogging, I have always been big on journaling, but this is such a great way to share the things I am learning with others and it is so easy. In the next few days I will try and answer those hard questions here on my blog, but until then know how grateful and thankful I am for being able to share my journey. I am even more grateful to the Lord for loving me and never letting go!
"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See I am doing a new thing; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.
Isaiah 43:18-19
I was greeted in the airport on 21st of April by family and friends. My nieces have grown so much. Analee is now one and her birthday was the 16th. Mercedes will be starting kindergarten in August. Wow!! I must admit there is nothing more precious than a 5 year old greeting you with her special name for you (she calls me G), jumping up and down and telling you how much they missed you, I truly am so blessed. It wasn't long before she started asking me for her stuffed crocodile she had requested on my return trip from Australia. The bliss lasted for only a moment. HAHA!
I found it so difficult at first to answer all the questions. I was asked what was best and worst part about the trip and I was speechless. Hold up guys I gotta process this and I will get back to you. I never usually struggle with words. I was surprised at how difficult if was to answer questions. I will admit it was one of the greatest experiences of my life and hands down most challenging experience. More details later on that!
So now I am back in Little Rock. Now what? I began my search here in Little Rock and was planning on staying here, but the Lord is doing a new thing. I am so thankful that I have had the time to read, pray, and drink Starbucks:) In my search I am acutely aware that God desires me elsewhere. I am so excited how clearly he speaks when I ask and once again a little less excited that He still desires to speak to me early in the morning.
I will reveal more of that move later when it all is finalized, but I can't begin to tell you just how faithful My God has been every step of the way. It's nothing for me to pray and petition God about my concerns and questions and the next morning the phone rings to confirm the direction is clear. I am ecstatic about this next step and I can't begin to tell you how much joy and peace overwhelms my life in the smallest steps of obedience.
Thank you all for your prayers during these last 3 months and keeping up with my blog. I think I will continue blogging, I have always been big on journaling, but this is such a great way to share the things I am learning with others and it is so easy. In the next few days I will try and answer those hard questions here on my blog, but until then know how grateful and thankful I am for being able to share my journey. I am even more grateful to the Lord for loving me and never letting go!
"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See I am doing a new thing; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.
Isaiah 43:18-19
Monday, April 13, 2009
Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus
Wow!
I now have about 9 and half hours til I leave my house here in Ukarumpa. I board the plane to Cairns, AS at 10am. Today was a good day! It seems like yesterday I was just landing at Aiyura airstrip doe eyed with anticipation of what God had in store for me.
3 months later, I am a woman of culture haha! 3 months later I found how truly sweet it is to trust in Jesus. Jesus is faithful. Jesus is My Rock. In good and bad times He is My Hope!
I am leaving here with less certainty of what my future holds and more peace than I have ever known. I am full of hope and joy and so looking forward to sharing my experiences. I hope that I have many opportunities to share with many of you specific things God has done in my life.
God provided so perfectly for me my housemate, Lilah, who was quite a trooper with all my questions and idiosyncrasies. Her type of humor made me laugh more than a few times of day. She shared her Aussie culture with me and I felt right at home. I am so thankful that God knew and provided so abundantly. She is so many things I am not, like organized and I have learned so much from her and will never be able to thank her enough!
God provided another housemate the last few weeks, Jen, who added much laughter and encouragement to both of us and she washes dishes!!! There are just some people in life you have an instant connection and she is one of them. I am so thankful for her encouragement and discipline.
God has provided so many more people who have encouraged me along the way. Kindred spirits, if you will. He provided me with Nancy who from the beginning made it her plan to hug me after she saw me each time. It may sound silly to some, but in a place like this those are few and I love my hugs! She loved me and encouraged me and by listening and laughing with me. She allowed me to vent. I am so thankful for her sharing her life with me as well. God is so good.
I have already mentioned a couple earlier in my blog who were huge encouragement to me and my walk with Christ and I am encouraged by their perseverance during the hard times. I will always remember that God uses the simplest things to know He is in control, like cheesecakes!! What a story!!!
I could go to numerous countries and perform physical therapy, but what is so amazing is that it's the people that make the difference. God is so good to allow us to be used to encourage one another. I know I have been changed and I know that it is because of trusting in Jesus. Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus!!!
I now have about 9 and half hours til I leave my house here in Ukarumpa. I board the plane to Cairns, AS at 10am. Today was a good day! It seems like yesterday I was just landing at Aiyura airstrip doe eyed with anticipation of what God had in store for me.
3 months later, I am a woman of culture haha! 3 months later I found how truly sweet it is to trust in Jesus. Jesus is faithful. Jesus is My Rock. In good and bad times He is My Hope!
I am leaving here with less certainty of what my future holds and more peace than I have ever known. I am full of hope and joy and so looking forward to sharing my experiences. I hope that I have many opportunities to share with many of you specific things God has done in my life.
God provided so perfectly for me my housemate, Lilah, who was quite a trooper with all my questions and idiosyncrasies. Her type of humor made me laugh more than a few times of day. She shared her Aussie culture with me and I felt right at home. I am so thankful that God knew and provided so abundantly. She is so many things I am not, like organized and I have learned so much from her and will never be able to thank her enough!
God provided another housemate the last few weeks, Jen, who added much laughter and encouragement to both of us and she washes dishes!!! There are just some people in life you have an instant connection and she is one of them. I am so thankful for her encouragement and discipline.
God has provided so many more people who have encouraged me along the way. Kindred spirits, if you will. He provided me with Nancy who from the beginning made it her plan to hug me after she saw me each time. It may sound silly to some, but in a place like this those are few and I love my hugs! She loved me and encouraged me and by listening and laughing with me. She allowed me to vent. I am so thankful for her sharing her life with me as well. God is so good.
I have already mentioned a couple earlier in my blog who were huge encouragement to me and my walk with Christ and I am encouraged by their perseverance during the hard times. I will always remember that God uses the simplest things to know He is in control, like cheesecakes!! What a story!!!
I could go to numerous countries and perform physical therapy, but what is so amazing is that it's the people that make the difference. God is so good to allow us to be used to encourage one another. I know I have been changed and I know that it is because of trusting in Jesus. Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus!!!
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Growing Pains
This past week, I have been thinking about my time here in PNG. I was thinking about one of my patients I had earlier. He was a teenager who had ankle and foot pain. He was desperate to get rid of his pain because he loved playing all kinds of sports. He saw a doc in the states who mentioned in his epiphyseal plates (growth plates) that they were uneven and causing friction leading to pain. The doc said it would work itself out over next couple of years, but that he would have to live with the pain. Luckily we found some things that eased his pain like taping his heel and giving him some ankle braces. It was so great to see him later, he was so excited to be running faster and jumping higher with almost no pain.
As I think back over this I find myself thinking more about growth and growing pains. It is God's nature for us to grow. With normal physical growth there are growing pains (like cramps and such), but things are worse when plates refuse to move and grow with the body and are uneven.
Growing spiritually has similar effects as well. When we experience normal growth there are pains that come along with that. Going from spiritual milk to solid foods requires much more work. It's easy to drink milk, but add solid foods and that requires chewing and increase in digestion. But when we are spiritually uneven or off balance that can cause even more pain.
Many of us resist growth because we do not like change. We fear those things we may have to leave behind and we fear the things that may be ahead, the uncertainty of the future. We add to the pain by being off balance, being disobedient to God's word and refusing to move forward because we are comfortable just the way we are.
God's plan for us is that we are in a constant state of growth. This allows us to fulfill His will by becoming more like Christ. We do not need to fear or resist growth because with growth comes more peace and joy.
I feel like PNG has been a growth spurt for me. Some things I resisted and made things harder than they should be, but I found when I just let go and trusted in God's provision, I did find peace. I want to grow and become more like Christ and understand His ways. Yet I find myself hanging on as well to the former things, not quite sure I want to leave things behind. For it is almost time to go back home and I have many questions. Will things look different? Will I look different, will anyone recognize me? The cool thing about this is that nothing in my life is certain, definitely not the future and yet I have felt more joy and peace than I have ever before in my life. How is that possible? Because I know that My God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He will always love me, He will always protect me. I know He holds my future in His hands.
While I know this is a process and I will always be growing and often resisting. I hope to remember that the pain is much more bearable if I just give in and let God do what He wants in my life and just embrace His plan, embracing the life that was created to bring Him glory!
So what will you do? Will you embrace growth or be like those stingy, stubborn uneven epiphyseal plates and cause yourself much more pain than required?
The thief comes only to steal, kill, destroy; I(Jesus) have come so that you may have life and have it more abundantly. John 10:10
As I think back over this I find myself thinking more about growth and growing pains. It is God's nature for us to grow. With normal physical growth there are growing pains (like cramps and such), but things are worse when plates refuse to move and grow with the body and are uneven.
Growing spiritually has similar effects as well. When we experience normal growth there are pains that come along with that. Going from spiritual milk to solid foods requires much more work. It's easy to drink milk, but add solid foods and that requires chewing and increase in digestion. But when we are spiritually uneven or off balance that can cause even more pain.
Many of us resist growth because we do not like change. We fear those things we may have to leave behind and we fear the things that may be ahead, the uncertainty of the future. We add to the pain by being off balance, being disobedient to God's word and refusing to move forward because we are comfortable just the way we are.
God's plan for us is that we are in a constant state of growth. This allows us to fulfill His will by becoming more like Christ. We do not need to fear or resist growth because with growth comes more peace and joy.
I feel like PNG has been a growth spurt for me. Some things I resisted and made things harder than they should be, but I found when I just let go and trusted in God's provision, I did find peace. I want to grow and become more like Christ and understand His ways. Yet I find myself hanging on as well to the former things, not quite sure I want to leave things behind. For it is almost time to go back home and I have many questions. Will things look different? Will I look different, will anyone recognize me? The cool thing about this is that nothing in my life is certain, definitely not the future and yet I have felt more joy and peace than I have ever before in my life. How is that possible? Because I know that My God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He will always love me, He will always protect me. I know He holds my future in His hands.
While I know this is a process and I will always be growing and often resisting. I hope to remember that the pain is much more bearable if I just give in and let God do what He wants in my life and just embrace His plan, embracing the life that was created to bring Him glory!
So what will you do? Will you embrace growth or be like those stingy, stubborn uneven epiphyseal plates and cause yourself much more pain than required?
The thief comes only to steal, kill, destroy; I(Jesus) have come so that you may have life and have it more abundantly. John 10:10
Monday, April 6, 2009
Please be in prayer
Ukarumpa Center here in Papua New Guinea has been holding a 2 week conference as they do every other year. During this time we have brought in teams to assist with VBS for kids and a team to provide activities for our youth group.
We have a team here from Pennsylvania working with the youth. This past Saturday this team and 4 of our members here were in a car accident. There was not anyone killed in this accident and all are in stable condition. 4 of the passengers (3 of our members and 1 from the team) were medevacd to Cairns, AS for further medical care. These injuries consisted of broken legs, hip, facial and jaw fractures. Other team members are here with lower leg fractures and broken arms and wrists. All of them are pretty banged up and have cuts from the accident.
We have 3 doctors on staff here at the moment and a few nurses. They have been working overtime and are pretty exhausted.
We ask that you keep all of these people and their families in your prayers. It has been difficult for team members being so far away from home and their families. This would be a difficult situation in the states, but to be so far away has added more pain.
Pray for continued strength for our doctors and nurses and other medical staff assisting with this. We have members with the patients in Cairns to help work through this time for emotional support.
It was a miracle that the injuries weren't any worse than they are. We are confident God and His angels were watching out for this group on Saturday. It has been a great time for our community to work together as a family.
We know God is going to use this for His glory. Thanks for your prayers.
We have a team here from Pennsylvania working with the youth. This past Saturday this team and 4 of our members here were in a car accident. There was not anyone killed in this accident and all are in stable condition. 4 of the passengers (3 of our members and 1 from the team) were medevacd to Cairns, AS for further medical care. These injuries consisted of broken legs, hip, facial and jaw fractures. Other team members are here with lower leg fractures and broken arms and wrists. All of them are pretty banged up and have cuts from the accident.
We have 3 doctors on staff here at the moment and a few nurses. They have been working overtime and are pretty exhausted.
We ask that you keep all of these people and their families in your prayers. It has been difficult for team members being so far away from home and their families. This would be a difficult situation in the states, but to be so far away has added more pain.
Pray for continued strength for our doctors and nurses and other medical staff assisting with this. We have members with the patients in Cairns to help work through this time for emotional support.
It was a miracle that the injuries weren't any worse than they are. We are confident God and His angels were watching out for this group on Saturday. It has been a great time for our community to work together as a family.
We know God is going to use this for His glory. Thanks for your prayers.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Plateaus
Where have you heard the word plateau recently? Well if you are a woman in your 30s like me, you have heard it referring to weight loss in countless magazines and books. One can not open up a fitness/style magazine without those articles teaching you how to rise above your plateau. How miserable it is to work so hard and then not see any results. Many at this point usually give up and go back to their old habits. Their fitness goals are dashed to pieces on the rocks below. Yet there are a few who stick with their routines and rise above.
As I was thinking about this, it reminded me so much about my walk with God. Oh how I long for those mountain top experiences. Remember those times when Jesus truly is the topic of all your conversations, when the Word of God is like a match that keeps your passion for Him burning. Oh those are the greatest times when God shows Himself so clearly in our lives.
For most of us those mountaintops precede those moments of flatness, those times when opening our Bible takes every ounce of strength we have. It's difficult to hear God's voice. We don't know which direction to turn and what is the best next step to take. These are the plateaus which many of us dread. Do we have what it takes to rise above. Can we get past this flatness? For many, these are times when we give up and rebel. We just don't see the point. (No pun intended)
This is where faith is required. What if we kept pressing on? What if we cried out to God to hear our prayers. What if these times when we are having difficulty seeing God even with our bifocals or trifocals, what if we stepped out in faith. Trusting Him even when things are so blurry. What if during these times we remained disciplined and continued reading God's Word even when it doesn't make sense. What if we decided that even though life seems a little blah, we opened our mouths and lifted our voices in praise to God. What would happen then?
Well like those fitness/weight loss plateaus, we would see true transformation. If we persevere we will see results. In fitness/weight loss goals, bodies are transformed with continued discipline. When we choose to remain disciplined regarding our relationship with Christ we can break through our plateau. We would see more than our bodies being transformed, but we would see our entire lives transformed. How different our world would be if more of us persevered instead of hanging our heads and throwing in the towel.
Paul writes in Corinthians that we are to run the race with strict discipline hoping to win the prize. We are not persevering for earthly riches, but for a crown that will last forever. By doing this and remaining disciplined in serving and living your life for Christ, you are not the only one whose life will be changed. For when we choose to run this race, whole nations can be changed.
So when you find yourself stilled by a plateau, keep running. For we can be confident that He who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. (Phil 1:6) The transformation is worth all the sweat and tears.
As I was thinking about this, it reminded me so much about my walk with God. Oh how I long for those mountain top experiences. Remember those times when Jesus truly is the topic of all your conversations, when the Word of God is like a match that keeps your passion for Him burning. Oh those are the greatest times when God shows Himself so clearly in our lives.
For most of us those mountaintops precede those moments of flatness, those times when opening our Bible takes every ounce of strength we have. It's difficult to hear God's voice. We don't know which direction to turn and what is the best next step to take. These are the plateaus which many of us dread. Do we have what it takes to rise above. Can we get past this flatness? For many, these are times when we give up and rebel. We just don't see the point. (No pun intended)
This is where faith is required. What if we kept pressing on? What if we cried out to God to hear our prayers. What if these times when we are having difficulty seeing God even with our bifocals or trifocals, what if we stepped out in faith. Trusting Him even when things are so blurry. What if during these times we remained disciplined and continued reading God's Word even when it doesn't make sense. What if we decided that even though life seems a little blah, we opened our mouths and lifted our voices in praise to God. What would happen then?
Well like those fitness/weight loss plateaus, we would see true transformation. If we persevere we will see results. In fitness/weight loss goals, bodies are transformed with continued discipline. When we choose to remain disciplined regarding our relationship with Christ we can break through our plateau. We would see more than our bodies being transformed, but we would see our entire lives transformed. How different our world would be if more of us persevered instead of hanging our heads and throwing in the towel.
Paul writes in Corinthians that we are to run the race with strict discipline hoping to win the prize. We are not persevering for earthly riches, but for a crown that will last forever. By doing this and remaining disciplined in serving and living your life for Christ, you are not the only one whose life will be changed. For when we choose to run this race, whole nations can be changed.
So when you find yourself stilled by a plateau, keep running. For we can be confident that He who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. (Phil 1:6) The transformation is worth all the sweat and tears.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
God is so stinkin good
This week has been such a great week for me. I know it is only Wednesday, but it's been great. Most of you know this about me, but those of you who don't should know spending quality time with people just really rocks my world. I have had the opportunity this week with my patients and with some girls here who I just recently met. One of the girls is my new housemate,Jen, and the other is Debbie and Missy who I just met this last week. It has been so fun to just really share stories from our past and being honest. It really lights me up and makes me smile. One of my patients who I have been seeing for the duration of my time here shared about her daughter who is really struggling at the moment. She shared how God is really working so much through these trials. How encouraging to hear people trusting God in midst of such pain and suffering.
Also this week God has been waking me up really really early to share certain things with me. I normally wouldn't be so excited about it since I have had such difficulty sleeping in PNG. I must admit I was a little frustrated about it and was like ok God just tell me what you want me to know so I can get back to sleep. After getting over myself I was able to listen and hear Him clearly. It's really neat how peaceful sleep is after those times.
Cheers, Angie
Also this week God has been waking me up really really early to share certain things with me. I normally wouldn't be so excited about it since I have had such difficulty sleeping in PNG. I must admit I was a little frustrated about it and was like ok God just tell me what you want me to know so I can get back to sleep. After getting over myself I was able to listen and hear Him clearly. It's really neat how peaceful sleep is after those times.
Cheers, Angie
Monday, March 30, 2009
random thoughts
Wow! It's hard to believe I only have 2 weeks left in this beautiful country. For the most part time seems to have flown by. I found myself this last week intentionally soaking it all in wanting to remember every sight, sound, and smell. As I was sitting at the ocean as the waves came crashing in I remembered how blessed I truly am. The freedom to go to another country and not have to hide why I am here. My housemate and I had dinner this week with some friends from Malaysia, they have been translators in PNG for many years and they talked of how they are unable to visit certain countries. How strange and incredible to know I have been given so much freedom and sad to know there are so many opportunities I have let slip away. I have learned that I can not allow those missed opportunities to hold me back, but to take every chance given to share this freedom I know.
I had the opportunity to rest this past week. I thought I might feel guilty about it, but when the time came I embraced this blessing. I enjoyed 2nd hand shopping and also shopping for those back home. I ate in restaurants with ocean views. The greatest time was snorkeling. Even though I have snorkeled before,I am still intriqued that there is a whole other world lying just beneath the waves. Of course I found Nemo. Also discovered lots of coral, sea cucumbers, blue starfish, lion fish, and many others. My favorite fish was black and white striped. I don't know it's name so I call it the zebra fish.
The last few days of the trip we headed to POC (Pacific Orientation Course). It's on top of the mountain and the view,well there are no words to describe how amazing. People come to POC to learn to speak tok pisin and also how to live in villages. We were there towards the end of the course. I was able to help some with their infirmities.
Cooking outdoors in housecooks, bucket showers, outhouses (liklik houses in pisin),
I must admit I admire these people. I enjoy camping and the outdoors, but I am still questioning whether this type of living could ever be for me. I slept under a mosquito net while I was there and of course took my malaria medicine religiously. I am sure I could adjust to that kinda life, but not sure if that's the life God has for me. I don't have to decide that now, but I'm not closing the door, I'm open.
Our trip home from Madang was quite eventful. As the girls have said it was an epic road trip. First of all there are 6 of us (5 girls and Papa G). Things were looking good as we headed back on our "5 hour" road trip. Many potholes awaited us, that was painful. Our first stop was about hour into the trip when we popped a tire (40 minutes). Our next stop about 3 hours into the trip because of a way to big truck trying to get up the mountain and was stuck in the mud holding up about 11 cars (40 mins). Then our nice pit stop in the sugar cane (5 mins) and a few minutes after that a petrol stop where Donna, as she was standing next to her door had a man reach in and grab her wallet. She ran after him and 20 people ran after him and caught the guy and wallet was returned successfully. (30 mins) So our 5 hour trip quickly turned into 8 hours, but it made for a good story at least. Needless to say arriving through the gates of Ukarumpa was a welcomed sight.
I started back at the clinic today. I now have a door to my therapy room. So exciting. It's good to be back in my temporary home. Looking forward to sharing some of my stories with you when I return to the states. Hope all of you are doing well.
Until then...
I had the opportunity to rest this past week. I thought I might feel guilty about it, but when the time came I embraced this blessing. I enjoyed 2nd hand shopping and also shopping for those back home. I ate in restaurants with ocean views. The greatest time was snorkeling. Even though I have snorkeled before,I am still intriqued that there is a whole other world lying just beneath the waves. Of course I found Nemo. Also discovered lots of coral, sea cucumbers, blue starfish, lion fish, and many others. My favorite fish was black and white striped. I don't know it's name so I call it the zebra fish.
The last few days of the trip we headed to POC (Pacific Orientation Course). It's on top of the mountain and the view,well there are no words to describe how amazing. People come to POC to learn to speak tok pisin and also how to live in villages. We were there towards the end of the course. I was able to help some with their infirmities.
Cooking outdoors in housecooks, bucket showers, outhouses (liklik houses in pisin),
I must admit I admire these people. I enjoy camping and the outdoors, but I am still questioning whether this type of living could ever be for me. I slept under a mosquito net while I was there and of course took my malaria medicine religiously. I am sure I could adjust to that kinda life, but not sure if that's the life God has for me. I don't have to decide that now, but I'm not closing the door, I'm open.
Our trip home from Madang was quite eventful. As the girls have said it was an epic road trip. First of all there are 6 of us (5 girls and Papa G). Things were looking good as we headed back on our "5 hour" road trip. Many potholes awaited us, that was painful. Our first stop was about hour into the trip when we popped a tire (40 minutes). Our next stop about 3 hours into the trip because of a way to big truck trying to get up the mountain and was stuck in the mud holding up about 11 cars (40 mins). Then our nice pit stop in the sugar cane (5 mins) and a few minutes after that a petrol stop where Donna, as she was standing next to her door had a man reach in and grab her wallet. She ran after him and 20 people ran after him and caught the guy and wallet was returned successfully. (30 mins) So our 5 hour trip quickly turned into 8 hours, but it made for a good story at least. Needless to say arriving through the gates of Ukarumpa was a welcomed sight.
I started back at the clinic today. I now have a door to my therapy room. So exciting. It's good to be back in my temporary home. Looking forward to sharing some of my stories with you when I return to the states. Hope all of you are doing well.
Until then...
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
explanations of pics
Ok guys so thought I would post some pics of the last month here. It has been really busy.
So the little guy you see with the mixer and by the cake is Daniel Parker. Dan is a 5 year old and he and his family are here from Australia. They were one of the first folks I met here. Well Dan loves the cake book and we had a great opportunity at the end of February to make Lilah, my housemate, a birthday cake so we proceeded with making her a giraffe cake with tree and grass. I am not that great with decorating so Lilah had to pitch in and help us finish it. It was lots of fun. Dan was so tired afterward, but we had a great time.
The picture with girl dancing in middle is Lilah and this was her karaoke birthday party. We had some folks over and were jammin all night. It was lots of fun and I got to perform one of Tiffany's greatest hits! haha!! gotta love the eighties!!!
So yes ladies and gentlemen I play soccer, I don't play well, but I play. Last Saturday we had a mini women's soccer tournament. We invited 2 villages Asuranka and Ukarumpa Village. Our ladies won both games, we were a mixture of expats(missionaries from outside PNG) and national women who are PNG missionaries. It was lots of fun. I was terribly sore the next couple of days and terribly sunburned, apparently one is supposed to reapply sunblock after a couple of hours or when one sweats it off who knew haha!!
The other pic I took is Martin (dental assistant) sitting in the break room. He is also one of my patients. Sitting next to him reading the paper is the dentist, Nellis, who is another patient. There are 2 breaks plus lunch throughout the day at 10am and 2pm. We also have our morning devotions in this room as well. It's a nice place to just go and relax and enjoy my Papua New Guinean friends.
Things here are going well. The plan is to head to Madang on Friday and we found out Tuesday morning our flight was cancelled. So our choices now are riding with some folks headed that way (5 hour trip) or maybe if we are lucky catch the helicoptor. I will be there for a week. Mainly resting, this work here is exhausting, much more than back in the states. I am looking forward to seeing a new place and it is on the coast. We will be doing some snorkeling and relaxing. On the last few days we will head to POC ( Pacific Orientation Course) where folks go before head out to individual villages. They learn all about village living as well as the language, tok pisin. I hope to be doing some therapy for these folks. They all have been told I am coming and so I am sure I will be busy and I am looking foward to it.
When I get back from Madang, Conference will have started. Conference is something have once every 2 years to discuss policies and elect new directors. People from all over PNG come in for it. I will be working some those weeks.
I have less than 4 weeks left here. Time has flown by. I have continued to learn new things daily. God has blessed me so much to allow me to have this experience.
Well I will post more after my trip and let you know how the snorkeling went.
Tomorrow I am heading out to do clinic in a village to see how that works, will write more on that later as well.
Until then...
So the little guy you see with the mixer and by the cake is Daniel Parker. Dan is a 5 year old and he and his family are here from Australia. They were one of the first folks I met here. Well Dan loves the cake book and we had a great opportunity at the end of February to make Lilah, my housemate, a birthday cake so we proceeded with making her a giraffe cake with tree and grass. I am not that great with decorating so Lilah had to pitch in and help us finish it. It was lots of fun. Dan was so tired afterward, but we had a great time.
The picture with girl dancing in middle is Lilah and this was her karaoke birthday party. We had some folks over and were jammin all night. It was lots of fun and I got to perform one of Tiffany's greatest hits! haha!! gotta love the eighties!!!
So yes ladies and gentlemen I play soccer, I don't play well, but I play. Last Saturday we had a mini women's soccer tournament. We invited 2 villages Asuranka and Ukarumpa Village. Our ladies won both games, we were a mixture of expats(missionaries from outside PNG) and national women who are PNG missionaries. It was lots of fun. I was terribly sore the next couple of days and terribly sunburned, apparently one is supposed to reapply sunblock after a couple of hours or when one sweats it off who knew haha!!
The other pic I took is Martin (dental assistant) sitting in the break room. He is also one of my patients. Sitting next to him reading the paper is the dentist, Nellis, who is another patient. There are 2 breaks plus lunch throughout the day at 10am and 2pm. We also have our morning devotions in this room as well. It's a nice place to just go and relax and enjoy my Papua New Guinean friends.
Things here are going well. The plan is to head to Madang on Friday and we found out Tuesday morning our flight was cancelled. So our choices now are riding with some folks headed that way (5 hour trip) or maybe if we are lucky catch the helicoptor. I will be there for a week. Mainly resting, this work here is exhausting, much more than back in the states. I am looking forward to seeing a new place and it is on the coast. We will be doing some snorkeling and relaxing. On the last few days we will head to POC ( Pacific Orientation Course) where folks go before head out to individual villages. They learn all about village living as well as the language, tok pisin. I hope to be doing some therapy for these folks. They all have been told I am coming and so I am sure I will be busy and I am looking foward to it.
When I get back from Madang, Conference will have started. Conference is something have once every 2 years to discuss policies and elect new directors. People from all over PNG come in for it. I will be working some those weeks.
I have less than 4 weeks left here. Time has flown by. I have continued to learn new things daily. God has blessed me so much to allow me to have this experience.
Well I will post more after my trip and let you know how the snorkeling went.
Tomorrow I am heading out to do clinic in a village to see how that works, will write more on that later as well.
Until then...
Monday, March 9, 2009
Beautiful Feet
How beautiful are the feet of those who spread good news Romans 10:15
I was talking with someone today who said the irony of this verse is that most missionaries feet really are not beautiful. Our feet here most of the time are terribly muddy or dusty depending on the day. It has rained here everyday for the last week and half. It never fails to really pour down around 4:30pm about the same time I walk home everyday. One of the days I started walking and someone picked me up and took me the rest of the way. There isn't the same danger of getting in cars with strangers here as there is in America. Thank goodness. Today I got dropped off only to slip in the grass walking to the door. Would have been a nice move if I were playing baseball, but not so pretty in a skirt. Flip flops and sandals are the shoe of choice here, but I haven't really figured out why. I am much safer in my tennis shoes.
Even though their feet may not be pretty, many of these people here truly are beautifl. So many families have given up everything they have known to further translation of the Bible. Many leave there college children and come back here. Some are very young and just starting families and some are retired and this is what God has led them to do in their retirement. How amazing are these people. It is quite a sacrifice to learn a new language and a new location. The beauty of Ukarumpa is that not only are we interacting with Papua New Guineans but we have privilege to interact with people from all over the world from many different denominations.
I recently visited with a couple from Ireland. John and Wendy Bailey are here with their 3 kids. It's quite neat how encouraging one couple can be in such a short amount of time. They took time to pray with me and for me. I was encouraged that evening and anticipate spending more time with them. I ask that you pray for them as they are making lots of decisions. Illnesses in the family and one daughter is graduating this year and the other possibly next year. If you wouldn't mind please lift them up in prayer for direction God would have them take.
This last week and half has been quite crazy for me. Other than being a little homesick, we have had some tragic events in last few days. These events have made people here a little stressed and combine that with continuous rainy days. God is in the midst of doing some amazing things and I would venture to say Satan doesn't like it. One of our members this past Saturday had a child run out in front of the car out of town and the child was killed. This is a difficult situation for here in PNG, the rule eye for and eye still applies. We are praying for justice in the court systems and protection for this family.
This past weekend I was able to go with the Parkers to Goroka, a town a couple of hours from Ukarumpa. The drive was amazing! The kids were so excited and using their binoculars to as they say "get a glimpse". We were able to do some 2nd hand shopping and eat in a restaurant. It was very therapeutic for me and I really enjoyed spending time with my Australian friends.
I have about 5 weeks left here and I pray that I will continue to accomplish the things God desires for me here in Ukarumpa. I am glad to report I have slept well 3 nights in a row. As I have said before I have been having difficulty sleeping, and it was really starting to effect me and my work so I am thankful for prayers that have allowed me to sleep better.
I am continuing to learn so much about God's Word and His Will for us as His children. I am learning more of God's Power through the Holy Spirit. More than ever I know God has so much planned for me more than I could ever ask, think, or imagine.
Until next time...
I was talking with someone today who said the irony of this verse is that most missionaries feet really are not beautiful. Our feet here most of the time are terribly muddy or dusty depending on the day. It has rained here everyday for the last week and half. It never fails to really pour down around 4:30pm about the same time I walk home everyday. One of the days I started walking and someone picked me up and took me the rest of the way. There isn't the same danger of getting in cars with strangers here as there is in America. Thank goodness. Today I got dropped off only to slip in the grass walking to the door. Would have been a nice move if I were playing baseball, but not so pretty in a skirt. Flip flops and sandals are the shoe of choice here, but I haven't really figured out why. I am much safer in my tennis shoes.
Even though their feet may not be pretty, many of these people here truly are beautifl. So many families have given up everything they have known to further translation of the Bible. Many leave there college children and come back here. Some are very young and just starting families and some are retired and this is what God has led them to do in their retirement. How amazing are these people. It is quite a sacrifice to learn a new language and a new location. The beauty of Ukarumpa is that not only are we interacting with Papua New Guineans but we have privilege to interact with people from all over the world from many different denominations.
I recently visited with a couple from Ireland. John and Wendy Bailey are here with their 3 kids. It's quite neat how encouraging one couple can be in such a short amount of time. They took time to pray with me and for me. I was encouraged that evening and anticipate spending more time with them. I ask that you pray for them as they are making lots of decisions. Illnesses in the family and one daughter is graduating this year and the other possibly next year. If you wouldn't mind please lift them up in prayer for direction God would have them take.
This last week and half has been quite crazy for me. Other than being a little homesick, we have had some tragic events in last few days. These events have made people here a little stressed and combine that with continuous rainy days. God is in the midst of doing some amazing things and I would venture to say Satan doesn't like it. One of our members this past Saturday had a child run out in front of the car out of town and the child was killed. This is a difficult situation for here in PNG, the rule eye for and eye still applies. We are praying for justice in the court systems and protection for this family.
This past weekend I was able to go with the Parkers to Goroka, a town a couple of hours from Ukarumpa. The drive was amazing! The kids were so excited and using their binoculars to as they say "get a glimpse". We were able to do some 2nd hand shopping and eat in a restaurant. It was very therapeutic for me and I really enjoyed spending time with my Australian friends.
I have about 5 weeks left here and I pray that I will continue to accomplish the things God desires for me here in Ukarumpa. I am glad to report I have slept well 3 nights in a row. As I have said before I have been having difficulty sleeping, and it was really starting to effect me and my work so I am thankful for prayers that have allowed me to sleep better.
I am continuing to learn so much about God's Word and His Will for us as His children. I am learning more of God's Power through the Holy Spirit. More than ever I know God has so much planned for me more than I could ever ask, think, or imagine.
Until next time...
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
OBEDIENCE
I have attempted to write another blog for the last week and a half. What is it I want to share? I have been asking myself what am I learning here. I want to share more than just the weather and day by day activities. That obviously takes a little more thought and I have to make time to do this.
So I have now been here for 6 weeks. I feel like a different person and yet for the life of me I haven't yet been able to put my finger on how I am different. One of my friends was asking what I felt like the theme was that God is teaching me and the one word I guess that comes to mind is OBEDIENCE.
I came over here with the idea of helping missionaries through physical therapy and massages. Many of the mission trips I have been on before I had a plan of jobs to do and ended up doing something totally different. Be flexible. What I have found here though is God gave me His plan and this time I am to stick to that plan. I have many opportunities to work with the kids in primary school, musical, and even help with kids on weekends. I have opportunities to play sports throughout the week. I have done these things. But in the last couple of weeks I have noticed some of these things on top of the therapy I have been doing seem to drain me. There has been a steady rise in physical therapy patients. After much prayer I have added another half day to my schedule at the clinic and backed off on the other places for the need in the clinic is GREAT! I truly do enjoy working with my patients and just know being obedient to God's voice brings the greatest reward.
That brings me to the next thing. Our pastor here, Tim Schlatter, has been truly encouraging. One of the things he speaks of is taking care of ourselves as missionaries. If we do not take care of ourselves how can we begin to encourage and take care of those we are ministering? That has also been something I see as an act of obedience for me. The therapy during the day requires a lot of physical activity. I would say 90% of my patients need and receive deep tissue massages which is a full body work out. I have to be rested and in shape to be strong enough to administer continuous treatments. Unlike back in the States, I go to bed at a reasonable hour. I have time to workout in our weight room, and weekends are off limits for any type of therapy so I am rested when needed. That is a huge thing for me in learning to be obedient to God's voice. What I have found is that I once again have way more energy, the pain I have had in my back and such is practically non-existent, and I enjoy being able to give of myself for encouragement through therapy.
I have also been pre-occupied some about what I will be doing when I return home in 8weeks. I have tried not to think about it, but must admit while I love doing things last minute, I am quite a planner or well visionary is a better word. I have contemplated so many possibilities. I could move to Michigan, I could go back to school for something totally different, I could plan another mission trip, I could...
In another act of obedience I finally quit guessing and tried to be quiet. Instead of trying to do all these amazing things and this and that, I believe God has shown me that at this particular all those would only cause added stress and chaos. After much practiced quietness, my decision is to stay in Little Rock for the next few months and spend time enjoying my friends and family. There will be many special events taking place through the summer and fall. I am so thankful I will be celebrating with them.
How can you pray?
I ask that you pray for wisdom for me on how to treat my patients and that I remember I am here not only for therapy but to also encourage them in their daily lives and walk with Christ.
I will be on a panel next week for high schoolers for career day, I ask that I answer honestly and can be encouraging for some of those who want to practice therapy.
I mentioned some men in my church I attended growing up who were struggling with illnesses. Jerry Jordan passed away on Feb 19th. I ask you pray for his family and friends, he was loved!! He has a wife, 2 daughters, 2 son-in-laws, and 2 grandchildren. I am pretty sure his mother is still living as well.
I have not heard much about Tom Dedman, but I ask that you continue to pray for his healing. I know we do not get to see much healing these days, but I am hopeful and know we have a God who wants us to ask Him still for such miracles.
Please pray for both of these families that they are able to see and know God and His power.
I do not have any updated information on my aunt's sister-in-law, but please keep them in your prayers as well.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my blogs. I hope in some way you are encouraged as I am knowing others are reading this blog and praying for me.
Until next time,
Angie :)
So I have now been here for 6 weeks. I feel like a different person and yet for the life of me I haven't yet been able to put my finger on how I am different. One of my friends was asking what I felt like the theme was that God is teaching me and the one word I guess that comes to mind is OBEDIENCE.
I came over here with the idea of helping missionaries through physical therapy and massages. Many of the mission trips I have been on before I had a plan of jobs to do and ended up doing something totally different. Be flexible. What I have found here though is God gave me His plan and this time I am to stick to that plan. I have many opportunities to work with the kids in primary school, musical, and even help with kids on weekends. I have opportunities to play sports throughout the week. I have done these things. But in the last couple of weeks I have noticed some of these things on top of the therapy I have been doing seem to drain me. There has been a steady rise in physical therapy patients. After much prayer I have added another half day to my schedule at the clinic and backed off on the other places for the need in the clinic is GREAT! I truly do enjoy working with my patients and just know being obedient to God's voice brings the greatest reward.
That brings me to the next thing. Our pastor here, Tim Schlatter, has been truly encouraging. One of the things he speaks of is taking care of ourselves as missionaries. If we do not take care of ourselves how can we begin to encourage and take care of those we are ministering? That has also been something I see as an act of obedience for me. The therapy during the day requires a lot of physical activity. I would say 90% of my patients need and receive deep tissue massages which is a full body work out. I have to be rested and in shape to be strong enough to administer continuous treatments. Unlike back in the States, I go to bed at a reasonable hour. I have time to workout in our weight room, and weekends are off limits for any type of therapy so I am rested when needed. That is a huge thing for me in learning to be obedient to God's voice. What I have found is that I once again have way more energy, the pain I have had in my back and such is practically non-existent, and I enjoy being able to give of myself for encouragement through therapy.
I have also been pre-occupied some about what I will be doing when I return home in 8weeks. I have tried not to think about it, but must admit while I love doing things last minute, I am quite a planner or well visionary is a better word. I have contemplated so many possibilities. I could move to Michigan, I could go back to school for something totally different, I could plan another mission trip, I could...
In another act of obedience I finally quit guessing and tried to be quiet. Instead of trying to do all these amazing things and this and that, I believe God has shown me that at this particular all those would only cause added stress and chaos. After much practiced quietness, my decision is to stay in Little Rock for the next few months and spend time enjoying my friends and family. There will be many special events taking place through the summer and fall. I am so thankful I will be celebrating with them.
How can you pray?
I ask that you pray for wisdom for me on how to treat my patients and that I remember I am here not only for therapy but to also encourage them in their daily lives and walk with Christ.
I will be on a panel next week for high schoolers for career day, I ask that I answer honestly and can be encouraging for some of those who want to practice therapy.
I mentioned some men in my church I attended growing up who were struggling with illnesses. Jerry Jordan passed away on Feb 19th. I ask you pray for his family and friends, he was loved!! He has a wife, 2 daughters, 2 son-in-laws, and 2 grandchildren. I am pretty sure his mother is still living as well.
I have not heard much about Tom Dedman, but I ask that you continue to pray for his healing. I know we do not get to see much healing these days, but I am hopeful and know we have a God who wants us to ask Him still for such miracles.
Please pray for both of these families that they are able to see and know God and His power.
I do not have any updated information on my aunt's sister-in-law, but please keep them in your prayers as well.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my blogs. I hope in some way you are encouraged as I am knowing others are reading this blog and praying for me.
Until next time,
Angie :)
Monday, February 16, 2009
Another Update
So things here in Ukarumpa are good. I stay quite busy throughout the week. I am so thankful for my previous trainings because it absolutely prepared me for the type of patients I am seeing. It has been a month today since I have been in Ukarumpa which means I have been working in the clinic for 3 weeks. The patients are showing real progress and some have stopped coming because they are 100% better which is such a good thing because there are new patients who are trying to come and we have been having difficulty finding them appointments. This is a good thing, but I am praying that God will send someone to continue the work after I leave.
I have settled into a small group of girls which I am so thankful. Last week we had a time of worship and in the middle of it I realized I was the only American in the group. This verse popped in my head, "And He (JESUS) will be exalted among the nations. He certainly was 6 different nations were singing together praising the name of Jesus. How incredible!!
I met with the primary school music teachers on Wednesday and have begun working out the choreography for their musical, it's about King Josiah. It is really cute and will be lots of fun. The musical is March 12-13th which is the end of the school sememster.
Things here are pretty good. I do miss the folks at home, but God has provided much needed friends. I pray that He would continue to strenghten my friendships here and that I would be an encourager to everyone I come in contact.
Just talked to mom and dad and I ask that you please be in prayer for some folks back at home who are struggling with terminal illnesses. Two of the guys are from my church back in Camden. They both are such neat men and I pray for God's healing presence in their lives. There names are Tom and Jerry. I grew up with their children. Also for Karen who is my aunt's sister in law just that God would bring healing as only He can. Thank for you for your continued prayers here in Ukarumpa that God would continue to give me the knowlegde of how to treat these patients and that my time would be spent wisely and that i not worry about anything, but in prayer present my requests to God.
Thanks!!
I have settled into a small group of girls which I am so thankful. Last week we had a time of worship and in the middle of it I realized I was the only American in the group. This verse popped in my head, "And He (JESUS) will be exalted among the nations. He certainly was 6 different nations were singing together praising the name of Jesus. How incredible!!
I met with the primary school music teachers on Wednesday and have begun working out the choreography for their musical, it's about King Josiah. It is really cute and will be lots of fun. The musical is March 12-13th which is the end of the school sememster.
Things here are pretty good. I do miss the folks at home, but God has provided much needed friends. I pray that He would continue to strenghten my friendships here and that I would be an encourager to everyone I come in contact.
Just talked to mom and dad and I ask that you please be in prayer for some folks back at home who are struggling with terminal illnesses. Two of the guys are from my church back in Camden. They both are such neat men and I pray for God's healing presence in their lives. There names are Tom and Jerry. I grew up with their children. Also for Karen who is my aunt's sister in law just that God would bring healing as only He can. Thank for you for your continued prayers here in Ukarumpa that God would continue to give me the knowlegde of how to treat these patients and that my time would be spent wisely and that i not worry about anything, but in prayer present my requests to God.
Thanks!!
Sunday, February 8, 2009
What I am Learning
Well it has been about a week since I have written. I must say my schedule has stepped up quite a bit. The word has gotten out that I am in town and most of my slots for seeing patients is full each day. I am grateful for my Wednesdays at the Primary school and my weekends to give my hands and body the rest it needs to fulfill next weeks duties.
I am grateful for some advice I was given on the way over here to remember that it's ok to say no to people and that rest is important. I was asked just this morning at church to work with someone today and was able to say no, but maybe tomorrow. God does desire us to be productive and do the work which He has called us to, but as a friend told me once, sometimes the godliest thing you can do is a take a nap. I must admit I have taken a couple this week which I am not accustomed to doing back home. I have been better for it.
When I am working in the clinic, I have been blessed with hearing people's hearts, how God brought them to Ukarumpa and hear about their desires and concerns. I have often said not only am I a therapist but also a counselor. I have enjoyed the listening ear as well while I am helping these folks get better.
In my readings and in my work I do here day to day, I am finding truth and the connection of being healed spiritually and physically. Many times in God's Word He asks if a sick person believes He, Jesus, can heal them. He tells them their sins are forgiven. He wants them to ask for His help in faith that He can heal. The beauty of God is He does not stop with spiritual healing but continues on with physical healing. I think the main theme is that we believe and have faith in His healing.
I have one specific patient who is an amazing person. This patient has been dealing with lots of pain and has seen lots of therapist and doctors. I realized though as I was working with this patient that until he believes that God wants to heal him then there is nothing I can do. Sure he may feel good for a day, but what God wants from us is to trust in His healing to trust in His love and faithfulness. I believe with the changes in his thought process he will experience healing.
This has been just one of the many things I am personally learning. Learning to truly believe God even when there is no evidence or "cloud in the the sky" that God is working this out. I have to have the faith. I must continue to petition God in prayer and know that He hears.
Knowing that in all things God works for the good of those who love the Lord who have been called according to His purpose. God promises to supply all of our needs. He who began a good work will be faithful to complete it.
I am so thankful to have God's Word in my heart. I am so thankful that anytime I want I can pick it up and find direction, peace, comfort, TRUTH, love. I am thankful to be assisting with Bible translating behind the scenes. It is only right that the people in Papua New Guinea and in all the nations of this world have God's Word to learn that there is a God who loves them. A God who sent His Son to die for their sins, who rose and is able to be our own personal Savior, all we have to do is ask and believe. He never forces it, just like when healing in the Bible, the people asked for healing and then they believed and Jesus healed them. I am so blessed to be a part of what God is doing and how He is healing so many spiritually and physically.
I am so thankful for those who are praying and continue to pray that God's will be accomplished in me while I am here in PNG! Thank you for your continued prayers!!!
I am grateful for some advice I was given on the way over here to remember that it's ok to say no to people and that rest is important. I was asked just this morning at church to work with someone today and was able to say no, but maybe tomorrow. God does desire us to be productive and do the work which He has called us to, but as a friend told me once, sometimes the godliest thing you can do is a take a nap. I must admit I have taken a couple this week which I am not accustomed to doing back home. I have been better for it.
When I am working in the clinic, I have been blessed with hearing people's hearts, how God brought them to Ukarumpa and hear about their desires and concerns. I have often said not only am I a therapist but also a counselor. I have enjoyed the listening ear as well while I am helping these folks get better.
In my readings and in my work I do here day to day, I am finding truth and the connection of being healed spiritually and physically. Many times in God's Word He asks if a sick person believes He, Jesus, can heal them. He tells them their sins are forgiven. He wants them to ask for His help in faith that He can heal. The beauty of God is He does not stop with spiritual healing but continues on with physical healing. I think the main theme is that we believe and have faith in His healing.
I have one specific patient who is an amazing person. This patient has been dealing with lots of pain and has seen lots of therapist and doctors. I realized though as I was working with this patient that until he believes that God wants to heal him then there is nothing I can do. Sure he may feel good for a day, but what God wants from us is to trust in His healing to trust in His love and faithfulness. I believe with the changes in his thought process he will experience healing.
This has been just one of the many things I am personally learning. Learning to truly believe God even when there is no evidence or "cloud in the the sky" that God is working this out. I have to have the faith. I must continue to petition God in prayer and know that He hears.
Knowing that in all things God works for the good of those who love the Lord who have been called according to His purpose. God promises to supply all of our needs. He who began a good work will be faithful to complete it.
I am so thankful to have God's Word in my heart. I am so thankful that anytime I want I can pick it up and find direction, peace, comfort, TRUTH, love. I am thankful to be assisting with Bible translating behind the scenes. It is only right that the people in Papua New Guinea and in all the nations of this world have God's Word to learn that there is a God who loves them. A God who sent His Son to die for their sins, who rose and is able to be our own personal Savior, all we have to do is ask and believe. He never forces it, just like when healing in the Bible, the people asked for healing and then they believed and Jesus healed them. I am so blessed to be a part of what God is doing and how He is healing so many spiritually and physically.
I am so thankful for those who are praying and continue to pray that God's will be accomplished in me while I am here in PNG! Thank you for your continued prayers!!!
Saturday, January 31, 2009
What a week in Ukarumpa
This week has been so full of exciting things and I once again am reminded how blessed I am for this opportunity in another country.
Lilah and me went to visit with Mandy Pherson and her kids while her husband is away in one of the villages for 3 weeks. Mandy is so much fun to visit with. One of the cutest things, Mandy's daughter Ella asked her mom before we came when the customers were coming. She is I think 4 years old or younger, she is very cute. Mandy has 2 older boys as well.
On Tuesday I worked at the clinic and then visited with the Wycliffe Associate folks for a potluck and Bible Study. They do this every week. I visited with Marsha, who is the music teacher at the primary school. She is heading up the 4-6th grade musical and asked how I could help. I declined the backdrop/set design and costumes because let's just be honest that is not an area I have been given much talent. Marsha was like well how about choreography? I was like yes. I love it, so now I am going to help out with that. Later in the Bible Study we studied Romans 6. It was a good discussion, I was exhausted by the end of the night.
Wednesday was half day of primary school volunteer. I started my day with 1st grade math. Good times, then headed to help out at the library. I then assisted Lilah, asst principal and art teacher with kindy (kindergarten) art classes. We worked with modeling clay. The kids were very cute and creative. That night I went to David and Anne's house (WA volunteer coordinators) and worked with David on some massage techniques. He showed me some trigger points and the book to go along with it. We worked on Anne on the dining room table. Lots of fun.
Thursday wasn't quite so busy at the clinic. I was very tired so was thankful for a slow day. Since I did not have many patients, I watched and X-ray and also counted meds for the pharmacist. I went home after that and was in bed by 8:45pm (that hasn't happened since I was 6 years old haha!) . I did not sleep the night before, was tired of taking Ambien to sleep and tried it, but tossed and turned all night Wed night, was given some Melatonin (non prescription and easier on the body) , supposed to aid with sleeping. I also added another mattress to my bed to help.
Friday morning I woke up very refreshed. This was the first night I had slept well without my prescription medication and I was so thankful. Glad to have slept for I had a full caseload. I had 6 patients and spent about an hour with each. Sonya and I met together for lunch, we had been trying to catch up with each other all week so it was nice to talk and have real quality conversation. Those of you who know me, know this was something that rejuvenated me for my top love language is quality time. We shared some things God was doing in our lives and asked for accountability and prayer. Very good for me. Friday evening, Lilah and I headed to the Parkers for hamburgers and movie. It was lots of fun to get to know this family. They have 2 boys and a girl. The youngest is Dan, we enjoyed looking at a cake decorating book (he even goes to sleep with this book) and he picked some we could make together soon. :)
Today I slept in a little and just relaxed this morning. I headed to meet the group to go to the drop in center at 130pm, they joked with me because when I arrived it was on time and no one else was around. They laughed and were like you know she has not been here long showing up on time and such. Ha! We headed about 3km out of the center and set up for kids to arrive. I loved loved loved playing with the children all afternoon. The center provided guitar lessons, tambourine lessons, drawing, table tennis, Frisbee, and soccer for the children. I did a little of all of it. It was probably one of the best times I have had since I have been here. The kids just love hanging out with us. Technically this center is for kids 12 and up, but they all want to be involved so when asked some will say they are 12 years old when they may not even be 5 years old, it is quite hysterical to me. We need more volunteers to have enough for all ages, but today worked out nicely and wasn't a problem. Tonight we had some folks over for dinner and a round of Spoons, one of the all time best card games. We had a blast and I just enjoy being around folks and being relaxed.
This has been my week, very full! It has been such a blessing to help the folks in pain with their issues and see them coming back feeling better. It has been great to hear how people are praying for me and my time here. I am so thankful to be sleeping soundly. I am thankful for new friends who love Jesus and who love to serve in His Name! This coming week I will be going out tomorrow morning into a village for church service. On Monday will be visiting a new Bible Study with girls some my age and some older. I also will be working with another couple on massage techniques. Thank you for your continuous prayers. God is doing some amazing things here!!
Lilah and me went to visit with Mandy Pherson and her kids while her husband is away in one of the villages for 3 weeks. Mandy is so much fun to visit with. One of the cutest things, Mandy's daughter Ella asked her mom before we came when the customers were coming. She is I think 4 years old or younger, she is very cute. Mandy has 2 older boys as well.
On Tuesday I worked at the clinic and then visited with the Wycliffe Associate folks for a potluck and Bible Study. They do this every week. I visited with Marsha, who is the music teacher at the primary school. She is heading up the 4-6th grade musical and asked how I could help. I declined the backdrop/set design and costumes because let's just be honest that is not an area I have been given much talent. Marsha was like well how about choreography? I was like yes. I love it, so now I am going to help out with that. Later in the Bible Study we studied Romans 6. It was a good discussion, I was exhausted by the end of the night.
Wednesday was half day of primary school volunteer. I started my day with 1st grade math. Good times, then headed to help out at the library. I then assisted Lilah, asst principal and art teacher with kindy (kindergarten) art classes. We worked with modeling clay. The kids were very cute and creative. That night I went to David and Anne's house (WA volunteer coordinators) and worked with David on some massage techniques. He showed me some trigger points and the book to go along with it. We worked on Anne on the dining room table. Lots of fun.
Thursday wasn't quite so busy at the clinic. I was very tired so was thankful for a slow day. Since I did not have many patients, I watched and X-ray and also counted meds for the pharmacist. I went home after that and was in bed by 8:45pm (that hasn't happened since I was 6 years old haha!) . I did not sleep the night before, was tired of taking Ambien to sleep and tried it, but tossed and turned all night Wed night, was given some Melatonin (non prescription and easier on the body) , supposed to aid with sleeping. I also added another mattress to my bed to help.
Friday morning I woke up very refreshed. This was the first night I had slept well without my prescription medication and I was so thankful. Glad to have slept for I had a full caseload. I had 6 patients and spent about an hour with each. Sonya and I met together for lunch, we had been trying to catch up with each other all week so it was nice to talk and have real quality conversation. Those of you who know me, know this was something that rejuvenated me for my top love language is quality time. We shared some things God was doing in our lives and asked for accountability and prayer. Very good for me. Friday evening, Lilah and I headed to the Parkers for hamburgers and movie. It was lots of fun to get to know this family. They have 2 boys and a girl. The youngest is Dan, we enjoyed looking at a cake decorating book (he even goes to sleep with this book) and he picked some we could make together soon. :)
Today I slept in a little and just relaxed this morning. I headed to meet the group to go to the drop in center at 130pm, they joked with me because when I arrived it was on time and no one else was around. They laughed and were like you know she has not been here long showing up on time and such. Ha! We headed about 3km out of the center and set up for kids to arrive. I loved loved loved playing with the children all afternoon. The center provided guitar lessons, tambourine lessons, drawing, table tennis, Frisbee, and soccer for the children. I did a little of all of it. It was probably one of the best times I have had since I have been here. The kids just love hanging out with us. Technically this center is for kids 12 and up, but they all want to be involved so when asked some will say they are 12 years old when they may not even be 5 years old, it is quite hysterical to me. We need more volunteers to have enough for all ages, but today worked out nicely and wasn't a problem. Tonight we had some folks over for dinner and a round of Spoons, one of the all time best card games. We had a blast and I just enjoy being around folks and being relaxed.
This has been my week, very full! It has been such a blessing to help the folks in pain with their issues and see them coming back feeling better. It has been great to hear how people are praying for me and my time here. I am so thankful to be sleeping soundly. I am thankful for new friends who love Jesus and who love to serve in His Name! This coming week I will be going out tomorrow morning into a village for church service. On Monday will be visiting a new Bible Study with girls some my age and some older. I also will be working with another couple on massage techniques. Thank you for your continuous prayers. God is doing some amazing things here!!
Monday, January 26, 2009
more village pics
just a few pics from the village, yes the little kid is carrying a bush knife, the house with opening and cover is the former "Starbucks", my friend Sonya in picture with me!
10 Days in Ukarumpa
Hello!
Wow it's hard to believe I have only been in Ukarumpa for 10 days. I have seen so much and I have done so many new things since I have been here.
Work in the Clinic
Our clinic is staffed with 4 doctors, 2 dentists, 1 pharmacist, 2 lab techs, x-ray tech, clinical manager, housekeeper, building maintenance man, assistants to all these depts, and me the physiotherapist. We are equipped to see patients from the Center and in the villages.
My current caseload has been the missionaries on center which here are called ex-pats. These past 10 days as far as the clinic goes, I have met all the staff, had a meeting with the manager, and managed to work in some physical therapy appointments. I have seen about 7 patients in all. I must admit it is nice being my own "boss" and I have access to and Ultrasound machine, a partly working TENS unit, and some ice packs. I have transformed the overhead cervical traction unit into shoulder pulleys because that is more of a need. It has been a great journey thus far in the clinic.
Ukarumpa Village
I had the opportunity when David Smith, WA volunteer coordinator, returned from conference to tour Ukarumpa Village with some other new folks. I arrived early Friday morning to begin what I thought was tour of the center(thinking for orientation) to my surprise and delight we were going out to the village. I was approached kindly by the coordinator's wife that i should have worn a skirt (Here in the center pants are acceptable) , but we came to the conclusion that my shirt was covering plenty and not to worry. Most times when I'm being a bit of a rebel I realize it, but here I am trying to obey all the rules and sheesh i'm busted. As we started our hike into the village, I was thankful for the pants. We trekked through grass up to our hips. We saw lots of vegetation banana trees, coffee beans drying, and things of the sort. Many of the houses resemble my prayer cards. One room huts with fireplace in the center. We ran across many of the villagers and they were anxious for their pictures to be taken and very friendly. We were instructed to kindly greet them with "morning(soft g)". A few sights were quite interesting a preschooler carrying a bush knife as tall as he was, apparently here they learn young. David pointed out the former Starbucks :) One of the villagers had served coffe and then had customers, but it like some recently in the United States has shut down. I also saw an older man walking around with a bow and arrow. (NICE) He followed us around a bit, but was friendly. I have pictures of the trip and will post next time.
Living in Ukarumpa Center
My living accomadations are better than I anticipated. I am very comfortable and am glad to say I have slept soundly the last couple of nights. Thanks Dr Hodges for the Ambien. I tried first few nights without anything without success. My housemate is very delightful, humorous, helpful, and creative. Lilah has been here for 18 months and will be headed to Bible college sometime after June. In Australia it is a requirement to do long term missions. She has introduced me to life in Ukarumpa including bush dancing, Kath and Kim nights (Aussie thing), the weight room, and other events. There are a few singles on sight and they get together on weekends and play cards and other games. Nice mixture of nationalities.
Cooking
Yes ladies and gentleman, I have been cooking, not your box meals in the microwave oh no, cooking from scratch. There are no fast food restaraunts or any restaraunts of any kind for that matter. I have been encouraged if I want to eat I have to cook. I am happy to say I am quickly becoming a domestic diva. Tonight I made pancakes for supper and banana bread. My greatest accomplishment so far was my flour tortillas, of course, I had Lilah helping me in that arena. It's quite fun and at home never made time for it. When I get home I will be ready to whip you up something special.
Spiritually
There are opportunities to attend Bible Study and Church in the Center. I have participated in one that was at my house this past Tuesday night and tomorrow night I will attend the WA Bible Study. I have heard of some others, but really haven't heard of nights they are offered.
For me personally it has been a good time of studying and anticipating hearing God's voice. I have completed a book by Joy Dawson called Ruined for the Ordinary. This book was very encouraging and teaches different ways we hear God's voice. It encourages to not do so halfheartedly and to be aware of the ways Satan tries to throw us off and believe it's God when it is not. Also how to obey the voice of God. Really great. I have been able to journal daily and am enjoying how God is constantly telling me things one day at a time. That keeps me in His Word and on my toes. I studied a bit before I left on healing and am currently reading a book on healing by Jim Glennon. It has been quite an eye opener. I have wondered about this topic for sometime. Will let ya know how that book goes.
Overall, the last 10 days have been so encouraging to me as a person and a woman attempting to live for Jesus. I have had to rely on Him in ways never before reminding myself He is my Strength, Provider, Comforter, Partner, and Hope and so much more. I look forward to what next 3 months will bring.
Prayer Requests
I have been blessed with giving massages to a few of the folks here and was especially excited to work with Robert and Melody Harmon. They left for POC, which is a training for heading out to villages and village life. Pray for them as they are starting a whole new adventure.
Pray that I will find someone to assist me with language, I have a phrase book, but I know a person would really help the progression of learning for me.
I decided to spend some of my time working in the primary school on Wednesdays. Please pray for me as I work with these students that I will be aware of their needs and be the encourager they need and that the teachers will be less stressed.
Pray that I would spend my extra time wisely and in the way God intended. I can easily see how I could get comfortable with the same folks and I know I am here to encourage many instead of few, but also know when to say no so that the time I do give is quality.
Thank you so much for praying for me and supporting me. I am so blessed to be a part of this furthering of the gospel.
Angie :)
Wow it's hard to believe I have only been in Ukarumpa for 10 days. I have seen so much and I have done so many new things since I have been here.
Work in the Clinic
Our clinic is staffed with 4 doctors, 2 dentists, 1 pharmacist, 2 lab techs, x-ray tech, clinical manager, housekeeper, building maintenance man, assistants to all these depts, and me the physiotherapist. We are equipped to see patients from the Center and in the villages.
My current caseload has been the missionaries on center which here are called ex-pats. These past 10 days as far as the clinic goes, I have met all the staff, had a meeting with the manager, and managed to work in some physical therapy appointments. I have seen about 7 patients in all. I must admit it is nice being my own "boss" and I have access to and Ultrasound machine, a partly working TENS unit, and some ice packs. I have transformed the overhead cervical traction unit into shoulder pulleys because that is more of a need. It has been a great journey thus far in the clinic.
Ukarumpa Village
I had the opportunity when David Smith, WA volunteer coordinator, returned from conference to tour Ukarumpa Village with some other new folks. I arrived early Friday morning to begin what I thought was tour of the center(thinking for orientation) to my surprise and delight we were going out to the village. I was approached kindly by the coordinator's wife that i should have worn a skirt (Here in the center pants are acceptable) , but we came to the conclusion that my shirt was covering plenty and not to worry. Most times when I'm being a bit of a rebel I realize it, but here I am trying to obey all the rules and sheesh i'm busted. As we started our hike into the village, I was thankful for the pants. We trekked through grass up to our hips. We saw lots of vegetation banana trees, coffee beans drying, and things of the sort. Many of the houses resemble my prayer cards. One room huts with fireplace in the center. We ran across many of the villagers and they were anxious for their pictures to be taken and very friendly. We were instructed to kindly greet them with "morning(soft g)". A few sights were quite interesting a preschooler carrying a bush knife as tall as he was, apparently here they learn young. David pointed out the former Starbucks :) One of the villagers had served coffe and then had customers, but it like some recently in the United States has shut down. I also saw an older man walking around with a bow and arrow. (NICE) He followed us around a bit, but was friendly. I have pictures of the trip and will post next time.
Living in Ukarumpa Center
My living accomadations are better than I anticipated. I am very comfortable and am glad to say I have slept soundly the last couple of nights. Thanks Dr Hodges for the Ambien. I tried first few nights without anything without success. My housemate is very delightful, humorous, helpful, and creative. Lilah has been here for 18 months and will be headed to Bible college sometime after June. In Australia it is a requirement to do long term missions. She has introduced me to life in Ukarumpa including bush dancing, Kath and Kim nights (Aussie thing), the weight room, and other events. There are a few singles on sight and they get together on weekends and play cards and other games. Nice mixture of nationalities.
Cooking
Yes ladies and gentleman, I have been cooking, not your box meals in the microwave oh no, cooking from scratch. There are no fast food restaraunts or any restaraunts of any kind for that matter. I have been encouraged if I want to eat I have to cook. I am happy to say I am quickly becoming a domestic diva. Tonight I made pancakes for supper and banana bread. My greatest accomplishment so far was my flour tortillas, of course, I had Lilah helping me in that arena. It's quite fun and at home never made time for it. When I get home I will be ready to whip you up something special.
Spiritually
There are opportunities to attend Bible Study and Church in the Center. I have participated in one that was at my house this past Tuesday night and tomorrow night I will attend the WA Bible Study. I have heard of some others, but really haven't heard of nights they are offered.
For me personally it has been a good time of studying and anticipating hearing God's voice. I have completed a book by Joy Dawson called Ruined for the Ordinary. This book was very encouraging and teaches different ways we hear God's voice. It encourages to not do so halfheartedly and to be aware of the ways Satan tries to throw us off and believe it's God when it is not. Also how to obey the voice of God. Really great. I have been able to journal daily and am enjoying how God is constantly telling me things one day at a time. That keeps me in His Word and on my toes. I studied a bit before I left on healing and am currently reading a book on healing by Jim Glennon. It has been quite an eye opener. I have wondered about this topic for sometime. Will let ya know how that book goes.
Overall, the last 10 days have been so encouraging to me as a person and a woman attempting to live for Jesus. I have had to rely on Him in ways never before reminding myself He is my Strength, Provider, Comforter, Partner, and Hope and so much more. I look forward to what next 3 months will bring.
Prayer Requests
I have been blessed with giving massages to a few of the folks here and was especially excited to work with Robert and Melody Harmon. They left for POC, which is a training for heading out to villages and village life. Pray for them as they are starting a whole new adventure.
Pray that I will find someone to assist me with language, I have a phrase book, but I know a person would really help the progression of learning for me.
I decided to spend some of my time working in the primary school on Wednesdays. Please pray for me as I work with these students that I will be aware of their needs and be the encourager they need and that the teachers will be less stressed.
Pray that I would spend my extra time wisely and in the way God intended. I can easily see how I could get comfortable with the same folks and I know I am here to encourage many instead of few, but also know when to say no so that the time I do give is quality.
Thank you so much for praying for me and supporting me. I am so blessed to be a part of this furthering of the gospel.
Angie :)
Thursday, January 22, 2009
More PNG pics
first pic me in red and black bush dancing and then just left road in Ukarumpa
upper left is Jimmy, the van Lilah drives at the moment no reverse and only goes in 1 and 2 gear, upper right side of my yard, below left kids jumping on trampoline in distance (sorry blurry)
upper left is Jimmy, the van Lilah drives at the moment no reverse and only goes in 1 and 2 gear, upper right side of my yard, below left kids jumping on trampoline in distance (sorry blurry)some photos of PNG, more to come
water tank outside my house, this is my running water
my house
bush dancing, Ella and Paige they are in 2nd grade
my house
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Ukarumpa is beautiful
hello all!!!
It has definitely been way to long since I have blogged and I must apologize, I have only had spurts of time for email and such and wanted to have time to sit and tell you all that has been going on these last 5 days.
We left for Ukarumpa on Friday the 16th, Our flight was delayed 4 hours because the battery of the King Air was dead. So we had to purchase a new battery at large cost, but that was done.
I am grateful for the time in the airport because it allowed me to make new friendships. I met Paul and Kelly Stewart and their 2 children Piper and Will. Will is 2 months old and the Stewarts are returning to Ukarumpa after being away for you guessed it 2 months. I also met Sonia, she is near my age, she is revisiting Ukarumpa after being gone for 21 years. Her parents live there and are translators. Sharon was also with us and she is a single lady in her 50s i presume and we were able to hang out and chat and watch a movie together. I really enjoyed hearing about these people and enjoyed their friendship. When I arrived in Ukarumpa, I knew I would have these friends.
We finally landed at Aiyura airstrip at 610pm via Port Moresby (we picked up 4 other folks coming in from the village from Finland). Lilah (my new housemate) and David and Ann Smith (WA volunteer coordinators) were there to greet me. We quickly headed to drop my luggage off at the house and head out because I was late for supper at Lynn Wood's house. After that I went to a Tie Party (necktie). That was very fun and met a few more folks there. I was extremely tired when I arrived back at the house and would love to say I fell fast asleep, but i had some difficulty getting to sleep that night.
The next day I packed everything in the closet and arranged things. I had lunch with an older couple (teachers) and that involved a lengthy discussion of PNG history so I am now informed. I came back in time to turn around and go to dinner at another family's house. It was enjoyable, they have 2 kids 8 and 14 and I enjoyed time with them. I rode with them to the Bush Dance that evening. Now bush dancing is similar to square dancing and it was loads of fun. You had to have a partner with each dance and got quite funny at times because as in most places girls outnumber the guys. There were probably 100 folks from the town who participated or observed the evenings events. I will download pics when my computer gets to working correctly with internet.
On Sunday we enjoyed Tok Pisin services and English service and then headed to lunch with another family and they have 4 kids with 2 living at home and they are i think 15 and 17 years of age. Their 17 year old daughter wants to become a massage therapist so we talked a lot about that and are trying to come up with times for me to help in her training.
There is another massage therapist in town, she is currently not well enough to perform massages, her name is Nancy, and I ask that you would pray for her healing. The doctors are uncertain as to her diagnosis, but possible Rheumatoid Arthritis or Lupus. I was able to work with her doing massage and she was feeling significantly better when I finished. We were able to enjoy quality time. She is very much an encourager for me and very much a prayer warrior. I am grateful to have her here.
I have done some work at the clinic and will officially begin on Thursday afternoon after the morning of prayer. I am practicing with Sonia this afternoon and we will be leading in some of the worship time. Pray for me, I will be attempting to play the djembe (hand drums for those who don't know). I am terribly excited about it!
My housemate is the vice principal here at the primary school. She is also the art teacher, she is very creative and and we are becoming good friends. She is teaching me the ropes especially when it comes to cooking. I made my first ever Jam Drops last night which is shortbread with a drop of strawberry jam and covered with icing (all from scratch). They were delicious and I am on my way to becoming a domestic diva.
I am learning a lot about myself while I am here. Some good and well some stuff I need to work on. I recognize my view of the world is so narrow. My closest friends here are probably not going to be American and I like that. I have befriended folks from Australia, Holland, New Zealand, and of course the US. I desire to do all that God wants me to do here and desire to be very intentional. Things are not looking as I thought they would and I love it! I am getting to do things I have always wanted to do back home, but never had the opportunity,will let yall know how all that turns out. I really want to learn the language here and ask that you pray with me in finding those willing to sit down and teach me. Also request that you pray for my sleep, I have been having difficulty falling asleep these last few days and some strange dreams so please pray that my sleep is restful and peacful.
This is fast becoming a novel and I must head to practice with Sonia in a bit. So for now know that I am well and will continue to tell you how blessed I am to be here for such a time as this.
"For you thoughts are not my thought for your ways are not my ways, declares the Lord. As the heaven is higher than the earth so are my thoughts higher than yours and my ways higher than yours." Isaiah 55:8-9
It has definitely been way to long since I have blogged and I must apologize, I have only had spurts of time for email and such and wanted to have time to sit and tell you all that has been going on these last 5 days.
We left for Ukarumpa on Friday the 16th, Our flight was delayed 4 hours because the battery of the King Air was dead. So we had to purchase a new battery at large cost, but that was done.
I am grateful for the time in the airport because it allowed me to make new friendships. I met Paul and Kelly Stewart and their 2 children Piper and Will. Will is 2 months old and the Stewarts are returning to Ukarumpa after being away for you guessed it 2 months. I also met Sonia, she is near my age, she is revisiting Ukarumpa after being gone for 21 years. Her parents live there and are translators. Sharon was also with us and she is a single lady in her 50s i presume and we were able to hang out and chat and watch a movie together. I really enjoyed hearing about these people and enjoyed their friendship. When I arrived in Ukarumpa, I knew I would have these friends.
We finally landed at Aiyura airstrip at 610pm via Port Moresby (we picked up 4 other folks coming in from the village from Finland). Lilah (my new housemate) and David and Ann Smith (WA volunteer coordinators) were there to greet me. We quickly headed to drop my luggage off at the house and head out because I was late for supper at Lynn Wood's house. After that I went to a Tie Party (necktie). That was very fun and met a few more folks there. I was extremely tired when I arrived back at the house and would love to say I fell fast asleep, but i had some difficulty getting to sleep that night.
The next day I packed everything in the closet and arranged things. I had lunch with an older couple (teachers) and that involved a lengthy discussion of PNG history so I am now informed. I came back in time to turn around and go to dinner at another family's house. It was enjoyable, they have 2 kids 8 and 14 and I enjoyed time with them. I rode with them to the Bush Dance that evening. Now bush dancing is similar to square dancing and it was loads of fun. You had to have a partner with each dance and got quite funny at times because as in most places girls outnumber the guys. There were probably 100 folks from the town who participated or observed the evenings events. I will download pics when my computer gets to working correctly with internet.
On Sunday we enjoyed Tok Pisin services and English service and then headed to lunch with another family and they have 4 kids with 2 living at home and they are i think 15 and 17 years of age. Their 17 year old daughter wants to become a massage therapist so we talked a lot about that and are trying to come up with times for me to help in her training.
There is another massage therapist in town, she is currently not well enough to perform massages, her name is Nancy, and I ask that you would pray for her healing. The doctors are uncertain as to her diagnosis, but possible Rheumatoid Arthritis or Lupus. I was able to work with her doing massage and she was feeling significantly better when I finished. We were able to enjoy quality time. She is very much an encourager for me and very much a prayer warrior. I am grateful to have her here.
I have done some work at the clinic and will officially begin on Thursday afternoon after the morning of prayer. I am practicing with Sonia this afternoon and we will be leading in some of the worship time. Pray for me, I will be attempting to play the djembe (hand drums for those who don't know). I am terribly excited about it!
My housemate is the vice principal here at the primary school. She is also the art teacher, she is very creative and and we are becoming good friends. She is teaching me the ropes especially when it comes to cooking. I made my first ever Jam Drops last night which is shortbread with a drop of strawberry jam and covered with icing (all from scratch). They were delicious and I am on my way to becoming a domestic diva.
I am learning a lot about myself while I am here. Some good and well some stuff I need to work on. I recognize my view of the world is so narrow. My closest friends here are probably not going to be American and I like that. I have befriended folks from Australia, Holland, New Zealand, and of course the US. I desire to do all that God wants me to do here and desire to be very intentional. Things are not looking as I thought they would and I love it! I am getting to do things I have always wanted to do back home, but never had the opportunity,will let yall know how all that turns out. I really want to learn the language here and ask that you pray with me in finding those willing to sit down and teach me. Also request that you pray for my sleep, I have been having difficulty falling asleep these last few days and some strange dreams so please pray that my sleep is restful and peacful.
This is fast becoming a novel and I must head to practice with Sonia in a bit. So for now know that I am well and will continue to tell you how blessed I am to be here for such a time as this.
"For you thoughts are not my thought for your ways are not my ways, declares the Lord. As the heaven is higher than the earth so are my thoughts higher than yours and my ways higher than yours." Isaiah 55:8-9
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
I am in Cairns
So I arrived in Cairns yesterday which was Jan 12 at around 5:00pm my time. I found out in Sydney that my luggage did not arrive with me, no big surprise since the delayed flight out of Denver almost caused me to miss the LA flight so I made the flight but my luggage did not.
So I took a taxi to Treetops resort. It is a huge room with a full size bed and 4 bunk beds. The bathroom is good sized and it even has a mini fridge. Good times
I watched a little TV and then went to sleep. I am about to go tour the town well really the Shopping Center for it is really hot and I my clothes are to heavy, silly me to think my luggage would have arrived with me.
All is well though, I am adjusting to the time! I am safe and really looking forward to arriving in Ukarumpa. I am so ready to meet and be with other people, Big surprise there!
My next blog will hopefully be from Ukarumpa!! Talk to yall soon!
So I took a taxi to Treetops resort. It is a huge room with a full size bed and 4 bunk beds. The bathroom is good sized and it even has a mini fridge. Good times
I watched a little TV and then went to sleep. I am about to go tour the town well really the Shopping Center for it is really hot and I my clothes are to heavy, silly me to think my luggage would have arrived with me.
All is well though, I am adjusting to the time! I am safe and really looking forward to arriving in Ukarumpa. I am so ready to meet and be with other people, Big surprise there!
My next blog will hopefully be from Ukarumpa!! Talk to yall soon!
Sunday, January 11, 2009
THANKS
THis is going to be short blog, but wanted to say thanks for all your support and prayers so far!!Keep the prayers coming. I left Little Rock earlier today and have made it to my first stop Denver. In about an hour will head to LAX and then board my 15 hour flight to Sydney!! Then layover then Cairns, AS for a few days to recover from jet lag and wilol be headed to PNG on Jan 16th
Looking forward to what God has in store!!
Stay tuned...
Looking forward to what God has in store!!
Stay tuned...
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
BLESSED
How can one girl be so blessed?
My friends hosted a surprise party for me last night. I was impressed with the cleverness of getting me to the party. Great Job, Christine! As I arrived there were so many beautiful faces. Community was the word that came to mind. Many of these people I see on a weekly basis, many I haven't see in a few months, and some I see on a daily basis. Friends, who for the last 5 years have been my encouragement, my teachers, my prayer warriors, and listening ears.
I must tell you this group loves to have fun. We poorly reenacted old dance routines that were performed for friends birthday parties , listened to music of the good old days which we always seem to listen to on all trips. We laughed more than any people ever. We truly enjoy each others presence!
One thing I love about this group is that we never let one of us go away before praying for the individual. This is one of my favorite things about my community of friends!
My time was now. As I sat in the chair in the middle of the room, as many of us have done in the past, one word kept coming to mind, BLESSED!!!!
One of the neatest things that happened during this time was as each person prayed for me, a picture came to mind of sweet times with that person. Many were Starbucks conversations, SF Bread Co talks in Conway, times sitting in the living room floor begging for Jesus to answer us, conversations in lobby and theater at church, and times driving to different destinations. All of these memories are so special to me and have shaped me into the person I have become.
Also as I was hearing all of the amazing things my dear friends were praying over me, I was thinking who in the world are these people talking about? How in the world can these people possibly say these things about me? I don't deserve this. But Jesus in His gentle way reminded me that with Him all things are possible. They are able to pray these things because they see Jesus. All good things come from Jesus. I take no credit of my own, it is Jesus.
My prayer is that Jesus would continue to light my life, that I would not be quick to take the credit for the accomplishments in my life. As Jesus continues to shape my life that others would be encouraged. That I would continue to daily be humbled and never give myself a pat on the back for any life changed, any prayer said, or words spoken. I want to always give Jesus the glory.
So to answer the question I began, How can one girl be so blessed! JESUS!!!!
My friends hosted a surprise party for me last night. I was impressed with the cleverness of getting me to the party. Great Job, Christine! As I arrived there were so many beautiful faces. Community was the word that came to mind. Many of these people I see on a weekly basis, many I haven't see in a few months, and some I see on a daily basis. Friends, who for the last 5 years have been my encouragement, my teachers, my prayer warriors, and listening ears.
I must tell you this group loves to have fun. We poorly reenacted old dance routines that were performed for friends birthday parties , listened to music of the good old days which we always seem to listen to on all trips. We laughed more than any people ever. We truly enjoy each others presence!
One thing I love about this group is that we never let one of us go away before praying for the individual. This is one of my favorite things about my community of friends!
My time was now. As I sat in the chair in the middle of the room, as many of us have done in the past, one word kept coming to mind, BLESSED!!!!
One of the neatest things that happened during this time was as each person prayed for me, a picture came to mind of sweet times with that person. Many were Starbucks conversations, SF Bread Co talks in Conway, times sitting in the living room floor begging for Jesus to answer us, conversations in lobby and theater at church, and times driving to different destinations. All of these memories are so special to me and have shaped me into the person I have become.
Also as I was hearing all of the amazing things my dear friends were praying over me, I was thinking who in the world are these people talking about? How in the world can these people possibly say these things about me? I don't deserve this. But Jesus in His gentle way reminded me that with Him all things are possible. They are able to pray these things because they see Jesus. All good things come from Jesus. I take no credit of my own, it is Jesus.
My prayer is that Jesus would continue to light my life, that I would not be quick to take the credit for the accomplishments in my life. As Jesus continues to shape my life that others would be encouraged. That I would continue to daily be humbled and never give myself a pat on the back for any life changed, any prayer said, or words spoken. I want to always give Jesus the glory.
So to answer the question I began, How can one girl be so blessed! JESUS!!!!
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