I had two interesting weeks to end the year from one archipelago to another. From the Philippines (of over 7000 islands) to Indonesia (of over 17,000 islands), it was pretty much a poke of revival in my heart. I was trying not to get overwhelmed, but I failed.
Indonesia is special. It appeared that we had so much fun with the sights because of our uploads in the social media but actually, our schedule was so hectic in the ministry. It was so much uplifting to see how God's hands move in the lives of the Indonesians and non-Indonesians who try to be Indonesians.
During the camp, I had an encounter with God. The passion of the youth for Jesus was quite contagious. I did not want to lose my opportunity to tell them : "Indonesia needs you.. Asia needs you.. the world needs you.. they need Jesus, and your role is to usher them to Him."
We also went to an orphanage which is owned by a couple. Here's what I wrote on the other blog:
"Around 30 kids were there and a team of youth from Bukit Sion Immanuel Church helped us organize and get connected to the Orphanage Silo, in Tuwangmanggu Surakarta, Indonesia. We gave rice, oil, noodles, vegetables, fruits, and other foods that would be good for two months. We also gave some gifts and school supplies to the orphans. The orphanage is a Christian orphanage, managed by a couple. The wife happened to be the daughter of the founder. They have an inspiring story about the orphanage. They are housing muslim kids who are abandoned by families and these kids get schooling from the orphanage, once they finish, they go out and live life with a purpose, as Christians. Most of these kids still go back, visit, and recognize what the orphanage has done in their lives. Let us continously pray for the couple's ministry. We have seen that it is not easy for them. By God's grace, they will be able to get through the challenges."
During the Christmas week, we were always waking up early and were not able to enjoy the water. However, it was all worth it. We hopped from one service to another and we were able to experience what Jeremiah's family does. Gurning family (Jeremiah's fam) ministers to the churches in Solo, Indonesia and sure it was a privilege to be with them during this time of the year.
One highlight of the trip that definitely shaped another significant missional perspective is the acquiantance with the missionaries to Indonesia. It is always an inspiration to meet these kinds of ministers who give their lives away for the sake of the Gospel. No matter how difficult their situations are, I can see the joy that will never be stolen from their whole entity. Obeying God gives you the fruit that no one can really grab off you.
Well the Lord really moves in unexplainable ways. In special ways. His hand is not shortened for Indonesia. There are many things that are in store for this huge Muslim country.
Prayers for Indonesia...
Prayers for missionaries to Indonesia...
Prayers to the local ministers in Indonesia...
3 time zones.
3 flights. (legazpi-manila-jakarta-solo)
3 girls.
