
So we are still at this place called
Today during devotionals, one Guatemalan told us that life in the states is way harder than life in e cannot be content unless we own the world, but the thing is, you will never be satisfied by constantly trying to get more. When we are always told we need more and more there will never be a point at which the need for more stops. Chasing after these earthly, perishable things all the time leads to emptiness, because they will all perish. These things are as good as gone. We know what will happen to all earthly things eventually. But there is only one thing that will never perish. Perishable materials can never fulfill the need for something eternal, and I’m beginning to think that people like the Guatemalans realize this with much more ease than we can.
That is what God has been showing us lately. It’s not that owning things is a bad thing; it’s just that these earthly things can easily get in the way of an eternal relationship with God. Especially when every unnecessary item has been lifted so high up and has been depicted as the key to happiness. Even things like intoxication, money, sexual immorality, and even apathy can be equated with happiness these days. My prayer for our nation is that our eyes be opened, and that we may even be purged from this non-stop consuming way of life that we sometimes live, or at least from this mentality that has distorted the truth and is holding so many back from restoration and peace. This way of living also affects everyone around the world. It’s not difficult to notice that there is currently a great imbalance in the world. Countries are overrun by poverty and starvation and many of us at times will choose to ignore this. Even in our own country, there is homelessness and poverty. In the cities we live in there is great poverty in areas. God has called us to be his hands and his feet and with this we humble ourselves to serve his kingdom by bringing life to the dead and healing to the sick and love to every person on earth through Christ who has given us everything. Because God so loved the world, we share this love with the whole world.
-Kelley Bader
Sorry, that showed that Tony wrote that, but that's because I'm at Grandpa's house and the computer was signed on as him. Everyone says Hi and misses you and is so proud of you, Kelley. We love you and are happy that you're coming home soon. Love again, Mom
ReplyDeleteKelley,
ReplyDeleteI am so very proud of you on this Father's Day, the first one ever that we've been apart.
Continue to pour out the power and neverending Love of Jesus to a world in need.
Love, Dad
Wow, Kelley. Emily Grace tells me she really likes it when you teach on Wednesday nights and Sundays. I understand why. You know, when Em came back from her first trip to Mexico she felt the same way. She said, "Mom, I'm so shallow. I'm upset 'cause my 4-gig iPod won't hold a movie and I'd like an 8-gig. The people in San Felipe didn't even have homes; they lived in cardboard." I wish all American teenagers (or all Americans for that matter) could visit San Felipe or Santa Maria and get just a taste of what you and Emme have seen and felt. You're never the same after such an experience. I encourage all of you to journal these thoughts and emotions right now; in a few months when you're back and comfortable, it might do you good to read those journals. Thanks for the post, Kelley. My love to The Team, Karen C.
ReplyDeleteKelley, what amazing insight!! Thanks for sharing. Mom We just showed Grandma the blog and they send their love. Send me your itenerary if you can I think you come in at midnight thirty on thursday morning but just want to make sure for Grandpa. Can't wait to hear about the trip we love you and miss you! Jess
ReplyDeleteWow, you know, we always hear inspiring speeches and stories about how easy us Americans have it, but you never really trully understand until you actually see people who don't have it easy. And we haven't even seen the worst. Imagine how aware everyone would be if they had a chance to go to Haiti, or Africa. I would be amazing to see those places, and share God's love with the people who really really need it. And the first steps are out into our side of the world. Great job, you guys! I wish more than anything I could have gone with you, but I'm so proud that you guys are breaking boundaries and stepping out of your comfort zone to share God with the world. You guys are amazing! I can't wait for you to come home!!! I miss you all so much! Love you!!!
ReplyDelete-Kiryn ;)
(p.s. hamburgers.)
The title of this made me curious as to what you had to say, and after hearing this story, I was inspired. I'm reminded of God's power to provide and you all are acting as his body to help fulfill that need!
ReplyDeleteThank you all so much for sharing and updating, I am so proud of you guys! I love seeing the pictures and want to see more!
with love,
Lauren Albrecht
Thanks for the update on your mission trip. Your mom shared some of the photos with us when we visited. Guatemala looks like a beautiful place. But like all beautiful places, there's usually a bleaker side to things. Here's hoping that you and your team's efforts make a lasting difference. Whatever else, your presence there and the work you're doing will be remembered. Sorry I will miss seeing you on this trip, but I hope to be back for graduation next year.
ReplyDeleteBest,
Philip, John and Jackie