Watch Jonathan's Video Update about this trip (from Nepal)
I have returned from the country of Nepal with our latest Global Infusion mission team. It never ceases to amaze me how the majority of churches operate in second and third-world environments. First of all, it seems they have more of a grasp on the fact that “church” is a body of believers and not a building. I know this, because the places they typically meet would be equivalent to an over-sized tool shed in America. Second, having “church” is focused on spending time together as a family of believers, which is why their services last for two, three or even four hours. Third, I always smile during times of praise and worship when I am overseas.
Apparently, villagers are under the impression that all you need for worship is one drum, or tambourine of sorts, and those in the audience are supposed to sing as loud as they can to God. Of course I am being slightly facetious, and until you experience what I am talking about first-hand, you are completely missing out. Last, the sacrifice involved in being a part of a “church” in places like Southeast Asia, China, or the Middle East is enormous. It includes everything from walking miles upon miles to fellowship with other Christians, to enduring literal persecution for one’s faith. This persecution may include assault, jail time, rejection from family and friends, loss of job, being shunned by their local community, and in some cases, death.
I have returned from the country of Nepal with our latest Global Infusion mission team. It never ceases to amaze me how the majority of churches operate in second and third-world environments. First of all, it seems they have more of a grasp on the fact that “church” is a body of believers and not a building. I know this, because the places they typically meet would be equivalent to an over-sized tool shed in America. Second, having “church” is focused on spending time together as a family of believers, which is why their services last for two, three or even four hours. Third, I always smile during times of praise and worship when I am overseas.
The believers I interact with overseas have concluded that Jesus is all they need. In John 14:6, Jesus declares, “I am the way, the truth and the life…” What more do we need than to know the path we are taking in life, or being able to discern right from wrong, or living abundantly? He is El Shaddai. The God that is more than enough.
Why then, does Global Infusion continually send teams to reach people in places like Nepal? There are two main reasons: they have the greatest need, and we see the greatest return.
The abject poverty we encounter is unmatched in the West, which is why we facilitated a medical clinic a few weeks ago in Nepal that treated over 400 patients. It is why we fed hundreds more. In the midst of our medical work, we evangelized the area as devout Hindus were coming from miles around for treatment, but stayed to hear the Word of God. We spent time with believers, praying with them, discipling them, and encouraging them.
Think of it as the two hands of the Gospel reaching out to the world. Meeting tangible needs, but not leaving them without the hope of a Savior.
That is why we go.
That is why we go.
