“I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.” Philippians 4:10-12
Back in the day, while living in Haiti, the above words of the Apostle Paul brought me comfort, understanding, peace and patience. If you know me, that last word may not be a word that you would count as one of my strong attributes or high points; patience.
Try for a moment, to imagine what Paul must have endured on his mission trips. Imagine the people that he met and the lives that he shared the message of salvation with along his many travels; probably saw faces similar to these four children.
Some comments from people who have seen this photo are ‘how can these kids look so happy, so clean and friendly’. Look closer at these children who attend a school in Ouanaminthe that is called Messif. Their school was very, very dark and the flash from the camera poured volumes of light into their dark classroom; no electricity or windows, just a solid door. The temperature in their classroom at 11 AM was probably in the high 90’s in October and there was no breeze.
The photo shows two really important facets; the children are in school and very happy to be in school because they just finished eating. Also notice the bracelet of the girl on the right side. She has the message of salvation wrapped around her wrist that may provide a lifeline to another lost child in Haiti on her walk home this day, or tomorrow.
Trinity HOPE is so very simple; we feed children attending Christian schools in Haiti and they in turn share the Gospel message with Haiti. It cost one dollar to feed these four children on this hot day in Ouanaminthe. The Apostle Paul would be so very happy to have these young missionaries joining in his call, the same call that you and I have from our Lord Jesus; go and seek and save the lost.
Heavenly Father, you have called your servants to ventures of which we cannot see the ending, by paths as yet untrodden, through perils unknown. Give us faith to go out with good courage, 8not knowing where we go but only that your hand is leading us and your love supporting us through Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. Amen.
May God be with you,
Jay