Our Hope

We haven't been here too long. Maybe after a few more years I'll look back on this and think how green behind the ears I sound, but for now here are a few thoughts.

I am thankful to be from a country that is founded on God. I haven't grasped such a concrete meaning to that until recently.

One of the men who works in our shop lost twin newborn babies last week; they were born two months too early and didn't make it. We are so sad with the family for this loss. I cannot even imagine weathering such a horrible thing.

Bali is mostly Hindu and consequently the Balinese believe that any bad things that happen are a result of spirits who are, in a sense, out to get them. "Bad luck". I know it's much more complex than that, but this is a summary of what I understand.

Now picture this: You have just lost two babies. You already lost one baby before he was a year old. You are in deep despair. And you are sure it's because the spirits are angry with you. There is no assurance. No knowledge that "everything works together for the good of those who love Him". No security in the fact that God has a plan. You just have to appease the spirits, somehow. They may be ancestors, they may be evil spirits, they may be good gods who are angry; so you have to put out more expensive daily offerings, you have to have more ceremonies and spend lots of money to do this - all the while, you aren't quite sure if your precautions are "working".

Sometimes the phrases of comfort we Christians hear all the time seem trite, but in our heart of hearts I think we know they're true.

...as for me, even when I am questioning God and seriously doubting His wisdom, I know somewhere deep down that He is in control and has a plan that is bigger than anything I can ever imagine. Wouldn't our friends here give anything for that peace right now?