An International Language
Last Wednesday I attended a “house warming” party for five refugee families. The party was hosted by the Circle of Friends who have chosen to come alongside these Congolese families. I have to say, the party was the most invigorating house warming I’ve ever been part of. We sang, danced a little, prayed, and ate, of course—very American cupcakes and snacks. I learned, kind of, a praise song in Swahili and realized again that praise and worship is an international language.
I chatted with Ben who is part of the Circle, and he shared some of the challenges of trying to overcome communication barriers. I could see that this new ministry was a stretch but also that he had a heart that was so eager and willing to serve. I watched him smile as he interacted with our new friends from Congo, and realized again, that all God needs is a willing heart.
The highlight of the evening was a conversation my husband and I had with Jean Pierre. Jean Pierre was a student at a university when he had to seek refuge in a camp. After five years, he was able to come to the United States. The other refugees in the room were all relatives. Jean Pierre is fluent in at least three languages. I had barely asked two questions about him before he began asking us questions about us. Soon the conversation was all about how we can trust God because He is faithful. And Jean Pierre was encouraging us to pray and ask God to provide.
The faith of these refugees from Congo makes my own look pale. As we drove home, I pondered what it would be like to have to escape from my home, what it would be like to live in a camp, what it would be like to resettle in another country where the culture is so different and the language unknown. I couldn’t fathom what it would be like. I stand in awe of my brothers and sisters from Congo: their courage, their faith, their hope, their resiliency.
Pam Jordan, TRP friend
recent comments