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Hailey read our devotions today, about cultural differences. Sometimes these are obvious, other times not as much. “Humility and curiousity shows respect to others, creating opportunities for real connections and understanding.” (from HFL devotional book). 1 Corinthians 9:22b ...I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.
Saturday was a very full day, starting with a volleyball tournament for the local youth. A few guys continued at the building sites, while Dustin and crew led the tournament. Most of the rest of the Renew team sat on the bleachers, but weren’t watching passively. They kept very busy: weaving bracelets, helping children string beads, giving out clothing, temporary tattoos and candy. Kids flocked around to be part of everything that was happening and it was a bit chaotic. There are always a few darling little boys in every crowd that take what you give them, put it behind their back and put the other hand out for more. One of the things that is difficult to see, is many of these young boys already asserting dominant authority over the girls and not in a benevolent or protective way. It is not something that we can swoop in and instantly change, but showing positive examples of loving and gentle men and teaching them that girls are every bit as precious in God’s sight is a start. And also, as in any crowd of children, remind them no hitting or pushing!
After an early supper, we hosted “Minute to Win it” for the teens (the preteens had theirs Friday). The group was a bit smaller but still had lots of fun, with our teens joining in. Angela led a devo about Saul and how outward appearances aren’t what count, God sees what is on the inside. This is also true culturally. We can look at the outward appearance and not really understand what is going on. We can even make judgments that we and our ways are somehow superior. But an honest look may reveal gaping holes in our culture, especially relationally. People here seem to live in tighter community. Children are so affectionate, even to us who are strangers to them. We have also witnessed so much gratitude and joy.
We joke about “Filipino time,” which is generally a more relaxed pace. If we say an event is at 6:00, they might trickle in from about 5:55 to 7:00. It is hard to say exactly why, but someone pointed out that it may be because whatever moment they are in relationally with another person, is more important than the punctuality that is ingrained in us. Interestingly enough, Filipino time seems to stretch in another direction on Sunday morning. I was planning to warm up the choir, but before the choir members had assembled, a number of congregants were already seated at 9:30 for a 10:00 church service. We could ask ourselves, what is really the more important thing.
People are important. Strong roots ministry is about growing people in practical and tangible ways, especially young people who may not otherwise have a chance to realize a dream of something as basic as a post-secondary education or a career that pays more than a subsistence amount.
The evening wound off with a celebration banquet for the Strong Roots Alumni, those that have been sponsored children and have completed their education/ career training. A few young women spoke about the opportunities they had received to dream and hope about the future, to fulfill those dreams while being encouraged to grow in faith. The grade 11 and 12 students, our group from Canada and the alumni made up around 70 people. At the end, a surprise birthday banner was brought out to celebrate Joven who is the founder and heart of the ministry.
Whatever culture we are part of, this work is something well worth celebrating!
