Who ever said that missions has to only look like bible studies, evangelism, bible translating, medical clinics and the sorts? Is it possible that it can look like 12 girls throwing punches, and kicks to loud music? SURE!!
In the past three years, since being certified as a kickboxing instructor, I have REALLY seen God use it for his glory! I've taught classes in orphanages in Mexico and Peru, for DTS students and full time missionaries in Ensenada, and NOW, at a real GYM here in Cusco! I've been teaching here for two weeks now (three times a week), and really do love it, as always. I LOVE when people have FUN taking care of the bodies God gave them, when I see confidence arise in young teenage girls, and when at least an hour of someone's day is more joyful than it would have been, had they not come to class.
I can see that this passion I have IS a God-given passion, and that He is using it for His glory here. What started off as a class of mostly Peruvians, is now also sprinkled with girls that I have formed relationships with here. We all walk together to the gym (the 14 minutes it takes) and then share a taxi home. Many times, that hour and a half are the happiest, most energetic part of my day!
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The main deal in Cusco is..."What are you seeking?" It really seems like EVERYONE here is on a journey seeking spiritual fulfillment! I mean, I'm glad; it means that our ministry to the foreigners is valid. BUT I've run into a frustration! It SEEMS to me that EVERYTHING is okay, acceptable, even cool, EXCEPT Christianity. If you ask anyone where they are spiritually, and they say, "Well, I've recently been into Buddha's teachings..." or "Well actually I am a spiritualist. I go to a church lead by psychics and we contact the dead...", it's "Oh cool!" But if you say, "Well I am a follower of Jesus Christ", it's "Oh, like Christianity?"...and the WALLS GO UP! It seems to me that anything BUT the truth is what the seekers want to hear. In my frustration, God reminded me, through His word, that he understands me. John 5:43 says, "For I have come to you in my Father's name, and you have rejected me. Yet if others come in their own name, you gladly welcome them." I am also reminded that all of us seek FREEDOM, and that when we know the truth, "the truth will set you free" (John 8:32). God wants all seekers everywhere to seek him and find Him when they seek Him with all of their heart (Jer. 29:13). |