Mission to Haiti, April 2013

I am blessed to have, again, been allowed to travel to Haiti, via Crossroads of Arlington Church and Mission of Hope Haiti. This last trip was an eight day, life changing event for my wife and me.

(Sunset on Haiti at Mission of Hope)

 



On our trip, we met many wonderful people. Other missionaries, like the Journey Church crew from Norman OK, a great couple from Chicago, John and Jen, and a mother-son team from VA, Beverly and Camden; and not to forget Dr. Josh and Elisha, who stayed behind to complete a two week medical trip. The most impressive folks we met, though, were the people of Haiti, and the staff and interns of Mission of Hope.

Discovering God in a country that is so impoverished, and seemingly wanting for every possible service or supply, is no less than overwhelming. We found people who had a deeper connection with the Lord, despite the circumstances (or, maybe, because of) in which they find themselves. I was reminded several times that we are the same, only our location of birth separates us. Finding hope, contentment, and joy in the midst of what I perceived to be tragic conditions, ministered to my soul much more than I could have ever thought to minister to the Haitians.

(Visiting in the village of Titanyen, with Maxin)

During our ministry trips to the village of Titanyen, we met people who asked that we pray for their healing from ailments such as cataracts, a stroke, even a gunshot wound to the leg. Most, though requested that our prayers for them would lead them to a closer walk with Christ. Imagine, wanting for all basic resources and still asking only for Christ to draw closer to you! The praise and worship of those who are in Christ in Haiti is just indescribable.

(The village at Leveque - moving people into solid homes)

It is very hard, impossible actually, to put into words the change in my heart, and the Spirit's reach into my soul. My teammates from Crossroads were amazing, and I saw such growth in each of them as to stop and praise my Lord for what I was privy to. When one is a part of something like this, it is truly miraculous. How else can I describe it?

Honestly, as I have talked of my trip, I have found many to be either uncaring or incredulous that I would even go to Haiti, much less wish to return. It is clear to me now, though, that we all are given a direction, be it as a missionary to Haiti, or a participant vicariously through prayer or funding, or through whatever else the Lord may lead us to. Some will follow the lead, others may discount it as a foolish whim, while still more will actually deny God's presence in our lives.

(our sponsored student, Manoucheka (Ma-nush-ka)

Over the years, I have been rounded up by God in a way that is much like the cat herding commercial from the big game a few years ago. I ran this-way-and-that for years. Somehow, He managed to lock onto me (or I onto Him may be a better turn of phrase,) and directed me on this path. I am so overjoyed to have been a part of the trips, and look forward to many more. I can honestly say, only God could have placed on my heart a love for the Republic of Haiti and the Haitian people.

(In Titanyen, Haiti. A beautiful laugh)

We have a video of photos that we took while there. I hope this works. If not, the original file is at https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B5pKQa2I4mkXbVFPV09BZWJwY1E/edit?usp=sharing

 

(Video of images taken in Haiti)

We will be going again soon and will ask for both prayers and financial assistance. Both are welcome, and I look forward to hearing comments at texastude@mac.com.

Additional information can be found at:
www.CrossroadsOfArlington.org
http://mohhaiti.org/

May God bless you,

Michael

I lift up my eyes to the mountains—
    where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord,
    the Maker of heaven and earth.
--Psalm 121:1-2 NIV