It's Working...

What happens when you take 5 college students, fly them across the country, plop them down in a culture drastically different from their own, and leave them there to serve, sacrifice, and be stretched for 6 weeks?? Well, if the last few days have been any indication of what's to come, I can safely say that heart transformation is in store. God has already been at work in huge ways, causing these young adults to think thoughts they've never had, question preconceived ideas that they assumed were correct, reevaluate beliefs and judgements that they've accepted their whole lives.... And all because He wants to make them as moldable as little lumps of clay in His hands. The experiment has begun... :)
I wish everyone could just hear bits and pieces of the conversations we've had so far... asking the tough questions about racial equality, noting the differences in how two cultures practice their faith in Christ, allowing ourselves to be broken over the pain, sin, and injustices so evident around us. These guys aren't messing around! They're here to be confronted with the tough stuff and they're willing to come to the mat and wrestle with many things outside of their comfort zones... and in the end, EXPAND their comfort zones to include new friends and a bigger view of who God is in their lives.
Parents, you would be bursting with pride right now if you could see how your son or daughter has chosen patience instead of frustration, sacrifice instead of selfishness, and humility instead of pride. These last few days have been full of opportunities to minister and love in various ways, and your children have stepped up to the plate with courage and passion. Thank you for trusting them, and trusting the path to growth and maturity they're on. As I leave tomorrow, I can also say without a doubt that I trust them and that they will be in good hands here. They have proven over and over that they came here to learn and to pour themselves out, and they have every intention of making the most of each day. I couldn't be more excited to see what God is going to do!
Woohoo!!!
(or, from the hood....Boom sha ala sha ala boogedy, woogedy, wiggedity wack)
Peace,
Sarah