Yesterday morning I realized that there was a time difference. Is it sad that it took me almost a whole day to realize this?! I think so. In Haiti right now it is 10:01, but in the States it is 11:01. Is anyone wondering how I figured this out? Hope so, because I am about to tell. I set my alarm for 8am. No need to wake up early for breakfast, since there weren’t any other team members to eat with. After I woke up at 8, I decided to “snooze” until 8:30. Ms. Linda came in soon after that, and told me that Sophie was beginning breakfast. I laughed and said “Well, this is the first time I have gotten to sleep past 8 in Haiti, so I guess I don’t need that snooze time.” She then laughed back and said “Well, no, you didn’t sleep until after 8. You lost an hour when you got to Haiti.” I had to laugh.
I had breakfast, and then organized some things until Mr. Donald and Ms. Fran arrived. They got here around lunch time, and we had egg salad sandwiches. After they settled in for a while, we headed to see the girls. Once we got there, we did free play for a while and then sat then down to teach them a few songs. This was so much fun! I have some great videos to post, but the internet here is so slow that I can’t.
We came back to the house around 5 and my favorite Haitian meal –Haitian spaghetti and fried root- was sitting on the table! Yummmyyyy! Nothing tops the fried root dipped in the goat meat sauce. I know it sound strange, but it is divine.
This morning (Saturday) I woke up at 5am to write a paper. This was the first time I have ever written a paper while being serenaded by a rooster. Thankfully, I finished it and the connection was good enough to submit it to Blackboard. We had bagels and fruit for breakfast. Mr. Donald left shortly after breakfast with Pastor M to do Evangecube training in Karfu. I’ve never been to Karfu, but I hear it is one of the “grossest” places in Haiti. Although, around here the term “gross” is used a lot.
Ms. Fran and I spent the entire day with the girls. She worked with Smith and some of the girls on educational projects, while I worked with them on the necklaces. I am so proud of them, because they completed over 30 necklaces today! We came back to My Father’s House for lunch, and then organized the “necklace shop” downstairs. When we got back to the girl’s home, the social worker showed up so our plans had to be delayed for about an hour. After she left, we just played music and danced around with them. It was a blast! Those girls bring so much joy to my life.
Tomorrow we will be going to Kisqueya church, and will be bringing the girls with us. After church, and lunch .. I am going back to the girl’s home to take fresh photographs of then for the HUG brochures and we are also going to play Jenga. It should be a fun day!
Please keep Pastor M’s son, Samuel, in your prayers. He was taken to the hospital today after have “fits of shaking.” I am not quite sure what this means, but it all that Pastor M knows right now. They plan to keep him in there until Monday. I assume they are running tests. Pastor M and his wife (Ann) really need to be lifted up right now, because I know it has to be hard on them to be so far a part during this time of uncertainty.
Blessings,
Hannah
Saturday, October 8
Friday, October 7
Haiti - Day One.
Well, Haiti .. I’m home! Nothing like a cold shower to welcome me back with. I flew out of Myrtle Beach this time, so I left good ‘ole Cottageville around 3am to catch my 8am flight. Luckily I had been well “prefueled” with orange juice, and other various dishes at the Smoak house the night before. When I got into the car, I put the address to the airport in my GPS hit “GO” and didn’t think anything of it. That is, until it told me to get on I-26. Thankfully, I didn’t follow it because it was taking me to my Mom’s house. I must not have actually hit “GO.” Woops.
I got to the airport around 6:15am, and signed in for my flight. All of the flying went very smoothly, and Serge was waiting on me when I arrived in PAP. The traffic was horrible! The worst I have ever seen it, yet everyone was moving out of the way when Serge was coming through. I mention it to him, and he claimed that everyone was moving out of the way because “the queen was back in town.” Hahaha. He also took me to his house to pick something up. He lives up a very tight spiral staircase, which was interesting. As I was coming down, I noticed this Haitian looking up as I was coming down so I mentioned to Serge that nobody better be looking up my dress. He then told me that an American might do that, but a Haitian never would. I’m not quite sure if that is true, because Serge said something to a man under me and he apologized several times. What an interesting first Haiti memory.
I got to the house, and settle in around 3pm. I then took a nap until around 6pm, and then awoke to eat dinner. We had beans and rice. It was very good, per usual. I took a shower, and started Skyping with Mom when Ms. Linda came in to tell me we were going to have some visitors to look at the house. Around 8pm three men arrive from Texas to take a look around. It was fun doing a My Father’s House tour. They stayed for maybe twenty minutes, and then left. Their experiences were very interesting. There was one man who came over right after the quake. It amazes me to hear stories from that time. Even though there was complete destruction, I am still reminded of how faithful our God is in the midst of any storm.
I then read for a while, and went to sleep.
Mr. Donald, and Ms. Fran will arrive tomorrow. Please pray for their safety.
Blessings,
Han
I got to the airport around 6:15am, and signed in for my flight. All of the flying went very smoothly, and Serge was waiting on me when I arrived in PAP. The traffic was horrible! The worst I have ever seen it, yet everyone was moving out of the way when Serge was coming through. I mention it to him, and he claimed that everyone was moving out of the way because “the queen was back in town.” Hahaha. He also took me to his house to pick something up. He lives up a very tight spiral staircase, which was interesting. As I was coming down, I noticed this Haitian looking up as I was coming down so I mentioned to Serge that nobody better be looking up my dress. He then told me that an American might do that, but a Haitian never would. I’m not quite sure if that is true, because Serge said something to a man under me and he apologized several times. What an interesting first Haiti memory.
I got to the house, and settle in around 3pm. I then took a nap until around 6pm, and then awoke to eat dinner. We had beans and rice. It was very good, per usual. I took a shower, and started Skyping with Mom when Ms. Linda came in to tell me we were going to have some visitors to look at the house. Around 8pm three men arrive from Texas to take a look around. It was fun doing a My Father’s House tour. They stayed for maybe twenty minutes, and then left. Their experiences were very interesting. There was one man who came over right after the quake. It amazes me to hear stories from that time. Even though there was complete destruction, I am still reminded of how faithful our God is in the midst of any storm.
I then read for a while, and went to sleep.
Mr. Donald, and Ms. Fran will arrive tomorrow. Please pray for their safety.
Blessings,
Han
Tuesday, July 19
The Call.
“Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20
At the team meeting before my first trip to Haiti in October 2010, Mr. Donald passed out a book for each of us to read titled Radical. I hate to admit it, but I did not read the book. In many ways I did not want to read this book. I knew that it would shake up my way of thinking, and I was not sure I was ready for that. It is amazing to me how God knows what we need when we need it. I needed to read Radical after our June trip to Haiti, which is exactly when our college ministry was doing a study based on Radical.
Usually coming back to America is not a big adjustment for me, but this time it was different. I flew back from Haiti earlier than the rest of the team. As I was standing in line waiting to board a plane, where I was the only American around, I began to wonder why God had chosen me to live such a blessed life in comparison to the world that was around me. Or even why He had chosen me to go to Haiti. I am by no means an evangelist, and I am not very bold in sharing my faith with other adults. I’ve never thought about being “called” to missions. I am just a nineteen year old college student, who enjoys volunteering to work with the children at my church. I’m not anywhere near special enough to be “called” by God to missions.
On page seventy-two of the book Radical there is a section titled “I’m Not Called.” Again, how perfect is God’s timing? I am going to quote what David Platt says because it is so powerful.
“But where in the Bible is missions ever identified as an optional program in the church? We have just seen that we were all created by God, saved from our sins, and blessed by God to make His glory known in all the world. Indeed, Jesus Himself has not merely called us to go to all nations; He has created us and commanded us to go to all nations. We have taken this command, though, and reduced it to a calling – something that only few people receive. I find it interesting that we don’t do this with other words from Jesus. We take Jesus’ command in Matthew 28 to make disciples of all nations, and we say, “That means others people.” But we look at Jesus’ command in Matthew 11:28, “Come to me, all you who are weak and burdened, and I will give you rest,” and we say “Now, that means me.”
Hearing about all of the incredible things that God is doing through the Evangecube training in Haiti has really enforced this for me. People are coming to Christ by the hundreds because of ordinary people in Haiti who are spreading the Gospel using the Evangecube. Ordinary people, who have accepted the call that all of us have. Ordinary people, who are not ashamed and who are bold enough to share the Gospel with those around them. I’m using the word ordinary, because often times I think we associate spreading the Gospel with needing to have a “special calling” but as David Platt explained in Radical that is not the case. There is no difference in the ordinary people of Haiti, and the ordinary people of America. We are all called to spread the Gospel.
The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) is mine, and your, calling to missions! There is no “special calling” that you must have to share the Gospel. The Great Commission was not directed at a select group of Christians. Jesus has not merely suggested that we spread the Gospel, but He commands us to do so. I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone, and act upon The Great Commission. God will go before you, and prepare the way for you to share the Gospel with others; you just have to place your trust in Him.
Blessings,
Han
At the team meeting before my first trip to Haiti in October 2010, Mr. Donald passed out a book for each of us to read titled Radical. I hate to admit it, but I did not read the book. In many ways I did not want to read this book. I knew that it would shake up my way of thinking, and I was not sure I was ready for that. It is amazing to me how God knows what we need when we need it. I needed to read Radical after our June trip to Haiti, which is exactly when our college ministry was doing a study based on Radical.
Usually coming back to America is not a big adjustment for me, but this time it was different. I flew back from Haiti earlier than the rest of the team. As I was standing in line waiting to board a plane, where I was the only American around, I began to wonder why God had chosen me to live such a blessed life in comparison to the world that was around me. Or even why He had chosen me to go to Haiti. I am by no means an evangelist, and I am not very bold in sharing my faith with other adults. I’ve never thought about being “called” to missions. I am just a nineteen year old college student, who enjoys volunteering to work with the children at my church. I’m not anywhere near special enough to be “called” by God to missions.
On page seventy-two of the book Radical there is a section titled “I’m Not Called.” Again, how perfect is God’s timing? I am going to quote what David Platt says because it is so powerful.
“But where in the Bible is missions ever identified as an optional program in the church? We have just seen that we were all created by God, saved from our sins, and blessed by God to make His glory known in all the world. Indeed, Jesus Himself has not merely called us to go to all nations; He has created us and commanded us to go to all nations. We have taken this command, though, and reduced it to a calling – something that only few people receive. I find it interesting that we don’t do this with other words from Jesus. We take Jesus’ command in Matthew 28 to make disciples of all nations, and we say, “That means others people.” But we look at Jesus’ command in Matthew 11:28, “Come to me, all you who are weak and burdened, and I will give you rest,” and we say “Now, that means me.”
Hearing about all of the incredible things that God is doing through the Evangecube training in Haiti has really enforced this for me. People are coming to Christ by the hundreds because of ordinary people in Haiti who are spreading the Gospel using the Evangecube. Ordinary people, who have accepted the call that all of us have. Ordinary people, who are not ashamed and who are bold enough to share the Gospel with those around them. I’m using the word ordinary, because often times I think we associate spreading the Gospel with needing to have a “special calling” but as David Platt explained in Radical that is not the case. There is no difference in the ordinary people of Haiti, and the ordinary people of America. We are all called to spread the Gospel.
The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) is mine, and your, calling to missions! There is no “special calling” that you must have to share the Gospel. The Great Commission was not directed at a select group of Christians. Jesus has not merely suggested that we spread the Gospel, but He commands us to do so. I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone, and act upon The Great Commission. God will go before you, and prepare the way for you to share the Gospel with others; you just have to place your trust in Him.
Blessings,
Han
Wednesday, July 6
I Will Carry You.
Today I read a book titled I Will Carry You by Angie Smith. The book tells the story of her daughter Audrey Caroline , who she and her family were blessed to spend a few hours went before Audrey went to be with Jesus. During pregnancy Angie’s doctor discovered during an ultrasound that Audrey had problems that were “not compatible with life.” Even though Audrey wasn’t expected to live, the Smith’s chose to not terminate the pregnancy and pray for God to intervene. This book was an amazing story of the journey that faith and hope together can take us on.
In I Will Carry You, Angie referred to the story of Mary washing Jesus’ feet. I am going to quote what she says, because it is so moving. Just for background, this was the Mary who was the sister to Martha and Lazarus.
“Everyone was gathered around the Lord when Mary shattered a bottle of perfume and wiped the lavish scent across His feet with her hair. The scent was to be used in a society where bathing was not frequent, so this particular nard was extremely pungent. A few drops would have been more than enough but without regard to cost (Angie later tells how the bottle was worth about $30,000 dollars) or what those around here might think, she simply poured it all out as an act of pure worship. Many have speculated that Mary was preparing her beloved Savior for His death and burial, but our pastor went to explain that the scent of the perfume surely would have been on His skin a few days later when he was beaten and crucified. So, in essence, every time a Roman soldier’s whip hit Him, the scent of Mary’s worship was released and rose all around Him; a reminder of Who He was. I don’t believe her action was simply a reflection of her gratitude over the life of Lazarus because the setting and the way the events unfold communicate an inherent heaviness as she pours the perfume. It doesn’t feel totally celebratory to me. It feel like letting go. Regardless of whether or not He had saved her brother, she would have worshipped Him. She loved Him because of Who He was to her, not what He had done for her.”
As I read this I began to cry. How many times have we felt as though He has let us down? How often have we questioned His plan and refused to surrender to His will? Even in those times were we willing to worship Him? To give Him what we have of worth - our lives, our talents, our dreams .. . I also reflected upon times when life has “beaten me.” The smell of Mary’s worship, of her full surrender, was the aroma that arose as Jesus was being beaten and crucified. Did the aroma of worship and surrender escape from my “life wounds” or was there a smell of bitterness and hurt?
While reading this book, I was reminded of a song that ministered to me during what I would call of one of "life's beatings.” The title of it is He Will Carry Me by Mark Shultz. The chorus goes "Even though I’m walking through the valley of the shadow. I will hold tight to the hand of Him, whose love will comfort me. When all hope is gone, and I’ve been wounded in the battle. He is all the strength that I will ever need. He will carry me.” No matter what, He is there to carry you. As you go through the many battles that life can bring, let the fragrance that results from your “wounds” be an aroma of worship and surrender. When others “beat” you, don’t let them smell bitterness or hatred. Instead, let them smell the sweet fragrance of your Jesus. Let the aroma of surrender and worship, of His presence, flow from you. Trust that He is there to carry You. I promise you, He truly is all of the strength you will need and He will always be there to carry you.
Blessings,
Han
In I Will Carry You, Angie referred to the story of Mary washing Jesus’ feet. I am going to quote what she says, because it is so moving. Just for background, this was the Mary who was the sister to Martha and Lazarus.
“Everyone was gathered around the Lord when Mary shattered a bottle of perfume and wiped the lavish scent across His feet with her hair. The scent was to be used in a society where bathing was not frequent, so this particular nard was extremely pungent. A few drops would have been more than enough but without regard to cost (Angie later tells how the bottle was worth about $30,000 dollars) or what those around here might think, she simply poured it all out as an act of pure worship. Many have speculated that Mary was preparing her beloved Savior for His death and burial, but our pastor went to explain that the scent of the perfume surely would have been on His skin a few days later when he was beaten and crucified. So, in essence, every time a Roman soldier’s whip hit Him, the scent of Mary’s worship was released and rose all around Him; a reminder of Who He was. I don’t believe her action was simply a reflection of her gratitude over the life of Lazarus because the setting and the way the events unfold communicate an inherent heaviness as she pours the perfume. It doesn’t feel totally celebratory to me. It feel like letting go. Regardless of whether or not He had saved her brother, she would have worshipped Him. She loved Him because of Who He was to her, not what He had done for her.”
As I read this I began to cry. How many times have we felt as though He has let us down? How often have we questioned His plan and refused to surrender to His will? Even in those times were we willing to worship Him? To give Him what we have of worth - our lives, our talents, our dreams .. . I also reflected upon times when life has “beaten me.” The smell of Mary’s worship, of her full surrender, was the aroma that arose as Jesus was being beaten and crucified. Did the aroma of worship and surrender escape from my “life wounds” or was there a smell of bitterness and hurt?
While reading this book, I was reminded of a song that ministered to me during what I would call of one of "life's beatings.” The title of it is He Will Carry Me by Mark Shultz. The chorus goes "Even though I’m walking through the valley of the shadow. I will hold tight to the hand of Him, whose love will comfort me. When all hope is gone, and I’ve been wounded in the battle. He is all the strength that I will ever need. He will carry me.” No matter what, He is there to carry you. As you go through the many battles that life can bring, let the fragrance that results from your “wounds” be an aroma of worship and surrender. When others “beat” you, don’t let them smell bitterness or hatred. Instead, let them smell the sweet fragrance of your Jesus. Let the aroma of surrender and worship, of His presence, flow from you. Trust that He is there to carry You. I promise you, He truly is all of the strength you will need and He will always be there to carry you.
Blessings,
Han
Saturday, June 18
Day #3 - Saturday with "the girls"!
Today was awesome! Sarah and I spent the entire day with the girls. The day started with, of course, my hair being braided. After about half an hour of that, I went a hung out with the two oldest girls that were there. Four of the girls are going to special Saturday classes, because they are preparing for the test that will allow them to go to secondary school. While with the oldest two, they put their "fancy" dresses on and had a fashion show/photo shoot. It was so fun! They even let me in on action, and showed me how to do "the walk."
After all of those festivities, Smith, Sarah and I did an interview type thing with small groups of the girls. We asked them basic questions like "What do you want to be when you grow up?" and "What is your favorite Bible story?" One thing that really touch me, is when they were asked what they would like to tell the people who help support them their reponse was typically either to meet them, or for presents. I inquired about these presents trying to get ideas about treats I could bring them next time. Each of them requested three things (the same three things, even if they were not in the same small group): dresses, panties and dolls. I was expecting more "Americanish" things like a tv or maybe even a phone, but no .. they wanted dresses, panties and dolls. It was a joy to be able to deliver two of those three things to them today .. next time I'm filling my suitcase with dolls.
After the interviewing, Smith and Sarah went on an adventure to pick up pizza! Yes, PIZZA! There is a Dominos in Haiti, that is very good (and clean!). The girls and staff enjoyed the treat. After lunch, we had planned to talk about prayer with the girls but their social worker came so we didn't have time. When she left, we gave the girls new dresses and snapped a group photo. We got them to "model pose" in one, and it is so precious.
When we got back at Dottie's we were reunited with Mr. Donald and Mr. Paul. Today there were at what I would call a "reflection service" with the pastors who had been a part of the Experience God series. They each told testimonies about how God had changed them through the study. Amazing testimonies were reported. The one that excited me the most was about a girl in one of the pastor's churches who was born healthy, but became mute. As a result, she was forced to leave school. During the Experiecing God series the pastor felt led by God to begin to pray for this girl while placing his finger on her tounge. After the prayer he told her to say "Praise the Lord!", and she did!! She has regained her voice, and is now able to attend school again. What a mighty God we serve!!
Tomorrow we aren't going to Valley of Hope. At first I was bummed because I've gone to church there every time I've come to Haiti and its so great. Pastor M. will be out though, so we are going to an "Americanish" church. I'm excited! I'm very excited about what we are doing Monday, but I won't reveal that until tomorrow. God is so good. Everything I wanted to do on this trip is working out so well, which is amazing since I will only have been here 5 days.
Thanks to all who are praying.
Blessings,
Han
After all of those festivities, Smith, Sarah and I did an interview type thing with small groups of the girls. We asked them basic questions like "What do you want to be when you grow up?" and "What is your favorite Bible story?" One thing that really touch me, is when they were asked what they would like to tell the people who help support them their reponse was typically either to meet them, or for presents. I inquired about these presents trying to get ideas about treats I could bring them next time. Each of them requested three things (the same three things, even if they were not in the same small group): dresses, panties and dolls. I was expecting more "Americanish" things like a tv or maybe even a phone, but no .. they wanted dresses, panties and dolls. It was a joy to be able to deliver two of those three things to them today .. next time I'm filling my suitcase with dolls.
After the interviewing, Smith and Sarah went on an adventure to pick up pizza! Yes, PIZZA! There is a Dominos in Haiti, that is very good (and clean!). The girls and staff enjoyed the treat. After lunch, we had planned to talk about prayer with the girls but their social worker came so we didn't have time. When she left, we gave the girls new dresses and snapped a group photo. We got them to "model pose" in one, and it is so precious.
When we got back at Dottie's we were reunited with Mr. Donald and Mr. Paul. Today there were at what I would call a "reflection service" with the pastors who had been a part of the Experience God series. They each told testimonies about how God had changed them through the study. Amazing testimonies were reported. The one that excited me the most was about a girl in one of the pastor's churches who was born healthy, but became mute. As a result, she was forced to leave school. During the Experiecing God series the pastor felt led by God to begin to pray for this girl while placing his finger on her tounge. After the prayer he told her to say "Praise the Lord!", and she did!! She has regained her voice, and is now able to attend school again. What a mighty God we serve!!
Tomorrow we aren't going to Valley of Hope. At first I was bummed because I've gone to church there every time I've come to Haiti and its so great. Pastor M. will be out though, so we are going to an "Americanish" church. I'm excited! I'm very excited about what we are doing Monday, but I won't reveal that until tomorrow. God is so good. Everything I wanted to do on this trip is working out so well, which is amazing since I will only have been here 5 days.
Thanks to all who are praying.
Blessings,
Han
Friday, June 17
Day #2 - Pray for Rain.
Yesterday while I was with Serge on the way to the mission house, there was a man throwing water on the road infront of his house. I asked Serge why he was doing this. He told me that it was because the roads were too dusty.
We walked tonight from Ms. Dottie's to the HUG A Child Home. It is maybe a 10 minute walk on roads that are less than desireable. Lots of rocks and dust. On our way to the girls home tonight, I noticed how dusty the roads truly are. Everytime a car would drive by it would kick of dust all around, that you had no choice but breathe in.
While we were walking back the song "Pray For Rain" by David and Nicole Binion came to my mind. Here are some of the lyrics: "Pray for rain, when your heart is dry and thirsty, pray for rain, when your life is void and empty, pray for rain, when you don't know what to pray, pray for rain."
How many 'dusty' areas are in our lives that we need God to come and pour rain on? My prayer is that He bring a time of refreshment through His rain to cover every dusty, unclear, cracked, and painful area of my life.
Tomorrow the plan is to be with the girls all day. We are ordering pizza for lunch! Woot!
Blessings,
Han
We walked tonight from Ms. Dottie's to the HUG A Child Home. It is maybe a 10 minute walk on roads that are less than desireable. Lots of rocks and dust. On our way to the girls home tonight, I noticed how dusty the roads truly are. Everytime a car would drive by it would kick of dust all around, that you had no choice but breathe in.
While we were walking back the song "Pray For Rain" by David and Nicole Binion came to my mind. Here are some of the lyrics: "Pray for rain, when your heart is dry and thirsty, pray for rain, when your life is void and empty, pray for rain, when you don't know what to pray, pray for rain."
How many 'dusty' areas are in our lives that we need God to come and pour rain on? My prayer is that He bring a time of refreshment through His rain to cover every dusty, unclear, cracked, and painful area of my life.
Tomorrow the plan is to be with the girls all day. We are ordering pizza for lunch! Woot!
Blessings,
Han
Thursday, June 16
Haiti, I'm home! (Get it? Instead of "Honeyy, I'm home!")
Well, here I am .. once again sitting in "my" bed at Ms. Dottie's smelling the lovely Port-au-Prince air. Today was an adventure, but I made it! I don't like flying by myself, but I will know better what to do next time.
My favorite part about traveling to Haiti is the time spent in the airplane before take off. In the airport there is always a lot going on, and people watching to be done. Those 15 or so minutes in the plane is always such a nice time. A time when the stress from the day melts aways, and I get excited because I am going to see some of my very favorite people! I usually take this moment to think about Haiti, and what I am going to do there. Why I go to Haiti. What led me to Haiti. You know, all of the important things.
I think there are the Evangecubes in my trunk. Or atleast that is what they look like. Of course, dragging a trunk around gets me a lot of attention so I was asked several times today what was in it. Each time I simply said "Evangecubes", and so then I was asked "What is that?!" So, I asked a bunch of people if they knew Jesus. I was ready to break open a box if necessary! Revival in an airport sounds pretty cool, right?!
I'm sure I've written on here before how the Haiti airport is 'busy', my previous strategy has been to just pray .. out loud until I have peace. Today though I sang "How Great is Our God" in Creole. Not loudly, but loud enough so that the people asking if I needed help would be drowned out until I saw Serge. It is amazing the places that you can feel the presense of God. Standing there, in a 'scary' place I felt Him right there with me.
Its about 8 o'clock here, and sadly I think I may go to bed. Sarah and Mr. Donald will be here tomorrow!
Thank you to everyone who is praying.
Blessings,
Han
My favorite part about traveling to Haiti is the time spent in the airplane before take off. In the airport there is always a lot going on, and people watching to be done. Those 15 or so minutes in the plane is always such a nice time. A time when the stress from the day melts aways, and I get excited because I am going to see some of my very favorite people! I usually take this moment to think about Haiti, and what I am going to do there. Why I go to Haiti. What led me to Haiti. You know, all of the important things.
I think there are the Evangecubes in my trunk. Or atleast that is what they look like. Of course, dragging a trunk around gets me a lot of attention so I was asked several times today what was in it. Each time I simply said "Evangecubes", and so then I was asked "What is that?!" So, I asked a bunch of people if they knew Jesus. I was ready to break open a box if necessary! Revival in an airport sounds pretty cool, right?!
I'm sure I've written on here before how the Haiti airport is 'busy', my previous strategy has been to just pray .. out loud until I have peace. Today though I sang "How Great is Our God" in Creole. Not loudly, but loud enough so that the people asking if I needed help would be drowned out until I saw Serge. It is amazing the places that you can feel the presense of God. Standing there, in a 'scary' place I felt Him right there with me.
Its about 8 o'clock here, and sadly I think I may go to bed. Sarah and Mr. Donald will be here tomorrow!
Thank you to everyone who is praying.
Blessings,
Han
Thursday, May 19
Wednesday, March 9
Haiti: Day Five.
Today we went up Cha Cha Mountain. What an adventure that was! Anyone reading this knows that mountain climbing is not my thing, at all .. and I can say that it still is not. It was definitely an amazing experience, but a once in a life time experience – for sure. If they ever dedicate a church up there, I’ll go back but other than that I don’t ever see it happening it again.
It took us maybe 2 or so hours to get to the bottom and maybe another 45 to get to the top. We had the option of riding a donkey, walking or riding in the truck to the very top. I’m sure you all know which one I chose – the truck! It was a fun ride in back of a truck, for sure.
Once we arrived there was a church service already in session, so we finished that one and then took a break. Once everyone was there we started up again with more singing, dancing, praying and preaching (not in the order, and all more than once). We also all got a chance to share something with the people. I chose my ‘ole faithful Jeremiah 29:11, because we all need to be encouraged that God has a plan and it is always a good one!
What stood out the most to me was toward end of the service the pastor announced that we were going to Holy Spirit dance after prayer. It reminded of the times I have heard to “praise my way into victory.” They must have danced for 30 minutes. It was incredible.
After that we looked at some land for a possible church building location. We were heading back to the truck and we were asked to come back to the church because they had prepared breakfast for us. Mind you, it was about 2 o’clock at this point. There was coffee, bread, cheese spread and eggs. I wasn’t very brave and only had bread and cheese spread, but it was very good.
Following ‘breakfast’ we headed back down the mountain and to the mission house.
It was an incredible experience, and definitely one that I will never forget! These people worshipped and praised with everything they had, and there was such an atmosphere of expectancy in that place. I’ll end this with something that I have heard my Papa say many times “The atmosphere of expectancy, is the breeding ground of miracles!” A miracle is what they need on the top of Cha Cha, and these people are definitely expecting God to move on their behalf. We all need to join in agreement with them. We serve a big God, and through Him ALL things are possible!!
Blessings,
Han
It took us maybe 2 or so hours to get to the bottom and maybe another 45 to get to the top. We had the option of riding a donkey, walking or riding in the truck to the very top. I’m sure you all know which one I chose – the truck! It was a fun ride in back of a truck, for sure.
Once we arrived there was a church service already in session, so we finished that one and then took a break. Once everyone was there we started up again with more singing, dancing, praying and preaching (not in the order, and all more than once). We also all got a chance to share something with the people. I chose my ‘ole faithful Jeremiah 29:11, because we all need to be encouraged that God has a plan and it is always a good one!
What stood out the most to me was toward end of the service the pastor announced that we were going to Holy Spirit dance after prayer. It reminded of the times I have heard to “praise my way into victory.” They must have danced for 30 minutes. It was incredible.
After that we looked at some land for a possible church building location. We were heading back to the truck and we were asked to come back to the church because they had prepared breakfast for us. Mind you, it was about 2 o’clock at this point. There was coffee, bread, cheese spread and eggs. I wasn’t very brave and only had bread and cheese spread, but it was very good.
Following ‘breakfast’ we headed back down the mountain and to the mission house.
It was an incredible experience, and definitely one that I will never forget! These people worshipped and praised with everything they had, and there was such an atmosphere of expectancy in that place. I’ll end this with something that I have heard my Papa say many times “The atmosphere of expectancy, is the breeding ground of miracles!” A miracle is what they need on the top of Cha Cha, and these people are definitely expecting God to move on their behalf. We all need to join in agreement with them. We serve a big God, and through Him ALL things are possible!!
Blessings,
Han
Tuesday, March 8
Haiti: Day Four.
The plan for today was changed several time, but ‘our’ plans are never as important as God’s plan. The original plan for the day was to prepare food at the school, but the girls do not have school this week because of a festival. The next plan was to visit downtown, but that wasn’t possible either because of the festival.
We started out the day by going to visit a possible new location for the girls home. It was very nice! This is the second one that we have seen, and I like the second one much better than the first. If all goes to plan, we should be moving the girls with-in the next couple of days. There ended up being a problem with one of the cars while we were there, so we stayed there quite a while.
Once the car was fixed, we headed over to AFCA. I was in the car with Serge, Ms. Barbie and Sarah. I had been having an itch to visit an art vender. We passed one on the way and stopped! It was great. I didn’t buy anything, but it was a good ‘I’ve been to Haiti and done this .. ‘ experience. Sarah bought two paintings, and it was so neat to listen to Serge and Ms. Barbie negotiate the price.
After our shopping adventure, we continued on to AFCA. I think we got there about 12, and at 12:30 we did a Bible lesson and craft. We did the story of how Jesus calmed the storm, and made pinwheels to go along with it. The girls really enjoyed this.
We didn’t do much else with them the rest of the day except for play games and just fellowship. In many ways those days are my favorite, because you don’t have to be concerned with projects finished – you just get to be around them.
Please keep the prayers coming.
Blessings,
Han
We started out the day by going to visit a possible new location for the girls home. It was very nice! This is the second one that we have seen, and I like the second one much better than the first. If all goes to plan, we should be moving the girls with-in the next couple of days. There ended up being a problem with one of the cars while we were there, so we stayed there quite a while.
Once the car was fixed, we headed over to AFCA. I was in the car with Serge, Ms. Barbie and Sarah. I had been having an itch to visit an art vender. We passed one on the way and stopped! It was great. I didn’t buy anything, but it was a good ‘I’ve been to Haiti and done this .. ‘ experience. Sarah bought two paintings, and it was so neat to listen to Serge and Ms. Barbie negotiate the price.
After our shopping adventure, we continued on to AFCA. I think we got there about 12, and at 12:30 we did a Bible lesson and craft. We did the story of how Jesus calmed the storm, and made pinwheels to go along with it. The girls really enjoyed this.
We didn’t do much else with them the rest of the day except for play games and just fellowship. In many ways those days are my favorite, because you don’t have to be concerned with projects finished – you just get to be around them.
Please keep the prayers coming.
Blessings,
Han
Monday, March 7
Haiti: Day Three.
Today we went to the Valley of Hope for church. This was also the Sunday that they were going to dedicate the church. What a service it was.
We got there early, which I was glad about because it gave us some time to take pictures and look around. The church looks amazing compared to the last time I saw it in October. There is now guest bathroom! Pastor Maxeau also has an office (made out of a Samaratian’s Purse tents), which has a little store attached to it.
The dedication practices in Haiti are different that than are in the States. From what I could understand, all of the people gathered at the front of the church along with Pastor Maxeau. Pastor Maxeau then knocked on the door and a voice from the inside said something to the extent of “This is the presence of God entering your church.” I have a feeling that there was more to it than that because this went on for a good five minutes. Following that we all entered the church.
The service started with some songs of praise, and then a song of worship. Pastor Maxeau then got up and spoke for a while, then three choirs sang, then our team went to the front to introduce ourselves, then Mr. Donald introduced Pastor Ted and he preached. Following his sermons Mr. Donald and Ms. Barbie went to the front to accept gifts of thanks from the church for the help that HUG and NDI had given then. I think there was more singing after that, and then all of the visiting pastors (I think there were 9), along with the mayor got up to speak. Then the choirs sang again, and someone from the church spoke and sang, and then Pastor Maxeau talked for a while longer, followed by more singing and a prayer. That summary was horribly written, but considering that the service was four and a half hours long .. it was hard to keep up with the order of events.
Following the service we had lunch, which was as amazing as I remembered. I have got to figure out how to make that beet potato salad!
After that we rode back to the house. While we were riding, I took some great pictures. I can’t wait to post them!
Once we got back here, we ordered pizza .. and I was sleeping by 7:30. :)
Blessings,
Han
We got there early, which I was glad about because it gave us some time to take pictures and look around. The church looks amazing compared to the last time I saw it in October. There is now guest bathroom! Pastor Maxeau also has an office (made out of a Samaratian’s Purse tents), which has a little store attached to it.
The dedication practices in Haiti are different that than are in the States. From what I could understand, all of the people gathered at the front of the church along with Pastor Maxeau. Pastor Maxeau then knocked on the door and a voice from the inside said something to the extent of “This is the presence of God entering your church.” I have a feeling that there was more to it than that because this went on for a good five minutes. Following that we all entered the church.
The service started with some songs of praise, and then a song of worship. Pastor Maxeau then got up and spoke for a while, then three choirs sang, then our team went to the front to introduce ourselves, then Mr. Donald introduced Pastor Ted and he preached. Following his sermons Mr. Donald and Ms. Barbie went to the front to accept gifts of thanks from the church for the help that HUG and NDI had given then. I think there was more singing after that, and then all of the visiting pastors (I think there were 9), along with the mayor got up to speak. Then the choirs sang again, and someone from the church spoke and sang, and then Pastor Maxeau talked for a while longer, followed by more singing and a prayer. That summary was horribly written, but considering that the service was four and a half hours long .. it was hard to keep up with the order of events.
Following the service we had lunch, which was as amazing as I remembered. I have got to figure out how to make that beet potato salad!
After that we rode back to the house. While we were riding, I took some great pictures. I can’t wait to post them!
Once we got back here, we ordered pizza .. and I was sleeping by 7:30. :)
Blessings,
Han
Saturday, March 5
Haiti: Day Two.
Today I spent the entire day at the girls home with Mr. Donald and Mr. Cal. The rest of the team went to a baptism at Pastor Maxeau’s church .. that didn’t actually end up happening.
We started off the morning by reading Psalm 139 with the girls. I had this idea that I was going to read it in Creole, but that plan was changed rather quickly because the pronunciation is far from easy. So, I read the English and Smith read the Creole. We focused mainly in verse fourteen, which talks about how we are fearfully and wonderfully made. The girls wrote that verse on a bookmark, and then we stamped their thumbprints on them. They were amazed to see how different each and every one of their prints are, but it just shows how great God’s design is!
Next the girls had their first experience with play dough! I would write a letter on the whiteboard, and they would recreate it with their play dough. Then they would chant “This is the letter ___”, while making a beat on the table – it was great!
B y this point my voice was starting to go, so we brought out sidewalk chalk and went outside. The girls attempted to teach us how to play this game with rocks, but I never got the hang of it. We also did hopscotch, and swung on the swing set.
Last time I was here they taught me a Haitian dance , so I decided that this time I would teach them an American dance. We did the Cha Cha Slide, and they thought it was great! They were also super cute doing it.
After they had lunch we did a Bible lesson on David and Goliath, followed by a coloring sheet. Then Mr. Cal and I took them outside to play ladderball. I don’t know if any of you are familiar with the game, but it basically is two balls hooked together by a piece of rope that you throw at a pvc pipe. The object is to hook the ball-rope thing around the pipe. The ball-rope thing reminded me of David’s sling, so we tied that into the story. They had so much fun with this. The screams and ‘jumps for joy’ each time they made one around the pole was priceless!
Lastly, we played a game of educational bingo and then we headed back to the mission house. Its 4:59, and I am ready to eat .. so I’m going to end this now.
Thanks for all of the healing prayers, I am feeling much better today.
Blessings,
Hannah
We started off the morning by reading Psalm 139 with the girls. I had this idea that I was going to read it in Creole, but that plan was changed rather quickly because the pronunciation is far from easy. So, I read the English and Smith read the Creole. We focused mainly in verse fourteen, which talks about how we are fearfully and wonderfully made. The girls wrote that verse on a bookmark, and then we stamped their thumbprints on them. They were amazed to see how different each and every one of their prints are, but it just shows how great God’s design is!
Next the girls had their first experience with play dough! I would write a letter on the whiteboard, and they would recreate it with their play dough. Then they would chant “This is the letter ___”, while making a beat on the table – it was great!
B y this point my voice was starting to go, so we brought out sidewalk chalk and went outside. The girls attempted to teach us how to play this game with rocks, but I never got the hang of it. We also did hopscotch, and swung on the swing set.
Last time I was here they taught me a Haitian dance , so I decided that this time I would teach them an American dance. We did the Cha Cha Slide, and they thought it was great! They were also super cute doing it.
After they had lunch we did a Bible lesson on David and Goliath, followed by a coloring sheet. Then Mr. Cal and I took them outside to play ladderball. I don’t know if any of you are familiar with the game, but it basically is two balls hooked together by a piece of rope that you throw at a pvc pipe. The object is to hook the ball-rope thing around the pipe. The ball-rope thing reminded me of David’s sling, so we tied that into the story. They had so much fun with this. The screams and ‘jumps for joy’ each time they made one around the pole was priceless!
Lastly, we played a game of educational bingo and then we headed back to the mission house. Its 4:59, and I am ready to eat .. so I’m going to end this now.
Thanks for all of the healing prayers, I am feeling much better today.
Blessings,
Hannah
Friday, March 4
Haiti: Day One.
First of all, shout out to my favorite brother-in-law Dylan who picked me up very early this morning and helped me weigh my suitcase a bunch of times! You're the best.
We left Savannah about 6:30, to go to Miami. We left Miami at 9:45, and made it to Haiti about 12:30. The airport was fun - as usual. I was very proud of myself, because I had to get slighty pushy with this one guy. What part of "No, merci" did he not understand .. so much to the point that I resorted to yelling "No!" at him. He then told me to "relax." Hahaha. Lovely. I am so thankful that Mr. Donald knows what he is doing at the airport, because if not we would all be in a mess.
After we left the airport we came by the missionary house to drop off our luggage, and then we headed to AFCA to see the girls. We stayed there for maybe 3 hours, and then came back to the house.
I am so tired, and after I eat in a few all I want to do is go to bed. Tomorrow we will be at the girls home all day, so that should be a blast. Oh, and I forgot to mention that Ms. Nahomie braided my hair .. like all the way down the scalp braids. They are different, but cute. I feel special that she spent so much time doing my hair. I was so very glad to see her though. She and I really bonded in October.
Haiti looks and smells about the same .. but I don't love it any less. I am, surprisingly, a little bit homesick - but I blame that on not feeling 100%. Please keep the healing prayers coming!
Blessings,
Han
We left Savannah about 6:30, to go to Miami. We left Miami at 9:45, and made it to Haiti about 12:30. The airport was fun - as usual. I was very proud of myself, because I had to get slighty pushy with this one guy. What part of "No, merci" did he not understand .. so much to the point that I resorted to yelling "No!" at him. He then told me to "relax." Hahaha. Lovely. I am so thankful that Mr. Donald knows what he is doing at the airport, because if not we would all be in a mess.
After we left the airport we came by the missionary house to drop off our luggage, and then we headed to AFCA to see the girls. We stayed there for maybe 3 hours, and then came back to the house.
I am so tired, and after I eat in a few all I want to do is go to bed. Tomorrow we will be at the girls home all day, so that should be a blast. Oh, and I forgot to mention that Ms. Nahomie braided my hair .. like all the way down the scalp braids. They are different, but cute. I feel special that she spent so much time doing my hair. I was so very glad to see her though. She and I really bonded in October.
Haiti looks and smells about the same .. but I don't love it any less. I am, surprisingly, a little bit homesick - but I blame that on not feeling 100%. Please keep the healing prayers coming!
Blessings,
Han
Gettin' on a jet plane!
Ok, first of all .. obviously my new year's resolution was a fail. Thanks to those who stuck it out with me for those 3ish days though!
Well, in a few hours I will be getting on a plane bound for Haiti. Please cover our team in prayer. I am so excited for this new adventure, to not only see what God is going to do .. but also to eat some yummy Haitian food! :)
Just to get everyone in the mood - here is one of my favorite songs in Creole. I seriously sing better in Creole (or atleast I think so ..), and I can't wait to sing this with our girls!
Blessings,
Han
Oh, and PS - to all the people in life that I love .. I miss you all dearly!\
Well, in a few hours I will be getting on a plane bound for Haiti. Please cover our team in prayer. I am so excited for this new adventure, to not only see what God is going to do .. but also to eat some yummy Haitian food! :)
Just to get everyone in the mood - here is one of my favorite songs in Creole. I seriously sing better in Creole (or atleast I think so ..), and I can't wait to sing this with our girls!
Blessings,
Han
Oh, and PS - to all the people in life that I love .. I miss you all dearly!\
Monday, January 3
Song of The Year.
Every year I have a song that I like to say has completely defined my year .. previous years have been Strongtower by Kutless (2007), Bring The Rain by Mercy Me (2008), and In The Waiting by Shannon Wexelburg (2009). I think I may have even blogged about In The Waiting last year. It’s an amazing song. This year though, it was hard for me to just pick one .. but I finally have narrowed it down!
This past year was interesting for me. I feel like I’ve grown a lot as a person not only on a mental/emotional/just plain growing up level, but also on a spiritual level. The trip to Haiti in October truly changed my life - in more ways than I could ever even begin to write about.
So, my song for 2010 is Walk On The Water by Britt Nicole. The title in many ways explains the song. The story of Peter walking on the water is one of my favorites. There was chaos all around him (which is how life can look sometimes) but he kept his eyes on Jesus and he was able to walk through the chaos. I often times wonder what was going through Peter’s mind as he stepped out of that boat .. I wonder if he was excited, nervous, scared or maybe even a mix of emotions. I guess it doesn’t exactly matter how he felt, because he obeyed Jesus and did step out of the boat. However, as we all know, Peter took his eyes off of Jesus and began to sink. This is where he went wrong, and this story serves as a reminder that we must always keep our focus on Jesus .. and not on the storm!
Blessings,
Hannah
This past year was interesting for me. I feel like I’ve grown a lot as a person not only on a mental/emotional/just plain growing up level, but also on a spiritual level. The trip to Haiti in October truly changed my life - in more ways than I could ever even begin to write about.
So, my song for 2010 is Walk On The Water by Britt Nicole. The title in many ways explains the song. The story of Peter walking on the water is one of my favorites. There was chaos all around him (which is how life can look sometimes) but he kept his eyes on Jesus and he was able to walk through the chaos. I often times wonder what was going through Peter’s mind as he stepped out of that boat .. I wonder if he was excited, nervous, scared or maybe even a mix of emotions. I guess it doesn’t exactly matter how he felt, because he obeyed Jesus and did step out of the boat. However, as we all know, Peter took his eyes off of Jesus and began to sink. This is where he went wrong, and this story serves as a reminder that we must always keep our focus on Jesus .. and not on the storm!
Blessings,
Hannah
Day Three: Give God Your Best, Part 2.
"For on My holy mountain, on the mount height of Israel, say the Lord God, .. There will I require your offering and the firstfruits and the choices of your contributions, with all your scared things." - Ezekiel 20:40
Priorities are so important, because they truly determine how our lives run. Having our priorities in the right places can result in a happy, calm life. However, having our priorities in the wrong places can result in nothing but chaos.
We should constantly be sure that God is involved (as a top priority) in all of our daily activities. From waking up, to brushing our teeth, to driving through the McDonalds .. . When we allow Him to direct our steps we will walk into situations that He has already made provisions for us in, because the righteous man's steps are ordered by the Lord. He knows where we need to be and when we need to be there, to be a blessing or maybe even to receive one. We just have to be willing to listen, and then *deep breathe* OBEY!
Blessings,
Han
Priorities are so important, because they truly determine how our lives run. Having our priorities in the right places can result in a happy, calm life. However, having our priorities in the wrong places can result in nothing but chaos.
We should constantly be sure that God is involved (as a top priority) in all of our daily activities. From waking up, to brushing our teeth, to driving through the McDonalds .. . When we allow Him to direct our steps we will walk into situations that He has already made provisions for us in, because the righteous man's steps are ordered by the Lord. He knows where we need to be and when we need to be there, to be a blessing or maybe even to receive one. We just have to be willing to listen, and then *deep breathe* OBEY!
Blessings,
Han
Day Two: Give God Your Best, Part 1.
"I trusted in, relied on, and was confident in You, O Lord; I said, You are my God, My times are in Your hands." - Psalm 31: 14-15
Trust. What a powerful five letters. When I think about trust the first thing that comes to my mind is love. Something about trust and love go together. As I type this, I am thinking about people in my life who I truly trust - and each of them I love dearly.
Trusting God to me though, is different than trusting a person. When you trust a person, you trust that they will keep your secrets; do whats best for you; be honest with you; and love you unconditionally. Ultimately though, you still have control.
When you choose to trust God, 100% and no matter what .. you are relinquishing control. You are giving Him your plans; your desires; your goals; your dreams and so many other things. I'll be honest and say that, in my experience, that is not an easy thing to do.
When it comes to trusting God, love is important (obviously because God IS love) but faith is also important. Often times in life the circumstances around us make it hard to trust God, but that is when we have to be reminded that we walk by faith, and not by sight. God knows the end from the beginning and He has it all planned out - we just have to trust Him.
Blessings,
Han
Saturday, January 1
Day One: Be Christlike
"God said, Let Us [Father, Son and Holy Spirit] make mankind in Our imagine, after Our likeness" - Genesis 1:26
The goal of every Christian should be to become more Christlike everyday. To handle situations how Jesus would, because after all - He is the greatest example that any of us could ever have. We should strive daily to be more like Him, and to develop our character to be identical to His.
However, this is -like most things in life- easier said that done. I have often heard the saying that "To do what Jesus did, you have to do what Jesus did." Jesus lived His life as a life of purity, love and selflessness .. and as a result He did many great things. It is hard (and to an extent impossible) for us, as humans, to live lives such as Jesus did -- but it is what we are called to do. We are called to be like Him!
In John 13:15, Jesus said to His disciples after washing their feet like a servant would do .. "For I have given you this as an example, so that you should do [in your turn] what I have done to you." Jesus' leadership style was that of leading by example. He showed us how we are supposed to live, love, pray, serve, and do so many other things.
In my opinion, to be Christlike is to be like a servant. Jesus served in more ways than I could even name, but the most important way that He served was when He served as payment for our sins when He (who knew no sin) became sin for us on the cross.
Today, and for the rest of this year, I am going to do my best to be more like Jesus .. to truly pick up my cross daily no matter how hard it seems some days. We are called to be light in the darkness beacuse we are a chosen people and I think that it is time for us to act like it!
Blessings,
Hannah
New Day = New You.
Let me start this off by saying that I don't really like the idea of resolutions for a new year because I think in many ways they set people up for failure. I guess in a way though I have one this year, and that is to blog more. I have a devotional book by Joyce Meyer titled "New Day, New You" and each day I plan to do a devotion (there are 365 of them) and blog about it.
Who knows if I will actually do it for the entire year, but we will find out.
I hope you guys have a blessed 2011!
Blessings,
Han
Who knows if I will actually do it for the entire year, but we will find out.
I hope you guys have a blessed 2011!
Blessings,
Han
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