Top 5 Personal Reflections - Week 4-5

1) Life Experience - At Crossroads I had the opportunity to experience a glimpse into slum life as well as the life of those who live with HIV/AIDS. Although it was only a simulation type experience, I was greatly moved and challenged. Please visit day 40 and 41 of my China Diary for more in depth reflections.

2) Finding joy in the day when you feel sick - During my time in Hong Kong I really struggled with what turned out to be bronchitis. Out of this struggle I know that my Father was teaching me more about His daily joy and the strength that is found in Him. I am sure that I didn't help my cold when I was scrapping paint of dusty walls while forgetting to regularly take my cough medicine.

3) Turning my worries into trust - Out of my daily experiences and the many unknowns that come from living in a foreign land my Father has been challenging me to worry less. I think sometimes my worry is misguided and a waste of my energy. I think out of all this my Father has been unpeeling the truth of Proverbs 3:5-6. It says, "Trust in the Lord God with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding: in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight."

4) What a wonderful global family - In Beijing in Hong Kong I have truly been encouraged by the community of faith. Although we come from all over the world we share in common mission and love. Just in the past month and a half I have met family from countries like these: Angola, Congo, Zambia, Philippines, Malaysia, Kazakhstan, India, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Indonesia, Mongolia, Korea, Spain, Germany, Netherlands, the UK, France, Portugal, Australia, New Zealand, Figi, America and others. Isn't it amazing how the gospel unites people despite the differences in culture, race and the many social spheres.

5) Trade Deadline in the NBA and NHL - I still can't believe the Los Angeles Lakers were able steal Paul Gasol from the Grizzles for absolutely nothing. In regards to the NHL, I sure hope Cliff Fletcher is able to trade a good number of Leafs and begin the much needed and overdue rebuild.