Final Day of Ministry for Youth Ministry Advance Team

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Adam: I was a little apprehensive about diving into a crowd with several hundred strangers – dancing, sweaty, loud Haitians. At first, I smiled big and tapped my toes. (trust me, I don’t have those moves) 

I kept a journalistic distance both physically and emotionally. That’s when I saw a matching smile and sweat on Ian, our video guy had made his way to the middle of the crowd. Without any more thought I began to make my way to Ian.
In the crowd was a joy in worship I’d never experienced before. The blaring worship music, me faking the words, me politely clapping… It was an amazing moment. Arms everywhere, tears mixing with sweat. 

It was a private moment where I danced before God celebrating the great works he has done.
With those people I worshipped like a little child at a birthday party. Bouncing up and down, clapping on the wrong beat, and doing my best to say the Creole words as the pastor lead. I was hardly an example to others… More like a funny sideshow. 

Coming to Haiti I had this misconception that I’d be doing the work of encouragement for the suffering and bereaved. Instead, what I experienced was a heart that was reviving. 

Anne: Today we begin our journey back to the States. However, this story does not end. 

When I went to Uganda, it took me a month or two to process what I experienced and how it changed me in the context of my life in America. We quit our jobs and moved to Nashville. 

Haiti has been like Uganda because it has changed me in a completely different way. It has motivated me to become more active in our political systems to ensure aid is delivered when people need it. 

How this looks like in my life? I have no idea. As I said before, what we need is real people on the ground who are courageous, compassionate, and willing to pray for people and help distribute supplies. Maybe help rebuild and clean up. 

So, the story will continue. The end of our trip is not the end of our mission.