Here we are, a little over 4 weeks in to an amazing journey that I will forever be grateful that God chose me to be on. And im overwhelmed. Im overwhelmed at what i've seen. Im overwhelmed at what i've experienced emotionally. Im overwhelmed at what i've learned and continue to learn. Im overwhelmed at what is really happening outside of our God blessed U.S. borders. Im overwhelmed that the world has no idea what's really going on here in Haiti. But im overwhelmed at what actually is. Im overwhelmed that we as American's are so boxed in and naive so much of the time as to what reality is like for the rest of the world...............and im devastatingly overwhelmed that we as christians and as a church as a whole are so boxed in as well and just as unaware.
My heart now at this point is broken. I am frustrated and I have nothing else to give. I am empty and tired, and I finally understand what Jesus is talking about when He says 'Blessed are the poor in Spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of God.'
You see, the poor in spirit that He is talking about are those who recognize a desperate need for God's fulfillment because they know they simply do not have what it takes to carry on. These poor in spirit have given up. They have quit. They have responded to the free gift of grace and allowed Christ to be the only source of strength possible. The only true source of 'able' in their lives period. Simply nothing else will do.
And the best part of the verse is the second part! 'For theirs is the kingdom of God.' What a beautiful promise! You see Christ did not come simply to prepare us for a kingdom to come, but for a kingdom that has already come to earth. 'Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.' Its now! Jesus lived a life of COMPLETE sacrifice, even to death, because this is the only way that any of us could experience the kingdom of God. Not some far off experience some day, but a real, meaningful, purposeful and rewarding life NOW! And it seems like such a beautiful thing! Right?
The problem is that almost none of us want to actually seek and discover how Christ actually lived, because the harsh truth is that you're scared of what you might actually find. Aren't you? You see, there was another in scripture who sought what you are seeking in a 'life of Christ', but did not like what he found. In fact he couldn't handle the truth and ended up turning his back on Christ. This specific young man was told to go sell everything he had, give it to the poor, and come follow Christ............ THIS WAS NOT A SUGGESTION! This is not a great elusive contextual mystery! It is literally spoken. Give it all up, let it all go, rely fully on the Father. Rely fully on Christ for provision. But you aren't capable of that are you. Most of us aren't, and it has put the church in the very hypocritical I.C.U. she has been in for centuries. The cost of actually following Christ is great. But it leads to a life of wonder. A life of miracles. A life of divine splendor. But most of us have never experienced this in our 'christian' walk, and we can't figure out why. Why did the early church, The Way as it was called, experience so many miraculous signs and wonders. Why were the disciples able to heal people and cast out demons, but most can't even believe that the gift of tongues can even be used beneficially?
The problem is that you have created for yourself a life that no longer needs miracles. You see, in the early church, when miracles seemed to be a daily occurance, so was daily the practice of giving EVERYTHING for the sake of the good of the body. No one thought they had the right to own anything, or to hoard, and selfishness was not a way of life as is now in the modern church. Everything was given in the name of Jesus for the benefit of others. As shane Claiborne puts it in His book "Irresistible Revolution", 'We have insulated ourselves from miracles. We no longer live with such reckless faith that we need them. There is rarely room for the transcendent in our lives. If we get sick, we go to a doctor. If we need food, we go to a store to buy it. We have eliminated the need for miracles. If we had enough faith to depend on God like the lilies and the sparrows do, we would see miracles.'
We have created a vending machine culture in which miracles are no longer an option. We apparently have everything we need. Right? Consider the account in Matthew, chapter 17 where Jesus and Peter need money to pay their taxes. Neither of them have jobs at this point, they have no home, and they have committed to ministering to people at ALL cost. They have no money! So how are they to pay their taxes? By depending fully on the provision of God because no other option exists for either of them. Verse 27, '...go to the sea and cast a hook and take the first fish that comes up, and when you open its mouth you will find a shekel. Take that and give it to them for me and yourself.' Of course God put the money in the mouth of a fish. He's awesome like that. Jesus and Peter understood what it meant to give up everything for the sake of a call larger than themselves. The call to do the will of the Father. And imagine, a life of miraculous provision because we leave no other option. My prayer is that we as the church would become as desperately dependent on the Father's provision as Jesus and Peter in this story. Lord give us strength.
As we start the downhill end of this trip, my hope is that we would leave this place with more spiritual vigor than we came with. That we would desire to storm the gates of hell in the name of Jesus, for we know that in that name, those very gates cannot stand! I pray that the church will be passionate about truly giving up everything to pursue the life of Christ. Not the easy, misunderstood, convenient life of Christ, but the TRUE to the death life of Jesus. The reason Jesus came for the poor, was not just to save them. To bring them into some new life of financial prosperity. He didn't come to just help them, He came to join them! Jesus was poor! He was the dirty guy that smelled. He made a mess of religious men everywhere He went cause He shouldn't have lived the way He did based on what He knew! Yet today, the people that know the most about 'Faith' are the most paid! They are the world travelers, have wonderful reputations of being 'nice people' and always have a smile. Most don't live any closer to how Christ lived than the unsaved. To harsh? ............ Is it? You decide.
For now we continue to pray that we would have strength to continue the Lord's work. We want to be a part of the bold, ordinary radicals that have decided to make a difference in a big way. To shake things up at all cost, not for our sakes, but the sake of the one who sent us, as He leads. Grace and Peace.
NEEDS
As was brought to our attention after arriving here, Zach, Dani and I will need roughly $250-$300 each to pay the orphanage our cost of living here. We are more than happy to pay this, the issue is that we didn't plan on it. Therefore we didn't fund raise for it initially.
Also, we are a little short of what it will take to get us back to Santo Domingo on April 15th. This cost shouldn't be more than $200 for the 3 of us, but it might be. Either way I know God will provide.
Dani also received a call from Verizon that $1100 of last months bill will not be covered after all due to some of the calls being made from the Dominican Republic. So our total needs to be able to cover the trip completely will be a little over $2000. We have just about 2 weeks left and have no fear or doubt that this cost will be provided. Please continue to pray that this money would come. To donate, click here:
http://apps.facebook.com/paypalsendmoney/
ENTER EMAIL ADDRESS: calebwhail@gmail.com
Then follow the simple steps
Also continue to pray for Health needs. Several people here have been sick, and we just need continued covering of prayer regarding health.
Most of all continue to pray with us, as one body, unified in Christ, that our lives together would honor Him. That we would work diligently and with great courage knowing that our sovereign God has a perfect plan for our days. A plan that has the power to shake the earth, to crumble kingdoms and to effectively spread a contagious gospel of truth!
I pray that we as a people would be emptied of ourselves completely to be filled up completely by the Spirit, to be used in miraculous ways. To prophecy the coming truth of Christ and His perfection. To claim all that is good in His name and to defend the helpless with a ferocity that is second to none. Blessings!
In Him,
Caleb
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Its a Haiti party in your pants
Hey its Caleb. So far I have completely neglected to effectively update ANY of you via this blog. I guess it only works if I take the time to type some stuff here. So, here.
We've been through Hell and its produced a sense of Heaven that we've never experienced before. Haiti is a broken place, a spiritually enriched land and above all a beautiful and peaceful place. When we first arrived in Port Au Prince, we were not prepared for the things which we saw. Devastation, death, desperation, selfishness, extreme poverty and hope.
Unfortunately American media had prepared us for the worst case scenario, in which this idea still exists that Haiti is full of riots and voodoo. Although voodoo exists strongly here, it just isn't a violent place. What we found were a people ready for change, optimistic about the future, prepared for many years of struggle, as well as tired souls. The people of Haiti are astoundingly resilient. But the people of Haiti are losing strength. In the place of this physical lack of strength is the presence of God amidst a culture so long saturated with a dark stronghold of catholic voodoo. I do not say this to downplay any truths that might exist within catholicism, but to mention the fact that as much as catholicism is practiced here, even more is voodoo mixed in with it. Both have clouded the people here with the bondage of idol worship. And its everywhere. Yet God has gone before us not only as individuals but as a church body, and He has prepared the hearts of these people to receive that which will provide any joy and hope. And as we know, our God provides these at extreme levels, not the idols which are worshiped in either the catholic church, or within voodoo.
It is a daily challenge to offer myself completely to these people. To be emptied completely of myself so the the Holy Spirit may have all of me, that I may be used to speak and do that which God has placed a call on my life to say and carry out. To be effective in the name of Christ, one must first learn the attitude of Christ and his character.
Colossians 3:12
Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience,
These are that which we must all take on to effectively minister with the mind of Christ. For if we do not become like Christ, how then can we minister as He did?
I had come with the assumption that within myself, I would be able to individually provide some level of hope and joy, to which I could provide to the people here. Oh what a silly thought. That I could come capable of any amount of change. But through me, once myself is given to him, God began doing great things. I began to experience the change I had expected, the catch however, was that it was the people of Haiti that began changing me. I noticed the smiles on their faces. I noticed the hope and joy and peace in their eyes. The people, old and young, healthy and broken, welcomed me with open arms. They understand what it means to love. Amidst their humble setting, they resound the character of God. And God is redeeming the people here in a mighty way. Thank you God for the work you do within each of us. We pray that it would be completed soon.
We are now at the orphanage and are experiencing many things. I personally have sensed a spiritual warfare here unlike anything i've ever experienced, knowing that the 130 children here are the next generation, and that the salvation of their souls hangs in the balance. The enemy, however, has experienced such defeat here! God's favor and protection upon this place is rich in presence. Its amazing to learn just how much God has blessed this place. I hope that one day, my life would reflect the favor of God in the way Danita's work has in this place. The children here go to school every day, they have devotions together, and are being raised as effective disciples, and encouraged to live beyond the cultural standards of Haiti. To set an example for the young generation. Its really humbling to see the servant hearts of some of these kids. The willingness to work, encourage and help. They don't question the character of Christ, for its all that some of them have known. This place has proven even more so to me, that a life sacrificed to the call of Christ, and to the edifying of the kingdom can and will be used faithfully by God, literally, to change the world. Change in ways we simply could not have imagined. So we continue the work here, that we have been blessed to be able and capable to fulfill. Most of the time we get an fairly ok amount of sleep. Definitely not the luxurious amounts we are used to in the states, but enough to remain sustained throughout the day. And we have coffee. So all is well.
Today is a day off for us, so we're going to take the older boys to the basketball courts. Then head back to the boys house for some nintendo 64 time :) A day of playing hard and relaxing hard. I love it.
Prayer Requests
First of all, to those who have been prayer warriors, in battle with us, thank you. You truly are a blessing and we have felt your prayer. We have experienced favor on your behalf, so thank you for remaining faithful in praying for the work God is doing here.
Several people are sick right now, so please always pray for continued health. We need to be able to work, and the enemy is finding it humorous im sure to inflict all he can with poor health. But God will have this last laugh, and His work will be completed. But comfort would be nice for those that are sick.
Continue to pray that God's people would remain sensitive to God's call. That even you yourself, would not be filled with fear at the idea of selling all you have, picking up your cross and following Christ daily. Danita's Children specifically needs more full time staff. Specifically men. The children here have been provided AMAZING leadership among the women leaders here, but the boys especially simply need male figures. So please pray that God would provide men to come serve. The boys need someone to punch and be punched by. Just saying.
Pray for financial favor for the ministries planted here, that are trying to help enable the people of Haiti. Whether building tents, running orphanages, or feeding families, there is a constant financial need. And you're it! I pray that God would speak to your hearts about the things which you have, that first of all are not yours. Second that you would understand the joy in giving with a cheerful heart and third, the difference that your giving makes. Pray about where and how you should give above your tithe, that God's people may become a powerful force of change not only spiritually, but financially.
Our own financial needs have been a bit challenged since our arrival here. We had some unexpected costs regarding travel, and are not sure how we will be getting back to Santo Domingo from Haiti, at the end of our trip. ANd we now have to pay a significant amount for each of us to pay for our stay here. We were not expecting this. The cost I believe is around $250-$300 per person. Also, we would still like to give the rest of what we have to the ministry of the orphanage here. So please, if you feel led, we would greatly appreciate any and all contributions. Thank you in advance for allowing us to continue our work here, and bless the ministry here.
To donate to our trip, click the following link:
http://apps.facebook.com/paypalsendmoney/
ENTER EMAIL ADDRESS: calebwhail@gmail.com
and follow steps
I believe this does it for this go round, there's so much to tell about whats going on here. Ill do my best to update again soon, but with all the playing there is to do here, I make no promises. :)
In Christ,
Caleb
We've been through Hell and its produced a sense of Heaven that we've never experienced before. Haiti is a broken place, a spiritually enriched land and above all a beautiful and peaceful place. When we first arrived in Port Au Prince, we were not prepared for the things which we saw. Devastation, death, desperation, selfishness, extreme poverty and hope.
Unfortunately American media had prepared us for the worst case scenario, in which this idea still exists that Haiti is full of riots and voodoo. Although voodoo exists strongly here, it just isn't a violent place. What we found were a people ready for change, optimistic about the future, prepared for many years of struggle, as well as tired souls. The people of Haiti are astoundingly resilient. But the people of Haiti are losing strength. In the place of this physical lack of strength is the presence of God amidst a culture so long saturated with a dark stronghold of catholic voodoo. I do not say this to downplay any truths that might exist within catholicism, but to mention the fact that as much as catholicism is practiced here, even more is voodoo mixed in with it. Both have clouded the people here with the bondage of idol worship. And its everywhere. Yet God has gone before us not only as individuals but as a church body, and He has prepared the hearts of these people to receive that which will provide any joy and hope. And as we know, our God provides these at extreme levels, not the idols which are worshiped in either the catholic church, or within voodoo.
It is a daily challenge to offer myself completely to these people. To be emptied completely of myself so the the Holy Spirit may have all of me, that I may be used to speak and do that which God has placed a call on my life to say and carry out. To be effective in the name of Christ, one must first learn the attitude of Christ and his character.
Colossians 3:12
Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience,
These are that which we must all take on to effectively minister with the mind of Christ. For if we do not become like Christ, how then can we minister as He did?
I had come with the assumption that within myself, I would be able to individually provide some level of hope and joy, to which I could provide to the people here. Oh what a silly thought. That I could come capable of any amount of change. But through me, once myself is given to him, God began doing great things. I began to experience the change I had expected, the catch however, was that it was the people of Haiti that began changing me. I noticed the smiles on their faces. I noticed the hope and joy and peace in their eyes. The people, old and young, healthy and broken, welcomed me with open arms. They understand what it means to love. Amidst their humble setting, they resound the character of God. And God is redeeming the people here in a mighty way. Thank you God for the work you do within each of us. We pray that it would be completed soon.
We are now at the orphanage and are experiencing many things. I personally have sensed a spiritual warfare here unlike anything i've ever experienced, knowing that the 130 children here are the next generation, and that the salvation of their souls hangs in the balance. The enemy, however, has experienced such defeat here! God's favor and protection upon this place is rich in presence. Its amazing to learn just how much God has blessed this place. I hope that one day, my life would reflect the favor of God in the way Danita's work has in this place. The children here go to school every day, they have devotions together, and are being raised as effective disciples, and encouraged to live beyond the cultural standards of Haiti. To set an example for the young generation. Its really humbling to see the servant hearts of some of these kids. The willingness to work, encourage and help. They don't question the character of Christ, for its all that some of them have known. This place has proven even more so to me, that a life sacrificed to the call of Christ, and to the edifying of the kingdom can and will be used faithfully by God, literally, to change the world. Change in ways we simply could not have imagined. So we continue the work here, that we have been blessed to be able and capable to fulfill. Most of the time we get an fairly ok amount of sleep. Definitely not the luxurious amounts we are used to in the states, but enough to remain sustained throughout the day. And we have coffee. So all is well.
Today is a day off for us, so we're going to take the older boys to the basketball courts. Then head back to the boys house for some nintendo 64 time :) A day of playing hard and relaxing hard. I love it.
Prayer Requests
First of all, to those who have been prayer warriors, in battle with us, thank you. You truly are a blessing and we have felt your prayer. We have experienced favor on your behalf, so thank you for remaining faithful in praying for the work God is doing here.
Several people are sick right now, so please always pray for continued health. We need to be able to work, and the enemy is finding it humorous im sure to inflict all he can with poor health. But God will have this last laugh, and His work will be completed. But comfort would be nice for those that are sick.
Continue to pray that God's people would remain sensitive to God's call. That even you yourself, would not be filled with fear at the idea of selling all you have, picking up your cross and following Christ daily. Danita's Children specifically needs more full time staff. Specifically men. The children here have been provided AMAZING leadership among the women leaders here, but the boys especially simply need male figures. So please pray that God would provide men to come serve. The boys need someone to punch and be punched by. Just saying.
Pray for financial favor for the ministries planted here, that are trying to help enable the people of Haiti. Whether building tents, running orphanages, or feeding families, there is a constant financial need. And you're it! I pray that God would speak to your hearts about the things which you have, that first of all are not yours. Second that you would understand the joy in giving with a cheerful heart and third, the difference that your giving makes. Pray about where and how you should give above your tithe, that God's people may become a powerful force of change not only spiritually, but financially.
Our own financial needs have been a bit challenged since our arrival here. We had some unexpected costs regarding travel, and are not sure how we will be getting back to Santo Domingo from Haiti, at the end of our trip. ANd we now have to pay a significant amount for each of us to pay for our stay here. We were not expecting this. The cost I believe is around $250-$300 per person. Also, we would still like to give the rest of what we have to the ministry of the orphanage here. So please, if you feel led, we would greatly appreciate any and all contributions. Thank you in advance for allowing us to continue our work here, and bless the ministry here.
To donate to our trip, click the following link:
http://apps.facebook.com/paypalsendmoney/
ENTER EMAIL ADDRESS: calebwhail@gmail.com
and follow steps
I believe this does it for this go round, there's so much to tell about whats going on here. Ill do my best to update again soon, but with all the playing there is to do here, I make no promises. :)
In Christ,
Caleb
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