Anthem of the Life

Concluding NEPAL...finally!

2011-04-07T17:19:00.000-07:00

As I open my safari browser daily and am directed to my home page - this blog - I am reminded of my uncompleted writing from my time in Nepal. I, in fact, was there a full seven weeks and my blog only reflects six of them. I usually posted my blogs at the end of each week and the end of week seven, I was HOME...home with loads of homework to complete, lots of people to see and a whole lot of change to confront. These were some of the reasons that I put off writing my last Nepal entry, yet I know there were many more...

Maybe I never wanted to write my last blog because that meant it was over...

Maybe I never wanted to write it because I didn’t know what to say...

Maybe I really was “too” busy...unlikely - we make time for what is important to us...

Maybe, despite my bi-polar feelings about my trip, I really didn’t want to say goodbye...

Regardless of what my reason for it was, I never concluded my Nepal journey via blog. Here are some of my writings from my last week and some conclusions I’ve drawn since that time...

Last week...number 7

It feels quite ironic that my last week here I have finally been able to do things I’ve longed to the entire time I’ve been here - get around by myself and feel comfortable about it...take lessons on an indigenous instrument from Nepal, the “sarangi”...visit a music museum...speak and understand more of the language...as I’ve thought about this more, it’s really not ironic at all that I would get to do more as my trip came to a close. I have been taught that cultural adjustment and acclimation is a process, but now I have experienced it and found this to be resoundingly true. It really makes sense that toward the end of my trip, I would start to feel more at home and more comfortable with my surroundings.

At the music museum, next to the largest sarangi

Last market place visits...

Saying dhanyabad (thank you) and goodbye to Sobit, my sarangi teacher.

I have felt incredibly conflicted during my last week in Nepal. On one hand, I have been able to more independent this week. I have felt more at home in this culture than the entire time I’ve been in country. Also because of my increased familiarity, I have felt much more comfortable and safe this week - despite returning to spending so much time alone. On the other hand, as I have begun to mentally debrief, I have more honestly considered my own feelings and reactions toward Nepali culture. In my attempt to be respectful of my host culture, I think I have failed to be completely honest with myself in regards to what I do and do not like. This led me to actually admitting such feelings and reactions - to myself, of course. I included these thoughts in my writing assignments this week, which helped me to consider these more in depth. Which, also will hopefully spur on deeper thought as I seek to understand all that I have learned.

Last night out with my wonderful hosts!

Farewell Nepal...

It is utterly surreal to be here...on my last night in Nepal. I knew my last day would come as quickly as I remember my first day arriving. Time is funny that way...I am not very old, but I have come to the conclusion that the older I get, the faster time goes by or rather, the more in touch with reality I become. All that to say, my time in Nepal has actually passed more quickly than I had imagined it would.

Saying goodbye to my friend, Sally

As I sit here trying to think of a legendary conclusion to my journey, I find that I am at a loss...I have much to sort through and debrief before I know how to truly sum up my trip. It can be a difficult thing to tell about a trip like this...I have struggled with this before. Sometimes this is because, like now, I am at a loss of what to say. Sometimes it is because I know that the person asking me wants a one sentence answer and I just can't seem to condense an appropriate response. Sometimes it is because telling the truth about my trips may not be what the question-asker wants to hear. Sometimes it is because I am experiencing reverse culture shock, therefore feeling anger toward my own gluttonous culture. Even if I cannot put into words now all that I have learned, I know that indeed I have learned and that I will continue learning from my experiences here, for even years to come. I am such a product of the Enlightenment, I am constantly searching for the “why” and the reasoning behind everything...I think that is why I am struggling. I know the facts of what I have learned about Nepali culture and music and Christianity, but I do not know what I have personally learned yet...nor do I know where I go from here, besides obtaining course credit. I have been asking and will continue to ask that the Holy Spirit reveal to me what it is He wants me to have learned from my time in Nepal.

As I have now had months to truly mull over what I have taken from my practicum, I still have many unanswered questions, but the Lord has revealed to me one extremely significant thing I learned...

Nepal is a hard context for Christian mission, as are many places. Due to this and my lack of long-term commitment to this context I struggled to like it. This was a completely different feeling for me on the mission field...almost every place I’ve ever been I have LOVED being there. Why couldn’t I say that I LOVED Nepal? There are many factors that could have contributed to those feelings and lack there of this time around, but regardless of those I have struggled to determine why I have experienced this disparity. I still do not know the answers to my own questions fully...however, I know one thing quite surely...

If Christians avoided the ‘hard’ contexts merely because they were hard, how would those living there ever hear of how Christ loves them? Also, when Jesus sent out his disciples on mission (during his ministry) he said, “I am sending you out as lambs in the midst of wolves” (Luke 10:3) - this absolutely suggests a hard context and what our role is meant to be in such a context. Pondering this, I have come to lovingly look back on Nepal, those serving in mission there, the growing Christian population and those who have yet to hear...as a disciple of Jesus’ today, I want to take on that commissioning seriously and continue to say “when and where, Lord?” I will be a lamb among the wolves no matter the difficulty of the context and I joyfully hope to return to Nepal someday.

Lastly, yet not least important - thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to my faithful readers and prayer partners! Thank you for your patience in awaiting this last post. I have thoroughly enjoyed sharing my journey with you and appreciated your support immensely. May the God of nations bless you to be a blessing to others! Psalm 67

Week 6 - Trekking!

2010-11-12T08:05:00.000-08:00

Arriving in Pokhara

Early Sunday morning (11/7) we began our journey by taking a flight from Kathmandu to Pokhara - a beautiful lakeside city near the Annapurna range of the Himalayas. The flight was amazing as we flew parallel to the countless mountains belonging to the majestic Himalayas! Our first day was a day of sight seeing around Pokhara. It also was an important day of Tihar, Bhai Tika day - where sisters worship their brothers. This meant that the city streets were pretty quiet during the day, but in the evening it became very busy! There was cultural dancing in the streets and we had the opportunity to see a cultural program during dinner, which included tons of music, dancing and drama. Even during this vacation part of my practicum, I was able to continue my cultural research!

The next day (Monday) we again awoke early to catch a van ride to the starting point of our trek, Nayapul. We arrived, had tea and took advantage of the last toilet... well, squatty potty. We began walking at 9:00am, periodically resting to rehydrate, take pictures, catch our breath and eat, then arrived to Ghandruk at 4:00pm - right on schedule!

Tom & I having tea :)

Mom & I enjoying the amazing scenery before we started

Beginning the trek - with walking sticks in hand!

We encountered many surprises on our trek!

It was MUCH warmer than we all anticipated - the temperature + 7 hours of elevated heart rates = massive sweating!
We shared the narrow trekking paths with many visitors - other trekkers, as well as donkeys, goats, oxen and cows!
The climb of more than 12 miles upward was MUCH more difficult than we imagined! We misinterpreted the phrase “easiest of the treks” for “easy trek” - let me tell you, they are NOT synonymous! Haha :)
Expected most of the trek to be windy paths with gradual inclines - the majority of the hiking was done on steep grades of stone steps.
Water seemed to be in abundance as it freely flowed in multiple waterfalls we crossed and in the pipe systems - while there is a proclaimed water shortage in Kathmandu.
Our trekking guide, Tin, was not only awesome, but also a Christian - a total unexpected blessing!

Climbing those steep steps!

Some of the visitors I mentioned!

Although it was harder than any of us thought it would be, we completed the trek in the average amount of time! Being dirty, sore and tired, we checked into our simple hotel, showered, ate dinner, played a little bit of hearts and went to bed early.

At the top - DONE!

A typical Gurung village home

Tuesday we shared breakfast outside surrounded by the gorgeous scenery of Ghandruk. We spent the day walking through the village areas, witnessing the Gurung (the people group/cast of Ghandruk) way of life - farming and harvesting. We even visited a small museum full of artifacts - current and historical. We learned some of the vast differences between Nepali village life versus Nepali city life by truly getting to experience some of both! The houses in the village area were more developed than I had pictured - made of brick and cement and were actually larger than I imagined them to be. Of course these observations are relative and subjective to the comparisons I was making in my own mind, having visited other developing countries. Even considering such observations, the living conditions were vastly different from my own. The simplest things, such as transportation or cooking a meal, require much more work and effort than I have ever had to put forth in my life at home. I am sure this teaches them to appreciate and value the product of such tasks more than I could ever comprehend. Observing their hard work has further led me to admire Nepali culture. After our day of more walking, we returned to our hotel and enjoyed a wonderful evening of togetherness - eating, discussing what we’ve seen and learned, drinking multiple pots of tea, playing cards and laughing a lot (mostly about me teaching them all how to be a pro at using the squatty potty)!

Family pic :)

One of our sunrise photos!

On Wednesday morning my mom, Brenden and I watched the sunrise on the Annapurna range that was easily visible from the roof of our hotel - it was undeniably one of the most memorable and beautiful sights I’ve ever seen. After enjoying this and taking multiple pictures, we packed up our things, ate breakfast and prepared to trek back to Nayapul. This day of trekking was significantly easier than Monday’s trek because we were simply taking the same route back, which was almost 100% downhill. I found that I was able to enjoy the scenery more this time, having to focus less on my physical endurance. The level of difficulty aided in the duration of our trek this time - we began at 8:00am and had already made it to the bottom of the mountain by 12:15pm where we had lunch! After lunch we only had about a half hour left of walking, which was mostly flat. Once we reached Nayapul it felt like such a huge accomplishment to have completely finished a true Nepal trek - even if it was the “easiest of the treks.” For not having any trekking training or experience, we each did quite well. Praise the Lord for no injuries or sickness! We again had a van ride back to Pokhara, where we rested and got massages to help with the soreness we all felt :) It was honestly one of the best massages I’ve ever had, as well as the cheapest - double score!

Trekking back down

Group picture with our two guides at the very end - we did it!

Thursday we took a flight back to Kathmandu, rested for the afternoon and then had dinner with the same missionary family I met a couple weeks ago. It was a blessing to get to introduce them to my family since I hope to get to serve with them in the future. This was also their last full day here in Nepal - I seriously could not believe it! Their time here has flown by, but we’ve savored every moment and memory together. This morning, Friday, they packed and I took them to the airport in the afternoon. My mom, Tom and Brenden are actually in the air currently on their way back to the states! Prayer for their safety is welcomed and appreciated :) It is a long journey back home. Mine and Brenden’s goodbye was much less tearful this time knowing that I will see him again in only ten days! In comparison to the beginning of my trip, this next week and a half apart will be a breeze ;) I am also really looking forward to wrapping up my research to complete my time here in Nepal - praying for diligence in my writing, reading and concluding cultural experiences!

Our last pic all together in Nepal!

Derai derai dhanyabad (“thank you very much”) to all who have kept us in their prayers as we’ve been away from internet access, unable to post updates as often as before. I have been continually in awe of God’s provision and hand in my time here, bringing together so many connections and blessings. He who is worshipped in Nepal, even among a small number of surrendered hearts and He who will be worshipped by every tribe, tongue and nation - remembering who He is and His care for me is ever humbling.

Week 5 - sharing the gospel of God, and ourselves

2010-11-12T03:54:00.000-08:00

Brenden & I with a map of Nepal

“...we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.” (1 Thessalonians 1:8)

This week has been FULL! Full of family, happiness, busy-ness, ministry, sight-seeing and of course, full of learning. Continuing from the weekend before, the pastors conference (also called “Covenant School of Ministry” sponsored by Reach The Nation of Nepal Ministries in partnership with Kent Covenant Church) lasted through Wednesday. Each day about 90 Nepali pastors and leaders from all over Nepal gathered to hear teaching sessions and testimonies, as well as for worship and fellowship with one another. Each day my mom, Tom, Brenden, Harvey (the Seattle pastor) and I attended/taught the sessions prior to lunch. Pastor Harvey spoke two sessions in the morning and then one of us from the team each took a session in the late morning. My mom and Tom each shared their testimonies one day and my mom also taught about health concerns and answered many questions. Another day I had the opportunity to teach about Biblical worship and how music fits into corporate worship. During this time I also encouraged them to continue using music styles from their own culture to worship Jesus, even providing some methods for group composition of new songs of worship. I also got to sing an example of an originally composed Nepali song written from Psalm 103 by my Nepali friend, Karuna. It was a good experience that taught me a lot, as well as stretched me. Although nerves were present, it reminded me that I do enjoy speaking and sharing, especially from Scripture. I hope to be afforded many more opportunities such as this!

In the afternoons we left the conference since the rest was in Nepali or Hindi and was not translated for those of us who don't speak either of these languages. During these times, our hosts scheduled some city tours for our group. Some destinations were repeats for me, but it was awesome to get to experience and see such things with my family, who have different eyes, ears and thoughts than I do. Because of this it was definitely still a time of learning for me. Also in the afternoons, when a tour was not scheduled for us, it gave me the opportunity to display my “Nepali-ness.” I was quite proud to be able to navigate around and take them places safely and without getting lost! I still feel like a beginner when I speak Nepali, but even with the little I know, I am usually able to communicate simply and Nepali people are enthralled by my attempts! We went on some adventures in the evenings looking for restaurants we had heard about, which included a Nepali Jazz Club and a restaurant called New Orleans!

Our group on a tour of Bhaktapur -
an ancient royal city area in Kathmandu

Brenden looking very Nepali,
wearing a traditional mens cap - topi

Throughout the conference, Pastor Harvey spoke on First Thessalonians and the title I gave this entry is how I’ve come to feel about the Nepalis I’ve met and befriended here. I think I can safely say that my parents, as well as Brenden, definitely felt the same. We can relate with Paul’s feelings as he wrote these words to the new believers in Thessalonica. All Nepali Christians need prayer and support from fellow followers of Christ so that their faith may be sustained and continue to grow in order to share with all of Nepal who the One True God really is! It was a blessing to get to be a part of an event with this goal in mind, which truly is the purpose of the global Church - to equip the saints and reach the lost!

Further watching and participating in Nepali worship through music this week has confirmed in my heart that there is not one Christian worship music form or style! I have long believed this, but every time I get to witness and experience Christian worship in a different context it solidifies my conviction and propels me to continue to be a catalyst for encouraging contextualized worship. It is so beautiful to see Christian worship lived out in culturally appropriate and authentic ways. I wish for every American Christian to seek to understand this about worship - for too long the Western church has been blind and ignorant in their thoughts about worship through music. It is a deep heart prayer of mine to see Christians come to the realization that the only universal form required for Christian worship is our unified
object of worship - JESUS.

Here are all the attendees of the conference!

Mero Ama ("my mother" in Nepali) and I

The second half of our week included me taking them to new parts of Kathmandu, shopping, trying new foods and resting up. At this point in the trip, Pastor Harvey left to go back home to the states. It was great getting to know and serve with him, but it was truly a blessing for my mom, Tom, Brenden and I to spend some quality family time together. This weekend, Thursday through Sunday (11/4 - 7), was another Hindu festival called Tihar also known as Diwali, the festival of lights! Each night many candles were lit all of the city, mostly around the entrance of homes and businesses - signifying the welcome and ushering in of the goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth. Nepali Hindus worship her, animals (crow, dog, cow and oxen) and their brothers during this festival. During this time they pray for blessing and fortune from Laxmi as well as pray to the Hindu god of death, Yam Raj, to give long lives to their brothers. It is a time of celebration among families in their homes, so we got to minimally experiencing the celebration that happens publicly such as the candle lightings, fireworks and Tihar songs! Another tradition of Tihar, which I was especially interested in, is a type of carol singing. Small groups of girls and boys travel from house to house or shop to shop singing songs about Tihar - some are worship songs to Laxmi and some are alms songs, where they ask for money.

Walking through the markets...

At one of our many delicious dinners

Toward the end of the week, we readied ourselves for our trek from Pokhara to Ghandruk! We had no idea what was in store :)

Week 4 - One month!

2010-11-02T03:19:00.000-07:00

My update has come late this week due to less internet access and the packed schedule with my family and the team from the states being here! Their arrival of course has a huge highlight of my week! Brenden and I had been apart one day shy of 4 weeks - 27 days to be exact! It is such a relief for us to get to be together - we both feel home again even though we’re thousands of miles from our physical home. We are looking forward to what the next two weeks together will hold! I could not have planned for a more perfect time for him to arrive - I was just starting to feel pretty homesick, but that seems to matter much less now that he is here! I am overjoyed for my family to get to experience coming to Nepal, since it is Brenden’s and my mom’s first time to a developing country. I am convinced that one cannot leave another country unchanged, especially one dynamically different than their own. Having them here has helped remind me that I have learned a lot about Nepali culture and I am, in fact, pretty acclimated even though it still does not feel like it at times!

This past week I’ve gotten to see and experience even more Nepali music - Christian and non-Christian traditional folk music! I went to a concert of a well-known Nepali folk band, Katumba, and I also got to sit in on one of their rehearsals - what an incredible experience! The guys in the band are true musicians and it was not only amazing to watch them perform, but also to watch them practice and interact with one another. I learned a lot about Nepali folk musical form and compositional styles that day - both are quite reflective of Nepali culture in general. I also got to visit a Christian music school and interview one of the founders. This was very interesting and helpful to my research while here in Kathmandu. Another thing I had the opportunity to do this past week was to visit and attend two other Christian churches. One was an English service and the other was Nepali. I actually had the amazing opportunity to share the message at the Nepali church Saturday morning. I also enjoyed getting to accompany my friend Shanti to work one day. She works for a local NGO called Tewa. This means “support” in Nepali and they work for equitable justice among Nepali women - raising funds for grant programs that teach women a marketable skill in order to support themselves, among other things. It was a privilege to see how an indigenous organization functions. It definitely confirmed in my heart, the desire I have to hopefully someday work for an organization that is truly bringing about transformational development and change in the lives of the less fortunate.

Earlier in the week, I was reflecting on the fact that while I am here in Nepal, I am in my Fall quarter at Fuller - ha! It doesn’t feel like class, but in many ways it feels like a typical quarter...when midterms come around is usually just about the time I’ve adjusted to the class format and such, and by the time finals come I feel as though I have so much more to learn (I will forever stand by the fact that the quarter system is significantly more difficult than the semester system)! I just know that that is how I am going to feel when I’m stepping on the plane to go home. It truly is very humbling to be in a new context - completely dependent on others for the simplest of things and being continually unsure of how their cultural system functions. Although this is true overall, this week I have finally begun to feel like I know a thing or two! :) My language skills are improving and I am finally familiar enough with major landmarks that I can make my way around. Being more adjusted in these ways, it is now more safe for me to be able to travel alone during the day time. Praise the Lord! So for the first time this week, I went out alone - walked through the markets, went on a Temple tour, caught public transportation and made it safely home all by myself! I was quite proud that day! The experience of it all - being alone, speaking Nepali, asking where the right microbus was and not getting lost - boosted my confidence level and diminished my fears. I am looking forward to the flexibility this will give me during the remainder of my trip!

The start of my fifth week here in country has been wonderful and I look forward to getting to write about all that has taken place!

(Sorry - no pictures this time. The internet connection is not strong enough.)

Crossing the half-way point...

2010-10-27T23:20:00.000-07:00

Well I’ve officially been in Nepal for 3 and 1/2 weeks now and I’m almost in disbelief that this means my time here is half way gone! My time has now exceeded the length of any other overseas trip I have ever taken...if someone were to honestly ask how my trip has been so far and was willing to hear the extended, honest answer in return, I would say:

It has been...

wonderfully challenging

sometimes lonely

often unexpected

occasionally frustrating

often joyful

full of constant adjustment

sometimes overwhelming

highly educational

eye-opening

patience testing

full of questioning

world-broadening

a test of my ability to trust in the Lord

self-discovering

peace-giving

Overall, I am learning a lot - even if it is not what I expected to learn. Also, I know that I will be processing all that I have and will still experience here in Nepal for even years to come. For the second half of my trip, it is my hope and prayer that much of what I have learned will start to come together and that my mind will be inspired with how I can creatively report my findings in the papers and reports I must submit when returning home!

The next 3 and 1/2 weeks are going to fly by with my family being here and my schedule being more packed. I am ecstatic that I get to see them tomorrow! It will be awesome getting to serve together as well as simply enjoy exploring new places! After two weeks, Brenden, my mom and Tom will return home and I will have 10 days remaining in country. I will wrap up my experiences and attempt to compile my research into reports!

“He has made everything beautiful in its time.” Ecclesiastes 3

Earlier this year during an Old Testament course, I got to more carefully study the book of Ecclesiastes, which caused me to marvel at its honesty and depth. To some, this book may seem the most dismal of all the Writings because it talks extensively about death and the futility of life. However, I personally find that it gives the most accurate depiction of how we often feel about life and subsequently, I find it the most life-giving. Ecclesiastes shows that what we believe about death, should effect what we believe about life and how we choose to live it! Although the futility of life seems to often overtake human existence, this book shows that life is still worth the living because Yahweh is God and He has given us this life to live in reverence of Him. An important aspect of this book is to know that the author wrote such encouraging words without the hope the heaven that believers have today - I find this even more amazing. A life committed to following Yahweh was still worth it, even without knowing the promise of heaven. Through this study, I learned the importance of living with the hope of heaven, instead of living for the hope of heaven - we must live to serve God on earth while we can, in ways that are pleasing to Him!

I am further learning that there is something beautiful to be seen and experienced, in even in the most simplistic circumstances, as well as during both seasons of sorrow and joy.

Week 3: Illuminations

2010-10-23T05:08:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe that I left for Nepal three weeks ago already! In many ways, it has gone by so fast. The start of this week was rather slow since it began to rain, making going out a little more difficult. It gave me some good time to complete some of the my assigned readings. I have to remember that they are a part of my practicum too - not only going out and doing things! It has been an introspective week for me as I seek to discover what God is desiring to teach me while I am here and as I seek to process what I have so far learned. This perspective has illuminated my experiences this week - in becoming an Ethnomusicologist & in growing as a disciple of Jesus.

On Tuesday I had the opportunity to spend an evening with a local missionary couple that I had a connection with here in Kathmandu! It was an amazing evening as I learned about their work in Nepal, some of which included music. They were a part of mission to a formerly unreached people group in a remote Nepali village. They began to tell me the journey of how their congregation came to write their own original Nepali Christian worship music! Before this people group had been evangelized there was no Christian music available in their dialect, so the natural choice was to compose. These missionaries, being of a culturally sensitive mindset, encouraged the people to use their own culture’s musical styles. This has allowed for indigenous and authentic Christian worship to take place among these people! I was and still am incredibly moved by their story and am hoping that I will get to conduct research within this village - if not during this trip, maybe during another. Discovering that we shared similar hearts and visions for mission made this night incredibly refreshing and special. I look forward to seeing them again and hopefully getting to work together in the future.

On Wednesday I went to Thamel, which is a high tourism area in Kathmandu. My hosts suggested that I go there to explore because there are many music shops there! My experience was better than I imagined. Yagya, the husband of the couple I have been staying with for the past ten days, accompanied me. When we arrived, it was immediately obvious that this was a high tourist area because I was no longer the only “badeshi” ("foreigner" in Nepali) walking on the street! We spent time walking through the allies looking at the different booths selling souvenirs and clothing. The first music shop we found was a small one room shop filled with indigenous Nepali instruments. It is pictured on the right. This was an awesome find in comparison to many of the music shops that also carry Western instruments, such as guitars. We spent about an hour there, because the man who owned the shop and handcrafted all of the instruments was so helpful. His name was Sobit. He showed us all of the instruments, played them for us and allowed us to play them too. It was so great to see, touch and attempt to play the indigenous Nepali instruments I have studied about. Sobit spoke a little bit of English but we mostly talked through Yagya who translated my questions and Sobit’s answers. I captured some really nice video clips and learned a lot about the sarangi, the stringed instrument in the picture above. Hearing and seeing this instrument confirmed that this was the Nepali instrument I wanted to purchase and learn, so I did! Sobit described to me how it is tuned and showed me how to play a scale, which is a great knowledge base to start from. I was glad to be able to purchase my sarangi from Sobit since he had spent so much time with us and had been eager to answer all of my questions. He even gave me a free copy of his band's CD that plays Nepali folk music, "Namaste Band". I took my very first steps in becoming bi-musical today, therefore propelling me toward becoming a true ethnomusicologist. Because of this, I was thrilled with my experience and research on Wednesday. It has quite possibly been the highlight of my week!

This is Sobit and I each holding sarangis.

This is the sarangi I purchased!

Later in the week I was supposed to return to my original hosts’ home, but they had relatives unexpectedly come into town so I have stayed a few days more with the YWAM missionaries. This latter half of the week has also been a little slow due to my hosts feeling under the weather - luckily I haven’t caught anything! I am capitalizing on the quiet time by further working on my readings and practicing my sarangi a little bit. I also have been spending this time preparing the session I will teach during the ministry conference next week. I combed through many of my notes from the different classes I have taken and was gently reminded by the Lord how incredible this journey through seminary has been. HE has done the work in shaping my heart and speaking to me through the wisdom-filled words of His committed followers. I have again become enthralled with the topic of Global Christian Worship as I am able to compare what I’ve learned in the classroom with what I am learning on the field. To see others worship Christ in authenticity is the ultimate goal!

I recently finished reading a discourse on the history and development of Christianity in Nepal and have been thoroughly impressed with a few different elements. Firstly, the Christian church in Nepal has been extremely committed to unity among all churches that claim Jesus. It is a beautiful and Biblical picture of what God desires from his followers - to be united, although we may be diverse. Secondly, this unity has not been specific to denominations but has sought to bring together and keep in contact all the Christian churches of Nepal. I admire the fact that their devotion to Christ far outweighs their devotion to a denomination. I also admire that the differences between denominations do not hinder the unity they feel called to maintain! The American Christian Church has MUCH to learn from this model. I have seen such divisiveness among Christians over denominational differences and it is saddening as well as maddening, in my opinion.

“How can a divided church ever prove the victory of the cross, when the very sin of all sins is division, or separation? Through the fall man was separated from his God and Creator, and through the same fall he was also separated from his brother. Can a divided and crippled Body of Christ ever prove anything, let alone reflect the glory of the risen Lord? Did not the Lord utter in His great high-priestly prayer in the garden that He had given His people God’s glory in order that they might be one? That really means that God’s glory is forever closely linked with the unity of His Church.” - Johannes Facius

This statement was quoted in the book about Nepali Christianity and I think it is an amazing truth that the global body of Jesus Christ must seriously consider. Another professor of mine once stated that our unity does not have to be found in the sameness of opinion, but in identity of spirit. Belief in Jesus, the Son of God, is our point of unity.

The ministry conference Brenden and I, as well as my parents (Ann & Tom), will be involved in next weekend is a demonstration of commitment to such unity as pastors from all over Nepal, across denominations, come together to fellowship, learn and grow in the context of community. We are blessed to be able to participate in this event and are looking forward to what God can and will do in the Nepali pastors, as well as in and through us. My family, as well as a Seattle pastor, will leave for Katmandu next Wednesday. Please pray for traveling mercies on their behalf and also pray for the final preparations for the ministry conference. I am beyond excited to be able to see, spend time and minister with my family for the next couple of weeks. It will be a definite blessing to have them here! Thank you for the prayers that are being lifted up for me - I have settled into the peaceful protection of my Lord this week. As I am here, please remember the gracious people who have so willingly opened their homes, lives and ministries to me - pray that God would bless their efforts to share His love in Nepal.

I pray that my experiences and thoughts shared on this blog will bring you encouragement, contemplation and cause you too to consider how God is calling you to carry out His mission.

JAIMASEE*

*A Nepali Christian greeting meaning "Praise The Lord"

used between believers to say hello and goodbye.

Week 2: Unexpectedness

2010-10-17T08:19:00.000-07:00

My second week here in Nepal has been filled with the unexpected.

HINDUISM. What I have experienced and seen in Nepali Hindu culture has been much different than I expected. In my spring quarter at Fuller, I got the chance to take a class in Hinduism , which was very interesting and enjoyable. However, I am learning that text book Hinduism is quite different from organic Hinduism. As I’ve pondered this, I am realizing that my class mostly studied the philosophical aspects of the beliefs in Hinduism as well as its origins. But here in Nepal, I am observing the practices that reflect these philosophical ideas and being in the midst of it has generated completely different feelings within me than my class did. During my class, although I did not accept any of the Hindu beliefs as truth, I was able to understand how and why such beliefs made sense to those who are devoted followers of the Hindu gods. But now that I am here, so much of it makes no sense to me whatsoever. I feel as though the more I learn about it, the more complex it becomes - no wonder Hindus don’t even bother to understand it all. This became more apparent to me as I had the opportunity to visit three different famous Hindu Temples here in Kathmandu this weekend. The history was quite interesting and I really do enjoy learning about culture through live experience rather than simply reading about it, but there was spiritual heaviness that hung in my heart during such visits. The pictures below are at the different Temples I visited.

DASHAIN. The day of sacrificing I attended was also different than I expected. It was actually much less gruesome than I assumed it would be. As non-Hindus, the group I was with and myself were not allowed to go inside the main Temple to view the sacrificing, so we had to attend a smaller scale ritual in Durbar Square. I was actually quite relieved at this unexpected part of our journey that day, because of the sheer volume of sacrificed animals inside Hanuman Dhoka - the main Temple. It customary for 108 of each type of animal - buffalo, goat, chicken and duck - to be sacrificed to this Temple, as well as the animal each Hindu family brings to the Temple. The ceremony we attended only sacrificed six animals - 2 bulls and 4 goats. I watched the ritual in its entirety for one animal, which included the worship of two Hindu priests, the blessing of the animal slaughterers as well as the blessing of the animals themselves. Following these rituals, the animal is beheaded and then its headless body is drug around the ceremony area creating a circle of blood, which is believed to be an act of consecration. After I had observed the first goat sacrifice, I chose to move toward the outside of the crowd so as not to allow my nausea to worsen. For the remaining five sacrifices, I stood toward the outside of the crowd and frequently looked back in on the rituals.

As I watched the rituals, instead of focusing on the inherently evil strongholds that were present in such rituals, I kept thinking about how we, the people of God, were at one time (in the Old Testament) required to also perform animal sacrifices. The sacrifices Israel made were for the purpose of atoning for sin, while the Hindu animal sacrifices made today are for the commemoration of a mythical tale which also honors their goddess Durga. Although these purposes vary, the concept of sacrificing is similar as both groups sought/seek to work toward pleasing the God/gods they serve. This further led me to thank my Savior that we do not have to do such a thing anymore. My wise professor encouraged me to allow these sacrifices to lead me to a deeper understanding of Christ’s sacrifice and I really believe that per her suggestion, this experience has indeed done so. I remembered that the sacrifice Jesus made for us was actually much more gruesome than what I witnessed, not to mention the fact that it was a human sacrifice, not just an animal sacrifice. After this experience, I am left with the emotion of extreme gratitude - I am so incredibly thankful, that as Hebrews says, Jesus was a one time sacrifice for all sin! I no longer sense the fear I first did before attending these Hindu rituals, yet I still have a deep sadness and empathy for them. They still very much need our prayers! Lord God, I pray that they might find freedom in knowing that Christ willing sacrificed Himself for those who choose to follow Him and that they, these Hindus, have the opportunity to be freed from the obligation of sacrifice also. Thank you to all who prayed for me during these days - they were truly felt as the Lord protected my heart.

WESTERN MUSIC. This week I have heard more Western music than indigenously Nepali music. This is mostly in relation to Nepali Christian worship music. This is one of the anomalies I am here to study - Why is this? How do Nepalis feel about it? Should more indigenous Nepali music be incorporated into Christian worship? Luckily I have uncovered some of the answers this week through conversations with worship leaders and congregants of Nepali churches, as well through attending different Nepali Christian gatherings. Saturday morning I got to worship with a congregation of Nepali Christians and my heart was uplifted and filled during this time. I love experiencing the global church of God - hearing them pray, speak and worship in their own language and culture. It is so beautiful to my ears as it is the partial fulfillment of God’s promise to preserve a remnant of people for Himself from every tribe, tongue and nation!

OUTSIDE THE CITY. I got the chance to go to the Kathmandu YWAM base with the missionaries I have been staying with. It is located in a near by village with beautiful scenery - here are some pictures of the area! I loved getting the chance to see this aspect of Nepal, since I’ve mostly been in the city.

As I process through all of my unexpected experiences and reactions this week, please pray that I am able to glean and learn from it in the way God desires me to. I find myself naturally comparing this trip to other overseas trips I have been on, which has shed some light on the ways that I am feeling. Although this is helpful, I do not want to allow such comparisons to lead me to disappointment. Pray that I would remember my purpose as a student and that in this role, I am also participating in the mission of God.

Daunting Dashain

2010-10-14T09:49:00.001-07:00

I wanted to take the opportunity to share with my readers about the Hindu festival currently taking place in Nepal. It is called Dashain and it is a fifteen day celebration where people have holidays from work and gather together with their families in their home towns. The festival mainly commemorates a grand victory of the Hindu gods over the wicked demons. I write to you now because tomorrow, Friday October 15, is a significant day during this festival. It is the day of sacrifice where buffaloes, goats, chickens and ducks will be sacrificed to the Hindu goddess Durga in honor of her slaying a demon god, which is believed to have looked like a buffalo. They make these sacrifices to symbolize this moment in Hindu mythology and to worship Durga. Ultimately, the entire celebration represents the power of good triumphing over evil...seems ironic, doesn’t it? That something celebratory in their eyes would be daunting in my own... also, that a ritual which is supposed to be a symbol of good involves so much death.

Tomorrow, I actually will be going out early in the morning with another mission team to observe the rituals and sacrifices at various Hindu temples in Kathmandu. The people of this country need your prayers on this day especially. As do I. Please pray for the spiritual warfare in the atmosphere as the Spirit of God is grieved by the spiritual blindness and as Satan is pleased with the confusion of truth he supplies. Please pray that Hindus would actually be left feeling unsatisfied by these rituals and that it would lead them to question such traditions. Please pray for the Nepali Christians who will face social pressure and even humiliation for not taking part in the sacrifices and other religious practices throughout Dashain. Pray that God would strengthen them and allow them to be bright lights for Him during this time. Lastly, please pray for me. My heart is so very heavy in simply thinking about it and I know that there will be an even great spiritual heaviness within my soul as I go to observe this part of Hindu worship tomorrow. I know and am confident that “He who lives in me is greater than he who lives in the world.” I trust in His protection, and know that He is and will be with me as I witness these rituals. Your prayers for Hindus are needed. Your prayers for the people of Nepal are needed. Your prayers for the day of Dashain sacrificing are needed. And your prayers for me are needed and all of your prayers are appreciated. I will be praying, in part, the prayer of Nehemiah (originally for Israel) found in Nehemiah 1:5-6 on behalf of the people of Nepal-

“And I said, ‘O LORD God of heaven, the great and awesome God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, let your ear be attentive and your eyes open, to hear the prayer of your servant that I now pray before you day and night for the people of NEPAL.”

Week 1: Into the new...

2010-10-11T00:37:00.000-07:00

My first week in Nepal has been full of first experiences and exposures. I have been learning so very much about Nepali culture this week and my trip has just begun. I have sought to be adventurous and flexible as I continue to step out into all that is new to me...

I have tried and very much enjoyed many kinds of Nepali FOOD this week, including their staple food, dal bhat - rice and lentils. I have also tried many new spices, most of which I have been able to handle pretty well :) I really believe that the Lord is protecting my stomach - as silly as that sounds, I am sure of it! We have been eating healthy and safe foods mostly, but I usually have quite a sensitive stomach - even when it comes to American food. My friend, with whom I am staying, mentioned that I have a strong stomach - HA! That’s laughable considering the digestive health issues I’ve had in the past few years, so all I can say is praise the Lord that I have not been experiencing any illness so far. The picture below is a typical Nepali meal complete with dal bhat, green vegetables, curry, Nepali pickle and a chicken dish. The picture above is when I got to try paani puri - so yummy! It's originally an Indian dish, but is very popular in Nepal and many vendors make and sell this. It's a little fried thing with mashed potatoes inside dipped in a spicy liquid. I like it very much and probably had too many! :)

I have, of course, had a lot of exposure to the Nepali LANGUAGE this week! I am learning and practicing the simple phrases I have learned so far, trying to add to my knowledge everyday. I have been encouraged by the friends I am staying with. They have spent much time teaching and helping me to practice Nepali. They have also told me that I am fast learner! I hope to be able to understand more and more each week.

This weekend I have been able to go out into the city many times and experience the busyness of the festival time in Kathmandu. Each time we go out I am feeling more and more comfortable with my surroundings. Here I am on the right, shopping in Lalitpur. Yesterday was the first time I’ve gotten to hear live Nepali music. I got to do so while attending a Hindu wedding ceremony! Experiencing both yielded enlightening facts about Nepali culture and it was a great experience for me. It was such an honor to be able to attend the wedding of my hosts’ cousin! The Hindu rituals were so interesting. I am glad to have studied Hinduism prior to traveling to Nepal, but I must confess that taking a class about a RELIGION is completely different than seeing, feeling, smelling and fully experiencing it in person. I was very thankful to have friends with me who speak English and who were readily willing to answer any questions that I had. Although this was wonderful, I learned that many of my questions weren’t questions that are generally asked - such as, “what does that mean/represent?” I was told that most people in attendance, the “everyday Hindu,” would not even know the answer to these questions. They simply know that it is a tradition and are faithful to follow what the Hindu priest instructs them to do in the ceremonies. My friend, who is a Nepali Christian, said that many Hindus follow their religion quite blindly, never really knowing what many of their rituals signify. I had such conflicting feelings while attending the ceremonies. On one hand, I was fascinated with the CULTURE all around me - the music, the language, the ornate dress, the food, etc. Yet on the other hand, my heart broke as I watched these beautiful people, created in the image of the One True God, engage in worship rituals they don’t even fully understand. I would assume that this is a natural part of doing anthropological research as a Christian. At this point in my journey here, I am allowing this feelings to set in and move me toward further prayer for the Nepali Christian church as they are constantly navigating through what it means to still be fully Nepali, preserving the beautiful parts of their culture not associated with Hinduism, and to follow Christ. I am learning from my friends that this is indeed possible and an incredibly powerful witness. Below is my beautiful friend and host, Shanti, and I at the wedding, in Nepali dress. I am wearing a kurta that I purchased for the wedding!

This week has truly been blessing, in all the good and also in all the ways I have been CHALLENGED. By living cross-culturally, my American perspective is being challenged in a few different areas. For example, in my own American culture saying “thank you” frequently is considered polite and considerate. Yet I have learned from my gracious hosts that saying “thank you” often is considered very formal and keeps relationship at bay. They told me that there is a Nepali saying: “In friendship, there is no sorry and no thank you.” This really is a different way of thinking about gratitude and hospitality. Can saying thank you less really be a way of graciously accepting the hospitality of others? After considering this more, I think that it in this context, it most certainly can be. By doing so I am yielding to the cultural norm of my host culture and deepening my friendship with my hosts. This value assumes that friends will take care of friends and will be appreciative of one another. I think it also shows that Nepali culture is less concerned with recognition, whereas in American culture, recognition seems to be of great importance to people.

Another challenge for me this week has been in altering my concept of time. I am really enjoying the concept of flexible time here in Nepal, but I haven’t quite caught on yet. I am usually ready around the time that was told to me, but I am always early when on time! I don’t mind this at all, yet I am not sure how to compensate - how “late” to really be. This has further reminded me how time-oriented my own culture is and how many non-Western cultures are more people-oriented. To me this is a reflection of caring more about relationship than the ticking of the clock. I hope to carry this value with me for the rest of my life.

Everything I have experienced this week has been of incredible VALUE to me. I feel like I have already learned so much and my trip is only 1/7 of the way finished! In this picture on the right are my hosts, Shanti and Anubhaw, and I. They are teaching me so much and are such a blessing to me! Being busy and soaking in all the new around me has distracted my mind from missing home too much. Some days are harder than others, but I try to focus on the end goal and purpose of me being here and I am reminded that it is worth the minor discomfort I must experience in being away from my family. As I continually look to the Holy Spirit for comfort, He always provides me strength and reminds me of the HOPE I have in Christ. His promises give me hope for the people of Nepal to come to know and worship Him and hope that God will use me while I am here for His glory.

Arrival + Adjustment

2010-10-05T10:44:00.000-07:00

Well I have been in Nepal for an entire day now and it still feels surreal! I arrived safely yesterday afternoon and have been resting up ever since while also spending time with the family of my wonderful contacts. I have adjusted to Nepal’s time pretty well which is good news! I am still feeling somewhat fatigued but that is to be expected for a couple days. I am enjoying the food I’ve had so far and am staying well, which is also good news. Conversations with my hosts have already been very helpful for my cultural learning as we have discussed many current issues here in Nepal as well as issues in Christianity. This has also been good for my language learning! I am becoming more familiar with just simple words at this point, but am dong my best! I am very much enjoying their company and generous hospitality. My heart is strengthened and encouraged by their love for Jesus. For those concerned, I am being taken care of very well! :)

As I flew into Nepal yesterday, I caught my first glimpse of the Himalayas. Even just their peeks were majestic! In this picture, on the right, it’s hard to distinguish between the clouds and the snow-capped mountain tops, but if you look closely you can just make them out. The picture below was some of the landscape we were flying over as we descended into Kathmandu. The rainy season has just finished here in Nepal so the land is very green this time of year.

Surprisingly, the Himalayas are not easily seen from the Kathmandu valley due the polluted air blocking them.
(This can be seen in the picture on the left as well) I have been told that on a clear day you can see them. This made me laugh a little and I said, “It’s just like LA’s smog!” It is similar but the haze here in Kathmandu is actually a little darker and is mostly due to car exhaust and polluted emissions, for which they have no regulations against. The drive through the city to where I have been staying was a mere 15 minutes, but I observed a lot in those minutes. Evidences of Nepal’s developing status were quite obvious. Although I was not shocked to find this, I was still a little surprised having imagined Kathmandu differently. The house I stayed at last night and today is in another district slightly outside of Kathmandu - it is much more quiet out here and a little more secluded. It is a large home with 4 floors total - the bottom two are finished while the top two are not yet finished. On the top floor there was a wonderful view of the Kathmandu valley.

This evening I traveled to my hosts’ home, where I will be staying most of my time here in Nepal. I am feeling much more settled now that I am here with them. They are newlyweds and a little older than Brenden and I. Also, both are English speakers, so we have much in common. It is refreshing and comforting to be with them. I am already so grateful for all their help and kindness. I am truly thankful to be here, but of course I miss home - especially my beloved husband and family. Yet in the face of these feelings, today I have felt ministered to by the Holy Spirit through the hope I have in the ways He will lead me during my time in Nepal and through the comfort that His empowerment brings. The next couple days I will spend at home while my hosts go to work. This will give me time to read, write, learn music and do further research. I am anxious to get out in the city and experience the culture of Kathmandu, but my hosts suggested that I need to become familiar with the city before I go out on my own. I will definitely be taking and trusting their advice since they know their own culture best! This weekend we are planning to go out so that they will be able to guide and help me.

It truly has been a wonderful first two days - a very smooth experience thus far. Thank you to all who are praying for me. I am blessed to be here and am looking forward to all of my experiences ahead!

Empathy...

2010-09-20T12:22:00.000-07:00

I recently just finished my summer quarter at Fuller Seminary. One of the fantastic classes I was privileged to take was called Advocacy for Social Justice - gripping, saddening, moving, challenging and empowering. Since finishing all of my work for this class, I have been quite contemplative as I am still working through my thoughts on certain current injustices that are prevalent in our world. This also includes questioning which ones I am called to advocate for.

A quality I have possessed all my life is my empathy. Often times as a child I was told that I was "too" sensitive. Although I would agree that developing emotional maturity was important for me, I am just now beginning to understand my own sensitivity toward suffering. I cry easily and often literally feel the pain that others feel. As a child this debilitated me. My parents used to take my sister and I to volunteer at a homeless shelter a couple times a month when I was in grade school. I am thankful for the vivid and fond memories I have of this, but although I loved going, my heart broke more and more each time we went. Finally it became too much for me to bear as I would cry the entire time and we had to stop going because I did not know how to regain "composure" (whatever that is supposed to be according to American cultural standards).

As I grew up I learned how to better curb my emotion, but lately, at 24 years of age, I have again been feeling empathetically fragile. I cry more easily than ever before - not on my own behalf, but usually on behalf of others in whose lives I see tragedy. They are usually the lives of human beings experiencing insurmountable kinds of oppression and injustice For example, the millions of beautiful women and children who are sexually enslaved around the world (including right here in Orange County, CA), the victims of the Burmese war, and the captive child soldiers in Western Africa. These are just a few of the current injustices I've had the pleasure and burden of studying lately. Knowing that any sort of action begins with awareness and knowledge, I forge on, but as I do so my heart grows more and more heavy.

How did Jesus, while living on earth, deal with the burden of injustice? Did he ever feel it was too much to handle? How are we called to act using his life as our ultimate example?

I don't know entirely the answers to my own questions, but here is what I do know...Jesus did not accept the circumstances of society, he changed them. Healing a leper (which he did on multiple occasions in Scripture) was not merely an act of restorative physical healing. It was also a social healing - one that restored to a former leper human dignity and re-entrance into society! I find that pretty incredible. I know that after Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem, he wept over the city because of the lack of peace (Luke 19:40-42). I also think this is pretty incredible to read that God's own burden and longing for peace overflowed in an abundance of tears. I also know that he did not cry in vain. He did not cry and then forget his cause for peace because it was too heavy a burden. He took up his cross and was obedient...maybe this is my cross...how am I to be obedient in carrying it, Jesus?

Praying that the burden of my empathy would not debilitate me.

Walking by the Spirit

2010-09-13T19:36:00.000-07:00

For the past week, I have fought feeling bogged down from the ever-growing list of "to-dos" for my trip! Thank the Lord that the list is diminishing and I am being further taught how to appropriately handle high stress situations - something I am not good at. The amazing thing I have learned in the past few years about this is that it actually can be learned.

Being reminded of this struggle of mine lately, I have been convicted of my own lack of understanding in how to truly live and walk in the Spirit of God. This has led me to pray differently as well as helped me to decide what Bible study I will use during my time in Nepal - Beth Moore's "Living Beyond Yourself: Exploring the Fruit of the Spirit." I actually have not done any of Beth's studies since I've been in seminary and I am excited to be encouraged by the gift of teaching God has given her through this study. I highly recommend any of her books, Bible studies or any other resource of her's out there!

I also wanted to share a Scripture passage with all of you, especially those choosing to pray for me. I have chosen to memorize Acts 17:24-31 before my trip, as well as during. This passage has always been important to me when thinking about mission because of the contextualization Paul includes - he spoke to the Greeks and shared the Gospel with them in a way that they could understand! This is something SO important when evangelizing and doing mission in order to allow the receiver to truly understand the message of Christ. I was reminded of these beautiful verses the other day and upon reading these words of Paul again, it is highly appropriate for use in a Hindu context (as well as many other contexts I'm sure). Please pray that I am diligent to completely memorize this passage and please pray that I am able to use it in some capacity during my interactions with some Nepali people.

"The God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in temples made by man, nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all mankind life and breath and everything. And he made from one man of the earth, having determined allotted periods and boundaries of their dwelling place, that they should seek God, in the hope that they might feel their way toward him and find him. Yet he is actually not far from each of us, for 'In him we live and move and have our being;' as even some of your own poets have said, 'For we are indeed his offspring.' Being then God's offspring, we ought not to think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by the art and imagination of man. The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent, because he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed; and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead." Acts 17:24-31

The task of sharing this story with others is a gift that Christians are meant to find delight in doing, in response to the love God has given and the love we have for Him in return! In this love is also how we are called to share - although some might view the pending judgment as a lack of compassion, it is actually the complete opposite. There is grace in the opportunity to receive righteousness and the justice of God is proven in his role as judge. I encourage those who are followers of Christ to not take lightly sharing the Gospel - be respectful and sensitive. Share the story in a way that will allow your hearer to fully understand. Be aware of the opportunities to share and seek them out, especially in the context of daily life and through relationship building. Pray for the grace to share in a way that is pleasing to our Savior and pray for His moving through you.

I do believe that we need the Spirit of God in every circumstance, but I also believe that when attempting to share the Gospel we especially need His moving. "If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit." Galatians 5:25

Let the countdown commence...30 days to go!

2010-09-02T09:19:00.000-07:00

Exactly one month from today I will be leaving for Nepal! Wow...I truly am so excited but of course, also anxious. I still have quite a few tasks to accomplish before I am truly ready (according to my own standards as well as Fuller's!)...but the LORD is faithful and will strengthen me to be diligent in completing such tasks.

As I ponder about my fast-approaching journey, I am thinking about what kind of expectations I have for this trip. I think it can be a positive thing to have expectations, especially in the form of goals, but the pessimistic Lindsey tells me not to have any expectations so as not to be disappointed...in light of these reasonings, here are my expectations and my hopes -

I expect to be surprised.

I expect to be further molded and transformed into the likeness of Christ as I am faithful to seek Him.

I expect to share His story, as well as my own.

I expect to experience culture shock along the way, as well as probably reverse culture shock when coming home (which is usually harder for me).

I expect to be overwhelmed at times.

I expect to be homesick.

I expect to have to practice flexibility.

I expect to see and experience the spiritual warfare between darkness and Light.

I expect to meet people who love the One True God (these are the people I will be living and working with :)

I hope to meet and build relationships with many Nepali people.

I hope to be used by God in a might way.

I hope to find an incredible topic/issue to write about.

I hope to apply what I've learned in my degree and be diligent in my studies.

I hope to be safe, but hope to wisely put the cause of Christ ahead of this always.

I hope to see Mt. Everest.

I hope that this trip will further open my eyes and the eyes of family - expanding our understanding of the world and God's immense love for every people group and culture He created!

There are many more expectations and hopes that I have for this trip but they will be reserved for my prayer life :) Thanks to those reading this and if you feel led to pray for me, I indeed am in need of prayer for the list above.

Returning to the World of Blogging

2010-08-16T11:19:00.000-07:00

After gaining more appreciation for the usefulness of a blog, I have decided to start using my site again! I have recently been fed up with juvenility of facebook and I feel as though there is more freedom on one's blog...more freedom to be artsy on your own page, more freedom to disseminate important information and raise awareness, and more freedom to share your life through stories and words - ahhh, I am already refreshed.

Another reason I am once again making use of my blog is to share about my upcoming trip to NEPAL! I am still working on my masters at Fuller Seminary in Ethnomusicology/Global Christian Music and in order to complete my degree I must embark on an international practicum. This is what my Nepal trip is for! The Lord's hand has truly guided all the planning that has been taking place since March and it still seems quite surreal, but I am ecstatic about this opportunity.In early October, I will travel to Nepal just in time to attend Hindu festival month! Experiencing Nepal during this time will give ample opportunity for learning about Nepali people, their culture, their music and Hinduism - their religion. As well as attending the festivals, I will be living with a local family to learn Nepali and more about this culture’s way of life. I will also be working with local churches, especially in the area of music - hoping to interview and discuss the use of indigenous music in Christian worship. In late October, Brenden along with a team from Kent Covenant Church (including my mom, Ann, and Step-dad, Tom) will join me in Nepal to participate in service to the local churches, including conducting a ministry conference. After a couple weeks, the team will depart and I will stay a few weeks more to complete my practicum. My hope is that my journey will culminate with holding a New Song Workshop for the churches I will be working with in an effort to compose new songs of worship, in Nepali musical styles, together. The goal of the practicum is to be a learner, to gain experience in the “doing” of my field of study as well as being an ambassador of Jesus Christ wherever I go!

I am very ready for this next giant step toward entering the field of missiology and ethnomusicology, all for the sake of the glory of the One, True God.

Last one!

2008-07-20T06:43:00.000-07:00

i must be fast because this comp is slow and my internet time is about to run out...i am well, the team is good and thailand is wet...it's officially the rainy season. i have loved my time and it has been blessed but i am missing home now...going elephant riding tomorrow :) and then flying home the next day...prayers appreciated...love to all...maybe one more to come if there is time :)

ok friends...i'm back :) i am not even going to try to sum up my time in Thailand on this specific blogging session- probably in the near future, on my own computer where my internet time isn't counting down giving me anxiety!! Anyways...our team start debriefing tonight and it went very well. It helped me even process more about what The Lord has been teaching me through this experience and how I am growing and hoping to grow as a result...My prayer is that the small part we've taken in certain ministries would have eternal impact because of those continuing the work after we've left and of course, by the mighty moving of our Sovereign God. As we had joined another project while in Chiang Mai, a youth leader had the genius idea of creating youtube videos of our work cites! So...I am happy to report that before I even return to tell you all about this trip, you can get a glimpse of what I've been up to for the majority of it...on youtube look up quail creek students and go to thailand day 7..in case some don't know, our team was split up among other teams so that's why you might not recognize anyone else in the video except me and adam :)

Tomorrow and part of Tuesday is mostly debriefing, goodbyes and a few fun activities...please pray that we discuss what is most needed to ease the re-entry process, please pray for safety as we travel and that I finish the accounting wisely and accurately! Thank you to everyone who has been faithful to read my rantings and faithful in prayer for my team and I...we needed you and are grateful. God is the definition of GOOD and every time I go overseas I am reminded of His vastness and greatness and love for ALL peoples...be encouraged to serve a God like ours- not a false image of which I come to see much of.

I'll be state side soon and can't wait to share with you all!!

2/3 done...

2008-07-14T07:36:00.000-07:00

It is so crazy that tomorrow we will have been gone for 2 weeks and only have 1 remaining left here in Thailand! In so many ways I feel like we're only just arrived...I am almost getting used to being sweaty 99% of the time and I am slowly getting better at my Thai speaking and feel like I've barely gotten to know the M's like I would like to...all that to say, even though it may not seem like it, I do miss home and all of my family and friends! Some of the highlights of this past week have been...taking all the kids from the orphange to the lake on Saturday, talking with the Thai ladies who work at the orphange, being offered the opportunity to share a song I wrote, "Finding Freedom," at church on Sunday with our whole group and Thai friends- some believers, some not, getting to have an amazing and encouraging phone conversation with Brenden (sorry mom and dad- yes, I did call him first!) and finally, pretty much being offered a job here in Chiang Mai with the local M's!!! They said we'll keep in contact for the possibility of doing my overseas practicum for my masters here :) The Lord's hand has been shown so prevalent in my time here. I came to serve Him and HE is immensely blessing me!! There haven't been many low points on this trip but I'd like to share a couple commical ones that happened this past weekend...To preface- Thailand is a country filled with small, short and skinny people who make us Americans look even more glutonous than we are! SOO...I barely made the weight cutoff to ride the paddle boats on the lake and yesterday a Thai man asked me if I was pregnant...good times! My full figured body isn't doing so well here in tiny Thailand and I am excited to get back where my 6-8 bod will once again be culturally acceptable! Love to all! Sawadee-kha ( Thai greeting!)

Update 1...Loving Chiang Mai

2008-07-10T08:30:00.000-07:00

barefeet, spicy food, gracious people, God's hand...a few of my favorite things here in Thailand! It is hard to miss home when I am surrounded by such beauty and getting to participate in service and in a new culture! I truly am loving it...the first 4 days was spent doing "cultural immersion"- visiting WATS (Buddhist temples), going to "monk chat," doing a scavenger hunt around the city forced to use Thai (which, by the way, is the 3rd hardest language in the WORLD!), and meeting many wonderful Thai friends! The "M's" here are FABULOUS people who share in an amazing community of believers! It truly is one of the most beautiful pictures I've ever encountered of the global church...Beginning of this week we began our service at our ministry sites where I am at an orphange! The kids are darling with whom we get to play with in the afternoons and then we are painting the inside of the house they live in during the mornings! It is looking great and the Thai workers and orphans have been very blessed by it already :) Since our team has partnered with a bunch of other teams, the dynamic has drastically changed being that there are now over 40 high school students with us, but we are learning patience through them :) I have had the chance to join in the worship music leading for our group meetings and that's been a big encouragement to my heart while I've been here. My team is awesome and I am feel very blessed to be building the friendships that I am with them :) Thank you all for your continued support and prayers!

SE Asian Excursion

2008-06-30T21:23:00.000-07:00

Well tomorrow I leave for Thailand...I am so thrilled, excited and fortunate for this opportunity, yet my nerves are very real. My plan is to post personal updates here when I can. Please pray that The ONE who is in control of all would guide us, keep us safe and provide incredible opportunity for the furthering of our cause! I will be working at an orphanage the majority of the time, which I am absolutely elated about! I will also get the chance to participate in the study of Thai and Buddhist culture through visiting historical temples and speaking with authentic Thai Buddhist monks! I hope you find these updates helpful in knowing how to lift up our team...Thank you for your support and I look forward to sharing my experiences with you

my best friend

2007-08-29T00:08:00.000-07:00

Miss Laurena...i started this blog just for you so i could comment on your amazing stories of your adventure to Tibet and we could at least somewhat communicate while you're gone :) hope you feel special! i can't believe how much i miss you...school's not the same without you...it's weird not having you here...i want you to know (and anyone who ever reads this) that you are one of the biggest blessings in my life and i've never been more thankful for a relationship (outside of my fam) than i am for our friendship. i love sharing my life, dreams, disappointments, confessions, and learnings with you. come back to me safe my dear friend.