April 3 - Elizabeth C

Its the size of Texas with the population of Texas and California combined. A varied topography marked by three rivers systems sweeping from the northern Himalayas through the southern plains and down into the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea, South Asia is a geographical treasure.Yet here in the Land of Rubies where precious earthen stones are abundant, we are most awed by the beauty and strength of some precious spiritual stones, the Burmese believers. Ninety percent of Burmese are Buddhist and only 4% are Christian, but the Christian community’s strength is palpable. Perhaps its the result of tempering from the last 49 years of military rule that restricted organized religion. Or perhaps its reflective of a general rawness to life. Regardless, we are grateful that the national believers have allowed us to serve alongside them. Truly we have received more than we have given.Today’s lessons for the younger children were about having hope in suffering and purpose in life. But how do you fully convey hope and purpose to orphans who have experienced hardships you’ll never know? We can’t. But God can. And its a privilege to watch Him work. The orphans’ life stories, combined with their fervency for God, represent incredible potential. Even listening to these children sing is an unparalleled experience.The older kids continued their photography training with Ashlyn and Atalie. They covered hard, soft, diffused, and directional lighting; framing images; and adding interest. These kids are conceptually wired, so photography is a natural fit and Biblical analogies stick.Thank you all for your prayers. We are excited about what God is doing here. Will keep ya posted!-Elizabeth C