Ray's Write-up

Often on overseas church related trips we ask the reflective question, “Where Did you see God today?” That question usually evokes a response dealing with beauty which was unexpected…. A flower, a sunset, a child, a caring or compassionate action…
I’m finding it harder to answer that question on this trip. Did I see God in the 6 month old baby badly burned? Did I see God in the man washing his clothes in the ditch water in front of the hospital? Maybe the issue of seeing God doesn’t seem to be what is sought.

Perhaps the question should be reworded. “What does God want to happen in this situation?” That may not elicit as joyful response but sure does elicit response of faith and dedication.

Seeing Anil Henry exchange smiles and teasing with a child he had operated on a day previous, felt like God’s Work and what God wants. Seeing the entire staff of this hospital work for below market wages with more primitive equipment in order to serve the neediest seems like what God wants. Driving down roads congested with people living in desperate poverty makes me aware of what God wants. Seeing families sleeping on the hospital floor beside an ill loved one reminds me of what God wants. This historic mission is definitely what God wants.
This trip makes me more aware that it is important to not only notice God around us but to be asking what God wants of me in any situation I may find myself. When we are busy doing what God wants we will become aware of God’s presence in our lives and in our world.

Ray Miles