“We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation.” Romans 5:3-4 NLT
REFLECTION
It was winter when I landed in Mainland China, which was in shocking contrast to sunny South Africa. I had never experienced that kind of cutting coldness — inside my very bones (one of many firsts in China). So one of the first things I bought was a coat made in China, specifically for Chinese winters, and I became besotted with indoor heating. Another first involved teaching large groups of children (up to 70 in a classroom). That was rather jarring at first because I didn’t have any natural affinity with little people with a plethora of problems, but I eventually realised that they were actually God’s little helpers, ever ready with pruning shears, snipping every selfish tendency I had. And I quickly found out that I was expected to work very hard and that adaptability was key to survival. While still in the glow of novelty, I just went with the flow, but I was soon in the surging surf of suffering and all the challenges that come with living and working on foreign turf. A sink or swim scenario ensued. It was in these unchartered choppy waters that I discovered a kind of steadfastness I never knew I had, reminding me that adversity is a God given gift for growth. This realisation and resounding reality began to cultivate courage, and — as hope began to rise in my heart — I began to better appreciate the kaleidoscope of Chinese charm charging around me.
PRAYER POEM: Your Way
Lord, You are my strength and my shield, to You I yield ~ prune me, cleanse me, and make my life a fruitful field.
Oh Vine Divine, Your way is sublime.
You are perfectly good all the time.
