The Next Generation

The highlight of the trip for me was the opportunity I had to talk with a couple of the older Haitian kids. Really, I can't call Elimage and David kids anymore. They've grown up a lot since I first met them years ago.

The last two nights (Wednesday and Thursday) I stayed up with Elimage and David talking until 3AM or so. On Wednesday, my main question to them was for ideas to improve the orphanage and ministry they can do there. One huge challenge they face at the moment is transportation. The vehicles they had have broken down and repairs are too expensive to be worthwhile based on the age of the vehicles. A new truck is on the way, but it will be a big expense just to get it shipped and through customs. That side note was to illustrate that their response of a motorcycle is a great idea. It is a relatively inexpensive form of transportation that would be great for quick errands (you couldn't haul concrete for construction, but buying food at the market would be no problem at all). Another idea, one I really would love to help make happen, is to get a sound system and instruments for the church. Music is one of my passions and I've played drums in church and in Chi Alpha for over ten years. Eli, David and a few of the other older kids have taken lessons and could be a worship band if they had the equipment. Mari-ange already leads singing, so worship could be led entirely by kids who either live at or are involved with ministry at the orphanage. This should be a goal of any ministry...to raise up the next generation to carry on the work of reaching the lost and encouraging the church.

That Thursday afternoon, Pastor Winston brought together all of the older kids who are connected to the orphanage. We wanted an opportunity to encourage, challenge and basically speak into their lives. Winston started off saying almost the same thing I had planned to say. Our major theme was that they should dream and strive for better things and pray with faith. God is able to make the impossible happen.

That night I asked Elimage and David about their personal goals. David really likes working with electricity. He did a lot of the work wiring lights at the orphanage. I wasn't surprised at all when he said he wants to be an electrician. Elimage said mechanic. Both again mentioned playing music. Clint joined us for a little while and told them that they are leaders and people look up to them. He also encouraged them to look after the younger kids.

Anything But the End

This account has been the hardest for me to write (and has taken the longest to compose) because this trip was the most meaningful to me personally. I have not really even come close to expressing the new connection I feel with the people at the orphanage, especially Elimage and David.

I know it may be more impressive to read about dozens of salvations, but we can't forget that every soul matters and there were salvations on this trip. The bulk of our accomplishments, though, were in building up those who are faithful. Sometimes those who serve need to be served. Sometimes those who encourage others need to be encouraged. That's what we were able to do...bring a fresh spark and renewed hope.

Elimage, David and some of the other young adults who have grown up at the orphanage are poised to claim leadership responsibilties in this ministry. I believe with encouragement, good guidance, and an opportunity, they will be able to build upon the foundation that has been laid. I want to continue to pour into these rising leaders and see them bring increase in the influence and effectiveness of ministry.

The Team

Winston, Sara, Jessica, Brian, Clint, Angela, Mitch, Dave, Tim and Charles. This was a team of veterans who made a quick run to Haiti just before Christmas. I have one more cool story... Tim quit his full-time job in faith, believing God had something better for him and it was time to make a move. Because of having no job, he was able to go on this trip. His dream for years has been to get into the entertainment industry, and before we left he had an interview with FOX. On the way back, we had a layover in Miami and Tim was able to check his email at the airport. There was a message waiting for him that the job was his! Not only did God honor Tim's step of faith, the answer for this need came before we even made it all the way home!