I happened to see a friend of ours named Maw Reh while visiting apartments that let me know there was going to be a meeting at his house, and he wanted Breanna and I to come. At first all I could think was, "Great a business meeting!" (super sarcastically) Not to mention the fact that most likely it would be completely in Karenni and we would just sit there not understanding a word said. Wanting to show the elders of the community respect and love, we decided to go.
Upon arriving we realized that this was not just a meeting, but a service to inform a small group of the Karenni people about becoming Christians! They were all interested in getting baptized, having been to church they knew some about God, but had never made professions of faith, and they wanted to learn more! We felt so blessed to even be able to join the meeting, but yet again God had different plans. The Karenni people do not have the old testament in their language, so they asked Breanna and I to explain what the Bible says about being a Christian, starting at creation! We then had the opportunity to share with them creation to Christ, what happened to man, why we need a savior, who Jesus is, and what it means to be a Christian, what baptism is, and even what God calls us to do after salvation. We got to explain to all of the elders on the consul why we are here in North Carolina, why we want to spend time with the Karenni people, and how they can be missionaries too. Maw Reh translated everything for us, and they asked us to speak with all of the new believers!
Leaving there we planned to attend a Nepalese bible study. There are about 5 Nepalese families here we are trying to reach out to. We figured we would go, and not really understand anything, but at least get to meet a few people. Upon arrival they told us there was no bible study. Confused, we stuck around to find out more, because we had been told that there was. What we found out was that they have no bible study, no pastor, no leaders, and have just been going to church on Sundays which two teenage boys have been leading. When we mentioned the bible study they said, "No we do not have a Bible study, but we would love to do one if you will help us start one." Of course we wanted to! Because of the confusion we have now established a Bible study with them every Sunday at 7pm that we will be leading. One of the older women even offered to translate for us, because many of the adults do not speak English. They are so excited to learn about God, and we are excited to share with them.
When we arrived home we couldn't believe all of the doors God had opened that day for us just hanging out at the apartment complex during the day. Sometimes we feel like God has nothing for us to do, but if we start to serve Him in the small things, just by visiting people, or showing up to love on someone He shows us even greater opportunities. God's plans: I'll exchange mine for them any day!
*Prayer Requests:
1. Karenni VBS
2. Wisdom in investing in families, and individuals
3. Karenni Girls Bible Study
4. Nepalese Bible Study
5. Guidance in how to spend our time wisely
6. Being spirit-led
7. God's will to be done here with the Karenni, Karen, and Nepalese people
8. Leaders to step up in all 3 people groups