Thursday, June 21, 2007

A tough day!

Tuesday was one of the toughest days Ana & I have experienced as a married couple. It started out as an exciting day filled with optimism and dreams; but quickly turned into a frustrating & tearful experience.

Ana’s VISA application was denied.

We hadn’t anticipated this, we figured since I am an American, it would be simple for her to receive a travel VISA. We were wrong. I can’t remember having been so sad, in the past five years. We sat in the car and wept, and I started to get angry! Angry & disgusted in my country; that is considering giving 12 million people (who have broke the law & crossed illegally) who have no rights, VISA’s, yet I as an American cannot get a travel VISA for my wife! I was really bitter!

Then I arrived back at the Outreach Center (we are hosting four groups) and realized I needed to prepare to speak at our nightly chapel. I didn’t even feel like talking to anyone, let alone be spiritual!

I began to think about Jesus’ first disciples; and how they must have been shocked when Jesus was arrested. (even though Jesus told them it was coming) Peter certainly got angry (he even cut off a guard’s ear). They were not seeing the BIG picture, only their perspective.

Then I remembered the work God desires of me; “the work of God is this: to Believe in the one he has sent” Jesus’ words in John 6:29 I need to believe & trust!

In a moment I started to have a new perspective. Maybe there is a larger plan at work here in our lives! Yes, I need to trust.

This doesn’t take away the hurt, but it does bring peace, and hope.

And so we continue to believe, and trust.