The month of January is going to be very busy. Below, in the picture, you can see all the different groups that will be coming through the guest house.
It’s amazing how lives intersect in this place. Different groups passing through or staying for a longer period of time. Tonight we have almost every bed filled. There are 40 people at the guest house. There are 7 Haitian translators with the group. The first thing one of them said when I showed them the bedroom was, “I am going to sleep in a f****ing bed tonight!” I just had to laugh. They were so excited, it was fun to watch.
Each group passing through has different backgrounds, stories, and purposes in Haiti. Some groups are easy, some groups difficult. Recently we had a difficult group. It’s hard when people treat you less than human. I came across the following verse and really thought it applied:
“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Ephesians 5:1-2
I didn’t notice this phrase before, walk in the way of love. The thought crossed my mind, what does it actually mean to walk in the way of love? Some don’t known what God’s love is and to walk in love seems so distant. God says, “I have loved you with an everlasting love.” -Jeremiah 31:3. (For a more explanation watch this.) It is evident and sad that this group and these people don’t know that love.
I wondered, why are you treating us like this? Don’t we all want to help others? We want to help, not hurt, that’s why Melissa and I are down in Haiti. We want to help out of love for these people. To help reverse the cycle of poverty and horrible circumstances Haitians face day-in and day-out.
Another difference we can make in Haiti is to reach out with love to the people coming in through the door of the guest house. Please pray with us that we can walk in the way of love during this month. That those that are missing this love can hear and see this love in action while at the guest house.
Our verse for our wedding, a life verse for us and something I want to live by:
Let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth. – I John 3:18
2 responses to “Full House (No, Not with the Tanners)”
Hi guys! So many things go through my mind as I read that: First, it’so exciting the guest house is “bustling” with people serving in Haiti! Secondly, how blessed they are to be staying with hosts like the both of you and your staff. Thirdly, how sorry I feel that you had a group that did not understand the importance of being a servant, of not considering ourselves better than others, and of loving one another despite differences we may have. I know we are all growing in those areas – myself included, but it’s sad that a team ventured down there not being adequately equipped in the heart. Well, at least we know that you and staff were true examples for them. Continued blessings!
You are guys are doing well in making the transition to Haiti. You love and value the workers and truly make the guest house a place of encouragement and peace. I thank God for both of you!