I cannot even begin the understand how it feels to be swimming in black water, waves crashing over me and in pain at the sound of the wind and that only just begins to describe the trauma the people of the Philippines went through.
One particular story I was able to hear this week was that of Tina, a teacher who now spends her time doing everything she can for KIM (Kids International), the ministry we are working with here in Tacloban. After waking up on a normal day for her, her world was literally shaken in the worst way possible. As a result of the typhoon that hit in November, Tina lost five family members right before her eyes, including her mother, her sisters, a niece and a nephew. How does someone go on living after this kind of devastation and horrific memories now burned into their head?
Well Tina's story went on, and oh how special it was. As a result of the typhoon and the loss she experienced, Tina gave her life to The Lord and started to truly examine how she lived. Her life went from only believing in God and doing good deeds, to not only believing but having a personal relationship with God.
Tina now works for KIM, serving her people in anyway she can and loving the life God saved.. We don't always know why things happen the way they do but we do know who is in all things and that's God.
She lives a beautiful life.
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Another story that truly shows God's loving and faithful hand is in the story of James. James is a little boy, an orphan, who lives in a village very near to The Lighthouse (KIM's Tacloban site). Not too long ago James had a tumor that sat between his eyes and was serving an unhealthy life for this boy. As KIM learned his story and became aware of his situation they started to raise money for the surgeries that were necessary for the removal of the tumor. [God is SO good]. The money was raised and now after three recent surgeries, the tumor has been removed and James is as healthy as can be.
This kid smiles more than I've ever seen a child smile. He wants nothing more than to see you laugh, give you joy and love on you and it shows how precious life can really be. James, thank you for reminding us not to focus on why things happen but who is in all things and that the most important part of life is who we are serving and to live like Christ.
He lives a beautiful life.
