Tyler and Emily in PNG

Oceanfront in Madang

I have been reading through 1 and 2 Corinthians and this morning I read 1 Cor 15:58. Paul has been answering questions about the resurrection body and what will happen to our bodies when we die. Paul closes the chapter with these final thoughts and words:

“Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is worthwhile.” 1 Cor 15:58 (italics added)

I started to ponder and think about this passage Paul told the church. Kingdom work is not a part time job. Making disciples is not a 2 hat job. We don’t put one our ‘disciple making hat’ then take it off when we are finished with the ‘disciple making session.’ When God calls you to surrender your life to him it is a full time job. Paul states “give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord.” To advance the Kingdom of God we are called to serve, love, and obey him all day and every day (24×7). The gratification comes in knowing that your labor in the Lord is not in vain, it is worthwhile. Do not give up the kingdom work as our eternal payday is coming soon. The check has been written, signed, and is coming as the sound of trumpet.

Lord, help me to give my life fully to the work of the Lord daily. For I know this is worthwhile labor in the Kingdom.

First Encounter Story

My first morning in town, I decided to take a walk along the ocean view road just 1 block from my house and within 5 minutes of leaving the property this PNG man came running up to me. You always have to be aware of your surroundings and situations as an expatriate in PNG or any country outside USA. I was not frightened but I was aware and cautious of this man. Anyway, this was a friendly man. His name is John. He asked me the general questions any national would ask a white man in PNG. Where are you from? What are you doing here? What time and day is it in America? How did you get here, boat or plane? Etc. My initial thinking was for a nice, peaceful stroll and not wanted to deal with outsiders first thing in the morning. However, this national man followed me for 30 minutes. Finally he popped the question. Can you help me? He was asking for money to help with this specific project. I asked what is the project. He said the project is for a fish pond. I said, sorry I don’t know about this project. He went on to talk about some professor which I wasn’t able to follow. Since I didn’t give him a firm answer about helping him on the fish pond project, he asked me again. This time I told John, Sori mi no inap helpim yu long dispela projek (Sorry I can’t help you with this project). He walked away soon after that.

I had my first encounter of many to come about asking for money. I tried to be nice and listen to his story. Other missionaries here have said some nationals do have legitimate needs. As I reflect, I think we need to give a listening ear and not just slam the door on all strangers. I think Jesus would listen. We are to be respectful and courteous to others. I look forward to engaging in more conversations with strangers in the future. The bright side, it gave me a chance to practice my Tok Pisin and language skills!

PNG Top Driver

Prayer Requests:
Adjusting to new surroundings, environment in town and PBT office
Sustaining health

Praises:
Smooth transition from POC to town
Purchase of new bicycle