Week 5 – A Story Worth Sharing…
“Would you lead Bible Study on Friday at 5pm?” I was asked at short notice near the end of a busy week of preparing courses, writing devotional material and teaching adults. It is hard for me in French and Creole but I reluctantly agreed. Arriving 15 minutes early, 50 people were already present, all under 40 years old. The numbers swelled to 150 through the devotions. The people were eager, hungry to learn, to share the good things that God had done for them, to memorize the scriptures and apply them in their lives.
As it went dark and people continued to meet using torchlight I was humbled by 2 hours of presentation, small group work, feedback and such singing and praying. Yet it is the same at any training course in which I am involved through the Department of Christian Education, be it training 300 preachers, 250 stewards, Sunday school teachers or evangelists. All want a better understanding of their faith and the printed booklets that accompany such courses. Materially Haitians own so little so a study book, Bible or Hymnbook is precious. Spiritually they are rich but aware that their faith needs deepening and daily growth.
It is hard not to make comparisons with the UK and the little time we invest in Bible study or courses to strengthen our faith, yet whenever we are, lives are changed, people are empowered and society is transformed as the Good News is shared. Phrases like ‘Now I understand, I did not know that before, I can now’… are music to a teacher’s ears and I thank God that I have been called to use my skills and passion, in Haiti, for these few years.
Jesus, Word of Life, dwell in me.
by Sharon Harbottle
Mission Partner in Haiti