Church...

What is the church? Who is the church? What did Jesus intend his church to look like? These are questions that could seem to have obvious answers, but truely think about it. Jesus spoke in Matthew 18:20 " For where two or three are gathered together in my name, I am there in the midst of them." His presence and spirit is indwelling within us, he is present. He is present wherever we worship him, wherever we love, wherever we serve, and in every place that we represent Jesus to the lost. I have been incredibley challanged and moved in thinking about these thoughts. What is it that Jesus has called us to? In Matthew 25:35-36 he speaks again"For I was hungry and you gave me food; I was thirsty and you gave me drink; I was a stranger and you took me in; I was naked and you clothed me; I was sick and you came visited me; I was in prision and you came to me."

Living here in Thailand, in a place of so much desperation and need so present all around, I am moved. I desire so much so to have a heart for the lost, for the broken and hurting. I feel as if recently I have become hardened and complacent toward the poor and to those in need. I desire a tender heart, and a spirit quick to hear the gentle voice of he who calls. I desire wisdom in the giving of my money and time, yet above all I desire to have the heart of Jesus. I desire to be the hands and feet of him. If Jesus were to be walking down the street here in Bangkok.... where would he go? What would he do? Who would he spend his time with? To whom would give?

My roommate last night asked me this question, "Ani, what is the church?" I spent time with her friends a few nights ago, and I could see that they were curious as to why I am here, and why I am so different from other Americans...They said I am looking and acting Asian...haha! I am encouraged by these open doors that the Lord is providing. I only desire to be sensitive and listen to his voice and allow him to move in his timming. I praise him.