Haiti | January 7th, 2013 | "Digging Deep" by: Bob Aman

By the time this is published you will all hopefully know that the well has been drilled in Lartigue and while the job may not yet be finished (holding tanks and purification to name just two areas) the big part should be complete.  While I was not able to participate or support in this effort directly (the drilling company delayed the start a few days), I was still able to go and see the site and meet the people.  

First off, we are talking remote. I really do not think anyone can seriously imagine the drive into Lartigue from the sea.  Forging rivers, utilizing mountain paths called roads (I think there was something missing in the translation) and climbing & descending grades most riders on horseback or mule-back would not consider possible. But - in the end we got there safely (I am just glad it was not my car - and this for me was further evidence why you don't buy used rental cars and I will now add to this list used pastors cars.)

Immediately upon arrival I had a decision to make - to stay with our group or to follow Holly on an adventure.  Naturally the father instinct kicked in and in the spirit of protection, forged ahead - a couple of steps behind.  Our destination was one small group of homes just off of the main trail, specifically homes to a couple of families Holly became friends with during the summer when she spent a week there.  Before even getting to the house there were shouts of "Holly" - followed by huge smiles, hugs, kisses and more hugs.  In about a week last summer - real, genuine relationship was forged.  Not because of what we can do for them, but because one young person was willing to invest time to listen and talk.  While communication with words was and is a challenge, the communication of the heart is crystal clear.

I think that is what God is looking for in us all ... Who out there is willing to speak with the heart? That is when He works - when it is no longer about us. That is when God can use us - when we are submitted to His will. I guess this is fairly simple and straight forward.

On Sunday I had the honor of addressing Pastor Wilson's church during their communion service. I shared a word received for them and then told a short story about our church's involvement in Haiti. In the end I said there is one thing I am absolutely sure of - if it is God's will, it can not be stopped! I am even more confident that His using a young woman and a beautiful church in Williamsburg to show His love for a remote village in a distant land was and is His will.  

I encourage you to try talking with your heart.  What I saw in Lartigue is that it begins with a smile and a hug... and a willingness to listen to God. You do not need to go to a distant land - but sometimes God's communication is clearer when we do not have the distractions of words.

- Bob Aman