Turkey: Looking Back

Grace with friends from English school

Well, I've been back State-side for twelve days now. It's hard to believe I was actually in Antalya less than two weeks ago!

Above all of the feelings that came with the hardships of the trip, I have a great joy from the countless lessons learned. I watched in awe as I again saw my God work in truly amazing ways in the hearts of our friends and in us in the past five weeks. Through the trip itself, our team, the Turks, and my personal devotions, He again interwove so many convictions, challenges, and so much encouragement as He revealed Himself yet further. I'll do my best at putting it into words, but you'll quickly see the focus of this post is clearly not on my eloquence.

Darlene with our host, Yula

Of the many lessons, one of the biggest was certainly the incredible impact of my relational investment in the lives of others. It's amazing what can happen when you make the choice to take your focus off of yourself and take the time to genuinely get to know someone! Taking a personal interest in the life of another will help you get below the surface and begin friendships. It paves the way for the a relationship that exemplifies true compassion.

The team with one of our English classes

Noah meeting a new friend

I have learned that there is a vast difference between pity and compassion, and sadly, many people confuse the two. I've heard it said that pity is self-focused empathy, the feeling that comes when you see someone in a dire situation and help them merely because of your need to ease your own conscience. Compassion, on the other hand, is genuinely caring for others, understanding their plight, and taking action to meet their true needs. Often, we are tempted to be consumed with pity for those who have vital needs unmet. However, we are commanded to go and give them everything necessary to fulfill their needs! In reality, all I have to do is speak in order to fulfill anyone's most basic need--salvation. In order to communicate Christ effectively, however, I must first live like Him. By showing compassion.