It was over a week ago that a woman on a short-term mission trip mentioned this verse in a meeting with the volunteers for the new Crisis Pregnancy Center in Pucallpa. It's stuck in my mind since then, making the rounds from one topic to another.
We joke with the Chapmans that we're "professional do-gooders," no clear vision but trying our best to help out however we can. We came to Peru with one plan (and a vision with goals and ideas), but the Lord had another one. I think we've been walking in step with Him as we've meandered through these twists and turns.
But what is the good we're doing here, and what is the harvest we hope to reap? My first thoughts of "harvest" have to do with new people coming into a relationship with the living God, but I think that view is probably too limited. "Harvest" could have to do with others, but it might just have to do with me, too. A harvest of character in my life.
I was weary for many months. As we approach another arrival-in-Peru anniversary, I'm looking back on a tough, exhausting, discouraging year. The last few weeks, however, have been different and new. I feel a fresh hope and enthusiasm for our work here, and a desire to make our last 6 months our best 6 months on the field.
I'm not giving up. I'm going strong, and I'll be looking out for the harvest.
