This blog is incredibly late...by like a year (super sorry about that one!). Still I figured it needed finishing for some semblance of closure.
This last post is about the rest of my time in East Asia that falls into a miscellaneous sightseeing category and some of the lessons I learned and continue to draw from over a year later.
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| So many stairs |
After returning to the city after camp we were exhausted but satisfied
with the work that had been done. We had a few days to see the sights of
the city before heading home. Our first stop was Zaisan, a beautiful
Soviet monument that looks out over the city. The steps to the top
seemed endless but the view was worth it. It was striking, however, to
look out over a city of millions and know that less than 2% of them have
ever heard about the Father and His Son. Few who live here have even
heard the name J.C., let alone his story and the hope he can bring.
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| The team- with the city laid out behind us. | | |
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Our next stop was also sobering. We visited Gandan- a large Buddhist temple. It was beautiful, ornate, well-trafficked, and filled with lostness. As we walked throughout the grounds and the temple itself my heart was broken. People spun prayer wheels attempting to multiply their petitions to Buddha, they laid prostrate in front of statues, burned incense, and left money in front of their favorite of over 1,500 Buddha statues. They all prayed and worshiped to a god and spirits who will provide them with no life or hope. As I walked I could feel the spirit of darkness pressing in on my soul as I prayed for light to break into the lives of those around me. It was a lot to process. As I sat and watched those walking by it was hard not to run up and shake them, shouting about the Father and his goodness, informing them of all that they were missing. It was also hard not to blame the Lord for allowing these people to live in ignorance but a section of the Good Book was brought to my mind as I thought and pondered. The Father tells us that he desires that all men may come to know the truth and be saved. How then are they to come to know the truth? Through us! The hands and feet of the one we worship, the Body of the Son, the family of the Father. We have been tasked with sharing the truth with people of all tribes and tongues- that they may know the Way, the Truth, and the Life! A better understanding of and dedication to that task is one of the greatest lessons I learned in East Asia.
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| The Temple |
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| Prostration Boards |
Our final day was spent at the famous Chinggis Khan statue and Turelch, their version of a national park. At the statue we all got to hold giant golden eagles for a photo opt. It was very fun but those guys were pretty intimidating. At Turelch we ate a picnic lunch and went horseback riding. I have never done a lot of riding before so it was quite the experience. Let's just say I won't turn into a barrel riding rodeo star anytime soon! Still, it was a fantastic time and a great end to our time in East Asia.
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| Chinggis Khan in all his glory |
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| The gang and our horses! |
It seems that each place I go I leave a bit of my heart there. East Asia has been no different and Lord willing I will be back someday. The Father is doing much in the hearts of those who live in this beautiful country and they are ready to follow Him, if only they have opportunity to hear. Please continue to lift up this place and these people as the Lord works to bring them close. Thank you for the opportunity to go and serve. It would not be possible with out you!
Blessings,
Julia
