HOPE CONNECT

Shortly after moving overseas, I discovered authentic relationships to be one of the greatest joys of the entire experience.  I never imagined in such a short time I would share such raw emotions and shortcomings with people I barely know.  The biggest surprise to me wasn’t the honesty of my feelings, but that as I started to open up, others would themselves open in the most amazing way.  This would provide a deep connection that confirmed the importance of fellowship, as well as the assurance that we were going to make it through the ups and downs of this journey.  This ability to enter into fellowship and deeply bond with others is what makes our community at HOPE International School so beautiful.  Whether you are new to HOPE or you have been here for years, there is a deep sense of experiencing life together.  

Take, for example, a word from Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his book, Life Together. Bonhoeffer himself experienced unique companionship as he maneuvered life in the church during the reign of the Nazis. 

If we do not give thanks daily for the Christian fellowship in which we have been placed, even where there is not great experience, no discoverable riches, but much weakness, small faith, and difficulty; if on the contrary, we only keep complaining to God that everything is so paltry and petty, so far from what we expected, then we hinder God from letting our fellowship grow according to the measure and riches which are there for us all in Jesus Christ.

The experience is so much sweeter together than on our own.  Let’s give thanks today that we have each other, a place to encourage Christian community, and a place where kids and families can fellowship and grow according to Christ Jesus. 

Adam