Haiti: Give Thanks by Emily Estes

10/17/2012 // 8:13pm CST

My day began in 1 Thessalonians 5; we are told to:
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV)
This is my first time visiting Haiti and I'm filled with heartache and awe- all at the same time. The journey, one that has revealed itself to hold deep physical, emotional, and mental dimensions, is something I never could have prepared myself for. After arriving in Port au Prince our group made it through customs much easier than anticipated and we embarked on an ever so speedy, looping and turning, and at times terrifying road trip to Jacmel.
I have to back up just a bit and share my first, true interaction with a Haitian... I was welcomed into Haiti with a fist bump :) Emile noticed my name, Emily, on one of my luggage items and excitedly introduced himself and told others that we have the same name (almost). I knew we were in the company of good people at that moment! The interaction brought a sense of peace and excitement for what was ahead.
Then the reality of the circumstances here in Haiti, the heartache, really started to hit. The drive offered a continuous reminder of the many things I have to be grateful for. Already I've found that it's easy to get focused on what the unfortunate circumstances are... the true blessings come in recognizing the beauty that surrounds us amid the less than ideal conditions.
Cole and I ventured out to get a better view of the ocean and community around us. Tek Tek, a new friend, found us (note that we were simply out to see the ocean and such and it didn't take Tek Tek long to join us) and took us on a little excursion through the local area. He showed us beautiful artwork, spoke fondly of his children, and introduced us to his friends who also sell their artwork through his business. Our exciting moment with Tek Tek came in finding a map of Jacmel! Al had just told us how he has not been able to find one and how nice it would be to have one.... what a surprise we had for him at supper tonight! A map with a legend and all! :) We were glad that our little venture brought us friendship and an opportunity to talk with those who live and work in this area.
There's much more- too much to put into words at this point. It's a beautiful thing how God orchestrates our lives, where He leads us, and how He calls us to serve. In an effort to be brief, I leave you with this:
Rejoice my friends! We have much to celebrate in what IS happening in Haiti. Let us hold no doubt or fear for this country- good things are happening because of the ministry shared here! Rejoice!
Pray for us and our friends here in Haiti. We have much to do this week- pray for our physical and emotional strength; that we may serve in the way God has called us to serve!
Above all, give thanks! Praise God, from Who all blessings flow - we are so very blessed in our community of faith and all that we have available to us back home! May we continue to share those blessings in the manner of which we are called to do.

Thank you for continued prayers! God bless you all!
Emily Estes