Serving at the Faculdade Nazarena do Brasil

Some people just think about things, or about doing things, but others just go ahead and get things done. That is how I see the ICS students who are here in Brazil this semester. They don't just want to think about it. They want to get on with it by getting their hands and clothes dirty and learning in the process. This week they pitched in and helped the Brazilian students who were cleaning out an old warehouse, then went on to their Practicum or other class activities. Just in case you were tempted to think that I just watched them or took pictures while they worked, I want to assure you that I also helped out, and even got smacked in the forehead with a piece of lumber in the process (my own carelessness, for sure).

Last evening, these same students went out to help distribute tracts and hot soup to the homeless men sleeping on the streets of Campinas. We were also able to distribute food to several mothers and their children on the street. We purposely did not take pictures. We are not here to collect photos, or memories, or even chalk up intercultural activities on our resumes. This is not a practice run, nor even preparation for the future. We are here now to serve alongside of our Brazilian brothers and sisters who actively represent the Kingdom of God in this place. The students did not hang back, either. They boldly prayed for the people as they were served. They shook the hands and expressed their love and compassion for these men and women who just happen to be more badly affected by their own sinful choices or those of others than most people.

Again, though, we were reminded of grace. But for the grace of God we too could be just as sadly affected by sin, injustice, and evil. We were saddened when we finally ran out of soup and bread around 10:00 PM and had to leave before taking care of everyone's needs. It was such a stark reminder of how many still wait for someone to respond with hope. How many people? How many places? How long must they wait? Where are all of the young people who offer to serve the Lord whereever?

One of my Brazilian brothers reminded me last evening how prone we are to complain about our personal circumstances and "problems." But when we get out on the street and get involved in ministry, it is so much easier to recognize how blessed we are and how grace filled we are as we serve the neediest people in society. By John Hall Jr.