Philippines update we 07.11.2010 by Shauna

Sunday, July 11, 2010Greetings in the Name of our Advocate and King!Maayong Hapon! (Good Afternoon!)The last week has been a whirlwind. We met for English class, conducted Church Clinics, looked at/for rental properties, window shopped, did visitation and attended LBS and church. Whooosh!

On Monday and Tuesday, the Pastors, young people and I met for English class. The students are dedicated and practicing regularly. For those that are not teachers, I know they are practicing because of the improvements in their diction and their readiness to use the skills learned. Gigi informed me these were the noisiest classes to date. If you’ll forgive me for using American slang, the students this week were “feeling their Cheerios.” Who knew digraphs, diphthongs and two-consonant blends could be so much fun. :o) The revised schedule is wonderful! The day progresses smoothly and I rejoice the students felt comfortable making their suggestion. The feedback being received is positive and exciting. It seems more people are expressing an interest in the class, especially the laymen. It may be time to start praying about a second session. LOL!!!

After class dismissed Tuesday morning, the King David, a jeepney, was loaded with the last minute supplies and we headed for the Church Clinic in Canlanipa. Rainy season has arrived; however, everyone tells me it is not in full operation yet. PTL for His favor! The roads in Canlanipa are steep and made of dirt. On the way to Ptr Al’s church, the King David slipped and slid very little thanks to the experienced driver, Lalo. It amazes me where he can drive this jeepney! The clinic was set up and ready to go when we arrived. Ptr Al was preaching the gospel and the various stations were waiting for their patients to arrive. I enjoy the church based medical clinics. They are an overall ministry. We talk to the people individually about salvation, assurance, growing in the Lord. The opportunities abound for testimonies and exalting His name, for both sides. In the optical station, we served thirty-six (36) patients.

Thursday we participated in Ptr Sam’s Church Clinic. It was my first experience in a native style church building. Let me describe it for you. The church is built on stilts over the water in Suyatan. The floor is coco board slats; the water is visible beneath you. The walls are framed using coco board but covered with bamboo or abaca latticing. The Lord blessed us with a mild day and cool breezes. The people were such a blessing to serve.

The people here are very protective of me. This is good! However, in my limited American mind set it seems I’m not allowed to do anything. At times, it feels like I’m placed in a box and occasionally taken out for show. This issue is dual in nature. Because they are constantly caring (cooking, dishes, laundry, etc.) for me, I am surrounded by people. Bless our American hearts. We are not culturalised for uninterrupted, concentrated sessions with several people [read as multitudes of people]. In Mississippi, I grew accustomed to and enjoyed the constant fellowship with the saints. This is an entirely different concept. If the door is open, the people come and go. Whether the door is open or not, the people are looking at/for you or talking to you through the windows. Suffocation? Claustrophobia? I’ve never had trouble with it, but now I understand surrounded. :o) Today, I am laughing about it. Friday, I was stressed.

In the Philippines, it is uncommon for someone to go or do individually. It is normal for people to be with you or around you constantly. Please be praying for the “box” and “surrounded” areas specifically. Also be praying for the time I move from the MH. I will have the academic knowledge (how to cook, do laundry, etc), but little practical experience.

As noted above I am working on the adjustments (mind set & emotional); learning how to be firm and friendly, but not too frank; and practicing new language skills. Please be praying.

Earnestly in Christ,ShaunaAng Dios maau! (God is good!)