Sunday, April 11, 2010

Must Read: The Sex Cafe

Anne Jackson is in Moldova right now, learning about sex trafficking.  A few days ago, she posted this "The Sex Cafe".  It's a must read.

Moldova is apparently a major centre for trafficking of women into Europe.  I can't say strongly enough how important it is to be aware of these issues.  Seriously, take just a few minutes and read the story Anne shared.  Let your heart be touched even a little by the exploitation of these women.

Daily 5 - Day 242

Today's Daily 5:
  1. So glad that I subscribe to the services at Bethel - so refreshing to be able to load their worship or sermons anytime.
  2. The crazy juxtaposition of life and death, joy and sorrow this afternoon, and allowing myself to be present with friends in each.
  3. Still had the rental car, so it was easy to do errands.
  4. My dad replaced the seatbelt in the car I bought last week, now I just need to get an inspection, insurance, and registration, and then I can start driving it.
  5. Shared hugs with a few different friends today.

Juxtaposed

I attended a gathering of a number of home churches this afternoon, and am caught tonight by the juxtaposition of what I experienced.  Tomorrow I'll do the update thing, but tonight I'm caught by what I saw today.

I stood with my hands on some friends as they and the elders of the church gathered around their mom.  She is quite likely dying, as cancer works it's way through their body.  So I stood with them and cried out for a miracle of healing.

And then, a few minutes later, I smiled and laughed as the baby son of some new friends from my house church was dedicated.  I laughed as he tried to eat the microphone while the blessing was being prayed over himself and his parents.

Within moments the reality of death and new life were very, very near.  And I'm not even certain what to make of it, but this day feels oddly and deeply profound in my heart.