When we first launched our discipleship small groups in August 2010, there was one particular student (Sister in Christ) with a strong hatred toward two specific Asian nationalities because of their history.  It appeared no matter what was said to encourage her to love them, she would not.

Sometime between when I first met her and today, her heart changed.  The subject of her hatred was brought up tonight but this time she told us she no longer hates those people!  I asked her my famous question “Why?”.  Her reply was “They are human”.  (aka: they are created by God just like me)  It was a “double take” moment on my part.

As I think about what she said and a few other events in the past month, I am reminded that, while God wants me to labor in His harvest field, I cannot change hearts, only He can.  As I’m reminded of this truth, I feel honored that, while God does the real work, He is still, by His divine sovereign grace, using us and this ministry to impact East Asia’s next generation for the Kingdom of God.   

Thank you Father for the eternal gift of salvation that you have given us through Jesus Christ.  Thank you for placing your Holy Spirit inside us to empower us to live according to your ways.  Thank you Jesus for interceding for us when we fall short of your glory so often.  Thank you Father God for your forgiveness, for building us up in Christ and for changing our hearts.  Thank you for all the people you have used in my life to shape an refine me.  You are good, gracious and loving!  Amen