Lilly's Letter

There are many favorite memories to share about my month-long, volunteer trip to Tanzania to serve at Sonshine Ministries. While I was there, the children would often enjoy tapping on the screen of the Apple Watch I wear on my wrist to see it light up. When the children excitedly pointed at my watch, I would share with them that there is no material possession on earth that can bring satisfaction and joy the way that Jesus does. Although someone might think a watch is cool or interesting, there is no object that is greater in value than salvation in Jesus and a relationship with Him. The most precious thing we can ever have is the Holy Spirit in us.

I had often wrestled with the idea of "choosing" which people to serve. Should one stick to their local community? Their neighborhood? Or just their country? I had previously leaned towards prioritizing my local community because it "made sense" to me. Now, since serving at Sonshine, my view has changed. God doesn't care about geographical or national boundaries. He doesn't care if there are 9,000 miles between someone in need and me. He never says to serve others because it's easy and convenient. He simply commands that we love and serve our neighbors. My "neighborhood" just got bigger. I look forward to returning to Tanzania soon to see my beautiful neighbors.