This week, I am writing from New Orleans, Louisiana in a coffee shop that sells the famous beignets. While I wish I could claim the punny title as my own, this shop has mugs with that phrase plastered all over them. I found it to be quite hilarious.
I am here on a host development trip, along with my supervisor, Jordan. We get the chance to meet with some of individuals who will be partnering with the short-term trip teams from Adventures in Missions that will come to Louisiana this spring and summer. In the brief time that we’ve been here (less than 24 hours), we have gotten the chance to try gumbo, seen a group of women exit a party bus and promptly start twerking (I’ve never felt more uncomfortable), and seen many Mardi Gras beads hanging from the power lines. Last night, we walked around downtown and every time we saw voodoo, it was connected to a liquor store. Curious.
I love seeing and experiencing new places. New Orleans has quite the blend of cultures and fascinating characters. The southern architecture is gorgeous and the bayou is as cool as it sounds (I love nature). The drive in involved crossing over a bridge that was a few miles long with a beautiful stretch of water. Louisiana has been treating us quite well.
There is something about seeing a place with fresh eyes for the first time. I can see the different influences from many people groups in this place. I can see that there are areas that are not as recognized by the media that need just as much help. I can see the impact of a shipyard closing and leaving many without jobs. I can see the desire for people to be free spirits. I can see the southern hospitality in the congregation of the church we are staying at for the week. I can see the heart of a missionary in the pastor who is one of our partners. Fresh eyes are a gift because they lack a bias. They allow us to see a place the way the Lord might see it. I’ve missed having that opportunity that came with each new month on the World Race.
While it has been to fun experience the unique culture here, I’m even more excited about what God has in store. This is going to be an interesting week, but I’m also hopeful it will be productive for the kingdom. Pray that our meetings, beginning tomorrow, go well and that we are able to find more churches and groups that could use the help of Adventures in Missions. Pray that we have hearts and minds to hear where and to whom the Lord is leading us.
For now…
Beignet, done that!
