The holiday season is over and we've been here almost a month. I am feeling the itch to be productive! I want to show our supporters that we aren't just lazing about in the sun. I want to show Belizeans that we came here to add value to their nation and we have skills to bring to the table. I want to prove to myself that I can make this work and prove to God that He didn't send the wrong family.
Progress is being made in meeting government officials and local pastors, connecting with churches and getting settled in. As we look ahead to 2020 and the decade to come, there's a draw to build something here. I want to build something substantial; something that makes a statement and makes a difference. Something that, at the end, will be a monument to my hard work, faith and perseverance. Sound familiar?
The Bible has a story about people who decided to build a tower for their own fame and renown. Genesis 11: 4 says: "Then they said, 'Come, let us build ourselves a city, with a tower that reaches to the heavens, so that we may make a name for ourselves...'” Long story short, it doesn't end well for the tower of Babel or for those looking to build it and thereby exalt themselves.
It's not necessarily a bad thing to build a "tower." We may even ultimately have a building or leave some other tangible mark on the country. What I need to check is my heart's motivation. There are tons of opportunities to plug-in here and make a difference. All that will come with time, as God opens doors and partnerships for us here. What I need to keep centered is that my success is measured by my obedience, not by the monuments I build.