Kenya - Conclusion

Going to Kenya has been one of the most life changing things in my life. Not only because of the many experiences, the people there that I have met, the places we went to or even the things we did. But, I think the most importantly, because of God`s presence. He`s always been there for me, but it was so tangibly felt during this trip. I made a little reflection note post trip (September 2009) and looking back at it a year and half later, I can still say the lessons I have learned are true, and have stayed impacting the way I live and love God. Here it is:

I too have been lately taking the time to reflect on some of the things we have learned and experienced in Kenya. And like many of you, I have learned very similar lessons about missions, health care, culture, prayer, and our God.

I would definitely agree that this trip has opened my eyes to missions- what is it about, how God works through missions, and how we should approach missions. I think it is was one thing to hear about it at church back home, but to see it in action is another thing. So, I am so grateful that this trip we got to visit so many mission hospitals and clinics, and to meet missionaries on the field, and to visit communities impacted by missions from the church. I am very encouraged and really touched by God’s ministry among his people. I hope to in this coming year, explore more “mission” possibilities (for the next summer or year after), pray and support missionaries out on the field and around the world (starting with some of the missionaries my church supports).

I also would have to say I learned a lot about health care, and the needs of the patients and community. Although, there were times where the health needs are overwhelming, I was encouraged to see that hospitals, clinics, health care workers were doing their best and meeting the needs of the community with the resources they have. I think in some ways, our western society sometime has a pessimistic perception toward what the needs are in “developing” countries (and how they need all our help, etc)., but I have realized from this trip that there are a lot of existing and sustainable ministries that provide for a lot of the needs in the community. Learning that has made me optimistic and wanting to learn more about what the health care workers, clinics and hospitals are doing. So, bringing that back home, I hope to be able to share with others about this trip’s experience in a positive and realistic manner that will hopefully encourage them in what God is doing in Kenya.

Culture is another important lesson for me. I think I have mentioned this previously, but working and interacting in a cross-cultural setting has made me more aware of the importance of culture in people’s lives and health. I hope to be able to be more culturally sensitive when I am practicing here in Canada. By asking one or two more questions about one’s culture and how that impacts them- can say a lot about their health needs and priority. I also feel the same when it comes to spirituality. I think like some of you mentioned that spirituality isn’t quite as emphasized in practice, but seeing how important it is from this trip, I hope to put in to practice as well- for instance, to pray for patients, and to support them in whatever spiritual state they are in.

Lastly, I am have been very encouraged by God and his faithfulness. This trip has taught me more than ever to trust in Him for our daily needs. In addition, seeing the Kenyans’ and the missionaries’ faith in the Lord in the good and bad times has made me realize how important faith, and a walk with Christ are to our daily lives.