Today was a full day of travel as we left our friends in Sabah, Malaysia to head to Jakarta, Indonesia. By 6:00 am we had the bags in the bus and were handed Bao in a bag to-go. From Kota Kinabalu we flew to Kuala Lumpur and from there we flew straight to Jakarta, Indonesia. Upon our arrival we met with the pastor of one of our doctoral students. We had a rehearsal and are now winding down, preparing for tomorrow’s services.
Since today was filled with mostly travel, it was a great time to reflect on what God has been doing in and around me. Most days I like to journal or write to God, and as I flipped through the pages of my notebook I was able to see how bringing my burdens was a way to be reminded of God’s faithful love towards me. He has answered prayers and showed me that His way is always best.
One of the songs we are singing is called “Ku Mau Cinta Yesus Selamanya.” It is a very popular song here in Malaysia and Indonesia and the translation means “I will love you Jesus forever.” It goes on to say even though trials come, I still want to love Jesus forever. I, as well as most everyone I know, has been through at least one trial, and yet, because of the love of Christ we, the Church, are able to continue to say “I still want to love Jesus.” It makes sense when we think about the trials Christ had to go through for us. We love because He first loved us.
The most beautiful thing about this whole trip is that whether I am home in Houston or Waco, or whether I am across the globe, Christ is our unifying commonality through the Holy Spirit. I can see it in their eyes, receive it through their hospitality, and hear it when they sing. I have come to share the little that I know about music and worship, but what I take away is an encouragement of faith and a furthering to run this race.
Ku Mau Cinta Yesus Selamanya!!
- Sarah Noemi Martinez
