Cool side by side from Navajo Rez VBS. Left is Trinity at age 10 getting VBS crafts ready. Right is her helping lead VBS crafts this year at age 20. She’s standing within just a few feet of the exact same spot. Trinity was 4 and Q was 6 the first time we took a summer VBS trip to the Rez. Phoebe and Norah don’t remember a summer without the Rez and Luka made his first trip last week. Between those summer trips, November trips, and other visits, my kids have done a lot of growing up on the Rez. And in a way, we have too. Like so many things, several years ago we set out to teach but ended up mostly learning. If there’s anything we’ve definitely learned in the last 16 years or so, it’s that we still have A LOT to learn! But here are just a few of the lessons our Navajo brothers and sisters have taught us over the years.
- Jesus speaks powerfully through every language
- Church is the people not the building (or the revival tent)
- Laughter is a universal language
- It’s easier to share the gospel when you’re also sharing life
- Our creator is way more creative than we give Him credit for
- Skin color and cultural differences are no match for Jesus Christ
- A different way of doing things isn’t a wrong way
- Quiet waters run deep
- Simply traveling a long ways is a good way to let someone know you care
- Listening, learning, and understanding are an absolute must for all involved in sustainable cross cultural partnerships
Like I said, these are just a few of the many lessons, growth is a glorious part of a journey that I’m so glad we’re still on!
Pastor Roy Layman 