How Do I Feel About Our North Africa Field Visits?

When people ask us about our experiences in North Africa, what usually comes up is the worry about our being in an uncomfortable and not-so-safe place. While there’s truth to the discomfort and safety concerns, and I’m grateful for those who care about us, I have to admit, by far, it’s my favorite region to visit.

The first time we visited, I thought we were the only ones who has something to offer but it turned out, they gave me something even greater the moment they allowed us into their territories, culture, stories, and even their struggles. My life has never been the same since stepping foot on that side of the world. In the course of nearly 5 years of returning in the refugee camps, it continually impacts my walk with the Lord and how I perceive the world.

From our brief stays in their area…

In the area, we don’t have much mobile signal, especially in the camps. But you know what that brings? A simpler life, allowing me to fully embrace the present moment without the distraction of the internet. It may seem insignificant, but I genuinely appreciate it. I value the opportunity to observe people, engage in long hours of meaningful conversations, notice the small details around me that I would otherwise miss if I have the option to be on my phone, just being able to contemplate on my surroundings, appreciate all the functioning senses I have, and just by being alive.

Though I’ve only been able to stay there for short periods, I’ve experienced rest in the absence of unnecessary social pressures and demands that typically weigh on me in cities. I don’t feel compelled to conform to certain trends, nor do I find myself constantly bombarded by media and all sorts of marketing, nor feeling guilty for delayed responses to notifications on my phone. I can wake up without worrying about how I’d look like when meeting people and go to bed without feeling like I’m missing out on anything. Of course, I’m sharing this as a temporary visitor. My perspective might differ from that of the locals.

From their struggles….

The region we’re serving has been in war for years and still is. There’s no stability. Aside from that, famine and calamities could also hit hard that millions have died in the past long years and are still dying because of war and hunger.

No words could suffice to express the heartbreaking reality of a huge imbalance of this world, that while others could swim in their wealth and drown in their “happiness and comfort”, others do not have other options in their hand just having to survive a day. But their resilience is truly remarkable. While not everyone possesses the strength needed to persevere, many still hold onto their smiles, wit, and love for dancing and singing. Even amidst the ever-changing and unstable days, hope remains steadfast for many.

This reality pulls me back to my feet especially when I find myself complaining about things and that there’s much more greater things out there than being stuck with myself.

From the people…

I could never forget the first time I heard used the term “My/Our People” in the most heartfelt way I’ve ever encountered before. When they say “My people” they meant it as a huge chunk of who they are which is also one of factors they become deeply committed to God and the works He called them to do.

I remember when I was doing an interview with some of our trainees, I asked why they are so committed to walk for days under the scorching heat of the sun and going through the troubles of rejection and even danger to share Jesus with others. One told me,

“In this life on earth, I have already accepted we’ll never have ease and stability. But if there’s a chance for our people to experience rest and joy after this life, and if Jesus is the way, we have to bring Jesus to them. I already have it, but many of them, not yet.”

A man from North Africa

Such deep care for their people really moved me and made me reflect on my own care for my community. Honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever felt that deeply. They have countless stories of going out of their way to help their suffering people, demonstrating a compassion I’ve been praying to feel in my own heart. It’s the kind of compassion that compels them to do whatever it takes to bring Jesus even to the farthest villages so they too could have a sure hope they could cling on to.

While what I shared may not encompass all the reasons I cherish this place, I hope it has offered you an inspiring perspective. These thoughts have been long piled up and hopefully, I’ll be able to slowly unload them in my writings.

Please keep them in your prayers as they tirelessly share Jesus and bring hope to these devastated areas. Pray for peace, according to the Lord’s will, and for more support and workers in this mission field.