Going Out On a Limb

Wow, what an experience it has been so far! And I can honestly say that with a big smile on my face. I cannot begin to describe the joy and wonder that has come from this week. We have all built strong relationships with leaders and children alike, and I for one cannot wait to come back to Poland for another Young Life camp!!

And while there has been much joy to be had in the days that we have been here, it was also quite apparent that we would be stretched here as well. But being stretched is not always a bad thing. In fact, what once caused apprehension and even fear for me now is a source of the joy that I have experienced. Earlier in the week, Mike had told the group that whenever he went out on a limb for the Lord, he was greeted with lifelong experiences and memories, all while helping to further the kingdom. In these past few days, especially with our recent trip to the hospital, I have really taken it more to heart. In truth, this entire trip has been a gamble. This summer camp is Young Life's first attempt at creating a base in Poland. All of us who are from Pearce, don't know Polish, and so any form of communication, especially without a translator, is an even bigger gamble. But with great risks come great rewards. I have made so many wonderful memories here, all by taking those chances. And the more chances I take the more rewards I seem to reap. In many ways, we may be some of the first tangible examples of a Christ driven life, leading by example.

So it comes without fear when we are faced with different and difficult decisions, because we are reminded that God is in control, and as long as we continue to follow Him, He will make our paths straight. Earlier today, Mike and I snuck out of the hospital to go to the McDonalds across the way, in order to buy milkshakes for everyone in the hospital. I won't forget any of the faces that I saw as we handed them out, but especially the face of young Eva, the youngest girl at 10 in the camp. Her eyes lit up and she was grinning from ear to ear, and I knew that the risk had been worth it. This was why I was supposed to come to Poland. To get sick and go to the hospital, to buy milkshakes to hand out to the children. To show them love in as simple a gesture as that. 

As we wait to hear word for our release, and the latest rumors on when that could be, I think back to the very first night in the hospital. I can honestly only remember despair, and I mean that in the fullest sense of the word. No longer having hope, lying next to two men who only spoke Polish, and nurses who couldn't even pronounce my own name. Just this utter sorrow of being confined here for an unknown amount of time. But looking back now, it's nice to know that those moments were fleeting, and I have experienced much joy since then. Tonight, as we have all been reunited with our own team, as well as all of the Polish teens, we are having a festive banquet to celebrate. Until next time friends and family!!!!

In Christ,

Sean Hardy