My Experiences as 10/40 Hope's first missionary intern

I am pleased to say as 10/40 Hope’s first missionary intern that I have already made it through three months of my stay here in Beirut, Lebanon.

Upon living here for these few months, I have come to find out that the most surprising thing is not the amazing food, nor the hectic driving, but rather it is me. It is difficult, especially as a young female to leave what you cherish back home and move to an unfamiliar region that is at unrest compared to the westernized world.

Although it was difficult coming, I have realized how strong I am. I see how quickly I have fallen in love with this country, and most importantly the people. Daily interaction with the Lebanese people is my heart. I have made family visitations with the people in the community, both Christians and non-Christians. I am completely honored and humbled by their service, even if it is only for a cup of Turkish coffee. It’s amazing to see how loving the Lebanese can be and how their priority is people, very different from the “time-oriented” culture I know very well.

One of the most frustrating things, if you can imagine, is the language barrier. I am currently studying the Lebanese Arabic language here. The beautiful calligraphy of Arabic is no longer just twists and twirls, but words that I can now read and right, although I, most of the time, don’t know what the meaning is. Once, I babysat my neighbor’s children, though they are only four and six, it was still very difficult communicating with them because they speak only Arabic and Armenian.

There are some adjustments that I had to overcome, and even still are overcoming. The first on the list is definitely the electricity. I have never known life with a limitation of electricity. It’s not the worst thing in the world, but is something you quickly become aware of. Another is the Arabic culture itself. Being independent back home, it was and still is difficult learning my role here as a female and what I could do and also shouldn’t do. Today actually, I along with some friends went to visit a lady who recently had surgery. As we were sitting, the lady asked the size of my shoe, so quickly I took of my shoe to see. I heard gasps from fellow friends as they watched. I didn’t know it was disrespectful, and although the family laughed about it and was not offended I felt really bad, so as you see I’m still learning.

My desire is not for you to see my own heart for Lebanon, but for you to also have a heart for Lebanon and the entire Middle East. Keep this region of the world in your fervent prayers as we step into a time that is noticeably calling out for change.

May the Lord bless you all!

-IC-