Reflections from the HOPE Volunteer Corps - Rob

#1 Most challenging… I feel the most challenging thing would be the poverty, not just the sheer volume of beggars, alcoholism and lack of hygiene; but the corruption. Diplomats and ministers, like only feet away from families in deep need, but due to selfish ambition, pride and lack of compassion, it is as though they are blind to it, or care very little about it, deeming it all a “security risk”.

#2 Most memorable…Arriving at church on Sunday morning to be greeted by Edmund, a brother who lost his faith and the group had been reaching out to; he made the decision later that day that he again needs to get right with God. Pair this with sharing our faith at the University of PNG and preaching the word hard to brothers on campus. A brother who we stunned with our candid stance on mainstream Christianity attended church and set up a study as soon as possible after. His name was Kalvin.

#3 What you love… The church; at every point I was greeted as family, lovingly embraced and offered everything. Even on the streets of the ghetto, I was embraced as a brother. It was so encouraging to feel loved and cooked meals for by almost all the PNG communities.

#4 Life changing decisions… A decision I have made from the experiences of this trip is to again really trust and involve myself with HOPE prospects. For so long, I was weary of HOPE’s management and purpose in PNG, even to the extent where I had stopped giving tithe to HOPE; but this trip has revitalised my understanding and conviction when serving the poor. Stay with the Timothy’s, Joanne was quickly able to express her heart about HOPE’s past with a real sense of passion for the growth and rebirth of an amazing organisation that helps so many. To be like Jesus and look upon the poor with compassion, to see the immediate needs and the need for God and salvation.

- Rob

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