Reflections on Our Germany Trip, Part Three

Yesterday, we spent most of the day wondering around Cologne, looking at churches, and drinking a few beers. In the afternoon we met with an old friend who I worked with when I lived here. Then we had dinner with Jared and Lori, who are two of the team members here. We had such a great time. We were able to talk about so many things, whether that be our passions, stuggles, or dreams. It was such an encouraging evening.

Most of all though, we talked about their ministry here in Cologne. For the first time since we started exploring the possibility of coming to Germany, God started to give us a vision for how we could specifically be used in this ministry. Jared and Lori shared their passions for reaching the marginalized and forgotten people - those who would never step inside a church.

One group of people who are particularily marginalized in Germany are Turks. They make up more than 10% of the population of Cologne, but they are frequently looked down upon by most here. It struck me that I could use my love of languages to learn Turkish and develop relationships with people from that background.

Kathi was also struck with how she could minister here. There are numerous music opportunities here in Cologne, which Kathi could easily get involved in to get to know people and be a witness. Kathi was amazed that she finally had a reason for having studied music for six years!

Anyway, we're definitely excited about these possibilities, but the flip side is that this experience is quickly taking away any illusions about this being fun or easy! That in itself makes me want to run away. Pray that God would help to be faithful to where he wants us, not necessarily where we want to be.