How Far Is Heaven?

Sitting in a hotel recently, I was reading and listening to music.  A favorite group, Los Lonely Boys, came up in the queue. The song “Heaven” came on.

I have heard the song many, many times – too many times to count.  But, for the first time I heard it. I mean really heard it.  Check out the video. If you like some Latin/blues, then you will like the music.  I love the rhythm and sound. 

Los Lonely Boys - HEAVEN video

He doesn't really need my help making the rules

I have learned so much about God and His plan for us, over the last year.  Supposedly, I was teaching others.  But, God was teaching me, through them.

One of our crew members has been asking many questions about baptism. His questions started with the mechanics of the act.  You know, who does it, how is it done, is it done on a day other than Sunday, etc. 

  These were all such “basic” questions. I explained that it was not difficult. I shared Biblical accounts of those who were baptized. More questions came up. I wanted them to see that the key is water, immersion, and a cleansed heart. As we talked and I answered other questions, I realized there was a great truth hiding in the simple answers: There are some things that are so important that God did not establish unreasonable or high barriers.

I Want to See

God knows what I need to hear.  Usually, He isn’t very subtle – but, that is just because I can be a bit dense.  Often, he shows me something and I do not get the importance.  So, he shows me again.  And, finally, He drives me to the Word to say, “This is what I have been showing you!”

Over the last few weeks, we have been seeing many patients with cataracts.  Some of the cataracts are quite severe.  We let the patients know that the Ship of Life will assist them with the expense of traveling to the hospital.  The hospitals have been providing the surgery at no cost to the patient (thanks to the Fred Hollows Foundation and the Ministry of Health).  What a great deal!  All they have to invest is time, and they will regain their vision.  The years of not seeing clearly will be over.

Many of the villagers gladly accept the offer.  In fact, not long ago, we sent groups of 16 and 18 people for surgery.  Today, nearly 30 people have had surgery and are seeing clearly.

It Started in January

It was the beginning of January. We met her in Koh Chen.  She lived in the nearby village of Prek Kdam.  I met her cousin, first.  He was a very nice young man who was interested in improving his English.  He and many friends came to the ship, each night.  They just wanted to talk – or, rather, they wanted to hear me talk.

One day, while we were out walking Reggie, we saw her cousin.  We were standing across the road from his house.  His family was working.  They do beautiful carving in brass.  She walked up with a huge smile on her face.  She wanted to meet the “barangs” from the big ship.  She was introduced to us.  I had already met her younger sister. They showed us the beautiful handicrafts they make.

The whirlwind that was March

We spent time with our family and friends in Tennessee, California, and Florida. We had a chance to have dinner with old friends from college. We shared what is going on with the Ship of Life, at two churches. We even squeezed in a couple of doctor visits. We ate our share of BBQ (the west Tennessee kind, thank you), Mexican, home-cookin’, Italian, In-N-Out, sushi, and hot dogs. It was a great trip!

The answer is right in front of "her"

Last week, a 63-year old patient came onboard. She was seeking treatment for an ulcer on her right breast. Our doctor was certain the wound was from cancer. He told her that we would refer her to a hospital, in Phnom Penh, for further evaluation. She told him that she had been to all of the hospitals and they all wanted money for her needed surgery. We suggested that she come back later in the afternoon, to learn what we would recommend.

The doctor came to me, to talk about her options. I consulted with our visiting nurses. They still had funds, from their home congregation, that could be used to help the people. They were willing to help. I contacted the administrator at the Sihanouk Hospital Center for Hope. She agreed on an arrangement similar to previous ones. They would discount their bill and we would pay a small portion of the cost.

The Smiles Say It All!

A few weeks ago, we had a 33-year old patient who needed surgery. We spoke with her about the importance of having the surgery. She did not want to miss work. She was concerned that she would lose her job. It would be best if she waited until June. Dr. Tha, Piseth, and I tried to explain to her that she really couldn't wait that long. Waiting would most likely mean serious health issues - possibly death.

What is in your cup?

WARNING: Contents are hot, and considered politically incorrect to many. Consume at your own risk.

We often think we can’t live without that morning cup of Joe. Or, the mid-morning coffee to push us through the a.m. slump. A great fast lunch could be a mocha-frappe-soy-latte-no whip, with two Splendas. A nice iced coffee is guaranteed to make it over the afternoon hump. And, what dinner is complete without a nice flavored decaf?

Coffee has become an integral part of our life. Many would give Starbucks the credit [blame] for that. Maybe, rightfully so. For many people, there is definitely a loving relationship with the green girl on the white cup. I know people who judge a city by the number and/or convenient locations of the Pacific Northwest coffee vendor. Even though I don’t particularly care the taste of Starbuck’s coffee, I have to admit I get a little excited when I see the easily identifiable bold green lettering, while I am abroad. I even go in and buy a cup, for the familiar experience. It is a piece of home.

Little do they know!

When we first arrived in Koh Chin, Debbie and I put Reggie on the leash and took a long walk. We checked out our local pagoda. We walked to the market. We wandered to a neighboring pagoda. Next, we cruised the high school.

It was a dark and dreary morning

Since the beginning of 2012, we have been working along the Tonle Sap River, in the Kandal Province. This is the first time the ship has visited these villages. In the past, we have only worked the Mekong River. The people are eager to see the doctor and dentist!