Joshua 1:9 was a pivotal verse in our week in Vietnam. "This is my command-BE STRONG AND COURAGEOUS! Do not be afraid or discouraged. FOR THE LORD YOUR GOD IS WITH YOU EVERYWHERE YOU GO." I thought the bold section of the verse would just provide the scripture verse as we lead children's group our first two days in country.  What I didn't expect was that it would define each part of our trip and all of the people we had the distinct honor of working with.  

Everyone has courage.  We had courage crossing the streets in Ho Chi Minh City, stepping into a unsteady boat in the Mekong River, or putting a boa constrictor around our neck. We all have courage, but not everyone is courageous. Being courageous is constant courage in the face of need, danger or persecution.  That is not a dictionary definition, but a realization God gave me as we worked with pastor Hoi and AWANA leaders Quang and Janice. 

When I met Pastor Hoi I noted his calmness, what I saw was his courageous spirit for God. In one breath he was telling us that we could not go to Tong's church Sunday morning due to government warnings, but in the next he had the exuberance of having us come to his church Sunday evening to praise and worship together.  A church that exists under the constant threat of persecution that is lead by a passion of serving God is an example of courageous living in faith.  

Quang and Janice have a courageous vision.  They want 10,000 AWANA clubs by the end of the decade. They have a blind unmitigated faith in God and that He will protect and provide for them.  They are in need of leaders. They need to train these leaders, who ever they may be.  They will need much more in the way of resources as they approach their goal.  They also have to be aware of the government and how they view what Quang and Janice are putting into motion. All they have is needs and questions, but each day they start with two hearts open to God and how He will provide.  Not just courage, but courageous living.

My experience in Vietnam was one that will continue to change me.  The one thing I will never forget is the courageous people of Vietnam. "Be strong and courageous, for The Lord your God is with you everywhere you go!" 

Brian