-Ghent, Belgium
-July 12
We started our "field work" yesterday. We were divided into groups based on our language learning group from last week. Somehow I was chosen leader of our group. My first question to the group was "what was your preference type on the Myers-Briggs". Somewhat to my consternation, I was not the only Introvert - our whole group of 5 scored in the introvert preference(I know some of you will not believe that I am an introvert but it is true) . I realized right away that we would need to take the next two week project a bit slower.
I decided (with the groups consent) that it might be best to "test the waters" in a situation where it would be natural to engage in conversation; I thought we might do best just going to a cafe, ordering a coffee, and eventually ask the waitress a few questions. Everyone thought this was a good idea. It was "safe" and we would enjoy ourselves.
Having spent Sunday in the central part of the city, I thought of a small coffeehouse that might be ideal. It was right next to the castle we visited. We arrived at the cafe around 3:30pm. There was only one customer. The waitress came and took our orders. However, in the typical European style she did not check on us much at all. Just when I was contriving to get her to come to our table, the owner came out of the bathroom situated near our table.
We told him how we liked the cafe. We inquired when it had opened. He told us "three days ago". We were amazed. He then talked about his cafe, asked why were there, and so on. He ended up sitting down with us for 1.5 hours. We were amazed.
He told us a lot about the Belgian and European mindset. At one point he said that Belgians did not dislike Americans. He said that they even look up to America and want to be shown the way - just not the wrong way. Then He shared about why he opened up his shop. He shared why the Belgians were so opposed to the war in Iraq. It was extremely insightful to hear his perspective. He then said that he would be happy to help us in our "studies" this month. His wife even joined in the conversation and invited to come daily at 3pm to learn Flemish (or Dutch).
We were amazed at God's provision. Our group had been anxious about going out and "meeting" people. God lead us to this cafe. We were just hoping to "get through" our first day. We were hoping for a teaspoon of water but God provided a 2 liter bottle of our favorite drink.
Pray for us as we develop this relationship. Pray that it will lead to conversations not just about American ways, but about "THE WAY". Pray that this will lead to other opportunities to influence this community for Christ. Pray that the information will be useful for the missionaries and pastors here.
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