Why I Am Here...

That question has crossed my mind more than once these past few days..."Why am I here?"

I'm not referring to the "big" picture of why I am alive, I already know the answer to that. I am alive to fulfill God's purposes for my life and to worship His greatness.

Instead, why am I here - in Kabul, Afghanistan, in the fall of 2008? As I explore these thoughts in my prayer and meditation time each day, I see God reveal things to me in subtle but yet very profound ways.

The elections in the US were on everybody's minds this past week. Many of our Afghan friends asked questions about who each of us supported, who we voted for, why we voted the way we did, etc. Many of them were not just interested in my personal views, but were far more interested in the process of democracy and freedom.

And they became even more interested when I shared with them that my choice for President did not win, but that I was praying for the man who did win. I told them that I was praying for God's anointing and presence on his soul, that he would be a good leader and he would seek God's guidance and strength in the days and years ahead. First, the quizzical looks on their faces, then the moment when they realized what I was saying to them - that my love for my fellow man transcended my political fervor.....that's when I knew why I am here.

Then there was the conversation with the young lady who is the office receptionist in our Kabul office. She overheard me talking about my own children, how they have all gone to college and are now starting their own families. She specifically then asked me about my three daughters: did I approve of their education? what did they each study? were they going to have full time careers? did they vote in the election?... I shared with her how Anne and I have encouraged each of our children to seek their own dreams and to become active citizens in their country. I told her how every one of them had voted in the election, but not all for the same candidate that I did - and how proud I am of them for having their own opinions and strengths. I noticed how her smile widened and her eyes glimmered with understanding....and that's when I knew why I am here.

And then there are the children. Each day as I ride to the office from our residence, we pass many children on their way to school. The boys do not look much different than the children in our own hometowns: T-shirts, jeans, sneakers and backpacks. The girls all dress in black slacks, black long sleeve blouses and white head scarves. They attend separate schools - but they are all going to school willingly, excitedly and enthusiastically. They will someday grow up and be the future leaders of this country. Much of our work here is centered around providing for that future...that's why I am here.

I know God has a purpose for my life....a purpose that has brought me to this place, at this time. I give Him all the honor, glory and praise for all that He provides. I pray daily that He will continue to provide opportunities for conversation, for service, for awareness...that's why I am here.