CASE STUDY

Case Study 1

It was probably 1992 or 1993 when I was ask to accompany a co-worker in her mission work in particular mountain somewhere in Luzon. It was a tribal mission. We had a long trip and first travel via bus. I can't remember how many transfers we had until we reached a river where we rode a boat. Then on the other side we travel again until we reached a mountainous area where there was a small villagers of dark skinned kinky haired natives. They already dress like us, may be bacause of the influence of nearby villagers and other missionaries who came before us.

We stayed the night at one nipa hut. You will feel the povery and primitive lifestyle because of the soil flooring and their food. The following day, my companion taught Bible stories to the kids. I assisted through prayer and basic guitar accompaniment when they were singing. We also gave clothes, canned goods and materials for kids. During nightfall, the adults were taught how to read the alphabet. Many smiled at us because of our service and donations.Inspite of what we did, I felt something that nobody seem to feel. The expected development was not seen. They still remain in poverty and in their idolatrous primitive beliefs. In my spirit, I feel witchraft still being practiced by some and they were using it against us. Thank God for His protection. With this observation, I was made to ask a question... why?

The following day after we were served with breakfast, the acting Pastor ask me to join them and to go with her. I ask them to leave me instead so I could wash the dishes. After they left, I immediately did what I said. The native owner of the house gladly appreciate what I did and said... "Bakit ikaw ang naghuhugas?” (Why are you cleaning the dishes?) I told them that it is the right thing to do. It was normal for us, our parents taught us this way. It surprises me more when she said more, "alam mo, ilang taon na dito pumupunta ang Pastorang kasama mo pero ni minsan hindi sya naghugas?” (Would you believe that it already been years since the Pastor first came here but not once did she wash the dishes?) I was bit shock and ashamed have not asked the Pastor about those words to confirm. But now I am telling you this story to learn from Christian life's realities. I don't want to comment, my intention was not to humiliate said worker or to criticise. As the tile says, this is a case study for any reader to relate and learn. This lesson are seldom mentioned on the pulpit but it is a reality. No offense to the worker. I my self have shortcomings. Thank God for in the end, whether we have shortcomings or faults, God are still preach and testified. His words will not return to Him void. Let this be a lesson to all