Shine: Week 3

It’s hard to believe I’m half way through my time in Brazil! This last week we learned about women in prostitution, why it isn’t always a choice for them to enter the sex industry, and what makes them vulnerable. We learned about what behaviors typically result from a life lived in the industry, and what is needed in the process of restoration. We heard stories about what a street outreach to the women in the windows in Amsterdam is like. A speaker who we had was an amazing woman from another part of Brazil who spoke about the ministry work she does with transvestites. We were also able to skype with a man in Bangkok, Thailand who reaches out to the men who buy sex. He founded Amnesty International. I learned so much from both of these speakers! We also had a lawyer from the Brazilian state we are in come and speak about the exploitation of adolescents. The stories she shared were heartbreaking and sickening. I am so thankful that YWAM’s focus is set upon Christ. We live in the place of intercession and worship, so in the midst of learning about the horrors of trafficking, we can be found resting at the feet of Jesus, casting our burdens upon Him. God is continuing to teach me about the importance of giving the burdens to Him, as they are not mine to carry. The burden I feel pushes me prayer and to His presence. Jesus says to come unto Him, for His yoke is easy and His burden is light. I am blessed to enter into the sufferings of His heart so that I may know Him more fully in the power of His resurrection.