Diversity in the Kingdom of God

“After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, ‘Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!’” Revelation 7:9–10 (ESV) 

The idea of traveling to Brazil for a month was both exciting and nerve-racking.  Having never traveled to another country and not knowing Portuguese, I was scared I would make a mistake or not be able to communicate with the Brazilians. During prep week, some Fellows and I gathered often to pray and encourage each other for the upcoming trip.   

2 Corinthians 12:8-10 remained close to my heart during this time. “Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this [a thorn], that it should leave me.  But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.  For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” (ESV).  

I knew that my weakness would be emphasized at times on this trip, so the reminder that God’s grace was sufficient for me was reassuring for me. Then, on January 7th, we left the United States. After two full days of travel, we arrived at the campus we would stay at for the first week. I quickly learned that some Brazilians spoke English well and were willing to teach me Portuguese. After talking with a LifeShaper, I was shocked to learn that he was only nineteen years old because of his wisdom and insight about Brazilian Christian Culture.   

During the week, I was encouraged by the LifeShapers’ heart for God and their welcoming spirit.  The Brazilians love to sing, dance, play games, and laugh with each other, and they quickly accepted me into their home. My time with them was full of laughter and encouragement.  One night, while we were worshiping, I stopped singing and listened to Brazilians praise our Lord in Portuguese and began thanking God for the opportunity to experience that. The next day, David Blanchard challenged us to ask the Brazilians what the challenges of being a Brazilian Christian are. That night, I asked four Brazilians their thoughts, and their answers were similar to mine. It was surprising how despite the drastic culture difference, our struggles are the same. How blessed we are to be a part of so great a kingdom!  During my time in Brazil, I have been blessed with a godly community, unforgettable experiences, and fantastic food!   

“Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!” Psalm 133:1 (ESV) 

Tanner Gernenz
Class XIX
Team Norte