Put on love


23 September
Therefore, God’s chosen ones, holy and loved, put on heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience
accepting one another and forgiving one another if anyone has a complaint against another. Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you must also forgive.  Above all, put on love — the perfect bond of unity.
Colossians 3:12-14 HCSB

I think the keywords here are: 'put on.' Just as I arose this morning and chose what to wear on my outer body I must choose what to wear on my soul and spirit.

As I choose to wear love, I know it will cover a multitude of sin that may come against me. If I walk in God's love I will have heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, extending forgiveness to those who need it.

Yesterday we discovered out guide was expecting tips for himself and his workers. I had planned on giving a tip but not to the level expected. I investigated from another guide what is the norm and what their wage was. This put things into perspective. Of the $700US we had paid initially, they received a pittance.

Last night our guide told me he was going to surprise the boys with us with something special. A large amount of food came out but then after dinner alcohol and nibbles were also provided. I made it plain to our guide we could not give the boys alcohol as we were responsible for them and although they were 19 and older they were already very noisy and disruptive and alcohol would make matters worse. Despondent he agreed and said he had planned to have a night of singing and dancing. We can have that without alcohol, as we had already shown.

What really surprised me was the way the boys refused to drink in deference to my stand. I respect them for this.

After a few incidents we could easily sour and refuse a tip but understanding culture and language difficulty grace is required.

This is our last day as we move on down to Pokrah. We are all ready for the return. The boys badly need a shower, my clothes need washing and to know we have completed the trek is important. I have a friend meeting me on Saturday and she is taking me for a well-earned massage. Tomorrow I hope to fit in a paraglide as well.

If I sow love and grace, I will reap it. Amen!



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