Humbled.

*This post was intended to be posted yesterday, Sunday, January 12th 2014*

First, I'd like to take this time to ask you to pray for each-and-every person that was affected by the massive earthquake that devastated Haiti, four years ago today. It's hard to believe that it's already been four years. I thank God for leading me to that beautiful nation for the first time in 2011 and for six months in 2012.

"Humbled."

I titled this post humbled as a result of the Sunday night revival tonight at my church. And to be completely honest, it's not because of the pastor nor the sermon that was preached. It's because of a twenty-something young man, Jeremiah. 

Let me tell you a little about Jeremiah.

Jeremiah is as normal as all of us, just differently-abled; he was diagnosed with Down-syndrome at birth.  We have hit it off since the first day I met him; like his father and brother, he is a die-hard UNC Tarheel fan.  When he makes eye contact with you, he gives you the absolute biggest grin and his signature thumbs up. His family diligently serves the church and are no doubt genuine lovers and followers of Christ.  They are a musically talented family, using that blessing as a method to outreach and spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

So, what humbled me tonight?

The fact that Jeremiah can't really carry on a "normal" conversation, his words are slurred and nearly 100% undistinguishable; however, on this Sunday night, during praise and worship, Jeremiah sang aloud, audible and distinguishable, nearly every single word to every single worship song, all while lifting his hands up unto to the Lord.  Wow.  How amazing is that?  Talk about the Holy Spirit moving in my friend Jeremiah!  Praise the Lord.

To whomever comes across this blog post, I encourage you to 1) pray for Jeremiah and the amazing heart that he has for the Lord and 2) that each and every one of us can "take" something from this post....a little humility, revelation, conviction, whatever it might be.  I know sometimes during praise and worship, my mind is in 1,000,000 other places, not giving God the attention that He deserves....but not Jeremiah.  Not tonight.  He sang his heart out unto the Lord and left me with a memory that I will truly cherish.

In Loving Memory of Grandma; Lector Mae (Bailey) Piper

I love this photo of my grandmother, Lector. This beautiful Wednesday morning, my lovely wife Nikki and I attended her funeral in Creedmoor, NC. I heard individuals share hilarious memories of my grandma, knowing that she was smiling down at us from Heaven. Although we heard stories that made us laugh, the stories that truly resonated with me this morning, were those told by an elderly cousin of mine, whom preached the ceremony, stating how he could recall as far back as 60 years ago, my grandma diligently serving in the church and community for the Lord. The pastor spoke of how Mrs. Lector Mae (Bailey) Piper was always willing to serve the Kingdom, and how even to this day she would run into him, asking "Are you still a'preaching?" 

Throughout the service at the church, I felt my grandmothers presence; I knew that she was watching and listening to every word. I was able to speak at the gravesite for the final ceremony. I shared with family members and friends how, growing up, Grandma Piper was constantly talking about the Lord...but as a rebellious child and adolescent, it went through one ear and out the other.. But that didn't stop her from praying for each and every one of us; how I know that those prayers have helped me become the man that I am today; that after hearing countless testimonies of how my grandmother was a genuine follower of Christ, a true servant, I truly realized that her faith in Christ truly reflected through her life....that Christ came to this Earth to serve the people and my Grandmother did the same for us.

I closed the ceremony with these verses:

"I thank God, whom I serve, as my ancestors did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy. I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also."

2 Timothy 1: 3-5

Grandma, thank you for the prayers. Thank you for never giving up on me.

Happy 1st Birthday, Liljana!!

Today is a monumental day for my family; my sweet, beautiful niece Liljana, turns one!!!  

Happy Birthday, Lili!!!

Liljana and my nephew, Elijah!

Daddy and Lili!

Having some fun in Croatia!

It's hard to believe that this precious little girl was born a year ago today.  I pray that as she continues to grow up, she will maintain her purity and innocence, not becoming polluted by the perverse ways of our world; that she will become a Christ-following young woman; a voice and light for her generation.

De-Socialnetworking

If I were to ask this blog's visitors to identify the three logos pictured above, I assume that the majority of you would be able to do so with ease.  The Three Amigos of social media/networking: Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.  Now, if I were to ask how much time each and every one of you spend (or should I say waste) each day on these social media outlets, what would you say?  Now, now...I am just as guilty (if not more) than you are.  I can honestly admit that I spend at a minimum of an hour-and-a-half of my "free" time, browsing these media sources....solely via my iPhone.  That's not even counting time that I occasionally spend visiting Facebook and Twitter on my laptop.  So, let's do the math.  I will assume that I spend two hours each day using these "big three"; 2 hours x 7 days = 14 hours a week.  I waste at LEAST 14 hours a week on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. 

Let's take it even further: 14 hours per week x 52 weeks = 728 hours per year

Wow.

I waste an estimated 728 hours a year posting comments, hashtags, pictures, videos, and simply boredom-browsing.  I can easily think of many ways to better utilize those 728 hours a year.  I'm not sure about you, but for me, this is a huge:

My pastor discussed this social media/networking epidemic in last Sunday night's sermon.  I recall thinking and justifying to myself, "I don't spend THAT much time on it; I really DO make good use of my free time; I've gotten BETTER about it, right?".  Well, ladies and gents, the numbers don't lie.  I've been an avid social media/networking user since the day that I discovered Myspace in middle school.  But, it is time for the ridiculous amount of time that I waste on social media to drastically decrease.  The first steps that I had taken prior to the Sunday night sermon as well as this number-crunching, was to delete the Facebook and Twitter apps off of my iPhone.  Although I had seen improvements this week, I simply started making up for those deleted apps by spending MORE time on Instagram; counterproductive, eh?  Well, that leaves me with one option: delete Instagram.

My prayer is that God will provide me with the wisdom to be a better steward of my time here on Earth; to not waste 728 hours a year....out of sheer boredom.  I also pray that for anybody that just so happens to come across my blog and this post; that you too will realize how much time is wasted on these social medial outlets....and for productive methods of utilizing the hours you will gain by NOT posting that oh-so-incredible image of this mornings breakfast!  #desocialnetworking

 …This is why it is said: "Wake up, O sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you." Be very careful, then, how you live--not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is.

Ephesians 5: 14-17

Passion and Purpose

In my spare time, I enjoy watching and taking notes on sermons from my home church by Pastor Chuck Milian (Crossroads Fellowship in Raleigh, NC) and from Louie Giglio (Passion City Church in Atlanta, GA).  As some of you know, I work full time in an office setting.  The majority of my work day is spent completing mundane clerical-type tasks.  God has been stirring up my heart lately, leading me to question why in the world I spending eight hours a day in an office, with little-to-no human interaction.  I might have two or three guys come in, for a combination of perhaps twenty minutes out of an eight hour work day.  Don't get me wrong, I am extremely thankful that God has blessed me with a full time position.  He was definitely looking out for me.

I hadn't watched a sermon by Louie Giglio since my six month mission trip in Haiti last year.  I decided to head over to the Passion City Church website to catch up on the latest sermon series.....and boy, am I glad that God led me to do so.  Louie's sermon preached an April 7, 2013, entitled "Whatever", was the first of his series "Passion+Purpose".  I was unsure what to expect, considering the simple title of this sermon.  To put it simply, this is a truly life-changing sermon.  God knew the questions that had been stirring inside of my heart, and He answered them through this message, and other messages in this series; "Passion+Purpose".

I'll try to cover the basis of this sermon, in a nutshell.  He states that many of us have questions such as, "Can I KNOW, WHY I am here? How do I know that I am doing what I am supposed to be doing? Can my life really count...for the stuff that matters most? What does GOD want me to do?"

Louie describes how each-and-every human being on this Earth have been wired with specific passions...things that truly speak to you and make you feel alive.  He states that we all might not share the same passion, we all share the same PURPOSE, as mentioned in Colossians 3:17: "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."

"We all have unique opportunities, given by God.  God's not looking for people to simply exist.  God wants you to live, feeling ALIVE! Maybe doing that thing that you told somebody you wanted to do, but they laughed so hard that you haven't told anybody since...THIS may be the passion that God has put inside of you...There is something that moves you.  Don't look for the "Top 5 Careers", or cities with the best jobs...God has wired ME to do something.  I have a purpose in life that is GREATER than this thing I am passionate about.  That I came from God, am sustained by God, and will return to God."

Now I sit here wondering to myself, "If I found out that I had six months left on this Earth....what would I be doing differently? Would I regret not actively pursuing the true passions that God has instilled in me? Would I abandon the mundane job that I have and don't truly enjoy? Etc..." The fact of the matter is, you and I are not promised another day, week, month, year or even breath.  Several days have passed since I first started this post....I came across this video, of a teenager who was diagnosed with an incurable type of cancer and given six months to a year to live.  I thank God for leading me to this video...inspirational is an understatement.  After viewing the sermons last week by Louie Giglio and upon watching this video...I've realized that I have to dig into the Word and truly seek Christ's wisdom and direction...We never know what day will be our last.  So now I ask you....Are you pursuing a passion that God has instilled in you?  Are you honoring God in the job, sport, hobby, etc. that you're participating in? Do you wake up each morning, feeling refreshed and excited to begin your work or school day?  Or do you dread the thirty minute commute to work, the monotonous 8-hour workday, the hassling boss, and the gossiping co-workers...just so you can earn enough wages to make ends meet and have the bills paid?  There are ways to utilize the passions that God has blessed each and every one of us with....and still earn a living sufficient enough to provide our daily necessities as well as support our families.  Is our non-renewable and priceless life energy worth the wages that you are receiving?

"You don't have to find out that you're dying, to start living."

                                             -Zach Sobiech

The Youth of Today

As many of you know, one of my greatest passions is ministering and reaching out to youth and students, of all ages.  Throughout the past several years, God has truly stirred inside my heart the urge to help youth with the many mountains that they face in our world and culture today.  Unfortunately, I have not spoken to a congregation of youth since around September 2012; Pastor Jim Shelton invited me to speak with around 50-60 high school students at the Crossroads Fellowship Millbrook Campus, and around 40 or so high school students at the CRF Wake Forest Campus the following weekend.

Due to my class schedule at Liberty last semester in combination with my backslidden ways, my passion to reach out to the youth and students was slowly snuffed out--thanks, Satan!  However, let me mention that Dr. Brown's Youth Ministry 201 course was by far my favorite college course that I have taken, to date! Doc. Brown...you are the man...and your TA's are pretty sweet, too!  Well, family and friends, God has re-ignited the spark and flame inside my heart and soul to, at the best of my God-given ability, reach out to the youth of today.....The Lord knows something has to change with this upcoming generation.  My prayer is that He will be able to use my testimony, downfalls, triumphs, trials and temptations, etc. to bring glory to His kingdom and to make a genuine impact in the lives of the youth and students in our world.

"And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me.  But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea." Matthew 18: 5-6

You might be wondering, "What changed all of a sudden? How has this spark been re-ignited? What do you plan to do?"  Let me explain...  My girlfriend, Nikki, turned 21 on April 12th.  I purchased a Busch Gardens Fun Card for her and I, which includes unlimited entry to the amusement park until mid-September.  Nikki and I decided to take advantage of a sunny and moderately warm Saturday last weekend, by trekking to Williamsburg, VA to get tossed, turned, and flipped by rollercoasters.  The majority of the park attendees were middle school and high school aged youth.  I was a Freshman in high school the last time that I had visitied Busch Gardens.  The thoughts of "Was I REALLY like that when I was their age? Was my mouth THAT filthy? Was I THAT loud, rude, and obnoxious?" came to my mind numerous times throughout the day.  My reality check had been served.  The sad and somewhat frustrating realization that I did in fact behave very similarly to many of these teens, truly shook me on that fun-filled Saturday afternoon.  I do not have children of my own...but whenever God does bless me with a little Jordan or two, I want him/her to be a role-model to their God-forsaken, MTV and Jersey-shore influenced peers.  I continuously thought of my nearly three-year-old nephew Eli and six-month-old niece, Liljana...."I don't want them to end up like these kids."

As briefly mentioned in the final sentence of the previous paragraph, I truly believe that the music, television shows, magazines, and media in general, have an unsurpassed influence on today's youth.  I can recall a couple of television shows that I watched as a pre-teen and teenager; MTV's Spring Break, Laguna Beach, The Real World and Road Rules, music videos, etc.  What are common denominators amongst each of them?  Sex, alcohol and drug abuse, materialism, cliques, arrogance, adultery, lust, the list goes on....These characteristics are constantly being poured into the lives of countless children and youth via the "Digital Age" in which we currently inhabit.  What does that mean, exactly? Easier access to an abundance of media sources that these students, children, sons, and daughters simply do NOT need uncontrolled and unfiltered access to.  Stop and think: Do you REALLY want your child to be influenced by "role models" that our culture depicts via countless media sources? 

"Woe to the world because of the things that cause people to sin! Such things must come, but woe to than man through whom they come!" Matthew 18:7

Sunday afternoon, Nikki and I watched a Netflix documentary, based on children whom have had incredibly horrid experiences with bullying, name-calling, etc.  That documentary nearly brought tears to my eyes....for several reasons.  One of those being that the documentary interviewed several parents that had lost a child to suicide, as a result of constant bullying at school.  The other reason being personal conviction for the fact that I can recall being one of those bullies in elementary school.  Constantly "picking" on the smaller children, or those that looked more "nerdy".  "Wow", I thought to myself, "How did my bullying and name-calling affect my peers?"

I am not sure exactly how God plans on using me to reach out and positively influence our youth of today, whom have an overwhelming need for guidance and direction.  I am only a unmarried twenty-one-year-old guy with no kids....but I have faith that God can use me as a tool to positively influence and perhaps spark genuine change and conviction amongst this generation.  One thing that I DO know is the fact something has got to change.  Our youth has been strayed away from a path and pursuit of righteousness and morality.  These children are the future of our nation. 

Stay tuned as I seek God's will and provision for my life.  For now, I ask each and every read of this blog post to pray for me; for guidance, wisdom, and direction....and to maybe even share this post via the abundance of social networking outlets that we utilize today.

Jordan Piper

The Story of Fedlaine, "FiFi".

I haven't posted much on this blog since my arrival back in the States. Today was the start of my third week here at Liberty University, where I am studying youth ministry. It has been a great three weeks thus far. I am thankful that God led me to a university that can greatly contribute to my spiritual growth and knowledge of the Word of God. Haiti has been on my heart and mind a lot, especially throughout the past couple weeks. I greatly miss Nehemiah Vision Ministries and all of my friends in Haiti.

I'd like to share with you the unique story of a six-year-old girl named Fedlaine, better known as "FiFi".     

I met FiFi for the first time at Nehemiah Vision Ministries in the Summer of 2011. I was on a one week mission trip with my college ministry, Catalyst. At the time, I didn't know much about FiFi. I learned a little bit about her during that trip; that she was found in a ditch by Pastor Esperandieu Pierre, "Left for dead" as he states; after Pastor found her, she was placed in the NVM children's home in Chambrun; and finally that she was now living on the NVM compound and in the process of being adopted by the Shultz family (Jay, Amy, Anna, and their two sons). This family was committed to serve at NVM for at least a year--or until FiFi's adoption papers were finalized and was able to travel back to America with the Shultz's. I believe it was the third or fourth day that I was in Haiti in the  Summer of 2011, when an absolutely tragic accident occurred on the campus of Nehemiah Vision Ministries...one that will never be forgotten. Jay Shultz, the adopting father, was critically injured and paralyzed in a horrific accident involving a "Gator" ATV and a backhoe tractor. I barely knew Jay at the time, but remember that he appeared to have an unsurpassable work ethic and seemed like a genuinely nice guy. I honestly don't think I will ever forget this day, nor the mood on campus after this incident. "Don't drop me, intern."

As you can imagine, Jay's accident would bring forth another curveball into the adoption process (as if it weren't already a strenuous process) as well as the lives of the entire Shultz family. I remember thinking, "How would I feel if I had committed to a year (or longer) in Haiti, with my family, and then such a tragic event as this happen? What about the adoption? Who would take care of Fedlaine? Would my faith in Christ be affected?". The Shultz's ended up moving back to the States after the accident. Fedlaine remained on the NVM compound, under the care of  NVM Missions Team Coordinators, Aaron and Shelli Elliot. Aaron and Shelli completed their year at NVM in October, when Brandon and Katie Hutchens stepped in, under a year commitment. 

Brandon, FiFi, and Katie

You might be wondering why I am sharing FiFi's story with you. As you know, I was an intern at Nehemiah Vision Ministries this year for six months; from January 16, 2012 to July 17, 2012. I arrived on campus around mid-day and was introduced to everyone on the compound upon my arrival. I saw this little ball of energy in the form of a six-year-old girl, running and playing around the compound. I realized that it was FiFi. Her sister, Anna (Shultz) was there with her...spending a week or two with her and then heading back to the States. I talked with Anna throughout the time she was there, getting to know FiFi's story and status of her adoption, a little bit more. 

FiFi and Anna

Switching gears a little bit here. One of the hardest things for me to overcome was the fact that I was going to be spending six months away from my family. My oldest brother Jason had a son, Eli, two years ago. The birth of my first nephew was an absolute blessing to both my family and myself. My heart was changed forever. Prior to his birth, I had never been one to really "enjoy" the presence of children-to be quite honest. Eli was born when I was 19 years old....and he was the first baby I'd ever held in my entire life. Something changed inside of me, the instant I saw my nephew for the first time. I just couldn't spend enough time with my little man. The birth of Elijah Jack sparked something inside my heart that I'd never felt before. His birth would lead to me becoming involved with the youth ministry at my church, Crossroads Fellowship; to me having an absolute blast with the children in Haiti in the Summer of 2011; to me studying Youth Ministry at Liberty University. Needless to say, I was not looking forward to being away from Eli, as well as missing his second birthday in May.

Back to FiFi. Anna, FiFi, and I had an absolute blast playing card games and playing on the playground with the other children. I told Anna that I felt as though God was going to use FiFi to help ease my pain of being away from my nephew. I also told her that I would take care, watch, and play with FiFi as if she were my own family. I spent a lot of time with FiFi, playing card games, watching cartoons and "babysitting" her while Brandon and Katie went off to the market, playing tag and hide-and-seek on the playground (I can still hear her saying, "YOU IT"), swimming with her in the ocean and pool on our staff's occasional beach trips, walking her back from school every now and then, making her lunch, tossing her in the air, etc. I was deemed the title, "TonTon JoJo" by the American and Haitian NVM staff. Tonton means uncle, for those who don't know Creole! If I was in a bad mood for whatever reason or having a long day, Fifi, being a hilarious and energetic six year old, would always put a smile on my face. 

One of our many card games.

Basketball on the compound.

Jay Shultz visited NVM several times during my six month internship. I can honestly say that I have not met too many people in this world, with a heart like that man. He wouldn't let his paralysis and wheelchair stop him from visiting NVM, Haiti, and his daughter. To see how happy and good-spirited he was, despite his paralysis, was encouraging to say the least. I am very fortunate that I was able to meet and talk with Jay. It was awesome seeing how excited FiFi was every time he arrived on campus. I also met Jay's wife, Amy, during my internship. She is an amazing person as well. The adoption process is, unfortunately, still not completed. As I stated earlier, it is not an easy process to complete with the government of Haiti. The Shultz family is praying that FiFi will be in America before the end of 2012.

This is one of the most lengthy posts on this blog...so I thank you for taking the time to read it. I just felt as though God wanted me to share this on my blog, considering that FiFi was a huge part of my six month internship, as well as me deciding to study youth ministry. I am beyond thankful for the countless memories that FiFi and I shared; the countless laughs, sweat, games of TAG, basketball, and even her making faces at me when I wasn't looking (she thought that was hilarious). It was a blessing to spend this time with FiFi; time that I was away from my family and my nephew. I encourage everyone to please keep FiFi and the Shultz family in your prayers. Pray that FiFi's paperwork with the government will be completed and that she WILL be able to move to America this year; pray that she will have a smooth adjustment to an American lifestyle once she does arrive; pray for Jay Shultz and a full recovery from his accident; pray for Brandon and Katie Hutchens as they continue to take care of FiFi while the adoption process is still undergoing.

One of the hardest things for me was to leave my family, my nephew, for six months. What was one of the hardest, if not the hardest thing for me as I walked the NVM compound on the last day of my internship? Saying goodbye to FiFi. Fortunately, I know that she is in extremely good hands with Brandon, Katie, Papa Jim and Cheryl Warner, Aubree, Brooke, all the NVM staff, and is going to be living with a Christ-centered and loving family in the United States. It's been tough typing this blog post. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't fighting back tears.

Dressed up for Nathan Pierre's high school graduation

Photography

As many of you know, one of my passions is the art of photography. Those of you who have seen my photos on this blog, and would like to continue following me as I grow in my photography skills...you can do so by checking out this Facebook page: Jordan Piper Photography.

By no means am I a professional, nor do I claim to be. I simply have a passion for the art of photography. I have many pictures from my 6 month internship with Nehemiah Vision Ministries posted on that Facebook page. I still have a ton of photos that I haven't had a chance to edit, that I will be posting in the near future.

I will be moving into my dorm at Liberty University next Saturday, August 18th! I am excited to get this semester started, to begin my degree in Youth Ministry.

America's Sad State of Affairs

As many of you know, there is great discussion and debate here in America regarding a statement made by the owner of Chick-Fil-A, regarding same-sex marriage. This topic is "hot" right now in America, as a result of President Obama stating his views on the subject, North Carolina and Amendment One, and most recently, the owner of Chick-Fil-A stating his beliefs (and it now being public knowledge that his company uses some of its earnings to support organizations whom do NOT support same-sex marriage.)

This saddens me deeply. Our nation, whom BY the grace of God, HAS freedom; HAS the right to vote; HAS the capability of driving in a vehicle on smoothly paved roads, to purchase a chicken sandwich with a side of waffle fries and a Diet Coke, is in turmoil over something that the president of a fast food restaurant stated and the way that he uses HIS companies money. Our nation is in a sad, sad time right now. We are being divided as a result of a fast food restaurant. Say what you want, it's the truth. Chick-Fil-A supports organizations who are against gay marriage; what about all the other companies that you support?...Where do all of THOSE dollars go? Don't stop with Chick-Fil-A...if you are willing to fight this fight with such determination, why stop with ONE company? Follow your money trails in entirety. This post is not directed singularly towards ANY group of people; whether that being homosexuals, Christians, atheists, whatever. This is a blanket statement for our nation as a WHOLE. I'm praying for each and every one of us and our nation...because we ALL greatly need it.

 Perspective. 
I spent six months in Chambrun, Haiti; the poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere. During those six months  I was given the opportunity to live outside the oh-so-sweet (or should I say salty?) comfort zone of America....and let's just say that it opened my eyes, in many ways. By the glory of God, I was able to develop friendships/relationships with many Haitian people; people who have never been to a fast food restaurant, nor ever heard the words, "Chick-Fil-A"; people whom deal with daily trials and struggles....REAL trials...trials that determine LIFE or DEATH...not where the money they spend at a fast food restaurant is going. We, as a nation, are incoherent to the abundance of blessings that we have. I wish that more of us Americans could spend one day in Haiti, or any third world country for that matter. The average Haitian, if he or she is lucky, has an average monthly income of around $20; many of us spend that much money at fast food restaurants alone, in one week (shoot, some of us spend that much at ONE meal). I had friends there who might eat one meal per day, if they were lucky; had to walk several miles to school, church, or to retrieve (unpurified) water from the stream; might not have but one change of clothes to last them, well, a lifetime; that lived in a home that consisted of hard-packed mud, sticks, and a rusted tin roof; that only had a donkey as a mode of transportation (and many who had no mode of transportation, besides their calloused feet). I could go on and on about my Haitian friends, and the struggles that they face on a daily basis. However, I think that the point has been made.

Again, this is a blanket statement for our nation as a WHOLE. I'm praying for each and every one of us and our nation...because we ALL greatly need it.

Back in the US of A

It has almost been a week since I arrived back in the United States. I decided to wait a little bit to post an update...just to see how my transition back into American life would go, before posting anything. I will start out by saying that all of your prayers (and mine) for me to have a "smooth" transition back to life here, were answered. God has blessed me with an extremely smooth transition back into my American way of life. I would be lying if I said that I weren't nervous about my re-entry into America. As you can imagine, life in Haiti is MUCH different than what we are accustomed to here in America. Although I WAS a little nervous...I knew God was in control and would take care of me...and He did. It was very nice being able to spend my last 11 days in Haiti, alongside my best friends in this world. It also great to be able to travel back home on the same flights as them! I also have an extremely supportive/amazing family that aided in my smooth transition.

I've had many people ask me, "What's the one thing that impacted you the most in your six months?". To be honest, I think it would be impossible for me to select a single event that impacted me the most. God spoke to me countless times, brought many things to my sight, and taught me a lot about myself, as well. I cherish every single moment I was able to spend with the beautiful children of Haiti. Those children were the greatest factor in my decision to even go to Haiti for six months. I am so thankful for the many great friendships that I built with those children; the countless laughs, sweat, and fun that we shared together. I greatly enjoyed doing the bi-weekly Sunday evening Men's Bible Study in Onaville, alongside Brandon Hutchens, Clerice, Pastor Masaillon, Jonathan, and everyone else involved. I thank God for granting us with the opportunity to reach out and plug into the men of this church, and the community of Onaville. I will never forget the burning passion we all felt inside our chests, after we finished each study. We would sometimes be there for three hours, enjoying the fellowship with our Haitian brothers. I ask that you will keep those men, Pastor Masaillon, our church in Onaville, and the entire community of Onaville in your prayers. The all-night prayer services we had at our church in Onaville and in Chambrun, will have an everlasting imprint in my heart. Just being able to worship with my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ, without "holding back" or caring what other people thought...was amazing. I have never worshiped like that, here in America. I've never felt the Holy Spirit's presence, like I felt in those services. I met many absolutely amazing people during my trip. People of different nationalities, ages, occupations, walks of life, gifts, personalities, and "visions." I thank God for each person I was fortunate enough to come into contact with.  I could go on and on and on about the other many experiences that I had...but I'll save all of those for future posts.

I simply cannot thank God enough, for blessing me with the opportunity to serve at Nehemiah Vision Ministries, for six months. Yes, I missed my family and best friends, as well as the many blessings us Americans have (Delicious 2% milk, Chic-Fil-A, smoothly paved roads, no tarantulas, etc)...but God provided me with the strength to leave all of that behind for six months. I simply could not have done this, if I would have relied on my mere human strength, courage, and wisdom. Those six months will have an everlasting impact on my life. I look forward to seeing how God can use my time there in Haiti, to bring glory to His Kingdom. I also thank Him for the opportunities that He has given me, to share my testimony and how God impacted my life through this trip, with the youth at my home church, Crossroads Fellowship, for the next two Sundays (July 29 and August 5th). I will be moving into Liberty University on August 16th!

To finish this post off....I would simply like to thank YOU for your prayers, donations, love and for keeping up with my posts, my pictures, and my six month journey. I ask that you keep Nehemiah Vision Ministries, the entire nation of Haiti, and myself in your prayers. I pray that my testimony, my six months in this beautiful nation, can somehow impact YOUR life. I pray that it will be encouragement and motivation for you to step out in your faith, and bring glory to God's Kingdom. By no means am I more "qualified" than any of you, to take a bold step in faith. I'm just a normal 21 year old guy. I'm a sinner who has been blessed with the grace of God-just like you. The entire world is a mission field. We are not all called by God to do international missions-don't be discouraged if you don't feel led to travel overseas to proclaim the Gospel. You can start in your own neighborhood-your neighbor, your family, friends, school job, etc. We must not overlook the fact that there are people that need to here the Gospel here in our own nation. If anybody would like to contact me for any reason, please feel free to email me at: jphasfaith@gmail.com. I would be more than happy to talk with you.

One of my last visits to Chambrun. I will never forget these amazing children.

Never a dull moment in this village!

If one picture could sum up the pure joy I experienced while playing with the kids in Chambrun, this would be it. I'm a kid at heart, and this photo definitely captured that essence of my personality. I will never forget the countless laughs, games, and sweat that I enjoyed with these kids

Also never a dull moment with my best friends and I!!

Baby Rose, Kris Kapab, and Daniella. Absolutely love these three little girls.

This Is A Family

 The title of this post is, "This Is A Family." The staff here at Nehemiah Vision Ministries does not simply refer to each other simply as friends, a group, or ministry. We are a family. A family that consists of various ages, walks of life, homes (in America), skin complexions, hair colors, and well...many other things. However, none of those differences matter. This is a family that might only spend several months of a year together. Some of us might not ever, unfortunately, see each other face-to-face again. (You might be thinking, "Hmm...this doesn't really sound like a family to me.") But the time that we have spent here together has been absolutely priceless. Don't get me wrong...we function similar to "true" blood-related families. What I mean by that, is the fact that we don't always feel thrilled to be in each others' presence. We butt heads, have disagreements, don't see eye-to-eye on every little detail, and don't all enjoying doing the same things as others...and none of those characteristics differ from "normal" families. One characteristic that we ALL share, however, is the fact that we all have a burning passion to serve and love the Lord Jesus Christ.

Today was definitely a bittersweet day here at Nehemiah Vision Ministries. I say bittersweet, because some of us had to say "goodbyes" with an undetermined amount of time until we see each other again. Our NVM family is once again undergoing a slight roster change. However, change is inevitable and people have to move on to the next chapters in their lives. Nurse E'Tienne York headed home this morning after a year of service here at NVM; Brandon Hutchens and Katie Hutchens headed back home for two weeks to spend time with family and loved ones back home; my oldest brother, Jason, also headed home after spending a week here with us at NVM.

The fact that I only have eight days left in Haiti definitely hit me pretty hard today. I said my last goodbye to E'Tienne bright and early this morning and later drove my brother, Brandon, and Katie into Port-au-Prince Airport. The realization, that before I know it....I will be taking my last airport run. And rather than picking other people up, or dropping other people off...it will be myself who is leaving. I could go on and on about the many experiences I've had here since January 16, 2012. Perhaps I will in a later post...but for tonight, this is it! I ask for everyone to keep all of us in your prayers as we continue to serve here at NVM, as well as to the many other places that God will lead us. All things for His glory.

Top : Katie Hutchens, Brandon Hutchens, Katherine Clancey, Cheryl Warner, Aubree Dell, Jim Warner, E'Tienne York, Brooke Smalley. Bottom: Jonathan Dimanche, Myself,                   Clinton Small, and Chris Bosma.                                 

Two Weeks Remaining

As of today, I only have two weeks left in Haiti. My oldest brother, Jason, arrived here yesterday! He will be here from July 2nd-9th. I am so excited that he was able to come. It just so happens that we started our first annual Nehemiah Vision Ministries Summer Youth English Camp on Monday--he is a high school English teacher back home! Therefore, he immediately plugged into the camp and is teaching an English class!

My oldest brother, Jason, and myself. My caption for this image is, "You may be the oldest brother... but now I'M the biggest!".

My brother and I both greatly enjoy photography. He has a wedding photography business that he does "on the side." I love every opportunity that we get to shoot weddings (and anything, really) together. There was an awesome lightning storm off in the distance last night. We decided to go out and attempt to capture images of lightning bolts. So...we went out on the roof, set our D7000's to interval shooting (capturing images every 2 seconds), and I caught this 6-bolt-beauty!

My best friends will be here at Nehemiah Vision Ministries, THIS Friday!! That is the same team (Crossroads Fellowship college ministry, "Catalyst")that I came down here with last summer. It's going to be great working alongside my brother for a week, and my best friends for 11 days. It has been 5-and-a-half months since I've seen any of my family or friends. I will be flying back to the States with my friends/college ministry on July 17th.

Tarantulas

I have posted many things that I love about Haiti...but have never shared something that I do NOT love about it...tarantulas. All of my family and close friends know that spiders are not, well, my favorite thing in the world. My spider "tolerance level" has definitely been heightened since the 5 and-a-half months that I've been here. However, I don't think I'll ever be able to tolerate these furry eight-legged creatures.

I found this one last night on the outside of the Men's Dorm (of course!).

 

If the picture wasn't good enough...here's a video I recorded with my iPhone! Ha!

 

Fortunately, I have only seen about three or four of these in the 5 and-a-half months that I've been here. Hopefully this will be the LAST one I see, throughout my remaining 17 days here!

June Journal Entry (6/13/2012)

June 13, 2012

"To my generation,

The point of me sharing my story, my testimony, and how God has been working in and through my life, is this: I want to reach people that have lived a life similar to mine, or who are currently living a similar lifestyle now. I want you to find hope, to be encouraged to live a life of righteousness...rather than falling into the ways of this dying world (and generation) that we all dwell in. A world that is overwhelmed with alcohol, nicotine, drugs, adultery, sex and "casual" hookups, countless teenage pregnancies, lying, cheating, stealing, lust, and any other immoral filth that we partake in. Don't get me wrong, I am by NO means perfect. Nor do I consider myself to be better than anyone that partakes in the things I just mentioned. I haven't always been a dedicated follower of Christ, pursuing a life of righteousness in a world that is filled with temptation and sin, lurking around every corner. 

We are all sinners. The difference between the "old" sinner Jordan and the "new" sinner Jordan is this: I am no longer held captive by the ball-and-chain of the sinful ways, that I once lived. I no longer sin, simply because I have nothing better to do in my free time. Let me also state the fact that I could not have overcome my past, filled with immoral relationships, parties, and a generally pessimistic outlook, without the power of God. Trust me, I tried to overcome these vices on my own- I failed miserably time and time again. I battled with God, asking, "Why me, God? Why must I go through these things? Can't you just give me a break?". I didn't turn to Scripture as much as I should have....

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does." James 1: 2-8

Rather than embracing my trials with a positive mindset, I constantly fell in defeat. By no means was I building perseverance- I was building Satan's grasp/stronghold on my life. "...That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does." Rather than turning to God, asking for HIS guidance and help, I tried to lean on my own strength and knowledge. I had a one-way battle with God. Even if I did throw up a prayer, why would He have provided for me? "...But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt...". Deep in my heart I knew I needed to submit to God, but I let my mind take over the battles of my heart. If only I would have been aware of these verses prior to all these trials, right? 

This is why I want you to be aware-and remember-even if you dedicate your life genuinely and wholeheartedly to God-we will ALL face trials and defeat .It's not going to be a smooth, freshly-paved road the entire ride. It will be filled with potholes, speed-bumps, cracks, roadblocks, and detours. We will all face this-there is no escaping the inevitable. It's the way that we RESPOND to these hazards- that builds perseverance and our trust in God. If we had not trials to face, why would we need to trust in God? 

My friends...joing me in this journey. You will be amazed by where God can lead you...when you die to self, take up your cross daily, and develop a genuine relationship with our LORD. Stand up to the ways of the world. Join me, brothers and sisters in Christ. This is the battle of all battles; the war of all wars. This is the battle for our LORD...for our eternal life.

                                                                                                    Sincerely With God,

                                                                                                           Jordan Piper

                                                                                                              6/13/2012

                    

The Countdown Begins.

  I celebrated my 5th month in Haiti last Saturay, June 16th. Therefore that leaves me with less than a month left here; 24 full days to be exact. My oldest brother, Jason will be here from July 2nd-9th. Catalyst, my college ministry consisting of all my best friends back home, (the team I came down here with June 2011) will be here from July 6th-17th. I will be returning to the United States on July 17th, with all of my best friends. I have been anticipating their arrival for quite some time now. I'm so excited for my brother and for my best friends to experience what I have had the blessing to experience for this long. I'm definitely having a mix of bitter-sweet emotions. Haiti has became my "home away from home". I've developed many great friendships with the Haitians as well as the American NVM staff. The Haitians no longer consider me a "blanc", meaning a foreigner. "Ou pa blanc. Ou se Ayisyen!". They now consider me one of them, a light-skinned Haitian so-to-speak. I am beyond thankful for being blessed with the opportunity to plug into this amazing community of people for 6 months. However, I greatly miss my family and friends back home. I am continuously praying for a smooth transition back into my America way of life, as well as into Liberty University in August. I pray that God will give me the wisdom, strength, and courage for this transition to be as smooth as possible. I plan to return here to Nehemiah Vision Ministries sometime in 2013. I'm not sure exactly when, or for how long, but I will be back!

  All the Nehemiah Vision Ministries interns decided that we needed to take a group photo. Maggie Younker, whom I have worked with since January, departed on Monday. She has spent 5 months here, and will be interning with the International Justice Mission in Europe, starting in September. We also have 3 Summer interns who arrived several weeks ago. It has been great working alongside my fellow interns and new friends!

So this pyramid picture didn't turn out as great as I would have liked. I was using a 35mm lense and had about 5 minutes to try to get several shots (Maggie had to leave for the airport and we have 100+ people on campus). BUT...it's an awesome picture, regardless.

Brandon Hutchens (NVM Missions Team Coordinator); Interns: myself, Jonathan Dimanche, Maggie Younker, Chris Bosma, and Clinton Small. There is never a dull moment on this compound!

  Thank you for taking to the time to check out and share my blog! I ask that you keep me in your prayers, as I continue to serve the remaining 24 days here! God has been doing amazing things over the past 5+ months of my life. This has been a life-changing experience, to say the least.

Thursday Morning Thoughts

I would like to share with you some of my thoughts I had this morning, while riding to Onaville to finish painting a container at our "satellite" location.

"   As Christians, we musn't blend in with the secular world. Let me clear up the fact that I am not stating that it is wrong to befriend non-believers or to associate with them. However, we are called to be bold; to be radical in this day and age filled with unholiness and impurity. We must not merely label ourselves as Christians and abuse the grace of God. Jesus lived a perfect and blameless life so that we sinners may be redeemed. That is enough reason for me to try my absolute hardest to live my life as a genuine, devoted follower of Christ. Christ paid for the sin of all mankind with His own blood.
    Tell me, what good is it to dress up in our "Sundays Best" on Sunday mornings, singing along with the worship band and raising your hand up to Heaven to praise our Lord, when Monday-Saturday you live no differently than your secular neighbor?
    We must NOT abide by the norms that our society has grown accustomed to. What is more courageous; giving in to temptation and impurity or living a pure life of righteousness? Will it be easy to ignore the peer pressures of the world? Absolutely not. As a devoted follower of Christ, you WILL face trials, temptations, and downfalls. How you respond to those downfalls, is the testing of your perseverance and faith in God. I see people constantly stating things such as, "Why is there so much evil in the world?; What happened to moral standards?; Why is he doing this and she doing that?", etc. Rather than asking questions such as this, would it not be easier to live your life, the way you want others to live theirs? Lead by actions rather than solely relying on words. You could be the brightest, most knowledgeable speaker of this age, but if your words do not coincide with your actions, then they will fall upon deaf ears."

 I enjoy writing, even though I am far from the best at it. Writing is simply an avenue for me to share with the world, what God puts on my heart. I will attempt to post things such as this on my blog, on a more regular basis. I am sure that there will be many people whom disagree with my thoughts and actions. That is completely acceptable. However, if I have one person that is somehow "moved" by my words, no amount of opposition can overcome that single victory.