In 2023, on my visit to our local leaders in South Asia, I heard about their vision for having a space to house their leaders: leaders that needed training, persecuted leaders that needed respite, and leaders that simply needed a "vacation" with their families. After all, this is one of the main reasons they chose to relocate from Delhi to a village in Northeast India: space to minister to their leaders holistically. South Asia is a highly volatile and hard part of the world to be a follower of Jesus, but it is also one of the most strategic in terms of reaching the unreached.
Their solution? Temporary bamboo housing.
While I admired their creativity and resourcefulness (this setup is common for the area they live in), I knew these leaders deserved more. I raised funds for some basic things: beds, simple furniture, and rugs, to make the space functional. And it was used during my time there, with joy. When spending time together is the priority, you will not hear complaints about accommodations; but to be honest, the space looked like it could blow over with the first big storm.
And it did, a year later.
The roofs came off, and that was the end of that.
But as we walked up the stairs, I was reminded that the vision was not complete. I had to put on shoes as we navigated rough surfaces and nails. And all I could think about were the leaders I knew and stories that have been shared of people that would be welcomed, encouraged, and revitalized as this space was complete. I knew it would be put to good use immediately, and I was right.
In the Fall of 2024, Empower Dreams funded the build out of the last 2 floors, and I'm happy to report that they are complete, sans the ceiling in one room. As I envisioned, way before the space was complete they went ahead and hosted a group of brand new leaders from the jungle area for training. I was so impressed by their willingness to use the space "as is" before it was complete. They don't have some of the same hang ups as we do when we host friends.
Many thanks to Empower Dreams for believing in this vision and the fruit of encouragement, support, and care that will be facilitated through this simple structure. I'm envisioning not only replenished souls, but more unreached people groups ministered to with the good news of the Gospel message. To God be the glory!
- Jen
