A Visit to Haus Edelweiss
Tuesday, May 1, 2012 at 03:40PM I’ve worked for TCM in the Indianapolis office for roughly two years. I am certain beyond a shadow of a doubt that I’ve combed through the Haus Edelweiss photo archives more than my own family albums. I have known much about the mission of TCM and it has been very good.
But as we all know, knowledge of chocolate cake is nothing like a bite of it.
I returned a few weeks ago from my first visit to Haus Edelweiss. During my two-week stay, I tasted just a morsel of what it is like to be surrounded by TCM students and I cannot adequately describe its flavor or effect. Being among such a diverse yet concurrent group of people, who are all denying themselves in favor of living a more meaningful story in service to Jesus, is intoxicating in the most holy way.
While the dynamic of the group was captivating, I found myself even more intrigued by their individual stories. I was so grateful to make a friend close to my age (mid-twenties). We struck up a conversation during lunch and I quickly realized how fortunate I was to meet her. Over the course of our time together at the Haus, I learned about her family and difficult culture, what led her to become a Christian, and how that journey is unfolding in her life today. She is ministering in the midst of the global disaster of human trafficking. She is courageous and resolute. Because of her history, she lives unreservedly – ignoring selfish concessions. She wants to learn how to be effective and is confident God will provide what she needs. And she laughs with joy even after a sobering discussion about the areas where she will need prayer. She is inspiring.
My new understanding of TCM is colored with thoughts of her story and encounters with others equally determined to make a difference in the world. They are the substance that wins the heart and the bite of cake that floods the senses. Words cannot compete with the experience of seeing their faces, sharing at meals, and joining them in walks through the mountains. Still, we pray that all who hear about TCM could be filled with deep excitement as they imagine these people and the work God is doing through them!
Kelly
Reader Comments (2)
Kelly,
Thank you for sharing your adventure at Haus Edelweiss, you have so beautifully expressed what many of us have experienced. It was my pleasure to serve with you and many other fine Christians during this session. I'm sure we all came away with a new respect for the zeal displayed by the students, professors, and staff. I believe we witnessed, in a small way, what it will be like when we all worship together in heaven. Prayers are lifted up for you all daily as you continue to serve the Lord. In Christ's love, Bonnie
Thank you, Bonnie! It was equally a joy to serve with you, and TCM is so grateful for your prayers. I hope we cross paths again soon!