I’m so challenge by Pastor Zeb and Yami and Sahle and Fitsum. Both couples have given up great ministries and the conveniences of life in the U.S. to start this church in Ethiopia. In one sense, I don’t believe a follower of Christ has ever made a sacrifice because we always get back more than we give up. But the life here is so different. We take indoor plumbing and hot water and electricity and refrigeration for granted. We take DSL and TV for granted. We joked that it seemed like there was one server for the entire country of Ethiopia! They have dial-up modems so it’s tough to surf. I realized how spoiled we are and how much we take for granted. I think the “worst off” by our standards in the U.S. are living like kings compared to some of the people who live in Addis. It’s all relative.

I couldn’t help but think about how different our lives would be if we were born in a different time or different place. I think it’s pride to think we’re better off as Americans. We certainly have some advantages. So many Ethiopians live in “survival mode.” We don’t have to worry about where our next meal is coming from. But I also see a joy and graciousness that is rare in the rat race we call DC.