Hunger in the new Xianggu
16/10/2008 11:28 am
Return Trip to Xianggu September 2008
Hi Andy,
I was very excited about going back to Xianggu this year. To meet the friends we made, to see the beautiful traditional town and of course the team members who made the trip so special.
The journey to Xianggu was much easier this year. A new road has been built, so the ride was smoother and less bumpy. As we entered Xianggu, I was totally amazed; I had to ask, “Is this Xianggu?” “Yes” was the reply. It was a “New Xianggu”. The road was modern and wide, modern shops, flats and more flats, and an enormous modern hotel (very spectacular). There are beautifully paved areas with sculptures, table and chairs, green playing field, and even a sports centre! This did not exist last year. There was only talk of it, and a very small part of a bridge was just being built. It is amazing how fast things have changed in Xianggu within a year.
As we, turned the corner to the hospital, the Xianggu I knew came into view. The “Old Xianggu” was still there (Phew); I believe parts of it will be knocked down to make way for a modern bus station. I wonder what it would be like next year?
The people in the hospital were very welcoming and warm hearted to our annual visit. They gave their apologies to the lack of planning to meet our objectives during this trip. They were very busy and inundated with planning Xianggu’s special centenary celebration, which was taking place during the week of our visit. This worked out to our advantage as I found we had more time to wonder around and talk to people. They were very grateful for our lectures and contribution in sharing our clinical knowledge and skills with them.
Despite all their busyness the hospital staff still took time out to show us the “New Xianggu”. People enjoyed the evenings with their families walking, watching the open air film shows, or just sitting along the beautifully paved and sculptured area, drinking different types of teas and cracking peanuts, melon seeds and other nibbles.
Jackie, one of the staff, invited us to visit her home to have tea. She lived in the Old Xianggu with her parents. I was amazed with the conditions she and her family lived in. In England we would class as slums, yet it was their home. Jackie had accepted Jesus last year. We were able to fellowship and encourage her in Him. My heart was touched by the whole experience.
On reflection, I see openness in Xianggu and its people. There is an "acceleration", and the door seemed to be opened at this time and season. Despite being surrounded by all the materialism, the people are hungry and searching for true love and contentment. There was such an receptiveness and freedom in the atmosphere this year. It was not hard to find people to talk to, they came to find us! They were very open to talk and often brought up issues about religion, in fact they know there are many religions! I believe these were divine appointments. One dear lady was so hungry to accept Jesus, I was quite blown away. It turns out that previous years’ team members had befriended her and told her the Good News. As the word says, some will sow, some water and some reap. We were glad to be part of that process of reaping.
His peace was overwhelming throughout the trip. There were ups and downs, but there was such peace, it’s so good to work in partnership with Him! Learning to totally surrender everything to Him, being bold when He tells you to be!! And most of all flexible. Hands up, and just going with the flow of His Spirit. It’s quite refreshing!
So, a million thanks for all your prayers. Remembering China and its people (especially Xianggu).
To Him be the Glory!
Love and Blessings
Ju Ling
Back
