In Oceans Deep

What an amazing year 2016 has been at Safe Haven. It has been a year of believing and trusting in the promises of our amazing God. At the beginning of this year I fell in love with the song “Oceans” by Hillsong United. It became my go-to song each morning while I was getting ready to face the day. The song’s lyrics are based on the story in Matthew 14:22-33, where Jesus calls Peter to walk on the water. Peter does begin to walk upon the water, but panics and begins to lose faith. He starts to sink until he calls on Jesus to rescue him. The song begins like this….

You call me out upon the waters

The great unknown where feet may fail

And there I find you in the mystery

In oceans deep

My faith will stand

If I’m really honest with you all, most of the time here in Manila I feel at a loss. I feel completely inadequate, small, and simply not equipped with the huge task at hand. What do I know about government organisations, bureaucracy and crazy red tape? I’m simply a kindy teacher who can whip up a mean batch of playdough.

So, I know, without any doubt in my being, that without God leading and directing me each day I would be curled up in the corner of my room rocking. Manila is my ocean; the vast and expansive unknown. And without God, I know that I will surely fail.

Then the song continues…

And I will call upon your name,

And keep my eyes above the waves

When oceans rise

My soul will rest in your embrace

For I am yours and you are mine

So, just like Peter, I have had many times this year when I have begun to sink. I was fearful, doubtful and even questioning the call to be here in Manila.

Oh, trust me, the waves are real and some are scary. It was during these times that I had to hum the above lines of the song to remind myself to refocus and keep my eyes above the waves and most importantly, on the one who holds the universe in the palm of His hand.

With eyes fixed on Jesus, our team here at Safe Haven walks through the streets of Payatas each week; we stretch out our arms to embrace those precious children who need to be seen, heard and loved. And we stand up for justice and we go where and when God calls.

As we say goodbye to 2016, I would like to thank you all again for your enduring support and prayers.

May the Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.