Rachel Zimmerman

I've decided one of the most needed attributes in cross-cultural work or 'on the mission field' is bravery, courage. To step up, to show up, each and every day. Whether that's showing up to lead a medical clinic, to deliver a baby, to go get groceries, to leave your home takes courage. Because living in a foreign country as a foreigner, there are many assumptions that are made based on the color of my skin. In Haiti, there are a few things assumed of me: 1. I'm rich 2. I am educated 3. I haven't worked very hard for anything in my life (These are generalizations for a reason and do not apply to each individual Haitian's thinking) 4. I want to help and am able to help...or give a handout (DISCLAIMER: some of the above is true. I am rich in the world's standards. I am educated. I do want to help. I have worked for things in my life but I have been afforded incredible opportunities based on where I was born, into what socioeconomic class, and the

I've been learning about God's economy lately. It's really so different than mine and I think it's really different from America's economy in many ways. It's easier for me to accept gifts and donations when I feel like I am working very hard and showing progress and outcomes in the clinic in Haiti. It is much more difficult for me to accept gifts, donations, blessings, a free dental appointment, free dinners, love, acceptance, and affection when I am a compassion-fatigued, less-than-normal functioning version of Rachel. But I'm pretty sure (~ 100%) that's not how God works. He loved us far before we loved Him. He sent His son to die on the cross far before I submitted my life to Him. While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us and this is how God demonstrates His love for us (Romans 5:8 paraphrased). My friends still love me whether I'm a weepy grieving missionary or not. My friends love me if I'm staying on the mission field or not.