10 July, Color-Man, Pokhara, Nepal

Even in these modern days of 2006, some countries still preserve many ghostly remnants of the distant past. Insulated and unalterable Nepal is one of those countries.

Through my window, I see a rice field. A yoke of black oxen are dragging a plow through knee-deep mud. The farmer is standing on the plow, prodding and steering. The oxen shuffle back and forth and the mud becomes liquid. In the next paddy are four women, hunched over, each with a sheaf of green sprouts in hand. They draw their red frocks up to their knees and bend over to stick the sprouts in the gorund. Meanwhile, the farmer goes on scolding and driving the beasts as he prepares the ground for the planters.

I think Nepal is primitive. Yet, what is the definition of primitive? That's the question the doctor on the airplane asked. Who is to say that we rich Americans have it better? Nepalese people seem happy and content with their way of life. Is Western prosperity the ultmiate goal for a nation like Nepal?

Perhaps, Nepal will benefit from the economic boom of its giant neighbors China and India. God's blessings brings wealth. But his blessing is more than material. Pray, pray that America would not forget or exchange the inward blessings of joy and spiritual life for money. Christians all over the world are praying for us to turn to God. The world is watching America; what a witness that would be for the leader of the world to stand for God!

Sam