Ximena Bekx shares her experience of volunteering with Hope for MENA to spread love, joy and hope to people in North Africa.
"When I heard about this 'vision trip', I thought: 'Oh, that could be interesting', but despite my experiences of visiting different countries, I couldn't imagine what I'd be walking into.
I'd recently seen some frightening stories in the news so I tried to prepare myself for any scenario. But, when I arrived, I quickly became excited about the week to come.
With a calling for ministry, I've previously served in Bolivia and Brazil and continue to get involved in various projects at home in Holland. Although recently I feel that because things are so good in my country, I've 'fallen asleep' so to speak. I wanted this opportunity to wake me up so God can use me as a blessing to others.
After a night of much-needed rest and a wonderful breakfast, the adventure began. We learned how to study the Bible deeply; how to pray for people around us; as well as useful Arabic phrases.
Yet still I wanted more. I wanted to walk in someone else's shoes and get my feet wet. But, I didn't have to wait long. Each activity became more challenging than the last.
We took part in prayer walks to offer hope to those we met on the streets, attended local church services and visited families in need.
I was amazed at the poor people's hospitality. They have nothing, but are joyful, friendly and willing to give the best of what they have. We also visited the Center of Love, a place in the heart of North Africa where disabled children are equipped with the tools, skills and confidence they need to grow and develop. They make beautiful crafts, and I had the privilege of buying some of their creations.
Another highlight was sharing the love of God with the children of the Sudanese refugees - children that have experienced one of the most terrible wars and escaped the attempts of their own government to kill them and to erase their people from the face of the earth.
They were lovely, joyful, obedient, eager to learn new things and make new friends.
But, the most memorable day for me was discovering the city. It gave me a chance to speak to the local people (especially when I needed help with directions). Everyone was so helpful and friendly.
At one point in the day I noticed a young lady wearing a necklace with a cross. I didn’t know how to make contact with her, so I prayed for wisdom. Then I asked her a travel question, which led to a conversation and Mary* walked with us to the station.
On the next train another young lady came to us. She said: 'Are you Mary's friends? She just called me and asked me to tell you where you need to step out.'
We almost couldn’t believe it! We felt so loved by God and so blessed! I now really understand what it means to see God in action!
After an epic week, it's safe to say I'm fully woken up now!
*Names have been changed