Take Notes

Headlights Reflection

When I went on my first Headlights trip to Cincinnati, I kept a diligent journal of the places we went and everything I experienced — thoughts, frustrations, loving people, and feelings. As I go back through that journal this morning while sipping on a cup of coffee, I am amazed at some of the experiences I had. Even though I vowed never to forget them, I honestly admit that life at Carroll can be so hectic and I have let the memories slip from the front of my brain. Good thing I have my journal to remind me of all the blessings, struggles, and triumphs of the week!

I hope all of you have heard Brandon Heath’s song “Give Me Your Eyes.” If you haven’t, please have a listen sometime on over your trip. That song had a reoccurring appearance in my journal. I think the reason I reflected on that song so much was because of my deep desire to understand God’s love in this world. We can be so sheltered in our lives to the harsh realities of the world — we have warm dorms/houses, good food, lots of layers to put on in the cold (and the list goes on and on).

My challenge for you this week is to immerse yourself in a culture outside your comfort zone. Each of you will walk away with a different insight of this week. Maybe there will by one child who stares into your eyes with a longing face. Maybe one person will be feeding hundreds everyday and showing her love. Maybe in one of your nightly reflections you will be touched by a scripture. Just open your eyes to God’s love, in whatever capacity that may be. Then, write down your reflections. Even if you’re not a big journal person, at least write down a list of the people and feelings to spark your memory later. You will be thankful later (when Colleen drops you a text to see if you’ll share with a future group!).

Know of my prayers for each of you as you serve! – Heidi

“Give me your eyes for just one second, give me your eyes so I can see everything that I keep missing. Give me your love for humanity. Give me your arms for the broken hearted, the ones that are far beyond my reach. Give my your heart for the one’s forgotten. Give me your eyes so I can see.” – Brandon Heath