Led Like a Lamb . . .

I have never been particularly interested in visiting the Holy Land, but I have  realized God has many ways of making the accounts in the Bible come alive, or become more visually accurate, which is something I have definitely experienced in our two years in Galmi!  For example, in my mind, the stable where Jesus was born is not a bed of sweet hay, with clean animals far in the background to lend authenticity, but maybe something more like this:

One Family's "Stable" in Galmi

Or, it could have resembled this (with probably an overhead covering):

A Different Family's "Stable"

Life here for Nigeriens is just so "basic."  I can't help but think that God, who came to Earth to be not a King ruling in royal robes, with Earthly finery, but to be king of our hearts and lives, would come where and how most people live --- which for 2/3 of the world is very "basic!"

It is easier for me to experience God in Galmi.  I need Him.  I have questions. I am looking for answers.  I am finding His presence more readily as I live life in the context of His calling.  So it should not have surprised me when I "heard His voice" on my way to school one day just before Easter.  I was just passing the last house when I heard the very loud "BAA-A-A-A,  BAA-A-A-A" of a small ram, which compelled me to investigate.  He was tethered to the small animal pen in front of the house, and happened to be one of the half-black/half-white kind that I see a lot of here.  They look "painted" because there is such a distinct line around their middle.

"Baaa-aa-aa-aa!"

I am not sure why, but I went up to the pen and started "talking" to the animal, which of course, was a very one-sided conversation, interspersed with some "baa-a-a" on his part.  Although I am neither a vegetarian, nor particularly fond of animals in general, I was saying words like, "Gosh, I am sorry about your fate (Easter dinner)," which didn't get much response from him!  He would be taken away, fearlessly following, not knowing his destiny, until . . . and then the impact of what would happen brought to mind another lamb --- a perfect lamb --- Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God.  "He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter."  (Isaiah 53:7)  He did not need to be tethered; no "baa" of protest left his lips; yet he went willingly, even knowing full-well the suffering that He would endure and the fate that would be His. But unlike my "friend in the pen" above, His sacrifice would not be enjoyed for just a day, or talked about for a week, but would be THE SACRIFICE -  sufficient for all eternity, and a joyous celebration for all who claim Him as personal Savior and Lord!

HE IS RISEN!   HE IS RISEN, INDEED!