A Life in Heaven in Kisayip
 From the day we arrived in Jos, Nigeria, the bright white smiles and genuine warmth of the Nigerian people has been almost breathtaking on a backdrop of what, on American standards, would be considered widespread poverty: dirt roads, no power, huts and shacks, and poor medical resources. Today we had a ribbon cutting for a new well that will pump fresh drinking water to the village.
There is no begging, just happy children wishing to hold your hand or learn a new game like 'Simon Says'. There is no sense of sadness or grief, but one of hope and entrepreneurship. There isn't a spirit of selfishness or greed, but instead a tight knit community very much focused on family and caring for neighbors.
At church today, the word "happy" was spoken at least a dozen times. In song, it was said "I am so happy because I am saved by Jesus." It would make you wonder, what is it that makes the Nigerian village we are serving of approximately 1,000 people so intensely happy in conditions that Americans would classify as destitute?
I believe the answer is actually very simple. This community is truly living out a life centered on Christ. In many ways, the community to me represents what a life in Heaven might be like. How ironic and unexpected! At the end of the day, success and true joy in life isn't founded on many of the worldly views or measures of success and happiness. Rather, happiness is best illustrated by the men, women, children, husbands, wives and widows living life centered on Christ in the village of Kisayip, Nigeria. While I am here to help, this village in turn is an inspiration to me.
--Brent Bachochin, March 20
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