My Time with Robots and an Old Guy
Adventure in Ministry to Inspire Your Journey
Me? A Robot Judge?
Last Saturday, I did something that I have never done before. I was a judge at IRC—International Robot Competition. There were middle school and high school students from Thailand and Indonesia competing. Many of the robots used sensors that, when activated, would complete a certain task. Students had to formally present their creations in English. Then they demonstrated their work. I went into this responsibility a bit nervous, but soon enjoyed my role. I was the judge that asked the most questions 😀. I wanted to encourage the students by expressing my interest.
Below: me judging and welcoming contestants (did not know I was doing this until I arrived); robot soccer; robot volleyball; the three judges.
Mangos. Yum!
I have finally decided on my favorite tropical fruit: mango. It is in season currently. The fruit is soft and oh, so sweet. On my walk to school, I walk by mango, papaya, and banana trees.
Below: a papaya tree growing “out of” a mango tree; a papaya tree and some corn!
Value—my elderly Thai “friend”
Each day on my walk to school, I greet an elderly man at the same spot. He is there on my walk home as well. What does he have with him? He is wearing shorts, a traditional Thai version, and he has a walker. That's all the possessions he has with him. And what about me? I have nice walking shoes, a moisture-wicking dress shirt, nice athletic/dress pants, an expensive phone, and an expensive tablet. Then I thought about our days. He sits at this corner along the canal every day, all day. I, on the other hand, am in charge of a school. As principal, I have important responsibilities with a lot of people—teachers and students—depending on me. My position is respected, and in Asia, the title of principal is held in even higher esteem.
Despite our radical contrasts, what is the same about us? We have equal value as humans created in God's image. We also have a sin nature and frail bodies. Our similarities help put life into perspective. I am desperately weak and completely dependent on God's grace. My possessions and position do not fundamentally define me. May my boast only be in Jesus Christ and not what I own or my job title. As I walk by my Thai "friend", I think, God, please use all that I have and all that I do for your glory and for the building of your kingdom.
Matthew 6:33
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.