We arrive in Xiamen, China on April 17, Thursday around 11:45 am without the team. Due to immigration problem, they were not allowed to board the plane except for the four (4) officials who were given clearance. The team had to catch the next plane the following day. Good that the Chinese Basketball Association in Xiamen understood the situation so they reset our first game the following day.
The following day when the team arrived from the Philippines, I met the team for a short meeeting at the hotel before we went to our game. They were very happy to have a team chaplain. Sharing the gospel to these young players was really a great opportunity. I had the chance to share some life stories of great basketball players who dedicated their lives to the Lord.
Our host also gave us a tour around Xiamen. This province is also part of the China Economy Zone that is why a lot of construction especially bridges are being built. We also visited some historical sites such as the turtle island, piano museum and other places.
On our fifth day, the boys had the chance to do some shopping especially buying some personal souvenirs. But before we went to the airport, I had another opportunity to minister to the team in my room. Another big challenge was that upon our check-in, we were told that three (3) of our players could not board the plane because they overbooked the flight. So we prayed that the Lord will do something. I could sense that the three players were starting to feel bad. I just continued to pray in my spirit that God will intervene in this situation. Praise God! the airline told us later that all of us will be able to go home.
Upon our arrival in the Philippines midnight of April 20, Sunday, I told the boys to remember God always in their lives especially the blessings they have received from Him.
I went home very tired but joyful that another opportunity was given to me to represent the country and also minister to the team.
No comments:
Post a Comment