Cha..cha..cha...cha...changes...

So much has changed in the 5 years since I have lived here. Truly, most of the changes are good. Instead of constantly hearing helicopters flying overhead looking for 'trouble' (riots) the skies are mostly quiet. Rather than tanks and armored vehicles patrolling the streets it's normal police cars. The paramilitaries have mostly disbanded and turned in their arms. Northern Ireland has been granted some level of political power. All of this is wonderful and I am sometimes still surprised at how much has changed in a few short years!
However, what hasn't changed is the hearts of the people. I met some Jr High aged boys last night and one of the first questions out of their mouth was "Are you Protestant or Catholic?" After that they wanted to know if America had both or only one. Even the leadership of the church will sometimes make comments like "You don't want to live there.. that's a Catholic area" or "Don't walk that way.. it's a Catholic area." And they're the ones who love God!
I am so thankful to be here and be a part of all of this. While this city still has a long way to go, it is changing and for the better. I know that God's hand is the one behind it and I know where He moves nothing is impossible!