Author of faith

23.09.05

I decided to relax most of today, but around noon I headed to town with the eventual intention of having lunch. Not that hungry, I stopped at the Liechtenstein National Museum for a look around.

This museum contains a lot of historic tools and items from Liechtenstein. I like how certain rooms were stone or creaky wood floors, giving the appropriate setting for there contents. Among the memorable items (for me), there were some lovely stained glass images. I also took note of a book that had pages cut in order to form a tabbed index — simple but smart.

I managed to set off an alarm on the second floor, by looking too closely at a large cloth banner with images of Christ’s life. But the friendly staff said “no problem, it’s not like you could take it with you.” In the communications room, they also allow patrons to use the Internet for free — which I took advantage of to check my email.

The brochure for the museum had a section about protection, and how the desire for security is the beginnings of faith. It seems people often “find their faith” in times of catastrophe. Switzerland is a country where insurance covers everything, even insurance for the insurance company. People can become secure in their pocket book, having enough money saved up to “handle any situation.”

In the end, I went for a late lunch at Restaurant Forum, which is located right near the hostel. The special included soup and salad, and fish with potatoes. The fish batter contained eggs, making it seem a little like eating french toast. Such heaping portions, I could not finish the whole plate.

After an unplanned nap in my room, I set out to Buchs [books] for a Bible study at the International Bible Fellowship church. Pastor David shared with me how they have an outreach to refugees trying to find asylum in Switzerland, as well as the Latino community. He, himself, is from Columbia and speaks Spanish as his mother tongue. Apparently “people with color” have some difficulties in being accepted in Switzerland, which has worked to the benefit of some — former Muslims coming to know Christ, simply because they find love and acceptance in the monthly coffee house this church runs. We began looking at “The Alpha Course” alongside two other participants.

On my way home, I had the opportunity to help Joey & Sheila find their way to the now-closed hostel. Thankfully, that all worked out and they were able to register and spend the night. Tomorrow is an exciting day — I am to meet the classmates I will spend the next 3 months with.