brothers and sisters

The City of Davao is a melting pot of many Filipino tribes.
One of those very distinctive tribes is the Sama people, or the Bajau.

They were traditionally sea-living people,
but they have long since abandoned boat living
for Sama-style piling houses along the coast.

These are just a few shots we've taken of their amazing homes at the water's edge,
near the ports of Davao.
Access to some of these homes is only possible by boat.

The Sama are known for their colorful textile handicrafts, and for their weaving.

They are also known as fishermen and divers.
One source said that the Sama often intentionally rupture their eardrums
at an early age in order to facilitate diving and hunting at sea.

OUCH.

They are a distinctive people, and we see them often,
especially in certain areas of town.

As I consider their culture,
I'm startled at the gulf that separates our worlds,
though we live in the same city.

I'm embarrassed by how small my world is;
and amazed at how big my Father's world is.
Because He knows each one of them.

He knows their names.
He is big enough to be their God.

There are Christians among the Sama,
and a church.
Do you know what that means?
We have brothers and sisters living in those incredible houses...

This is my Father's world:  
 why should my heart be sad?  
 The Lord is King; let the heavens ring!  
 God reigns; let the earth be glad!