Expectations of Africa always bring us back to scenes of the Lion King and sunny, dry/hot weather. Even after spending a year in Africa, I remember the rains, but not to this extent. Since arriving here this time around, more days I’ve spent wringing the water and mud from my socks then not.
The entire last month seems like a blur of events and fulfilling moments. I was so blessed to spend the holidays this year with some of the most grateful children. We were able to organize many Christmas events for them to participate in. Everything from Christmas cookie decorating to Caroling to water balloon fights. The kids were beyond excited to lick their sugar coated fingers and throw baking flour in each others faces.
I saw Jesus in a new way because of the children this past month. Maybe a way that I didn’t want to see myself, but I way that I needed to see him. One of our projects was the buddy system. There were many orphans and many of us because our entire squad was together (that makes 50.) Therefore, we were paired up with a certain child and were encouraged to invest in them and show them special attention.
Many of the children were excited to have a buddy. Some were excited at first and then changed their mind from day to day. My particular child didn’t like me very much at all. This was heartbreaking because I believe that one of my greatest fears is having a child not like me. Trust me…it doesn’t happen very often. He is five and just plain adorable so that made it hurt all the more. In many situations my kid would come to me for a moment with a smile on his face and I would get my hopes up and then moments later he would run away. It didn’t matter what my child did to hurt me, I still loved him.
(This photo explains our relationship.)
And this is where I see Jesus. He deals with me through every tantrum and tempermental day. He accepts me for the good and the bad. He has to put up with my nonsense, but he loves me anyway. I’ve learned from a child about how rotten of a person I am. How selfish and self seeking. But how beautiful and perfect of a savior Jesus Christ is. I still have so much to learn!
And now? I am in South Africa! We are located in one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. Our ministry this month is a variety of things, from serving the community in hopes of building relationships to taking care of babies and doing yard work. Pray for my new team of 6 that consists of ALL GIRLS.
Financial update: I still need close to $4000 to meet my final deadline. At this point I am still in danger of being sent home. If you would like to make a donation it would be much appreciated. Thank you to all who have given and continue to give.
