It is month 9 and I find myself in Zimbabwe, Africa. A continent I have never been too and a culture I have never experienced.
Going into this month, my prayer was that I would still have the drive and enthusiasm as I did at the beginning of the race. Thankfully, God made it easy for me as my team was placed at Sandra Jones Center.
Sandra Jones Center is a children’s home for children who have experienced sexual abuse. However, since they started, Sandra Jones Center is also a crisis center that receive children from Child Welfare, who have experienced sexual, physical, and emotional abuse.
“At the Sandra Jones Center they are committed to providing the best care and support for our children.”�
They provide vocational training, elective classes, schooling, and child care for all ages. They give the kids a whole lot of Jesus-type love, a home, and a family. A family that cares and protects. Loves and values. Cherishes and forgives.
My team and I were instantly welcomed by over 40 children and within minutes, had them hanging off all of our limbs. They have accepted us without condition and loved without limits.
Last week, my team and I decided to take advantage of the week before everyone started school and facilitate a Beauty for Ashes program. Beauty for Ashes is a retreat-like program that empowers women and their stories. When learning that their story matters, the ashes of the story are turned beautiful. They are able to step into vulnerability and be released from shame and see themselves redeemed and restored in Christ Jesus.
“To give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit.” Isaiah 61:3
We have only been here a week and my heart is already exploding. My heart is being filled up daily with the Lord, all the little kiddos, and with all my sweet time helping in the kitchen or having good conversation with the young women.
If I don’t come back to America, you will know where to find me.
