The Heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge.
– Psalm 19:1-2
In the words of the late Mr. Bradley Dehart, “What a WORLD!”
Debrief in Kigali has been an absolute dream –
I am thankful for the cool, breezy weather, a room with my own bed and only one roommate (shout out to Caleigh for loving to go to bed as early as I do!), sunny days by the pool, beautiful, green landscapes, and delicious food!
Rest, rejuvenation, and hot showers have truly been the name of the game here this week.
In two days, my team and I will be headed out to our ministry sight for two weeks. After, we will return back on the 18th to greet our parents for Parent Vision Trip (PVT)!
From the 18th – 24th, both of my parents will be joining me in the field – I am expectant and looking forward to what the Lord has planned for our time together. Please join me in praying for safe travels, open minds and hearts, edifying conversations, and true spiritual breakthroughs during our time together here in Rwanda.
Ethiopia was probably the closest place I’ve ever been to west Texas without actually being in west Texas. Rolling plains covered in grass, grain, cattle, and barbed wire fences continued as far as you desired to see. In the far distance, you could see rolling hills sparsely scattered with trees.
Living in Oromia, I was placed at a compound run by HOPEthiopia. This compound comprised of our two hosts, 26 orphaned children, several housemothers, the guesthouse staff, a few security guards, myself, and 38 of my best friends. I am confident that I have never been loved so unconditionally and unapologetically by completely strangers than I was during my four weeks in Ethiopia at the HOPEthiopia compound.
I had no access to cell phone service or wifi – which allowed for complete submission and captivation to the Lord, His will, and His word. While the spiritual climate of Africa, in general, is one like I have never experienced before, the growth and intimacy I experienced with the Lord created an atmosphere of being known and being at home. PSALM 139
Our second Sunday in Ethiopia – I gave a sermon at one of our host’s church on Righteousness. Spurred on and encouraged by my team, I chose to say, “Yes,” and submit willingly and affectionately to what the Lord had put on my heart. Throughout my time in Ethiopia, the Lord, who I now know as Abba, revealed to me a lot of things – but none more than His love for me and desire to be intimately known and sought after. Good & Beautiful God
The kids at the compound were without a doubt the most true and real example of living a life as an overflow of the Lord’s joy and love. The smiles of every single one of them will be burned in my mind forever. This month was easily the hardest goodbye I have had the gift of experiencing on the race.
Field days, soccer games, puzzles, skits, movie nights, photo shoots, so many selfies, cooking lessons, trips to the local market, and sunsets filled up my month of January. It was a blessing to be able to begin this year making so many wonderful memories I will be able to cherish forever. I am thankful to Abba for continually seeking me, teaching me, softening my heart, calling me His beloved, and choosing to work through me for the edification of His kingdom.
