Guys, I made it. I am IN Africa. I’ve only been here about a week and already I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve thought, “is this real life?” but in a good way. Like when we were driving to our ministry site on what was supposed to be a ten hour bus ride, but then the bus broke down and it turned in to more of a fifteen hour bus ride and we were just standing outside by a market with all of the locals, smiling and greeting us. Or when we finally got to where we are staying at 11 o’clock at night and they all were up to greet us and the women carried our big packs on their heads (new goal) as we walked under the stars to our home for the month. Or when we walk through the streets and the kids look shyly at first but then you smile at them and their faces light up like it’s the best thing in the world. Or when you get sucked into dancing basically every day whether at church or just hanging out (gosh, do they LOVE to dance, I’ve gotta work on my moves!) But mostly when I see the people, and dance with them and laugh with them and worship with them, I am just in awe that I have the privilege of sharing in their lives for a little while. They are beautiful inside and out, and are a true joy to be around. And the part that hits me the most is that it just feels natural, even though there’s nothing natural about it.
We are staying in a small village called Mahapleu, working alongside of a local church. Most days are spent preaching and evangelizing both in this village and the surrounding villages, and just being with the people. If you know me at all, you know that preaching is basically my worst nightmare…Dad might be a pastor but I did not inherit any of those genes. So I’ll be honest, I was a little mad that God gave me that as my first ministry. As I was basically complaining to God about it, He led me to Psalm 40…pro tip: don’t complain to God if you don’t want to be convicted. “You have multiplied, oh Lord my God, your wondrous deeds and thoughts toward us; none can compare with you! I will proclaim and tell of them, yet they are more than can be told…I have told the glad news of deliverance in the great congregation; behold, I have not restrained my lips, as you know, oh Lord, I have not hidden your deliverance within my heart; I have spoken of your faithfulness and your salvation; I have not concealed your steadfast love and your faithfulness from the great congregation” (5, 9-10). So, I may not like public speaking, but I will boldly proclaim the good news. But I do want to ask that you would please pray for me in that this month – to be open to whatever ways God wants to use me, and to boldly proclaim His love. Praise be to God that where I am weak, He is strong.
It’s only been a week and already so much has happened. It’s gonna be a crazy 11 months, and I’m excited to see how God continues to work. Thanks so much for all of your love, prayers, and support.
