Meet the Burkes.
This family is an obvious sign of God’s love. They have graciously opened their home (and their hearts) to my team this month and have proven to be an outstanding example of hospitality.
“Ministry is life, life is ministry” was a staple concept at World Race training camp. It’s a phrase I’ve etched into my heart and want to live out all the days of my life. This family has taught me firsthand how to do so.
It’s easy to say, “Carley is so bold for going out into the mission field to do ministry. I just don’t have the courage.” Forgive me for being blunt, but you’re wrong. When ministry is life and life is ministry, you don’t even have to leave your hometown to make a difference.
Let Vicki Burke be your encouragement. Vicki tells everyone she meets about Jesus. By everyone, I mean the men at the gas pump, the woman at the toll booth, the children at school, even the people she’s buying bananas from at the market. She’s a superstar evangelist for Christ and it’s so fun to watch. And Adam, he proves God’s goodness through his cool, calm demeanor. Together, they sprinkle kindness and joy like it’s confetti to their guests, as they manage a hostel for backpackers and travelers from all across the world.
Since being here, we’ve spread the gospel across the city of Bulawayo. All because this one family is on fire for the Lord and took His great commission as their personal responsibility.
In two weeks alone, we have:
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Done devotions at several schools
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Performed assemblies for grade 1-7 students
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Ministered at Ingutsheni, a local mental institution
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Done soccer ministry for local athletes
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Door to door evangelism
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Provided and delivered care packages to premature babies and their mothers
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Prayed over sick people in the local hospitals
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Attended Niko, a national Christian women’s conference
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Preached at Jairos Jiri, a workshop for disabled people
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Volunteered at a nursery school
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Lead worship at Kid’s Club
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Participated in worship night at Girls College, an all-girls boarding school
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Police ministry at the Bulawayo Police Station
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Preached at PolyTech, a trade school (college) in Bulawayo
Not to mention team worship times, regular church services and a discipleship program held at the Burke’s house. To say we’ve been busy is an understatement. But, it’s been so beautiful, so eye opening and SO MUCH FUN!
I list all this not to wear you out, nor to brag, but to prove to you that ministry opportunities are available around every corner for each of us. The next time you step into the grocery store, drop your kids off at school, or eat lunch in the break room at work, tell somebody about your faith and the man behind it all. Take time to make ministry a priority.
I invite you all to practice the “Ministry is life, life is ministry” lifestyle this week. It may change your life… or somebody else’s.
Much love,
Carley
