rash, finger, and knee hit the road

Rash- Amy aka Thing     (woops…Internet in Africa not the best)

Finger- Josh aka aka Arms of steel (he is still trying to hold the title to that name)

 

Knee- Natalie aka Fired Up

The three of us have spent the last week here in Nelspruit recovering from our ailments. We were able to see the doctor on our first full day here and started treatments. Turns out I had scabies…yuckk. I am still scratching but it has gotten much better. A few more treatments and hopefully it will be completely gone. Josh’s finger was a reaction from what we believe was a spider bite he got in London. After soaking it, taking meds, and applying a thick orange goo his finger is looking loads better. Praise the Lord. And then we have knee…Natalie. somebody was horsing around with Nat in London and dead legged her and it was in alot of pain after that. some girls on the squad prayed over her knee one night in London during worship and God healed her of all the pain. she came here to have it checked out just to be on the safe side. It is ok for the time and she might have to have it looked at again at home. For now, she is good though. Praise God for healings and no serious side affects.

I cannot tell you how much of a blessing our time here has been. We have been staying with the Wilson family during our time here in Nelspruit. They have taken us in a treated us like their adopted children. They have spoiled us with delicious meals that we enjoyed while gathered around the dinner table. They have carted us on errands. They have encouraged us every day. Above all else they have been a true example of a Christ centered family and just by being their normal selves, they have strengthened our faith. sheila and Ricard have been our spiritual mom and dad while we have been here and I have loved every second I have spent with them. sheila spoke life into me and shared truths and encouragements that the Lord gave her to tell me. As we speak she is counseling Natalie. It is not just that this family has shown us the true definition of Christian hospitality, this is just who they are. The Wilson’s follow where God is calling them even if it is going against the grain. They serve us with joy in their eyes everyday and I have not met a family on this race that has poured more love into me as the Wilsons have. I think we all need to pray to get a little (or a lot) of the Wilson spirit into our heart and life so that we can be this genuine is our hospitality and authentic in the way we love and serve others.

 

God is teaching me what this means. He is bringing my spirit to life through love, having a joyful heart, giving thanks, and being in prayer. This seems like such an elementary lesson…but why is that the entire human race still struggles with these simple tasks. It seems easy enough, but boy oh boy I have a thick head when it comes to this. But we have a gracious God who does not demand perfection, thankgoodness.

 

Last month I was a little mad at God for taking away my spirt of praise. First off He didn’t take it away. I stepped outside of it. I did not remain plugged into His word. I did not seek His face humbly everyday. I pouted and wined that God had left me. Geez, it makes me sick just listening to my thoughts I had last month. God spoke to me a few days ago that He gives us different ‘spirits’ for a time a season. I needed a spirit of praise in order to survive in Pattaya. Now I need a spirit of peace to hear His voice more clearly and to be at ease with my walk. God knows what we need we need it. He is not going to let us miss out on anything He has planned for us. I am over striving for the past. I want only what He has in store for me. I know there will be hard times, moments of doubt, but also praise and joy all along the way. I am filled with His peace and that is enough.

For that I praise you Father!