If the wild, untouched landscape of Cambodia speaks tranquility and restoration, then the wild, untouched landscape of Mozambique speaks of unruly danger.
I anticipated our time in the desloate, poverty-stricken Mozambique to be similar to our time in Cambodia – working and living with orphans; having limited access to the technology and food we, as Westerners, are accustomed to; and remaining hot, sticky, and dirty most of the time.
Despite the similarities in our World Race lifestyle, Mozambique is remarkable: breathtaking and heart-wrenching in the same moment. The people are walking examples of the land itself – hard, uncertain, but also welcoming and forgiving.
I have so many stories collected to write about, but will save them for another day. For now, I will try to paint a picture of Mutarara and the work we are doing with the people of Mozambique.
We live in tents (finally!), in the middle of a group of huts where most of the orphans are living with guardians after their home was destroyed. Many of the guardians have their own children, but lost their spouses to malaria or AIDs, and are now caring for these orphans in addition. Translation and communication are big obstacles, and attempting to establish construction details have also been a source of much frustration. As I write this, in a town six hours away from Mutarara (the location of the nearest ATM), half of the team is working to move the 15,000 bricks needed to begin the foundation. Land has been purchased for the new building, and plans are beginning to take shape after many disappointments. We knew coming into Mozambique that we would be learning to trust God in so many details, and it has been a roller-coaster ride indeed. We are not sure how long we will be in Mutarara, but we are committed to staying until God’s work is complete.
We have done medical clinics, distributed food and clothing, and have spent time with the villagers learning the culture. While not talking to pastors and working on construction, I spend my time surrounded by the 30+ orphans who live in the village. I find myself often overwhelmed by my lack of personal space or alone time, but I also find the love I need to give them coming from above. These children need so much more than the building, clothing, food, and medical supplies the “rich white people” have brought to them. They need discipline, laughter, and to know they are loved by the God of the Universe. These children are His children. They are no longer orphans when they become children of God, and He becomes their Daddy.
I wish I could post pictures at this time but the internet is not allowing such, but one day I would like to show you the faces that have captured my heart.
Can I bring them home with me?
Got nothin’ to give you but a prayer.
God’s gonna see you through.
To part with you more than I can bear
But somebody gonna love you.
Sweet baby, sweet,
This much I know is true.
Sleep baby, sleep.
‘Cause somebody gonna love you.
Oh, I’m always gonna love you.
