(I mean it, it's really scatterbrained–lots of random stuff up in here–I even closed with a quote from Bono)
I looked around and took in all my surroundings: the Indian ocean to my right, mountains to my left, 6 chatty/giggly girls in green cotton “jersey’s” with a yellow M stitched to the front, a group of little toddlers running around with a string tied to a soda bottle trying to use it as a kite, a soccer field of dirt, trash all around, and three little kids playing with a dead dog in the distance (who were quickly rebuked and told to come and hang out with us instead—no worries
).
I had to laugh out loud in amazement. “Only two more weeks of this?”
It’s month 11 in Jeffrey’s Bay, South Africa. I absolutely love it here—even if it is winter! (aka: a “Florida-esk” winter, with highs in the 50s—heyo!) We’re a rocks throw from the ocean, living in little bungalows equipped with (drumroll!…) hot water, a kitchen, a fridge, and beds. I have to say this month is definitely a great transition month. It’s getting us all ready for “re-entry” at the end of July when we go home. I think it’s a good thing too, because upon arriving into Jo-berg from Swaziland I almost had a panic-attack/just about cried at witnessing people obey traffic laws (even really the mere site of side-walks), and skyscrapers.
When did all things 3rd world become my new normal, and all things 1st world become outside of my comfort zone? *That could be another blog in and of itself entirely…
I’m blessed with the privilege to partner with two local ministries: building a log-cabin in the day (the second of its kind in all of So. Africa!), and coaching soccer to the local J-Bay preteen girls (Filia Soccer Girls) in the afternoons. It’s like these two ministries were catered just to me! Yall already know how much I love manual labor: a little varnishing here, sanding there, using the power drill for 3 hours, getting callused hands and a finished project at the end of the day all for the glory of God. (doesn’t that just warm your heart?!) But man, it’s incredible how you can love doing one thing so much, and yet still love another thing at the same time! Maybe it’s my competitive nature, maybe it’s my past that’s so deeply embedded in the sport, maybe it’s my love for these girls but there’s something about coaching soccer that I just can’t put my finger on that brings me to life! On top of teaching the game, two squadmates (Abby, Rachel) and myself get to co-disciple these girls, teaching them more about their identity in Christ, and serving the actual leaders of the ministry as well.
How cool is that? It’s incredible that our great God can use—literally ANYTHING—to further His Gospel and bring glory to His name. Even if it’s running your guts out while kicking a ball down the field!
Oh, also, if you want to get involved and help with the girls soccer ministry, keep on the look out for another blog coming soon! They need actual jerseys, balls, and other equipment. 🙂
Be blessed yall!
"Stop asking God to bless what you’re doing. Find out what God is doing, ’cause it’s already blessed. And when you align yourself with God’s purpose as described in the Scriptures, something special happens to your life. You’re in alignment.”–Bono.
