Well, I’ve made it to Mozambique, Africa! After a 14 hour flight from Atlanta to Johannesburg, South Africa, then a 4 hour bus ride to a hostel (in which we had 4 hours to catch a quick nap) we were on our way to the border crossing between South Africa and Mozambique. We safely, and rather seamlessly made it through with no hiccups. After a few passport stamps and computerized finger print, we were on our way to the ministry site. It was just as I imagined: Third world with little evidence of life outside these borders. It’s dirty here and although it seems desolate, it is bustling with people around every corner.
This month my team is ministering to Beacon of Hope Africa. It is a home for boys ages 10-17 that focuses on teaching them everyday life skills such as responsibility and work ethic but emphasizing the tools of practice to be Men of God in a country where there is little accountability.
When we first got to our ministry site, I was exhausted and quite the negative Nancy. It is much hotter here than I expected – and I mean hot! The humidity is so thick you could cut it with a knife. There is no escaping the heat either. No air conditioning, no cold water or ice. I’m not sure if it was the jet lag, the heat or my living conditions but I immediately wanted to go home. “What am I doing here?” “I can’t do this.” “I HATE THIS!” It was an “OH —-!” moment.
After a shower, a nap and some food I began to feel better. I looked around and realized, this is only temporary for me but this is their everyday. They know no different and here I am judging and feeling sorry for myself before it’s even been 24 hours. In the words of Michelle Tanner, “How Rude!”
Rather quickly I turned that frown upside down. I looked around and remembered, I’m in freaking Africa! I have dreamed of this for so long! I could either make the most of this God given opportunity or I could whine my way through – much of what I’ve done my entire life. I chose the first option and will continue to choose JOY everyday in every way.
“For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking,
but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 14:17
