We made it to Alabanza, an area of land and houses owned by a woman with a big heart for missionaries. There are approximately 30 missionaries that live here full-time. And they have lots of short-term missionaries pass through. Some of the guys are camping out, and others are in a log cabin. Most of the girls have bunk beds; although I’m still on the floor, I’m fine with that, since I have a ‘real mattress’ and lots of elbowroom 😉
Monday was our first day of children’s camp. We drive approximately 15 minutes to a nearby school, which graciously is allowing us to use their facilities for the week. This camp is SO different from the Refilwe camp. First of all, we drive off campus. Secondly, the kids come from a totally different area of South Africa. Refilwe is a short ½ hour away, but it feels like night & day difference. Not that one is better than the other. The kids here come from more wealthy families for the most part. They are more educated – all my 12-year old kids speak and understand English very well. They seem to be educated by the TV—telling me what they’ve heard about America from movies & TV shows, and asking many questions about America. The kids are very respectful and seem to know a lot about the Bible. While so far they seem to be an “easier bunch,” I know the need for Jesus is just as real. Also, often times ‘refined’ atmosphere can disguise this need for Christ. Please
pray with me that many children will come, despite the cold weather! Also please
pray that the kids will truly come to know Christ as the only way to God. Today when studying I Kings 18, I mentioned modern day “baal” idols (money, TV, ancestry worship, etc), and almost all of them told me “we heard it’s OK to believe in and worship ancestors”…So obviously they need to know they true God and understand that no other God can take His place.
Tuesday we were able to share the Gospel with the kids. (Side note: please pray for us this & next Fridays and next Tuesday as these are our God’s Love Saves themed days). The kids here are religious, knowing so much about God, yet they were confused about several points of the Gospel. For instance, they thought everyone would be in heaven. The Bible teaches that not everyone chooses to believe in Jesus, thus not everyone goes to heaven, even though Jesus died for everyone. Also they needed clarification that baptism doesn’t save; instead it’s a symbol of growth, since water on your clothes and skin can’t clean the insides of your heart. My kids make me recall when Jesus said “To whom much has been given, much will be required.” These kids have a lot—materially & spiritually. Please
pray with me that they will be leaders for Christ. These kids are headed down the road to be leaders in their community, based on the opportunities presented to them. Please
pray that they will look out for the poor of their country, and most of all, be spiritual leaders for their nation.
Wednesday was also wonderful, the kids are really learning about truths about God, to respect authority and government, to look out for those poorer than themselves, and for praying to God for protection & the hearts of theives. That’s what they wrote in their prayer books today. What a wonderful group of 12-year olds, praying for them often!
Oh, and here’s an
update on Refilwe—Friday went super well. I finally received love back from some of the hardest of boys. It amazed me. Yes, Jesus’ love is enough to fill the hardest of hearts. Thanks for your prayers!
PS- I will only have internet connection when we have transportation into town, which will probably not be very often. And we’re charged by bandwidth, which means fewer pictures. Just thought you’d like to know 😉 Oh, and the South African government is off strike! Praise God.
