Here are some entries from my journal during my time in Africa. I pray that by sharing some of these memories you will be able to see how the Lord’s hand has moved during my missionary trip. He’s not only used this time to minister to others but He’s certainly helped me to grow more in my faith. Thank you for reading!
10.27.18 South Africa
Yesterday after we rested on the beach I sat on a bench waiting for Claire to return her surf rental. I asked the Lord to show me someone that He would like to help. When I turned around, I saw a young man asking for food. I went and bought him some food. His name is Boy and I wondered if he was never given a real name and was called “boy” instead. He wore a crucifix around his neck and it rested on a small stitched wound that he got after being attacked. He wasn’t from Jeffrey’s Bay but was trying to go back to his hometown to be with family. He had a hard time making eye contact with me. I think that happens when you live in the world too long. Your eyes are the window to your soul. People with damaged souls don’t want other people peeking through. I remember being that way once. I prayed with him and encouraged him through the love of Jesus. For a that moment His eyes stopped wandering and he looked at me. I pray he turns to Jesus believing how deeply loved he is.
11.17.18 Botswana
I stayed up clearing out space on my phone. I went through my Instagram page deleting some posts of food, meal preps, workouts, and fitness progression. I was physically fit yet spiritually and mentally weak. I remember when fitness was the focus of my life. Always striving to meet people’s expectations and to reach the next level of performance. I would write posts about how God was my strength and that I glorify Him. Was I really though? If what I was doing really glorified Him then I don’t think I would have failed. In the end, the only person I was glorifying was myself and my superficial relationships. And, I had no idea who I truly am in Christ because my value was measured by worldly standards. How I broke the heart of my Lord. How I lived a life of empty words that blasphemed against His glory. How merciful is God that He would take a sinner like me in His arms and say, “I still love you.” Lord, teach me how to live for You. May my life be Yours.
12.21.18 Zambia
I received news that a woman that we had Bible study with passed away. We were at this woman’s home just two days ago and she left behind a daughter, a grandson, a sister, and many others who are grieving for her. Death is a thief that comes in the night. Before she passed we got to share the gospel with her. She died believing that Jesus is her Lord and Savior. I cried for her family. Then, I rejoiced with them because we know she’s in a better place than this world. Time on earth is unpredictable. There’s people that need to be saved before time’s up. The work for the Kingdom becomes more important as ever. Leading someone toward salvation means that throe eternity will be in the presence of God’s fullness. This is worth working for, fighting for, and living for. Lord, use me as a vessel for Your Gospel.
Africa has a very special place in my heart. Please keep these nations in your daily prayers. Thank you all for continuing to encourage me through my blog posts! Part three will be entries from Asia!
