So…we made it to Rwanda and have now been here for two weeks. I didn't think words could explain the past couple of weeks so I decided to do a picture blog for all of you. I hope you enjoy and are reminded of your Father's LOVE for you today:) MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY NEW YEAR from Rwanda (as many have said to me: the land of many hills and the land of PEACE!).
Teaching English with the young kids in the mornings. They are so smart and eager to learn. When they see us coming from down the hill, the come at us in a dead sprint with their arms wide open and jump into our arms. These young kids have reminded me of the unconditional, passionate love that my Father has for me.
On Katie and I's early morning runs through the hills of Rwanda we are greeted from the people at every house and one morning we had two girls run at us with open arms, hug us, and follow us for the rest of the run, barefoot. These young girls have taught me about the perseverance and fight to stay in the presence of my God, and to finish the race that He has marked out for me.
Here we are at a soccer match on the side of a hill, this game was held as part of a youth rally to prevent teen pregnancies and AIDS. We announced the English classes after the game. Being here reminded me of God's heart for this generation, for His heart for the youth around the world, and how creatively He can show His love to His children.
Here are some of the members of the family that we are staying with. We got to be a part of the two youngest girls baptism celebration! Memo: Baptisms are a HUGE deal here in Rwanda, they went all out, I mean it was a bigger celebration than Christmas. This day I was reminded of the new life that is found in our Savior, that He washes us clean and makes us as pure as snow, and how we can celebrate in this NEW life everyday. He makes ALL things new!!!
This is Mama on the left, starting to cook dinner, with her two helpers. My Rwandan family has reminded me what pure devotion looks like, what sacrifice and hospitality really means, and they have taught me what it looks like to open up my home and show brothers and sisters (no matter who they are and where they come from) the sacrificial LOVE of Christ.
