It’s hard to believe that three months in Africa have come to an end! This continent has such a precious place in my heart. My time in Africa (both in Kenya in ’06 & the past three months) has shaped my future and ignited so many passions in my heart. I know that Africa will always hold a place in my life and my heart. I want to use this blog to try and show some of the reasons that I absolultely LOVE Africa!! So, here goes…
10. The colorfulness of African culture. Both the clothing and the culture carry a vibrancy of colorfulness that can’t be matched anywhere else in the world.
9. The incredible beauty of the African bush! Every time we entered a new country I would swear that it’s the most beautiful place I’ve ever been.
8. Exotic animals literally living in our backyard. Yes, we did get to go on safari, but we also saw most of the safari animals again just roaming aimlessly around the countryside.
7. The African sky. Whether it is sunrise, mid-afternoon, sunset, or star-filled nights, there is absolutely nothing that compares to the African sky.
6. Having the opportunity to really become a part of families and communities: eating together, living together, and learning cultural dances and customs.
5. Churches that have such a passion for the Spirit of God and a hunger for His truth.
4. The beauty and strength of African women. These women work the fields, raise children, keep the home, and serve tirelessly. You will almost always see them with a baby on their back, water or other items on their heads, and serving other people. The women of Africa have such a beautiful strength. I really admire them!
3. The joyful worship and dancing that is such a integral part of the church in Africa. My team has said numerous time that we believe heaven’s choir will be led by Africans. Their voices blend in the most beautiful harmonies! Some of my favorite moments have been dancing and worshipping alongside my African brothers and sisters.
2. Seeing my team operate in their passions and giftings more than ever before. Kiatera has a special love for Africa! I loved seeing myself and my teammates really come alive in these nations, especially Swaziland. It was beautiful to see Krystle love the go-gos in a way that was powerfully redemptive. To see Katie come alive as she uses her media gifts to share stories of hope from a dying nation. To see Lindsay embody the love of Christ as she walks alongside those who are hurting, starving, and dying. To see my own heart awakening as I was able to advocate for unprotected children and to create even just moments for them of feeling truly safe and loved.
1. Falling in love with the most beautiful children in the world! You cannot help but fall in love with the kids of Africa. I love their joy, laughter, and openness.
