Seasons rise and set. Reflecting on my time here as it is about to set, I am reminded of beautiful memories: whether it was being swarmed by joyous children in Swazi or going over multiplication facts and working on homework with the kids at Jeffery’s Bay. I am filled with nothing but gratitude for the privilege of experiencing God in bold ways in two beautiful countries. Every ounce of my being will miss the feeling of the refreshing water of the Indian Ocean on my face and the sand between my toes as well as the sight of the galaxy in full display on a clear night. When I close my eyes I am transported to sitting and playing in the dirt with little ones feeling nothing but pure joy and contentment unaware that on the other side of the globe there is so much plenty. I smile over the thought of celebrating with a 4th grader whose eyes glimmer with pride as she finally understands addition. I will always remember the past weeks as a treasured gifts that my partners in faith helped bring to pass. I pray these blogs gave you a glimpse of the impact you made for the Kingdom as I attempted to be His vessel.
As I had alluded to in previous posts, sometimes it is easy to live in the beauty of yesterday and not be fully present in the glory that is right in front of you on a daily basis. But I am determined to not let my experiences become a distant recollection that is never voiced. I choose to be encouraged that growth and adventure doesn’t end here. I rejoice in the fruit produced in my fleeting season and am ecstatic to witness the glory that I know will be manifested through the many seeds that were planted. With a little tender love and care there will be a dense forest rising up.
The fact that the next bed I sleep in will be on American soil is kind of a shocking reality to grasp. As my return is quickly approaching, I can sense my spirit’s craving for intentional community. My heart will long for sticky handed children rummaging through my hair (weird; I know). I leave with a content heart knowing I poured out everything. I go with a greater sense of self and creativity. I look forward to seeing how the Lord will continue molding me into His intended creation. Heading into a new rising season I feel emotionally and spiritually prepared to tackle each and every day with tenacity and urgency. To wrap it up, Africa you have been quite legendary. Thanks for joining me on the journey!
Prayer Request
Week 8
Safety: We have a long 3 days ahead of us… We start our morning off at 4:00 a.m. to drive to Port Elizabeth to board a short 2 hour flight to Johannesburg. From there we endure a 26 hour layover in the Johannesburg airport awaiting our 9 hour flight to Qatar. Once arriving in Qatar, we have an 8 hour layover before boarding our final 16 hour flight to Atlanta. As you can imagine, we will be quite exhausted. Prayers for safety, health and energy would be much appreciated.
Thank you all so much for your continuous outpouring of support. I praise God for each one of you. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.
Father,
Your will be done, nothing more, nothing less
