Swaziland, Africa.
And
We are, without a doubt, removed. There are, however, commodities like running water, electricity, and even a hot shower need be. Feelings of adaptation circulate through your body, or at least is does for me. Africa carries a sense of struggle with it and Swaziland especially. Over 10 years ago, Seth Barnes (CEO of Adventures in Missions) saw the dying country of Swaziland. The average age of a Swazi resident was 40 and HIV was climbing dramatically. With a passing generation and growing epidemic, there was no way Swaziland could be a sustainable country if something wasn’t done. But AIM has infiltrated the people of this country not though means of conversion but of cultural awareness. Care points, buildings that are dedicated to the care and education of children in a community, lead by Shepherds, those hand-picked from that community to lead and foster the kids, are under the discipleship of AIM. They span all across Swaziland with a great vision.
As a squad and as a team, vision has become vital to our ministry and outlook for life here on the race. In some senses, it’s the vagueness of “what are we doing and where are we going,” burdened by a designated purpose. It can come in the form of discernment as a projection of what is to be and may not. It is, being able to see, with no foundation, a better hope and reality for someone. Whether that is for an entire nation, or accepting one college over another, people’s lives are involved. God’s vision for His people was a commencement that guaranteed glory. One of ancient promises, hinged on the sacrifice of One for many. In this, we rejoice.
So at month 6, rolling into Africa, where does this perspective land T squad?
It leaves us following the greatest vision yet on the race. Maybe even in our lives. So with each ministry opportunity presented, there has been a tangible inclination of some veriabiable impact. Whether it was teaching English, starting a new church, making jump ropes, or building relationships with young people, you could at least see the growth set before you. Here in Swaziland, the purpose of ministry for the kids at the care points is something far-reaching. The vision, for coming to Africa and being with these kids, is based on the development of who they will and can be for their country. We are, in fact, playing a developmental role in the future leaders of Swaziland and the presence of love, attention, and protection in their childhood (memories).
This takes great vision and faith to not only cast for any people, but for us to take on. When I sat back and thought about what exactly I felt as I kid, I can only imagine what our presence can mean while we are here. For the love of the Father and redemption of Jesus Christ to be offered is one thing, but to feel it can truly shape the way a life unfolds. To me, the beauty of it all lies in their youthful intentions and innocent adolescence. They run up to you and want to hold your hand. The grasp of being known and the felicity of just walking together I know has had an impact on me. Furthermore, what great pleasure comes with fulfilling the words of Jesus.
“Then children were brought to him that he might lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples rebuked the people, but Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” And he laid his hands on them and went away.”
(Matthew 19:13-15)
He laid His hands on them. I love that.
I hope to share more of all that is here to see in Swaziland with you all. Thank you all for everything!
-Will
