In the wee hours of the morning on Friday, I had a meltdown over going on this trip. I absolutely did not want to go. My plane was leaving in a few hours, my luggage wasn't packed and my mind was made up: No South Africa for me. My own conscience forced me to finish packing my bags, my mother pushed me out the door and into the terminal, and my Jesus gave me the strength to control my fear over leaving the United States for the first time. Then my entire attitude changed.
Today I had a little girl tell me repeatedly that she loved me, a boy no older than two fall asleep in my arms, and another young boy learned to trust me enough to let me hold his marbles because I was going to surely give them back. There are no words to describe how meaningful these experiences are in my heart, because only being in this place among the children allows you to fully understand the heartbreak and joy filling everyone here.
Writing about the programs we did today doesn't really fit my style. I enjoyed giving them structure and activities they normally wouldn't do, but simply walking in the village and loving on any kid in front of me is what reminds me most of Jesus and his relational work while he was here. And, He is the greatest teacher of all, to live as He did would be no mistake. Thus, we are working to touch these children's lives with a simple hug or moment to ask their name and repeat it back to them.
It also isn't my style to leave out how amazing the relationships between our own team members are as they continue to develop; we really do love each other (or else we wouldn't be able to be in such close quarters all the time!). The fact that Jesus is alive within us all makes our bond significant and powerful. There are times when I step back and see everyone eager to help despite being exhausted and people forming friendships regardless of their age or place in life. Plus, there is no cease to the laughter! This is important – knowing your team and loving each other because only then are we able to come together to love others we come in contact with here in Mafikeng.
Most importantly, this trip is about trusting the Lord: Trusting Him to provide funds, to keep the plane safe during our almost 24-hour journey, and to meet our needs while we are here. He has gone beyond our expectations. The people of Molelwane Village have come to trust us which is also the work of God. Allowing us to come into their land and provide programs for their children of all ages is a big leap of faith and they welcome it with open arms. Even the high school age group gave us hugs as we left…it takes more time to earn the trust of this group of students so it was quite moving to know they enjoyed their time with us. We are being blessed more than I could ever explain.
Job 22:26 - Then you will always trust in God and find that he is the source of your joy.
~Grace Gardner
No comments:
Post a Comment