In just two days I'll be "leavin' on a jet plane" back to the States. I am taking so much back with me - not just souvenirs =) but memories, learning experiences and defining moments. Yet I realize that right now I'm still "in the moment" and that most of the things I have learned will have to be processed over time. Here are some of the things God has impressed on my heart since being here:
I have developed a passion for orphans. I talked about this in one of my previous blogs as well. The need for loving, godly parents is a huge need, especially for those who are raising themselves. As of 2007, there were 14 million AIDS orphans in Africa, and that number was expected to be increased by 10 million by 2010. So right now there could be as many as 24 million AIDS orphans in Africa (or more). What are these children being taught about life, and especially about God? Do they know there is a Father in heaven who loves them and sent His Son to die for them? Do they have hope for this life and the next? What will happen to Africa in the next 20 years when these orphan children are grown? I cannot get that thought out of my mind. But not only in regard to the future, but right now...are these children being loved right now? Last Monday I visited the Limpopo Province with TWR and a partner organization, Open Schools. Open Schools reaches out to vulnerable and at-risk children who are struggling in school or who aren't in school at all. The majority of the children are abandoned or orphaned. Through Open Schools they are being taught a Christian-based tutoring programme and being not only told about the love of Christ, but being shown the love of Christ in a practical way. I thank God for organizations like these and am praying about how God would use me to make an impact like this.
I have also learned much about the plight of women in Africa, and it is also overwhelming. Throughout the world there is much injustice done to women, including Africa. Women are not given a voice and are abused in various ways: whether physically, sexually, or emotionally. These women need to know that they are special and loved. Through research with TWR I learned about the situation of women in the DRC (Democratic Republic of Congo). They are experiencing assault as a result of war, and it is exceptionally cruel. Many women are raped, killed, and beaten, and they are left with the physical and emotional scars. I believe in the almighty Healer and want to see these women experience His love.
As I wrap up my time here, I cannot say exactly where God is leading me, but I am going to seek Him especially in these two areas. Part of me thinks, "How can someone like me help orphans and hurting women? I have no idea how to relate to them. I'm from a wonderful, Christian family and haven't experienced what they've been through." However, I believe that God uses us in our weaknesses, and equips us to help in situations we think we are unworthy to serve in. As I return, I am going to be praying for His guidance in these areas and that He will open up the right doors of ministry for me. My prayer is that God would just use me...in whatever way He sees fit, to make a difference in at least one life.
Other things I've been doing in my last few weeks here:
I drove to Tembisa (a nearby township) by myself for a training and got lost (!) but found my way after about an hour. I felt very adventurous afterwards, like I had accomplished something.
I visited friends on the west side of Jo-burg who I worked with during my previous visit in 2008. What a blessing to see these people who are dear to my heart!
Went to an orphan ministry in Tembisa with women from Grace Baptist church and got to love on some kids. They were all 5 or younger and very eager to be held! Even though we were only there for an hour, I will never forget those children.
I've been involved in leading music at Grace Baptist church and at TWR and have really enjoyed it! The people here have been so welcoming and have embraced me as one of their own, and I am blessed.
There is much more to write, and perhaps I will once my mind absorbs all that has happened these past two months. Please pray for me that I would know what God wants me to learn from this and where He is leading in future ministry. As I return to the States on 5 August, please pray that I will adjust well and that God would prepare me for my Resident Assistant position at seminary.
Blessings!
I'll leave you with a verse that has encouraged me recently concerning orphans:
"Though my father and mother forsake me, the LORD will receive me" - Psalm 27:10
Little girl at the Baptist orphans centre in Tembisa. She and I held hands. =)
Children at the Baptist centre in Tembisa. We sang songs with them and taught them a Bible story.
Open Schools project in Polokwane area.
Eugene teaching the children one of the lessons. Notice how they are under a tree - and the only products needed for class are chalkboards (laying on the rock), workbooks and pencils. In some areas, the class uses an audio component from TWR.
