One Month

Officially, it's been a little over a month since I've been here, but I delayed in writing my one month post, so here you go :) It's been a nutty ride, so far! To be honest, for the first few weeks I felt a real lack of progress. On my last visit to this beautiful country I was only here for two short weeks and we made the most of it. Constantly going every day: visiting orphans, widows, hospitals, prisons... I felt useful. This time around is so different. Beautifully different. I hit the road with multiple interviews - hearing great stories - great tales of God's glory and grace. It was powerful and sweet, but somehow, it didn't quite feel right. Like it wasn't what I was here for. I was almost discouraged. Then I got malaria, and I was fully discouraged. I practically spent three days in bed, most certainly not useful, and not sure how to turn that around.

Finally, I opened my eyes and saw past the fog. I realized my mission here isn't a "mission". I'm here to live with these people, love on them and show them Jesus. My greatest work isn't in standing up and teaching them, but sitting down and listening to them. Soon after I found a specific calling in reaching out to young women. Hearing their stories, helping in any way I can (which almost never feels like enough), and encouraging them in the Lord. The way these young ladies love is incredible to me. The way they trust blows my mind. As is always the case, I'm being far more blessed by them than they are by me. I thank you all so much for your prayers and support during this time. The first few weeks were a rough ride, but the tides have turned. Jesus has calmed the storm, as He so faithfully does.

[I'm also very determined to get photos of these people smiling. These are my successes thus far.]