I can't believe that we've been here a month! There have definitely been some pretty crazy/awesome memories so far...star tipping, eating a chicken's foot (more like a toe for me), marveling at God's beautiful creation (this place is GORGEOUS), and so many more...everything has been amazing, but the relationships that are being formed here stick out the most and have and will make the most impact.
The past few weeks we've been working with the beautiful ladies from On Eagle's Wings (a ministry to help domestic abuse victims) and in the afternoons with the children from Joshua Project. At first these kids seemed so rough and crazy, but as they get to know and trust you, you begin to see the precious children that they are. Sometimes I might be breaking up two boys fighting over a game they're playing, and then a few minutes later I'll find that same 9 year old boy walk up to me and without a word jump in my arms to be held for a while. They may seem tough, but they are so full of life and just want to be loved (and they're hilarious and tons of fun as well!).
Some of the older girls have taught me a thing or two about love as well. One girl in particular is a ten year old named Jenna. This bright and beautiful child just shines with love and understanding way beyond her years. When I talk to her, I forget that I'm speaking with a ten year old who's first language is one different than mine and was born half a world away. Instead, it's just another person who I love, dreaming about a better world full of love and peace. Although I hope to keep in contact with at least her and her friend Jodie, my prayer is that others will come into her life and pour into her as she continues to reach after Jesus. And with His love in her, I know He has some crazy plans in store for her life.
My ministry team and I (the 5 of us) have also had the privilege of getting to spend time with a lady who works at a coffee shop across the street from the Joshua Project. Her name is Mama Mirial. We've prayed together, laughed, eaten South African food (no chicken heads or feet here), and gotten to hear stories about her family. She also just recently told us with tears in her eyes that we are becoming like daughters to her. Some of these relationships I'm starting to think are ministering more to me than vice versa.
God's definitely been revealing to me recently how universal His love is. Whether young or old, different ethnicities, languages, and backgrounds, God's love breaks down walls and brings people together. I'm excited to be apart of it.
