Journal Entry 9/16

Thursday September 16, 2010

Woke up this morning to the sounds of birds singing and a breeze - then it hit me that I was sleeping in the African wilderness! How awesome! After getting dressed, using our foldable toilet, and washing my face we had a group devotion.

This morning, Dave shared John 3:16-18. What a great reminder of why we are here. We are here because of God's love for us! Following the devotional was a breakfast of eggs, sausage, and bread. Decided to take Brynn's suggestion and take a pepto every morning as a pre-caution. So far, physically I am feeling GREAT - praying to stay that way!

After breakfast, we walked to the orphanage. The orphanage has 78 kids in ages from about 6-16. the dorms are clean and yet simple. They are made of brick and concrete. The kids only have a bed and hooks on the wall for clothes. We were there after the kids had left for school so mostly we saw the workers. They were all very friendly but most do not speak English so conversations are limited.

The next stop was the high school here by the orphanage. Students are between the ages of 13-17. We went to each class where we introduced ourselves and Tim led a Q & A time. Most of the kids wanted to know what we ate, how long it took us to get here, and what grades the girls were in.

However, one class stood out. One of the boys was intriqued by Tim being a pastor. He wanted to know how to get a Bible. Following that, the kids asked us to sing a song. Tim led us in Amazing Grace. As I was singing, I was struck anew that it is ONLY by God's Grace that I am alive, here and able to serve Jesus as a vocation! I was literally crying at how beautiful God's Grace is!

Seeing the high schoolers, I was so excited about being here with them...whether in America or Africa - I have a heart, passion, and love for teens and youth! They are so amazing. I am praying for a chance to sit with girls and share with them how precious they are to God, how beautiful and valuable.

After a short break, we gathered the parachutes and balls and headed to the elementary school. WOW - is all I can say! As soon as we sat down, kids came from all directions. We sat on chairs and benches. Then, Tim again led in a Q & A time. Popular questions were is wrestling real, what we ate, where we go to church, and why did we come to Zimbabwe. We were able to sing songs and play with the kids.

I was so touched by their smiling faces and their desire to touch us and hold our hands. It was so wonderful to just love them!

Following the school was a wonderful lunch prepared by Taps & Edden! So nice to rest in the shade after dancing and singing!

Once school let out a few of the kids came near our camp and we played with them - such a wonderful time!

During our down time, we shared our testimonies with each other. This was a fantastic way to get to know our fellow team mates and just connect.

The heat is making us a little tired, but so far we are all in good spirits and physically doing great!

Tonight will be our first church service - looking forward to sharing in worship!

The church service was so fun! It is refreshing to see people worship with abandon. They are not hindered by expectations or traditions - they just WORSHIP!