Simplicity

I just got back from a weekend retreat with my church, and it was such an uplifting time of hearing how God's at work in the lives of everyone around us. We serve the God of the nations, and He is at work all over the world!


This is where the retreat was at. Such a beautiful and peaceful place to have it.

We spent the time worshipping, having seminars on outreach and witnessing, playing volleyball, and having a Caleigh (a Scottish dance... kind of like a square dance. Really fun!) 

This one family from the church lives accross the river. This is how they travel accross the river. It's like a little zipline chair. Isn't that awesome! I felt like Tarzan at home in the jungle.





Loved the tree swing! Only wish I had Alupot to swing with.

This past week has been really good! As the time to come home draws nearer, I just get so excited to see my family and friends again. So this past week, I was missing home a bit, and I was asking the Lord what my purpose was here. And He provided me with SO much encouragement this week! I got a letter, some encouraging emails, and one of my students and his sister presented me with a gift this week. They made a book about 2 talking butterflies (named after their names) that love "Miss Taicy". It was one of the sweetest gifts I've ever received and such a great reminder of my purpose here: to love. The sister asked me to start helping her with her homework on Mondays. She's a Muslim, so I'm praying for this opportunity. Also, I've gotten to know my neighbor! She's a German girl serving as a nanny for a missionary couple here. We've been studying and memorizing the book of Philippians together every night, and it's been so good. The Lord has shown Himself faithful time and time again. I am so thankful that He has been with me throughout every step of the journey. 

Wiebke (my neighbor) and I

Although there are times that I do miss home, I must say that I do love Africa. I love the simplicity of it all: I love that we don't need a band and fancy lights to worship God. I love seeing clothes dry on the line outside. I love that I have to walk everywhere and have ample time to pray. I love that everyone greets you on the streets. I love receiving hugs from random kids on the street. I love how hospitality is a way of life. I love playing soccer in a dress and sandals. I love seeing people randomly dancing/singing in the streets. I love how fashion isn't so important. I love not being so BUSY and that there are less distractions. I love watching African sunsets every night. I love that I have to depend on God and that He is my refuge. Although I miss all of you so much, I have to say that I am so glad the Lord has brought me here. Only about 33 more days until I get to see all of your lovely faces! But until then, I want to cherish my time here and soak in everything that the Lord wants to teach me.

Mungu akubariki! (God bless!)