Africa 2012 Day 1


It’s a crazy thought to think that God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. It’s crazy that the same God who knows everything about life in Branson, Missouri is the same God who deeply loves and cares about people all over the world. Today was the day I got to return to Africa. I feel so blessed to be given the opportunity to do what I love most: love and serve those who need it the most. This year I’m so thankful to have my younger sister and parents here with me! We are staying in Ethiopia for a week, and then going to Uganda for a week. After a twelve-hour flight and 7 hours of sleep in two days, we arrived in Ethiopia. After we loaded our team and all of our luggage into vans, we embarked on the streets that are constant reminders of being in Africa… and I love it! Cows, horses, sheep, goats, and mules crowded the streets, interrupting the flow of traffic. Motorcycles weave between trucks, and people sprint in front of cars. After getting settled into the guest cottage that we’re staying in, we visited Fistula Hospital. The hospital is featured in the film, “A Walk to Beautiful” (which is available on Netflix), and was one of the most incredible places I've ever been. It was filled with stunning young women who were being treated, cared for, and taught skills to give them a better life. It was a beautiful, peaceful haven in the midst of a bustling capital city. Many have invested in the hospital and support the many things they’re doing for the girls. This evening we went to a Catholic orphanage with about sixty children. Outside, we hung out with the kids ranging from 3 to 17. Inside, we went up to a room filled with tiny babies… the cutest and most content babies ever! It was an amazing first day. God is truly Creator and Sustainer of all. In Him is healing, joy, and full life.

Matthew 6: 31-33 “So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need.”