Monday, January 26, 2009

Sakasaka

Sakasaka- in Chichewa, this means, “to search for or hunt with diligence” This has definitely defined my time of orientation in Africa. I have had a chance to slow down, look around, and genuinely and earnestly seek the Lord. And have I ever found Him!!

I have made it through 42 hours of travel, 10 days of orientation in a fish-bowl, and more mosquito bites than I can count! And He’s been here all along. The time at Heron Bridge for orientation really has been wonderful. It has given the 26 of us serving in Africa a great chance to get acquainted with each other and the time and culture change. The place we are staying is beautiful! I have gotten to see God paint the sunset each night, as I have either sat on a green hill overlooking the river, or walking around the retreat center with new friends. Just so you know- He makes ‘em Good here!!

During our orientation time I learned a lot about myself as we had team building seminars, religion seminars, and practical application seminars. One day, we had a 6 hour revival, that was completely spirit lead, each team had some Bible study time, which wound up lasting 4 hours, and then we moved into worship through song which lasted 2 hours. When we were done, we were amazed at how much time had passed! The Lord has been all over each of us, and the Spirit has been so near. It has been so wonderful to just spend time with Him! My team is very unique and wonderful. There are 3 of us, myself, Shaila, and Josh. We have claimed Ecclesiastes 4:12 “A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” And we are praying that for each other!

The time here has been a unique chance to learn about the culture and effective ways to minister as we adjust to time change. It has been a wonderful experience, and while there were days that were long, I cannot believe it is already over and it’s time to head to Malawi! As we travel, please keep my team lifted, along with travel, the m’s were working with, the wonderful people we will be meeting this week, and last but not least- the spiritual warfare we will encounter! I covet your prayers, and feel privileged to have you along on this journey with me!
**Pictures will be posted soon! Please be patient with the African internet!*

Sunday, January 11, 2009

A beginning...

So, this is my first attempt at "blogging"... hopefully this will prove useful for keeping people updated!!
I cannot believe the time to leave is finally here! I have been so blessed by the Lord through the preparation process, and as I get ready to step on the plane, I am So overwhelmed by His grace! As I have said "see-you-laters" and been showered with love and blessings from friends and family, I've come to the realization that it is Time to go, and follow Love!

I cannot thank everyone enough for the love and prayers so far, through each of you I have lived Malachi 3: 10 (Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it!)

I am excited to see what the Lord has in store. My prayer for you and I both is that we never let His grace stop amazing us!

"Your grace still amazes me, your love, is still a mystery, each day- I fall on my knees, (because) Your grace Still amazes me!"

May we Never cease to be brought to our knees by the weight of how Wonderful His Grace is!!
Live in it!! See you soon!