igrateful to live in the village, to know the love and
care shown by the long and short term missionaries and to simply have good food and shelter –
their basic needs met.
There are several church meetings during the
week too. Tears fill my eyes again as I listen to one
of the leaders share the message of Jesus powerfully, knowing that he used to be a violent man
who killed enemy tribesmen.
What an amazing change has happened
in this man’s heart as he now preaches
forgiveness and mercy.
Only the love of Jesus can do this. It is also a precious time sharing with the men and women who
have left their home countries and made their
home at the village as God has called them. It is
easy for us to come here just for a few weeks or
months but to stay for years is challenging with
many costs, the hardest being away from family.
There are many highs and lows in a place
like this, but God is faithful.
Well it is time to go home – it has been a fruitful
time. Toni has examined all the children and leaders. There are not as many holes to fill or teeth to
pull out this time (2014) which means the children
have been taking good care of their teeth and also
enjoying the benefits of a healthy diet.
I have mixed emotions as I am waving goodbye to
the large group of leaders and children. I’m sad to
be leaving, but glad to be returning home to my
family.
It is good to send finance to help others overseas
but there is so much more to be gained in going
in person. Relationships are built and encouragement received and given. The Lord gives us a
glimpse of His heart for the people of His world
and what can be accomplished when someone
dares to be obedient to His call.
As I arrive back on Aussie soil I know He has
changed my heart too – I am not the same. I don’t
know when but I do know that I will be back
again. I look forward to looking into those beautiful faces once more and seeing Jesus smile back at
me.`
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