Uganda Team Post #5

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Visitation – 153 children, 24 adults

Fence – 26 workers, 15 children observing

At least 218 people we touched today

The impact on the team members – PRICELESS!

From the morning devotion Amber read the scriptures about the harvest being plentiful but the workers being few in Matthew and how we aren’t to grow weary in doing good. Immediately upon reviewing the scripture the Holy Spirit prompted her to look out the window where a man was “mowing” the grass with a machete. This was very revealing to all of the team members present because we are so blessed with all of the amenities back home. We complain about having to mow the lawn with our gas powered mowers and weed eaters, but this man has steadily worked on the yard for hours and he won’t stop until the task is complete.

The home visits were especially powerful today because we had more time at each residence to sit and visit and pray with each family. One mother, Irene, in particular was so excited to see us that she welcomed us with an “olation” a chant of thanksgiving which is a high pitched shrill noise made by vibrating your tongue very quickly and screaming loudly. As supplies were brought out of the van she took us unashamedly into her home to lock the precious food away. Rag dolls were passed out to all of the children at her house as well as “sweeties,” bracelets, and baby clothes. Sitting and listening to the stories of their crops, sickness, and struggles, it was a special time of encouragement and fellowship. Irene even put on her best dress for some special pictures to be taken. As we were driving away in the van Irene was crossing her arms telling us how she loves us.

Various team members took turns delegating tasks at the homes. At one, the team member leading the visit, she made such a connection with the mother Jane that Jane gave us a large bag of ground nuts, despite the fact her family has so little food. It was humbling. Another home which touched our hearts was the home of James and Faith who were married in 1950. They couldn’t remember their ages, just that they were married when still in their youth. James shared his testimony about being in the darkness, but then a missionary came and he came to know Christ. He also talked about the healing in his leg after the prayer of another missionary. It was touching to hear his story.

The men were exhausted after putting in a full day’s work pouring concrete (2 wheelbarrows per hole), into the holes. They completed a total of 71 between yesterday and today. Working alongside the Nationals gave the men time for meaningful fellowship.

Dinner at Katherine’s was the icing on the cake of the day as we had a devotion led by one of her girls as well as beautiful worship. Please remember our team in your prayers, for continued strength, health, and endurance as we wind down the week.