Take My Hand, Take My Whole Life Too

Monday, May 28

Update on the birthday party from yesterday: not that different from our birthday celebrations. There were three of us Americans that went to this party. We were asked to dance for them and with them. They prayed before, saying thank you for another year for Chile (little girl's name). Then we were asked to run a few children's games, so we chose Red Light, Green Light and Simon Says. I think they enjoyed the games, but our dancing was nothing of note to them. Haha!

Church last night blew me away. As previously mentioned, I had a hard time hearing the lessons on other Sundays. Last night was different. The story was of Joseph in Genesis 45, where he tells his brothers who he is and that he is not angry with them. The preacher talked about how Joseph had many problems, yet God blessed him and used him for His glory! He also talked about how it is our duty to inspire hope to the helpless, the orphan, the widow, and those who are in need. It just struck me in a different way this time, because I am in Zambia. He kept asking the church what was holding them back from inspiring that same hope that Joseph inspired for his brother and in turn the whole land. That is my job here, but it is also my job back home...to inspire hope!

Many times during my stay here, one of the children has grabbed onto my hand without fear. It lifts me up and makes me want to continue for their sake, even when I am not feeling my best or missing home.

Life is too good to not be shared. Inspire Hope.

P.S. We played with a soccer ball on the field today. Webster (our chorus director and night guard) played as well. All Zambians are fast...enough said. It was a blast though and good to touch the ball again. I plan on leaving a pair of cleats here :)