Okay maybe not... yet... but once again another place has stolen my heart!
Cambodia.
I love the people.
Here’s a snapshot to the fist half of my month 10: HOT! HOT! HOT! and no escaping it. Good thing we came during their hottest month :) Occasional electricity & livin it up in a fun tree house.
Bugs everywhere and if you're lucky you'll get a surprise from a scorpian in the bathroom.
No running water.. good ol’ bucket showers (which are becoming more normal these days) and the water comes from the lil pond that the cows drink and bathe from.
Living the WORLD RACE dream in a village! The simple life :)
The first half of this month I was with Team Deepest Roots and partnered with Teen Challenge in Takeo.
They have homes for men and women that have been sexually abused, exploited, addicted to drugs, alcohol, glue, and any other life controlling problems. It’s a place where they find healing and restoration. A home where they receive love and meet Jesus for the first time.
They have boys as young as 11 years old to grown men with families. The darkness and hopeless they came from is heartbreaking. Some of the boys are so young and have experienced so much abuse and pain. Thank the Lord they have been rescued and are worshipping and crying out to Jesus the Redeemer!
They now have a hope and future.
They are so sweet and craving for LOVE. They don’t speak much English but I’ve learned that a smile and hug can go a long way.
I've been called to simply LOVE with all of my heart and strength and give these boys my best.
Celebrating New Years in Cambodia. Watch out- they throw powder on your face!
I can’t compare my energy levels to what it was month 1. I’m realizing when I’m most tired or worn out is when I can experience the strength of my Lord the most. When I’m in need is when He can fill... to overflowing.
This is my favorite lil boy- Su Pon. He was addicted to glue and living the street life. He melted me. We couldn't speak to eachother but everyday I told him how much I love him with the biggest hugs.
The Lord saved him and his brother 4 months ago. In Teen Challenge they receive counseling, character development, English classes, vocational training and social and recreational activities.
Goodbyes haven't gotten easier. This one was one of the hardest ones with tears in our eyes while one of the boys just cried in my shirt.
Right before I left I took the opportunity to speak truth into their lives- that Jesus LOVES them and is SO proud of them. That they have BIG futures ahead of them- and they will not go back to the streets. And to keep loving Jesus and eachother!
I get teary eyed thinking about them. I miss them and pray one day I will see them again.
Some days I have thought 3 months left!? That’s gonna fly. Minutes later I’m thinking WHAT?? we STILL have 70 days left?! That’s forever away.
Every month it seems to get a lil more tiring and exhausting and I wonder how much longer can I live out of a bag...
Then it hit me.
The way I finish this season is the way I start the next season.
We were challenged at debrief to expect BIGGER and greater things in these last three months. When I look back at my first 3 months on the Race- I was expecting BIG, living up each moment, and begging God for more and more each day. As time goes on it’s easy to go through the motions.
But something ignited in me with a new determination and excitement to finish the Race with more expectation than when I started this thing out.
I left Thailand and boarded my last train ride of the year with sheer excitement for these next 3 months.
Excited for MONTH 9 in Malaysia!!
I had 20 hours of reflecting on these last 8 months and thanking the Lord for all that He has allowed me to see and experience. And filled with a new anticipation for these last 3 months believing they will be the sweetest of them all.
But it’s funny how feelings and emotions can switch in an instant.
My second day in Malaysia I woke up in a hotsweaty mess, cursing the heat, missing my bed, annoyed that I have mysterious rashes and spots all over my body, sick of living out of a bag, and just when it couldn’t get worse our bedroom completely flooded with water. As I was dragging out our floor mats and hang drying my clothes I was thinking,
“I’m OVER IT!”
Take me home.
Give me air conditioning, normal food, a shower, and a cold dark room…
all to myself.
I quickly hit my breaking point.
How did I go from being so thankful and happy to completely irritated and done in less than 24 hours?
We were told that morning we were going to a sand quarry to minister to men from Burma. And to be honest that was the last thing I wanted to do.
We piled in a little car that evening and headed to this sand quarry. As we were driving we found out we’re headed to one of the oldest jungles in the world.
It was beautiful.
Incredible.
Our heads were out the window hoping to see a wild boar come after us. I thought I was in Jurrasic Park.
We finally arrived and greeted by a group of men with the biggest smiles on their faces. They proudly took us to this small room and to our surprise there was a feast of snacks waiting for us.
I was speechless.
These men have left their homes in Burma to earn money for their families. They have nothing, yet blessing us with everything they do have.
I suddenly was so ashamed of my horrible attitude I had all day…
20 men were sitting on the floor worshipping the Lord and the presence of God filled the room. It was thick where you can feel the Spirit and see the joy and love all around.
Blessed.
Humbled to be in this room. Thankful to be in Malaysia, in one of the oldest jungles worshipping my Heavenly Father and thinking...
there is no place I’d rather be right now. I wouldn’t trade this for anything.
Isn’t it crazy how we always what we can’t have? And think the grass is greener on the other side. I’m in MALAYSIA!! and yet wishing I was home? That doesn’t even make sense. And just like that I saw how easily I can miss out on what’s right in front of me because I’m thinking of what I don’t have.
Ohhhh the secret of CONTENTMENT….in any and EVERY situation…
“for I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want." Phil 4:12
It is an art. A secret...to be grasped.
So even though I had a few homesick days and crabby attitudes I’m thankful He is teaching me the secret of contentment. And that it's ALL found in Him. No matter where I'm at or what I'm doing. He's the source. He is the ONLY one that can satisfy.
I am thankful for another sweet month on this wild journey called the World Race.
Thankful..
for all the things He’s teaching me on a daily basis.
that I’m not the same person I was 9 months ago.
the way He loves me with so much grace.
so thankful for all of you-
for all the love, support and prayers I receive from back home.
And thankful for what I’ve experienced this month in Malaysia.. Here’s a few pics of our time thus far.
My first 2 weeks were with Pastor Thomas and his precious family.
The Lord called them to be a light in their dark city. It’s a mostly muslim community with couple Christian churches in the area.
We have spent time with the children in the community teaching English classes to character building.
More and more children are coming. Pastor’s home is a safe haven for these children.
We spent a couple days in Precious Home- a place for abandoned or disabled children. This is a place filled with love. We played, taught, worshipped, prayed with them, watched movies, sorted donations, ate interesting foods like snails... did a lil bit of everything. This place blessed me big time.
And we even had a couple days on Langkawiw Island to relax and experience the incredible beaches!
Even though I may miss home at times, I'm thankful I'm here.
I miss you all. Would love to hear how you're doing and what the Lord is teaching you.
It’s a question I would answer without hesitation. Of course I trust the Lord…with my whole heart.
Then why do I find myself at times questioning, doubting, worrying, or hesitating?
The Lord has convicted me. He shed new light on scripture that I’ve read countless times.
James 2: 14-26: What good is it, if a man claims to have faith but no deeds? ..faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead..
“Was not Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the alter? You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did.”
…faith without deeds is dead…
It hit me..
..just like faith, TRUST by itself without belief and action is dead.. no trust at all.
Worrying or doubting = NO TRUST at all. zilch. zero.
The Lord has been putting my trust in Him to the test….daily.
2 weeks ago we were in Chaing Mai, Thailand, about to journey back to Bangkok for our month 8 debrief. This is a time where the whole squad comes together and meets with support staff from America for different teaching sessions and to see how each team is doing.
Before we left that Tuesday morning the Lord woke me up really early to go downstairs and pray. I thought that I would stay in bed and pray. He quickly came back with,
“How are you positioning yourself Michelle?
Are you posturing yourself to fall back asleep or to intercede and receive from Me?”
I let out a deep sigh and groggily tiptoed down stairs with a pounding headache I still had from the previous day.
I fell down on my knees.
As I was praying I realized I've been carrying burdens I'm not meant to carry and worrying about so many things.
One being debrief… concerned about different team issues, potential team changes, wondering if I’d have the words to speak, or strength to make it through the week. I didn’t feel ready or prepared for what was ahead.
As I was praying for our squad- the Lord hit me with…“Do you TRUST me?”
Yes, Lord… of course I trust you.
“Then, WHY are you worried? And why are you carrying all of these burdens?”
As I was finishing my prayer time the thought of fasting coffee for the week came up. Now, I’m not sure if it was my brilliant idea or if it was from the Lord. But all I could think of is YEA, RIGHT… give up coffee on the busiest, craziest week of my entire Race? No thanks..” …again I heard…
“DO YOU TRUST ME?”
Yes… but my head is STILL pounding for not having coffee yesterday.
“Am I not enough? Do you trust that I can heal your headache? Do you trust that I can give you more strength and energy than any caffeinated beverage?”
At that moment I had the choice whether or not I would walk out my trust in Him.
I laid my hands on my head and prayed healing for my headache.
I proclaimed.. God you will heal my headache I TRUST you … You alone will give me everything I need for this week..
MORE than any hot cup of coffee.
I surrender all these burdens and exchange them for your PEACE.
As I walked up the stairs, no joke, my headache was completely gone! I felt the healing touch of my Savior and physically felt burdens lifted as supernatural peace and joy come over me.
Now, I’m not gonna lie- Debreif was one CRAZY week! Our squad has gone through some pretty intense stuff this year and many of us were feeling beaten up and bruised. Many issues were finally coming to the surface that needed be completely dealt with. The Lord continued to challenge my faith and trust in Him. Yet, through it all I didn’t have ONE cup of coffee and in exchange the LORD gave me so much ENERGY, peace, JOY, strength, and insight. I had the MOST energy I’ve had all race. I should have been going LOCO and completely exhausted beyond functioning, instead I was joyful and at ease the entire week.
As I look back at that week I can see how He carried me each day. At times it felt so supernatural. He’d give me specific words to speak over people- things that were so random. I would doubt if that came from me and wanted to ask the person questions before I said anything … but then I'd hear Him say, “Do you trust me? Then walk and speak it like you trust me and with the authority I have given you."
I've realized it's one thing to say I trust Him, and it's another thing to walk out that trust...
....without worrying or douting.
What good is it, if a man claims to have trust but no deeds? ..trust by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead..
ps I'm currently in MALAYSIA!!
more blogs to come.. with pictures next time! I'm so bad at keeping up with this thing...
Dede is a 16 year old boy that now looks and acts like a girl because at a young age his mother told him he’s a ladyboy.
DeDe works the streets on one of the busiest red light districts in Bangkok. He’s been running away from his family in fear because he stole money from them. He is broken and confused, longing for love and affection.
Celeste, the founder of Dton Naam Ministries picked up the phone and said “Yes. Yes, I will come for him.” She says yes to the Lord every time. She is a woman who loves like Jesus. Taking DeDe back into her arms knowing there is a chance he will run away again.
DeDe wouldn’t go home and has been running from everyone who loves him. His parents have recently accepted Jesus and now go to church with Celeste on Sundays.
My teammate Savannah and I were still up that night praying. The Lord impressed it on our hearts to pray even though we didn’t really know why. A little later we find out that Celeste will be bringing DeDe by and to start praying.
DeDe walked in with his small mini skirt and tanktop on and smiled kindly.
Since he refused to go home Celeste said, “Let’s ask God what he wants DeDe to do.”
Instantly he replied, “God doesn’t want me to go back home. He wants me to keep running.”
Celeste responded, “How about we ask Jesus what he wants DeDE to do.”
When Celeste said the name of Jesus there was an instant shift in the atmosphere. There was a change in DeDe’s demeanor and his eyes changed colors.
He became distracted with everything around him- a cereal box, a nail file, getting water, grabbing teddy bears off the shelf.. and the more we talked about Jesus the more DeDE squirmed. He started to fight. He didn’t know what was true or false. He was so confused.
He wanted to hide in every dark corner.
Celeste wouldn’t let him go. She kept loving him and speaking the name of JESUS over him.
“JESUS…JESUS... JESUS.”
DeDe started to scream and was no longer in control of his actions.
We put worship music on. We started to pray harder and proclaim truth and life…
Jesus you have authority over Dede’s life.
You Love Him.
Where the spirit of the Lord is there is Freedom.
FREEDOM over DeDe.
We rebuked any stronghold and demonic possession over his life.. We declared that everything be silent and come out.
At the sound of worship DeDe started dancing around and singing “I sing to Satan, You sing to Jesus.”
The more we worshipped and prayed the more we could see the war between evil and good. The demonic presence on DeDe was heavy. He wanted to run away. He was under attack. He tried escaping from every window and door way possible.
Celeste calmly sat at the main doors. Praying. Interceding.
DeDE fell on the ground and started crawling like a snake.
Tears started streaming down my face as I was thinking- that’s exactly where satan wanted him. On the groud. Telling him that’s where he belongs – that’s where he will always be.
He finally crawled his way to the door where Celeste was waiting for him. He collapsed in her arms and started to weep saying “I want Jesus. I need Jesus. I love Jesus… and listing off all the people he loves.“ Celeste wept with him.
Right before my eyes I saw the love of our Father. The way He always takes us back with open arms. The way His love conquers and casts out all fear and darkness. Removing the shame and saying you don’t belong on the ground or in the dark corners, you belong in My arms. Come home. You don’t have to run anymore. I love you. You are mine. Nothing can separate My love from you.
That night I saw spiritual warfare. It’s not something you see everyday. But it’s real. It's happening all around us and it may manifest in different ways.
That night I also saw the power we have in Jesus- the LOVE that conquers all.
I stepped off the plane with my worn-out sandals marked by the dusty African roads and found myself questioning,
“Whhhheeeere am I?”
I walked in a fancy bathroom with mirrors all around, flushing toilets with toilet paper, striking women with long flowing hair, fancy sparkled dresses above the knees, high stilettos, and fresh powdered faces fixing themselves in the mirror. I realized it’s been a few days since I last showered and haven’t looked in a mirror in ehhhh 3 months (if you don’t count the reflection of a dirty bus window). I looked down at my frumpy worn out cotton dress with leggings and glanced in the mirror and saw my greasy hair pulled back in a pony tail with a mysterious rash on my face (thank you Uganda), and thought, “Yaaa, I’m ok not looking at you today..” And I officially feel like a missionary.
I no longer hear, “Mazungooo, how are youuuuu!” everywhere I go or see little kids running up to me grabbing onto my arms. I haven’t walked in a mud hut or danced for hours at a church.
I'm now walking the bustling streets in Bangkok, Thailand and overwhelmed by all the street vendors, 6 story shopping malls, and cute lil cafés and restaurants.
We no longer challenge ourselves to see how many days we can go without taking a bucket shower. Rather, we remind ourselves its normal to take multiple showers in one day here.
As I type this, I’m sitting on a comfy couch with a perfect mug of brewed coffee in Starbucks wondering again, “Where am I?”
Culture shock.
We went from village living using bucket showers and outdoor squatty potty’s to city living using warm running water, flushing toilets, wifi, and living above a quaint little coffee shop.
This month I’ve joined team “A Team” with Kendall, Julie, Sav, Rachel and Jill and have LOVED my time. It’s been exactly what I needed- from worship jam out sessions and prayer walks, to staying up late laughing till we cry and having the ultimate girl’s night with brownies and ice cream.
The first half of the month we’ve been partnered with a ministry called Dton Namm, meaning “Living Waters.” It is a non-profit organization that rescues and provide aftercare for those at risk or presently involved in the sex industry. They help Thai individuals, specifically targeting ladyboys, leave prostitution and rebuild their lives. Currently, this is the only ministry reaching out to ladyboys in Bangkok.
You may be wondering, like I was, what exactly is a ladyboy?
Ladyboy’s are biological men that dress and consider themselves to be women. They are men that are often raised to be women or have come to the belief that they want to be women. Many times it’s the boy that was teased the most in school. Sadly, they are quiet common here in Thailand.
In the past I have read books and articles on the hard truth and reality of human trafficking all over the world. But this month I have seen it vividly with my own eyes and have felt the spiritual darkness all around me.
When I walked down the red-light district there is a thickness in air which makes it hard for me to breathe.
I’m overwhelmed with all the evil and perversion around me. I’m in disgust.
Girls and boys are identified by a number. They are sold to countless men a night and hide behind their smile, trying to survive another day.
Prostitution in Thailand is illegal,although it is tolerated. Local officials with commercial interests in prostitution often protect the practice.
Human Trafficking is pure evil.
The Sex Slave industry exists.
Child prostitution really happens.
Spiritual warfare is real.
It’s happening. Right in front of our eyes in Thailand.
You hear the cries. You see the confusion. You feel the heaviness.
The devil is conniving. He never plays fair. His demons are all over this place.
Yet- Jesus is RISING. There is victory in HIM. There is hope. And His perfect love casts out ALL fear. He has conquered the grave.
HE is GOD of this CITY.
This month we are called to PRAY. Intercede. Fight. And to be the voice for the voiceless.
Some nights we pray through the streets and red-light district and ask the Lord where He wants us to go. We follow His leading and prompting. Our hope is to make friends, build relationships, and be the love of Jesus. To show them they are worth it and care about them as a human beings- sons and daughters of the living King.
These are some of our new ladboy friends. Please pray for them.
During the days we spend time with the ladyboys that have left the Red Light district. Dton Naam Ministry offers programs focused on education, job training, Christian discipleship, individual and group counseling, and helping them find legitimate jobs. They have a coffee shop/bakery where men and women learn new skills and work in a safe and legitimate job while receiving healing.
This week we have taught english classes, led Bible studies and worship, sewing sessions, taught about health and nutrition, and worked on various projects around the building.
Dton Naam is making a difference in Thailand and I'm thankful to be a part of the movement.
Please pray for the Lord to prevail in this city. Pray for the ministry, staff, current students, and relationships that are being built right now in the bars. Pray for FREEDOM in this city.
And ask the Lord what He wants you to do to help STAMP OUT human trafficking.
I can’t believe today is my last day in Africa!
On Saturday, we will be flying out to Thailand and entering month 8! UN-believable.
So here’s a quick update on my last 2 weeks in Uganda. I have traveled out to Bunumwaya, Uganada and joined Team Red Thread who has been partnered with Cornerstone Community Church and Pastor Aloysius and Momma Peace. Some days have been teaching at different Cornerstone Primary Schools while other days have been preaching and going door-to-door to share the gospel.
I have loved teaching but I’ve also been reminded why I’m not a teacher…my class would always be the crazy, loud one!
I taught how to form sets in Mathematics, the reproduction of a chicken in Science, and about men of great faith like Daniel in Religious Education. I will miss the kids so much!
We've also had some pretty interesting days where I find myself saying, "I'm really in Africa and this is really my life!" One of those days was last Friday when we had a day with Pastor Pious who wanted to “bless the mizungu’s.” It's a day never to forget. We thought he was taking us for a relaxing afternoon at a swimming pool and little did we know he had sooo much more in store for us.
We pilled in his car and eagerly tells us, “Before you go swimming you will meet with my personal trainer for some physical activity.”
In my head I’m thinking, “I’m sorry, what did you say? I thought you said physical activity? You see I’m wearing my bathing suit with a skirt and flip flops.”
The girls think, “Oh, he’s just joking.”
No… he sounded pretty serious.
Sure enough we pull into an interesting old building that says Health Club Pool and Sauna. Not what I was expecting, but it really never is…
We were greeted by Ronnie, our physical trainer for the next hour. I’ll let the video do the rest.
I haven’t laughed this hard in a longggg time. It was just a fun day filled with more interesting surprises and ended with a GIANT feast with 3 different meats and 8 side dishes made by his wife. I couldn’t believe it. I was blown away by their love and extreme generosity. They may not have that much- yet are willing to give everything they have with cheerful and thankful hearts. I have been so blessed by the people I have met in Uganda. So hospitable and generous.
On Saturday we went to visit an organization founded by Katie Davis called Amazima Ministries. You can check out her blog at kissesfromkatie.blogspot.com
She is a beautiful 23 years old who is a loving mom to 13 precious Ugandan girls that she has adopted in the last couple years. Yep- 13 children at the age of 23. She also started a non-profit organization that provides medical care, feeds thousands, and currently sponsors over 600 children to get an education. We were able to join them on Saturday where they come together to learn about Jesus, eat lunch, play, and get a bag of food to take to their families.
I couldn’t stop thinking.. ALL because 1 person said YES. These children and their families have been touched and now forever changed all because the heart of 1 person…who was 19!
Katie’s life made me think of the verse in Matthew 25:21 “You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things.”
The Lord trusts Katie. She is faithful to Him with what He gives her and continues to give her more. Katie loves all the children like Jesus loves. Below is a pic of her kissing on this sweet little boy. (Quick story on him- he was so malnourished as a baby that his eye started shriveling up to nothing. When Katie found him it was too late to restore his eye but thankfully with medical treatment they have given him a glass eye. He was so sweet. I couldn’t let him go.)
She doesn’t act like what she is doing is anything crazy or special. It’s her life- it’s what she is called to do. She says it’s the only thing she knows how to do-say yes.
I left so INSPIRED. I want to dream BIG like Katie. I want to love like Katie. I want to be faithful with what I see and who I meet. I want to say YES every day.
“Whatever you do for the least of these, you do for Me.” Matthew 25:40.
The Lord has taught me so much in Africa. I wish I could tell you everything. It's so bitter sweet to leave but I know I will be back.
I wasn’t ready to leave Mukuno and all my favorites. In a short amount of time these people have stolen my heart.
I was asking the Lord all week long how I can invest in this ministry and stay connected to the people I love so much.
It was Friday evening, my last night at Christ Ambassador Church. I was soaking in all the beautiful voices rising up to the heavens and looking out the window at the bright African sun set in the distance as I see lil Beyonce running towards me with the biggest smile, wearing the same over-sized, tattered shirt she has been wearing all week.
We didn’t know what her name was so we started calling her lil Beyonce and she quickly became a favorite.
As she was sitting on my lap scribbling in my journal, I couldn’t stop loving on her and praying over her- for protection- love- salvation- hope- joy- a bright future…realizing this may be the last time I get to hold her. Before the service ended she ran off before I could even take a picture with her. I asked Momma Frieda if she knew anything about her. She lives in the little shack next to the church. Her family doesn’t come to church and they can’t afford school fees- so she just meanders around.
Out of impulse I stated, “I want her to go to school!”
Not even realizing the next thing that was about to come out of Frieda’s mouth was, “Ok, great! I’ll tell her mom on Monday! She is going to be soooo excited!”
Without me even having time to think about it or pray into it- the Lord made it very clear how I was going to stay connected. Little did I know I was going to be their first sponsor. This was an answer to Pastor Joseph and Frieda’s prayers for child sponsorship.
In the last years, Champions Christian Primary School has tripled their enrollment. They currently educate over 250 students, out of which nearly one hundred of them attend school for free and half of them come from a Muslim family. “If I had my choice,” our pastor, Joseph, told us, “I would let them ALL come for free. But, unfortunately, we have to pay teachers.”
I woke up the next morning with lil Beyonce and her mom so heavy on my heart. I wanted to meet her mom so badly and pray over her. I asked Frieda casually if we were going to the church that morning and she said “No, no one will be going to the church today.”
I didn’t want to say anything. I didn’t want to make it a big deal. I didn’t want to impose, but deep down inside I was screaming.
So, I kept it to myself and the whole morning I couldn’t stop praying for them.
It was the last hour. I was finishing last minute packing when all of a sudden I hear my name being called from outside. I look out the window and to my surprise it’s lil Beyonce and her MOM!!!
Instantly, tears start steaming down my face. I hurry outside to lil Beyonce who runs into my arms.
With tears still in my eyes I give her mom the biggest hug and let her know how much her daughter has touched my life. I find out lil Beyonce is actually lil Catherine.
I share with her mom, Josephine, how much Jesus loves her. And continue to encourage her with everything that the Lord put on my heart. It wasn’t by accident that I met her daughter- and that she was now standing before me. It was a divine appointment in every way.
Josephine is a widow trying to care for her 5 children. Her first husband was a Muslim who left her and her second husband died. Every day she cooks fried bananas on the side of the street, hardly making any money.
The Lord wanted her to know that He has not left her. He is with her and will never forsake her. He loves her and is chasing after her life. He is her provider and is making a way.
Saturday, February 4th, was one of the sweetest days I’ve had. The Lord answered my prayers and He started revealing His deep love to Josephine and Catherine in a whole new way. I was able to pray over Josephine and Catherine- for salvation and a new HOPE and faith in the Lord.
I’m so amazed at the goodness of our Lord. He is soooo good to us.
I’ve been getting updates on my lil Catherine. She just finished her first week of school and has a bright future ahead of her! Catherine is escaping a life of poverty and learning she can dream. She is not only getting an education but also hearing the gospel and receive love when, many times, may not receive it at home. Through her life- I believe her entire family will be saved.
One child.
All it takes is one child to hear about Jesus and then their families get saved.
Educate is not free, rather a privilege in Uganda. It won’t solve every problem but it is a step towards a brighter future.
Currently, they don’t have an official sponsorship program set up. However, since I left on February 4, 40 children have been sponsored!!!
You may check out Ben’s blog from Team Deeper Roots to hear more and how you can be a part of making dreams come true!
It was another beautiful Saturday morning waking up in the small village of Mukono, Uganda.
Perfect running weather-low 60’s with a cool breeze.
7am sharp I lace up my shoes, unlock the gate and my teammate Ben and I hit the dusty, dirt roads.
I smile and wave as I hear the sweet children screaming, “Aye mazunguuuu byeeeee!”
I thank the Lord for waking me up this morning and for giving me this beautiful day in Uganda.
We turn the corner and the brilliant orange sunrise captivates me. It gets me every time. It’s been seven days and I stare at in awe and amazement as if it’s the first time I’ve seen it. It takes me to the glory of the Lord, who truly captivates and radiates in ALL power and glory. Who defines BEAUTY and gives light and brilliance. I thank the Lord for his all-consuming glory- that if I can get a grasp of Him- I too can shine with His radiance... MORE than the face of Moses whose face shinned with glory after beholding the face of God on Mt Sinai.
I’m smiling & singing, thanking the Lord for my health- and to my suprise I turn another corner and roll my ankle and instantly fall on the ground. I lay my head in the dust and start crying. I’m soooo frustrated!!!!
“Ben, I’m sorry for crying… I’m just sooo mad!”
He runs and catches me a moto.
Still on the ground- I'm recalling all the time times I’ve fallen in the last couple months. This is my 3rd time rolling my right ankle and if that isn’t enough just 2 weeks ago I was walking down the sidewalk and tripped over a piece of metal and sliced my right big toe. So now you can kinda understand why I’m crying. I’m not a huge crier- so when I do it’s like I let out all the tears that I’ve held in..I hop on the moto and tears are streaming down my face.
Still frustrated, I hobble inside my room, wrap my foot and elevate it.
Taryn comes in my room and tells me that we will be worshipping with Momma Frieda on the porch practicing songs that we will sing for church in the morning.
And it’s in that moment I realize I have a choice.
I can choose to still me mad, pout in my room, and let it ruin my day OR I can choose to worship & praise and make it a good day. It was in that minute I decided I’m gonna have a really fun day regardless of my ankle.
And you better believe I hobbled outside and sang my heart out on that porch with Momma Frieda!
The one song that was stuck in my head all day goes a lil something like this..
“Worship the Lord ALWAYS…. Worship the Lord Always.. Worship the Lord with ALL my heart.. Worship the Lord with all my heart, ALWAYS.”
All day I couldn’t stop singing it even if I tried… it was to the point my teammates were getting annoyed with me.
I couldn’t stop worshiping and praising the Lord. And I thanked Him. I thanked Him that He’s teaching me to worship Him ALWAYS... no matter what. I thanked Him my foot wasn’t broken.. like my sister always tells me.. “meesh, it could always be worse.”
It was in that moment I realized that my negative situation can either take advantage of me OR I can take advantage of my negativity and see the other side of it. I can either be swept up by the waves of frustration or swept up in worship and praise. I’m learning to learn to take advantage of opposition and rejoice in them. And look for the provision and blessing, and truly embrace problems and grow from them. Because it’s times like these where I can choose to live from heaven on earth.
My silly rolled ankle inspired my sermon I preached on Sunday. I was reminded of..
Paul and Silas- innocent men that were stripped, beaten and thrown into prison after freeing a slave girl from demons. How do they respond? By worshiping with chains around their ankles- singing praises to the Lord. And what happened? The jailor and his family were saved and baptized and then Paul and Silas were released from prison. (Acts 16)
Job- a blameless and upright man who feared God and shunned evil who lost everything he had. How did he respond after losing his family and possessions? He fell on the ground and worshiped God saying the “Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” (Job 1)
Jehosephat- a king of Judah who was of great wealth and honor and always sought the council of the Lord. He finds out a vast army is going to attack him and how does he respond? He falls down in worship and proclaims, “Lord, we don’t know what to do but our eyes are on you.” He appointed worshippers to go before the army and proclaim praises to the Lord. And when they began to sing and praise, the Lord set an ambush against their enemy.” (2 Chronicles 20)
The Lord challenged me to never compromise my WORSHIP to Him. For there is incredible breakthroughs available through worship and praise. And it is when I’m in His presence- my mind and spirit will be in the heavens and I won’t be thinking negative, earthly thoughts.
I want to be known for my worship.
The more rejoicing and praising we do- the more it becomes who we are. That’s when worship becomes our lifestyle and becomes who we are.
God is looking for true worshippers. Who worship Him at all times in spirit and in truth. John 4:23
So I pray today- no matter your circumstance- that you will choose to sing praises and thanksgiving. To lay aside the old and take on the new- the new life & new way of thinking. I pray you live a life of PROCLAMATION. Where you grab hold of the blessings, promises, and prophesies that are given to you through His Word. To go after everything the Lord wants to give you- as if your life depended on it... well, because IT does.
and here's a lil sneak peak of the "International Christ Ambassador Choir" singing "Praising the Lord Always!" i kinda hope it gets stuck in your head like it did for me :)
I had this feeling that Uganda would be my favorite African month. And it’s proving to be true.
The first week I got to see a few Charlotte favorites who were in Kampala with Sports Outreach on a short term mission trip around Uganda. Such a sweet treat to see CC & Abby!! It was perfect timing.
Last Saturday, Jay, Bri and I travelled to the first team in Mukono . You know you’re in Africa when traveling 18 kilometers (a little over 11 miles) takes you over 3 HOURS to get there! I coulda ran there faster!
We were excited to get to team DeepER roots who is partnering with Pastor Joseph with Christ Ambassador Church.
We were greeted with chapatti (african tortilla) , salad with fresh avacado, and sausage. Favorite lunch :)
After lunch we went to the church and instantly fall in LOVE with the people. Oh the children are soooo sweet and snuggly. I want them all! Just in the last week Uganda has stolen my heart.
There have been so many moments I've been soaking up- that I never want to forget. Because the reality is that in just 5 months this most likely won’t happen in America....
Running on a dusty road under the orange sunrise and 5 kids run up to me- grabbing my hands, clinging to my arms, laughing and running as long as their lil legs can stand.
Sitting on the grass with kids jumpping in my lap longing for love and affection, while 5 kids are intrigued playing with my blonde hair.
Walking through the village praying over the sick, encouraging believers, telling people about Jesus, and rejoicing when people say "I want Jesus!" I was humbled to lead 4 women to Christ this past week.
Holding the sweetest boy during church service till he falls asleep in my arms.
Teaching kids new games like simon says and duck duck goose- and when I say goose to my suprise they run across the field screaming and laughing!
Sitting under the sunset listening to the choir practice and inspired by the men and women with joy unspeakable- singing praises to Jesus.
Making new friends from different walks of life, hearing their stories, inspired by their dedication to the Lord, dancing & laughing till our stomachs hurt, joining their bible studies, calling them my sisters and brothers, and playing my new favorite game- Net Ball!
I’ve been reminded this week that this is my life. I’m really in Africa right now! Feeling the warm breeze of the African wind, smelling chapatti cooking over a lil coal fire burner, and watching the beautiful African sunset.
And I’ve been reminded this week that there is even MORE. This has been the theme of my race for me!
God is saying, Michelle- There is MORE than you could ever ask or imagine!
So much more I have for you- so much MORE I have waiting for YOU!
You’ve only just had a taste of Me! Wait till I bring ALL I have for you!! You’ve only just seen the tip of the iceburg. OH JUST YOU WAIT for the overwhelming FLOOD.
Be OVERWHELMED by my loving kindess.
So in eager expectation my prayer this month is Father, send YOUR glory! Overwhelm us.
There is MORE in 2012. And it’s starting in Uganda.
I feel it.
I pray the same for you!
Month 7.
Our last month in Africa.
Crazy, right? Time is flyin!
Our entire squad of 30 men and women said goodbye to Rwanda and boarded an overnight bus and traveled on the dusty, bumpy roads to Uganda.
I was anticipating the days ahead…an intense weekend tenting it up, changing teams around, facing death on the raging rapids of the Nile River, and flying off the bungee tower!
Since the beginning of the race we've heard endless stories of near death experiences from rafting the wild rapids on the Nile. Every time I thought about it my stomach would flip in circles.
The time had finally come. We strapped on our life jackets, buckled up our helmets, and picked out a lucky paddle. I was shaky. I felt sick. But there was no turning back.
Me and 7 other rafting warriors paddled our hearts and and conquered the beast! It was INCREDIBLE. The best thrill ever! We flipped, tipped, surfed waves, dragged under the raft, swam our hearts out, drank some water, screamed, laughed and held on for dear life! A day NEVER to forget!
So… I may be a thrill junkie! I love it. Even with my twisted, swollen ankle I couldn’t pass up bungeeing off the Nile! I’ll let thepictures do the rest.. I’m surprised I still have a voice.
This weekend was a giant rollercoaster filled with ups and downs. Our Squad is going through a lot of unexpected changes this month. Oh changes-love em and hate em. I I walked into the weekend completely exhausted and feeling heaviness in my heart. Our squad is going through a trying time- where we are seeking unity and more love. We all want the same thing. One heart-one mind- one spirit. But how do we get there? Jesus. Sounds so simple, right? But He really is the only one who can give us the ability to love one another- to see eachother the way He sees us- to speak with grace and have brave and bold communication.
I didn’t know if I was gonna survive the weekend. But the Lord took me to a new level of humility and dependency. The first morning in Jinja the Lord gently reminded me of the POWER in the name of Jesus. He told me to get out of the boat. To give Him all my fears and doubts. To and keep my eyes on Him and not lose sight.
I refused to look at the raging winds and waves all around me. I refused to sink and drown.
Because in HIS presence I find PEACE, comfort, clarity and my problems start to disappear.
And His mercies are new every day and every morning.
I left Jinja facing my fears and excited for the new changes and the new teams. Expecting God to do more than we can imagine.
Continue to pray for our squad and the new teams.
- That we will not lose sight of Him and get distracted.
- That we give it our ALL.
- Divine Unity.
-& that we choose to Love.
The Lord wanted her to know that He has not left her. He is with her and will never forsake her. He loves her and is chasing after her life. He is her provider and is making a way.
Paul and Silas- innocent men that were stripped, beaten and thrown into prison after freeing a slave girl from demons. How do they respond? By worshiping with chains around their ankles- singing praises to the Lord. And what happened? The jailor and his family were saved and baptized and then Paul and Silas were released from prison. (Acts 16)
