Each time we go to Uganda, when I return, I try to contemplate what God taught me while I was there. He ALWAYS teaches me something! This trip, there were ten of us that went from Oakwood Baptist Church. We worked with five local doctors, and two local dentists, and an intern. The doctors and dentists had a genuine love for the people and saw patient-after-patient, loving them in Jesus' name. We also served with our three local pastors--who are also family to us! We could not minister at all without these pastors: Mathias, Steven, and Joseph. Mathias plans ahead of time all we will do. He buys medicines, rents tents, employs security, and so much more! Steven drives us everywhere we go. He is tireless, so kind, and so patient. Joseph leads Open Air Evangelism meetings each night. After we all go back to the hotel to rest, he continues leading and preaching God's word. He also lined up our schools, brought youth and equipment to help us, and stayed with us at the schools. The youth and church members that worked alongside us were amazing. They helped tirelessly to run prescription orders to the "pharmacy," help the doctors, and translate and give instructions both at the medical clinic and at the schools, AND sing!
We held a medical clinic three days, and then visited schools and an orphanage one day. 1,000 people were seen by doctors and dentists, and 900 children were engaged in games and fun during these days. In the evening, people in the village heard about Jesus, and at each school, an evangelistic message was given. Relationships were also built! An elderly woman walked from her home with a walking stick from 8:00 in the morning to 2:00 in the afternoon to see the doctor. She said she remembered us coming last year, and was so thankful to God we had returned. The children at the school knew that the church that helped fund their two-room school came back to love on them! Relationships were strengthened! Oh, what a blessing it was, and much was accomplished!
Many of God's people worked together to share God's love. Besides those listed above, there were many in the U.S.! Children donated clothes, and made "rubberband" bracelets. Dermatologists, hospitals, and schools donated medicines and supplies. Oakwood members donated LOTS of medicines and supplies. Dresses were sewn for all the girls at two orphanages, and blankets were made for each child at the orphanage that will keep them warm! Even a small amount of glasses birthed the idea of checking eyes and using glasses previously donated by another group. In all, ten suitcases, weighing fifty pounds each were taken and supplies used!
So, what did God teach me? MUCH can be accomplished for His glory when we cover it with prayer, depend on Him, work together, and help as God leads us to help--whatever that "looks like." In His perfect timing and purpose, He does amazing things!
As I serve in Uganda, the blessings from my friends and family there just rain down on me! They live their lives with God at the center, depending on Him. There is an expectancy and faith that pours out of them--and me when I am there! I want that everyday, everywhere I am. I want this verse to be my mantra. "This resurrection life you received from God is not a timid-grave-tending life. It's adventurously expectant, greeting God with a childlike "What's next, Papa?" Romans 8:15 (msg.) He will lead us One-Step-At-A-Time!
 |
| Sorting Medicines for Clinic |
 |
| Sorting and Sorting and Sorting... |
 |
| We Used the "T.V. Room" at Surjio's to Store Our Supplies |
 |
| Counting Pills into Individual Perscriptions |
 |
| Children's Church at Pastor Steven's Church |
 |
| Precious Children |
 |
| Our "Pharmacy" |
 |
| Waiting to See the Doctor |
 |
| Nurse Brenda |
 |
| Dr. Peter |
 |
| Dr. Fiona |
 |
| Dr. Roda |
 |
| Dr. Kevin |
 |
| Our Wonderful Dentists |
 |
| Tug-Of-War |
 |
| Games--so Much Fun! |
 |
| Absolutely Precious! |
 |
| New School Room! |
 |
| What an Inspiration to Larry and I--Pastor Mathias and Jennifer! |
 |
| Picking Avocados! |
 |
| Mission Accomplished! |
 |
| They Love to Read! |
 |
| Awesome Oakwood Team! |
