Lessons Learned

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!

God Is Good!

God is so very good! I KNOW God is good, but He never STOPS being good! When I am in Uganda, I am so aware of God's goodness.  The first day, we woke up in Paradise it seemed! The flowers were beautiful, and the Nile River so tranquil. Miriam and Ivan, and all our friends at Surjio's took such good care of us. The service and care is so sincere, and so wonderful! God is so very good!

Pastor Joseph and His wife, Faith came to visit, and took us to see the God is Grace sewing class and the children in the Wakisi/Mashah School. Joseph and Faith are such an encouragement and blessing to us. The women work hard, and want so badly to help their families. And, the children--glad to see us, and all smiles. The blessings flow abundantly! God is so very good!

Then, what fun to spend the day with our Uganda family! Mathias and Frances took us to see their new grand baby, Amaris! She was just precious, and it was good to see Mitchell, Patra, and meet her parents. God is so very good!

Sunday was God's Day, and we were in my favorite place to worship. The worship to our King is indescribable there! It is such a blessing to reconnect with family and friends, and to see the children in Sunday School. We have seen friends grow up, get married, and have children! We have seen babies become children, and older women, become even older, with God's countenance just glowing on their faces! God is so very good!

Sunday afternoon was wonderful too! We did a workshop with Sunday School teachers at Pastor Steven and Vickie's church. It was a blessing to meet with these precious teachers and encourage them, and work with them on teaching the curriculum we have developed for teachers there. But, THEY are the encouragement to me. God is so very good!

The day ended perfectly with pizza with family at Surgio's! To look around the table and see those we love so dearly, that love us too is pure joy! God is so very good!

Monday was a busy day. Mathias took us many places. We visited the God is Grace jewelry-making class. They make beautiful purses, necklaces, bracelets, Christmas ornaments, and even bowls out of paper beads. Then the hairstyling class showed us how to do all the techniques I've seen and wondered how on earth it was done. Now I know! Could I do it? Absolutely not! We visited beautiful Elevaré, on the Nile River. The guesthouse on the Reach Youth Global property will be gorgeous! It is surrounded by God's beauty! What a tranquil place it will be to come and minister. God is so very good!

One of the sweet girls, Jane, at Mashah met us! She has been such a blessing to us. We tell her that her generosity, sacrifice, and love for her friends is just like Jesus! We visited a family that we met because of Jane. Because of her, these children are able to attend school. We then met Jane's family. They were able to receive help because of Jane too!  Through Jane, we saw again that God is so good!

We were able to visit one of our dearest friends! We have know Habiba from the first time we went to Uganda six years ago. Then, she was ten years old. We met her at our first two-day medical clinic. Two years later, we saw her at a school we visited, and she remembered us! After that, we made a plan! Now, through God's amazing goodness, she is family! She is sixteen, and a sophomore in high school!

We visited Jennifer's orphanage. What fun to see Peace, a precious little girl. She is now four years old. The first time we met her, she was one. When she saw us, she screamed! She had never seen a white person. Now, she hugs us, and climbs in the car with us! It was so good to see all the children, how they are learning, and growing, and the work that is being done on the school. Then, Mathias took us to the highest place in Jinja! The view of God's handiwork was surely showing off His goodness!

Dinner with our family in Mathias' and Frances' home was absolutely delicious! Frances and the ladies worked hard to fix amazing foods, including my favorite--chapatis!

What a wonderful trip to Uganda! God is so very good--one day, one hour, one minute, one step-at-a-time!

Paradise!

Enjoying Time with Joseph and Faith

Children's Church!

A Reunion with Gideon and His Sweet Boy!

God is Grace Sewing Class

God is Grace Hairdressing Class

God is Grace Jewelry Class

Our Precious Friend, Jane

We Were So Excited to Meet Jane's Family!

Such a Blessing to See the Children who Jane Helped to go to School

Larry and these Wonderful Girls--Jane and Habiba

It was Such a Blessing to See Steven and Vickie!

Peace is Growing Up!

Smiles Abound at Mashah!

What a Beautiful View of Jinja!

Our Precious Family!

An Unexpected Journey

A few weeks ago, we received word that my mom had been taken to the emergency room in my hometown of Seminole. She was then sent on to Lubbock to Covenant Hospital. So, a seven hour drive, and my name changing from “Beth” BACK TO “Ina Beth” began a bittersweet journey for me! I headed straight to Lubbock. Mom had aspiration pneumonia as a result of complications with her esophagus. She was not able to eat, but was fed through IV until the pneumonia was improved so that she could have an endoscopy done. I stayed at the hospital with her. We were there five days. She was so cute! They would come in and check this or that. When they were ready to leave, they would say, “Do you need anything?” She would always say, “Food,” knowing she was not supposed to eat, but hoping someone might “forget!” Ha!

Leon stayed in Seminole, which was difficult for both of them. His son, Jerry, brought him to Lubbock a day or two after mom was admitted. To see the love they shared for each other, and how close their relationship is, was such a blessing! 

FINALLY, Mom was able to go home! She was very weak from having pneumonia, and lying in bed for the most part, for the five days. Standing alone was a challenge, so she was using a walker, and physical therapy began coming. Speech therapy also came. He worked with her on swallowing, and some coping skills so that the difficulties she had did not reoccur. Mom was getting stronger and stronger, and things were going good.

I was enjoying putting out the flag, picking the garden, and cooking for Mom and Leon. Leon suggested bringing in arrangements of the beautiful zinnias and sunflowers in the yard since Mom was too weak at first to go outside. Often, there were plenty of flowers to bring in four arrangements! We all loved it! We also visited and talked about memories they both had...separately before they married, and then memories of the last nineteen years together.

Then, Leon was taken in to the emergency room. So, I ended up staying four weeks all together! Not what I or Larry planned, but it worked out! God had a plan, and I wouldn’t trade that time for anything! Leon stayed about three weeks in the hospital. Mom and I spent alot of time together! Then, each morning, we would call Leon, and each evening, we would call and tell him “good night.” Twice-a-day, planning around physical therapy, speech therapy, and Leon’s physical therapy, we would go visit him at the hospital. We would take the mail for them to go through, and they would visit. Their love for each other shown through, what sweethearts they are!

I had some of the best conversations with my mom and Leon! We talked about their very first memories, favorite times in their childhood, songs they remembered! Leon and I even cooked his special soup! My mom and I ate meals together, and visited about everything! We talked about God’s treasures, and how they are not in things, but in relationships and people. We talked about “my mom’s life” that she saw around her, like pictures, figurines, furniture. I told her that her life was not in those objects, but in the legacy she had left for others, and the memories we all had in our hearts.

I did tasks for them that they did or would have done for me before. It was difficult to “switch” roles: to be the caregiver, the cook, the delivery man, the shopper...all those things my mom used to do. That part was bitter, and hard to swallow, but the “sweet...” the conversations, the memories, the love and acceptance for each other, were a priceless treasure! 

I learned that when God gives us “bitter,” He always adds a “sweet!” He gives us blessings upon blessings; strength, and a path through to help us continue what He has for us to do. He leads each and every moment...One Step at a Time! 

To God Be The Glory!

What an amazing trip to Uganda! Larry and I went with a team from Oakwood Church. There were sixteen of us, and it was a great team! I’m so thankful God allowed us to all go on the trip together. The trip was busy, and God accomplished much! We arrived very early Saturday morning at Surjio’s, after flying into Entebbe, and driving to Jinja. 

We took medical and dental supplies, to help with a clinic on Monday. So, Saturday, we sorted medicines taken with us, and medicines bought in Uganda. It was also a day of resting after a very long flight. 

Sunday, we divided into teams of three and four, and went to six different local churches. It is customary to “greet” the church as we visit, and I always tell them at Mathias’ church that it is my absolute favorite place to worship! What a blessing to worship with our friends and family on these special Sundays! Then, we divided into groups of four, and visited four women in the God is Grace Ministry(GIG). This is an amazing ministry, developed by Beth Green! It is a ministry where women help women! Women are chosen in Uganda that desire to start a business, to be able to take care of their family, and become independent. Then, a woman in the US sponsors them for a year. During that year, they are given funds, and training to succeed at their businesses. Maddie, Claudia, Larry, and I visited a precious lady, named "Sara."  It was such a blessing to be able to visit in her home, and pray with her. She has begun a fresh tomato and silverfish-selling business. She was also able to obtain a pig, and had built a pen for it. We met her child and grandchild...what a gift to be able to meet them all! We also went to Mashah Orphanage, which is one of my favorite places to love on some amazing children! 

On Monday, we began the clinics! We helped with the medical clinic for three days, and the dental clinic for four days. Over one thousand precious people were able to receive treatment and receive medicines over those four days! They also heard the gospel message, and received much love, smiles, and hugs in Jesus’ name! The clinics took place in the Village of Kalagala, which was about an hour’s drive from our hotel. Each day, we would leave around 7:45, and arrive back after 7:00...long, BLESSED days!

Beginning on Wednesday, our team split up. Some of us stayed to help at the clinics, and the rest of us began visiting schools! We were able to visit nine schools the next two days, and over four thousand children heard the gospel, and had the opportunity to accept Jesus as their Savior. We also played games, did crafts, sang and danced with them! Pure joy!!!

We visited a precious Christian woman’s orphanage and school. Jennifer has very little resources, but loves these children wholeheartedly! There are many wonderful children here, including Juliet and Peace. The last two years, Larry and I have visited Jennifer each time we’ve gone, and have grown to love these two girls. The first time I met Peace, she looked at  me and my white skin, and began screaming loudly! Now, with nurturing and care from Jennifer and the other older children at the orphanage including Juliet, Peace has thrived. She loves people, and has a beautiful smile to share!

On Friday, some of us went to a sewing class for the God is Grace Ministry. It was amazing seeing the women learning to sew. They brought all of the items they had made so far in the class, and hung them all around the church where they met. Each “outfit” was first made completely out of brown paper. Once they had mastered being able to sew the garment on paper, then they were able to make it out of fabric. They were doing a great job! They must advance through the class by meeting certain requirements. When they have finished the course, and pass the final “test,” they will be given a sewing machine, a sewing kit, and fabric. Can you think of a better ministry to be involved with? I can’t!!!

We finished up with some shopping, and a boat ride on the Nile River! Around 4:00, we began our drive back to the airport in Entebbe. Because we went through Kampala during “rush hour,” it took us five hours!

God always teaches me so much on these trips, and speaks to me so loudly! The first day, I was very concerned about how everything was going to work out and “run.” I saw God work out all the details, provide what was needed, and just absolutely “show up!” As the week went on, many on our team were sick. On Tuesday, six out of our team of sixteen stayed back at Surjio’s! But, you know what? After seeing God provide every need on Monday, each day, I just watched to see how He was going to provide! What a blessing that I truly cannot put into words, to see God use each and every situation for His Glory! Praise God! 

He also spoke to me so clearly!!! I need to be “on my toes” each and every moment! Wherever I am, whatever I’m doing, He will give me opportunities to minister! So, that’s how this trip changed me, I’m ready to do what He puts before me, each and every day, One Step at a Time!

The Amazing Oakwood Team!

Sorting Medicines for the Clinics

Pastor Mathias obtained all the local medicines. He then helped us sort all of them!

Pastor Stephen drove us EVERYWHERE, and did a great job!

Precious Elizabeth
Oh my word! I am honored to be in her presence!

It's ALWAYS good to see family!

Claudia, Me, Caroline (of GIG), Sara's daughter, Sara, and Maddie
We visited in Sara's home, saw her business, and prayed with her.
Such a blessing for us!

Sara's Tomato/Silverfish Selling Business

GIG Sewing Class

Doctor's Tent
We had 4-6 doctors who worked very hard!

Waiting for Treatment!

Peace and Juliet, Precious Girls!

Pastor Joseph worked so hard to line up ten schools for us to visit!
Then, he went with us and coordinated our visits!

Beautiful!

So Cute!

Playing with Bubbles!

Lots of Students!

Lots of Opportunities to Tell About Jesus!

So Fun!

Tug Hard!

 Jennifer, what a blessing to many!

Touring the Nile

OAKWOOD TEAM

Beth, Jacee, and Jessica

Tim, Pastor Joseph, and Cathy

Hadden and Pastor Rusty

Hal and Beth 

Laurie

Maddie and Claudia

Bill, Pastor Stephen, and Connie