Here's my heart, Lord, I'll be Your vessel

I greet you all in Jesus' name.  I pray that you are all filled with grace, peace and strength from the Lord. Seemingly out of nowhere, another month has passed. But, when I reflect back on the last month it was packed full of goodness, lessons, difficulties, and growth. I am thankful.

I am burning the midnight oil in Uganda, but my time here is really running, and I need to make each day count. I can not even fathom that I am remaining with only one month left here in my most beloved UG. I have officially been in Uganda for a few days over a year now, and I've been reflecting on how truly it is the Lord that has kept me, sustained me and guided me this year. He's been refining me, and sometimes, let me tell you, I have felt that fire that I've been going through, but I'm grateful for it. Although, by no means am I a finished product. But I have really seen His providence in my life so much during my time here. He has given me so much joy and assurance of where I am and what I am doing. He has blessed me beyond measure with people here; He has used them to show me His love and care and encouragement. He has strengthened me and provided me grace to adapt. My papa here told me the other day, "You have been like a person of this place." That was really meaningful to me.

I have a friend that told me recently that I should write down a list of all the things I am thankful for from my time in Uganda-experiences, lessons, people, opportunities, and more. I was writing this list the other night and started crying, hard. It made me feel sad to have to say goodbye to all these things, but grateful that I've become so integrated into life and relationships here, and the depth of the blessings I've seen from God. I also realized I will never be ready to say goodbye to Uganda, and that even though my time (for now) here is coming to an end,I'm not finished. I know that I will be back, and that is a comfort. I do not yet know to what capacity I will return, but know that I can't just close the book on this beautiful place. There are hard and ugly things here but also so many beautiful things and joy. A couple days ago I was reading the Bible and looking through verses for comfort (actually because I was feeling weighed down by the shooting in FL), and then was reading Psalm 27, which I love. The last two verses struck me: "I remain confident of this-I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord." I think this really encapsulates my emotions and thoughts about returning to MN. There is much goodness from the Lord there (LIKE SEEING ALL MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS!!!!) Even though I feel anxious about what is to come next for me, I need to wait on the Lord, and pray that He would guide me and reveal things to me. I need to have courage and take heart, because I am not alone and know He has good for me, His child. For now, I am praying and trusting God for each step (or trying to). I know that I still remain with time here in Uganda, and want to soak everything up, but I also need to prepare for the transition.

A sweet gift I received this month was the visit from my dear and longest friend, Kaylea. I felt so loved that she came to see me and it was so refreshing to have her here and experience Uganda afresh through her eyes. I treasured time sharing things with her, and being able to relate with each other, as she also lives and works abroad. We shared many laughs and I'll treasure it forever. I think I was also able to see ways that I've changed by having her here, and I'm grateful for how I've grown. One thing we were sharing about was what we've been learning by living surrounded by poverty, and that is something I've been reflecting on again and again. Lately I've felt so burdened by the needs around me, and feel like I'm just a drop in a very large bucket. But I've been encouraged that God is the one doing the work and that He desires for us to be reconciled to Him-in all ways, because we know that all things were created by Him and for Him. I've learned and seen how we are all impoverished because of sin, it just manifests differently in each person's life and in different parts of the world, and for some reason more harshly in some. I've learned that poverty is VERY complicated and requires a complete solution and you can't simplify things by saying "people have nothing but they are so happy" because people face it rough every single day and truly rely on the grace of God for each and everything. How I did not come to Uganda to check off a "good deed" so that I can get back to my "real life", no, this is my life and we can not ignore the needs of those around us, we are called to care for the widow and orphan and those vulnerable. But we need to ensure that the care and help we are giving is not doing more harm than good, and that people will be empowered.

Friends, thank you so much for walking alongside me this year. I pray that you feel purpose and joy and a burden for something in your life, and thank you for being faithful to what God has given each of you, because I know that it looks different for every person. I pray that you also feel supported as I have by you. Wele abawe tsikhabi ni Wele abalinde (May God bless and keep you all)

Praises:
-Joy! There have been many days lately where I can only say it is the Lord that is giving me joy, and I'm thankful for that
-Depth of relationships
-God's provision and faithfulness in my life

Prayer Requests:
-Healthy coping and time to process what is to come and what my life will be like in MN
-That I would feel more thankfulness about all that happened than sadness about saying goodbye
-For God to also keep my family, because I know this has been a big sacrifice for them, as they anxiously await my return next month (I will return to MN on March 23rd)

Here are some pictures that highlight this month (they say a picture is worth a thousand words, and I've already written many, thank you for reading all of them)

I was able to stay with Leya, at her home in an area called Busabuulo. We have been working actively here for five years now, and I've loved hearing the stories of transformation and hearing more of Leya's testimony. She shared how she first was saved when she was young because she thought she would get help from some missionaries that had come to work at her school. But in 2011 she said at church she became burdened and went to be saved for herself, because she knew that is what God wanted. She shared how we can't do things of our own strength, like her trying to save herself, but it needs to be from God. She also said it is only God that is providing for them, because often they don't have money, and have many expenses with four children in school. I'm also pictured with my sweet and beautiful new friend, Kakayi Anna. Anna should be in school, but her mother is a single parent of seven children and they don't have money for school fees. I learned that it is about 125,000 UG shillings for a term of school for Anna. Which is about $40. If anyone of you feels burdened to give to Anna, please reply and we can sort that out. I promise it is genuine and will bless her mom, Irene, so much

Time with Kaylea! We have been friends for 15 years and I was so blessed by the laughter and reflections we shared. I love how we still laugh at silly things together, and then are able to pray and discuss more trying things. I also had to begin the goodbyes this month, which is difficult. But I've realized it is more "see you later" for this place and people, and that gives me comfort. 

Mbale is such a beautiful place. This is view is from the road that leads to M:MM office. 

This month with M:MM I have continued to work with the youth and adults sharing different health lessons. This picture is in Busiu, where this day we were learning about proper oral care. I also facilitated a lesson on peptic ulcers in Lwangoli, and an impromptu lesson with women in Busabuulo at a meeting with Leya on breast cancer.  I continue to love sharing knowledge and the hope that what I am sharing will positively impact someone's life and make a change for the better. God is good.

I've come to love these sweet and goofy children so much. They've taught me so much about continuing to have curiosity and wonder about the world, resourcefulness and resilience, and not taking yourself too seriously.

A Newborn King to See

Kamasaliwa Kamalayi (Merry Christmas-late!) and Wakulikha Kumwakha (Happy New Year) from Mbale! I thank God for you being with me along this journey, almost a year long now. I pray that as the year ended and a new one began, you were able to spend time with those you love, reflecting on all the Lord has done in and for you this past year, and especially that the goodness and magic of Christmas rang true and sweet in your ears. I hope that you are looking toward the new year with joy and anticipation.  In the office yesterday as we returned to work, we had a devotional about how we are to "go without knowing", just like Abraham did. We can make plans, but ultimately we are to trust that God has a good one in store for us, and He desires for us to trust Him fully and is worthy of that. So I pray that that can be an encouragement for you as this year begins; as we "go without knowing."

A lot has happened since my last update, so I will summarize some events and lessons over this last 1.5 months or so:

I turned 27! It was truly a day filled with joy and love, from people all over.  I felt so cared for by my family here, and they had quite a feast for me! Birthdays aren't traditionally celebrated here, so it really touched me that the Soita's did so much for me. I was able to spend time reflecting on all the "gifts" I've received in this year of life, in the form of provision, challenges, experiences and opportunities, relationships and lessons. These are all things I couldn't have planned for, but am so grateful for. I have a good Father.  My papa here, Pastor Sam, was challenging me about how we as people always celebrate our physical birth, but the spiritual one gets forgotten.  It made me think-am I investing as much in my self spiritually as I am physically? Am I mature spiritually? Or am I starving myself? I'm grateful for people that make me think.

With M:MM, since my last update a highlight is that I have been able to practice facilitation of health lessons in the communities more, which I have loved! Along with the M:MM staff, I was able to put on three lessons about elevated blood pressure prevention and management, and screen community members' blood pressures. I genuinely loved holding the lessons, and watching those that attended grasp new knowledge, participate and have the drive to implement what they learned. I was recently asked if I thought I'd been impacting lives during my work here, and I can't speak for others, but I pray that I have. I have seen that it is more on a small scale, but that that is good and more impactful and personal. I think each of us wants to leave a mark somewhere, even if it is small.  So I pray others have been blessed and changed. Then I was asked if i had been impacted, and my oh my. Yes. I think a lot of the ways I have changed may not show their face fully until I am back in the US, and confronted with things that I haven't been surrounded by for a year. I am so grateful for learning, and it is something that I want to take back with me (like I made a list of goals for the New Year, and HOW FUN would it be to learn guitar?! I've always wanted to, so why not?)

Homesickness was a very real thing in my life around the holidays, but I am thankful for the Lord's grace and those that surrounded me with love and showered me with hospitality. I have seen how rich I am in relationships, and can't express my gratitude enough. But, I missed my Minnesota Christmas and because of this homesickness I kept myself very busy surrounding the holidays, which caused me to be distant from my emotions and thoughts, until they spilled out in the back of the packed van at dark. But, the Lord is faithful and I was met with so much more joy than homesickness this festive season. On Christmas Eve morning as I was preparing for church, I blasted some Harry Conick Jr. Christmas music (shout out to my mom!) and one song struck me afresh: "The Little Drummer Boy." The boy is singing about how he is a poor boy, but he can play for the Savior.  It made me think about how poor I am before the Lord, and how much I need Him. It made me wonder, what would I do if I was "the little drummer boy?" I know that I can approach the Lord every day because of His grace and work on the cross, but I wondered if tangibly I was in front of the Savior, what would I do? Cry? Laugh? Sing? Dance? Fall down? Run away? Then, I thought of another worship song that says, "but what could I say? Or what could I do? But offer this heart, oh God, completely to You?" And how in Isaiah 58 God talks about true fasting and what He wants from us. I was blown away in a new way how a tiny baby came into the world and changed everything, forever. What a precious, precious gift.

As I think about the New Year, a thought came to mind: it is good to be uncomfortable. We as people have a tendency to draw to what is safe and easy and even here I have done that, but I've seen so much good come from being uncomfortable. So as I prepare to go back to MN, I want to carry that with me into the New Year.  I do not want any space for complacency in my life. But I will need God's grace.

Photos:

Friends from Rwanda, where we swam, danced, went to hot springs, went on a boat ride and ate. It was a wonderful end and start to the year, and I am thankful to know these people. I never knew I would come to know them, but it's sweet to see how God brings people into your life. I don't really believe in "strangers" anymore, because you never know who could be your friend. 

This is Sam, my papa here. I am so grateful for his wisdom and laughter in my life. 

Happy Birthday to me! 

Praises:
-a New Year of life in the Lord
-A fun New Year's with dear friends in Rwanda
-the chance to stay until March when my church comes

Prayer Requests:
-grace and clarity as I prepare to leave in March
-Intentionality with those I love during the rest of my time here
-Trust in the Lord that He has a good plan for me
-Community members to be blessed by the trainings, and for faithfulness of us as staff to serve them well

Worthy of the call

My hearty greetings to you all from the beautiful Pearl of Africa.  I pray that you're doing well, enjoying snow (if you live in a snowy place, because let's be honest, snow is THE BEST) and preparing for the holidays. My mind forgets sometimes that it's Thanksgiving time in the US, but I hope you're all able to reflect on what you're truly thankful for.  Practicing thanksgiving is something we've been talking about at M:MM, how we can practice it more and why it is important. So I've been trying to begin the days by saying a prayer, including more focus on giving thanks to the Lord. This is an important practice, one we see all throughout the Psalms, and one we see Jesus demonstrate regularly. Before any miracle or work, Jesus first thanked His Father.  Matthew 14: 19, "...taking the five loaves and two fish and looking up to Heaven, He gave thanks and broke the loaves.  Then He gave them to the disciples and the disciples gave them to the people." May we follow His example.

Time, as they say here is really running.  This month has been really full. I've felt increasingly like a part of the M:MM staff, that my opinion is valued and have dealt with conflicts or some more tough situations in the lives of staff. I've loved having the chance to facilitate in communities more, on different health topics-including peptic ulcers and balanced diet. I oriented and trained the staff on elevated blood pressure, and look forward to holding a training on elevated blood pressure in the communities this month. I've also enjoyed home visiting in Bukhalu, and getting to know a new couple (to me) Fred and Carol. Fred and Carol were gracious to me, we talked and laughed, they taught me some things in Lumasaaba and helped me to practice speaking, and we shared from the Word. Fred shared that it is good to be saved,  because your problems don't seem so big. He and his wife Carol are not yet saved, but shared that they'd like to be, but weren't ready that day. I shared from Ephesians 2: 4-6 with Fred, about how we are saved by grace through faith, and that God is the one that saves us. Be praying for them to come to trust Jesus as Lord, and that I would have further chance to share with them. Another highlight from work this month was our monthly wholistic visit where we visit a staff member's home, and fast and pray together as we share from the Word. This month Papa Solomon shared about Jesus being the Good Shepherd, and how sheep know their shepherd's voice, and it challenged me to think about if I know my Shepherd's voice. I was also reminded of another story in the Bible where Jesus shares how the Shepherd will leave the 99 to find the one, and am grateful for such a loving and caring God.

This month I've been grateful for the beauty that comes when you just say "yes" to someone. I've had some great conversations, interactions, and further built relationships that wouldn't have happened if I had just stuck to my schedule and routine.  As someone that thrives on quality time and good conversation, it has made me feel so full and loved.

Something that I've been reflecting on this month is faithfulness. Not God's but mine. How faithful am I? The verse from Ephesians 4:1, that urges me to live a life worthy of the calling I've received has stuck with me. Where does my allegiance really lie? I know at the core my allegiance is to God, but do my thoughts and actions always reflect that? Am I aligned more with the Lord or with the world? I really think I'm going through a refining process, and have an increased desire to leave sin that bogs me down, and just live and bask in the freedom I've been given, because it is for freedom that I've been set free. And as I live in that, my faithfulness to the Lord will be increased because my first desire will be His and Him. I want to be like David, "One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to seek Him in His temple." (Psalm 27: 4).

Here are some recent pictures:

These are women in Busiu, learning about a balanced diet. I loved facilitating these lessons, and watching people joyfully learning like this.  It has encouraged and challenged me to be a sponge more-ask more questions, and seek more knowledge. It has challenged me to work on those areas in my life and my self that I'd rather avoid because it's hard or ugly. But God gives us grace and strength. 

These two photos are from some of those beautiful moments of saying yes. The two girls are new friends from my church, and I've loved spending time with their aunt/grandma, Edith. Edith is a wise, caring and God fearing woman that Ive loved sharing with and getting to know.  The other photo comes from Namabasa, the home of my coworker Stephen. I went to visit him and his family, and women jokingly said "can you carry a jerry can on your head?" And I was like I don't know, let me try! Of course it wasn't smooth (see above comment of clumsy self) but I loved trying something new and feel that in my time here I've grown in trying things without fearing so much what others will think or how I'll look. I've also loved seeing where people come from, and have felt a deeper connection with those around me and thank God for that

Here I am after a hike with a friend to a waterfall. I just get breathless by the views and beauty of Uganda. Also, after all the change that I've undergone these nine months, some things haven't changed and my clumsy self remains (note my mud covered legs).

This is me with my good friend and coworker, Micah.  The day this picture was taken was a very fun filled day. We had a women's Sunday at my church, where women lead the entire service, and I joined the choir! I enjoyed learning a Kiswahili song, that talks about praying for others.  Then I went with Micah for a graduation party of a good friend, and someone in a community that MMM has worked in for years, named Tom. He just graduated with his Bachelor's degree of library sciences, and it was a pleasure to be there to witness the momentous event and share in his joy

Beautiful and True

Greetings to you all in Jesus’ name.  I pray that He is keeping you all well, wherever you are and whatever stage of life you’re in.  This month I have really been reflecting on the Lord’s goodness to me. He has been keeping and protecting me so well here in Uganda, and that is not something to take for granted. It has shown me that He wants me here, however I’ve also seen that just because there are challenges it doesn’t mean I am not meant to be here.  I recently read Psalm 22 that really touched me-David is openly talking to God about his suffering, while in the same breath saying that God is the One enthroned on High and worthy of praise. This has reminded me that I am to praise God in every season of life. I pray that you will too and that God will give us the grace to do so, as we are continually learning and growing.

I am continually grateful to have the opportunity to serve and work with Mission: Moving Mountains.  This month has been filled with community meetings, home visiting, Bible studies, trainings, and time in the office.  I was able to create a lesson on peptic ulcers, which is a big issue in communities, and I oriented the staff on the information, answering questions and guiding them so that they may be empowered with increased capacity in the area of health to train in the communities.  Initially, when I found out I would be training staff instead of communities, I was disappointed.  I have a big heart and passion for the people in communities, and so wanted to do the trainings myself. But I have seen that this serves both M:MM and the communities more-the staff are empowered and community members get the information straight, not through translation. I am still present at trainings and am a resource for further explanations and answering questions, and have been glad to serve in a way that is needed.  The staff have shown appreciation to me for the lessons I’ve been making, and in my recent staff review the director told me that I’ve been doing wonderfully with those lessons.  It has been a lesson in flexibility and an encouragement to hear that I’ve been meeting expectations of the staff. Additionally, this month I began discipling a woman named Leah in Busabulo.  I’m grateful for the chance to get to know her, and pray that I can be a blessing to her, as I know she will bless me and teach me.

A scripture that I’ve been meditating on this month is from Psalm 62:5-8, “Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from Him. Truly He is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken.  My salvation and honor depend on God, He is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge.”  My honor comes from God, not from anything that I do or from any other person. I’ve also been reflecting a lot on the word “seek.” What am I seeking? What do I search for? Surely, it does not give me salvation and honor as the Lord does.  He is the only One that can do that, the only One that satisfies.  I’ve just been feeling peace and relief at the safety and rest that God gives.  He gives peace unlike the world does. (John 14:27).

Prayer Requests:
-for community members to have strengthened relationship with the Lord, and that more would come to know Him. Pray for courage for those that know Him to witness to those around them, and share knowledge that they've received
-for the bereaved-there have been some deaths in communities recently, so pray for those that have lost loved ones to know the Peace of Jesus practically
-for growth in facilitation for me, one thing that was shared as an area I could become stronger in.  I will practice this facilitation with the staff and youth in communities

Some recent photos:

This is me with my friend Dinah, at a marriage introduction ceremony this past weekend. I am wearing a traditional gomesi, and was the talk of the town/ceremony.  I had so much fun taking in the traditions and being surrounded by the joy that came from those around me. 

We have recently had to hold meetings where we reevaluate expectations from community members about what they’re hoping for and what our objectives are. M:MM always uses a verse from Amos 3:3, about how two can’t walk together unless they are in agreement. I have been challenged by this and encouraged by how M:MM resolves conflicts-openly discussing and involving members. It was a great example for community members in conflict resolution too and has helped strengthen our relationships with members.  

This is from a Bible study in Busabulo. M:MM disciples community members in how to lead a Bible study effectively, to help them grow spiritually and as leaders. I have loved attending Bible studies in communities, hearing insights and testimonies, and coming together with a common belief in the Lord, even with our very different backgrounds.  One thing to note is that M:MM has a principle of “incarnation”-just as Jesus came down to be with us on Earth, we desire to be with people in communities, at their homes, where they’re from and whatever situation they’re in.  This builds trust, understanding and shows the value of the community. I’ve loved learning from being with people; it’s been so neat to be welcomed into people’s lives and meet people where they’re at.  

 I had a wonderful holiday this month visiting friends I met in May in Kigali.  I was blessed by fast friendships, laughter, good conversations, new experiences and taking in the beauty around me.  It was refreshing to be in a new place. I now have a second African home. I visited with staff from the D4D staff in Rwanda, and it was so encouraging to hear stories about how God is working there-people are trusting in Him, health is improving, and the fatalistic mindset of dependence and acceptance of life’s circumstances has changed.  Rwanda is a beautiful nation!

My Revival

Mwenayo basale! (Greetings friends)

I thank you all for standing with me during my time in Uganda.  I have been praying for you all, praising God for your presence in my life and praying for many blessings to come to you.  I pray that this finds you well.

Time is such a funny thing; some days I feel like I just got here, and others Minneapolis feels like a home from a different life time.  But, the fact is, I am over half way through my year here in Mbale. That baffles me! So much has happened in that time.  I have done things I never would have had I stayed in my comfort zone in Minnesota. I have learned so much from the Lord during this time, and through these new experiences.  I have grappled with what identity means, seen that change is constant in life but that God is with you and stays the same, and have a different perspective on what things are big and what are small in life.  I don’t worry about germs or getting sick so much, I have more self-confidence, and new friends that I wouldn’t have known before. I’ve seen God is powerful and truly hears our prayers, and He is for all people knowing Him deeply. I praise God for my time here and thank Him for more time learning and growing, with the hope of seeking Him each day for strength and motivation.  I’ve been desiring increased intentionality in my time here, so that my objectives are met, while being open to the fact that God usually brings unexpected and wonderful things into our lives.  I praise God that staff have told me that I have been a blessing, and reminded me that often we as individuals don’t see what good we are doing on our own.

This month a big reminder that I’ve had is that in ministry, my motivation has to be worshipping the Lord and love for Him, not based on my love for a place or a people or  how “good” I am.  I am a person, filled with flaws,  and this place has become normal to me, so many of the things that were so exciting at first have become daily life.  Don't misunderstand me, I still love Uganda so much, but I am seeing that that can’t be what drives me.  At church a few weeks ago, the pastor was repeating how at the name of Jesus every knee shall bow, every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. That is what I want! I pray that more people here would come to know Him, and that I would be a faithful vessel for Him.  I want Him to be glorified and honored during my time and work here, and seek Him more than myself.

This month, I’ve really felt my circle of people here expanding. And I praise God for that! I still get lonely at times, but not like last month.  I think through the loneliness, God was challenging me: who or what do I run to? I can be an external processor (if you know me well or have lived with me, you know that ;)) and generally go to a good friend  when I need to talk about something, and just get everything out. But I’ve been challenged, why don’t I go to God first? He is a far better listener any way, and loves me completely and desires good for me. This month, I’ve so loved talking to neighbors (I shifted back to my “home” with the Soita’s after staying at MMM guesthouse for the summer), boda boda drivers, people on my walk home from work, strangers on taxis and community members. Thank you for praying for me and my loneliness! I know that I’m not alone. Through these new connections, I’ve had refreshing conversations about Mission: Moving Mountains and our work, and reignited passion for wholistic development and the transformative work that Jesus does in our lives; when people come to know Him, they can’t remain the same because He is worthy of more.

I have worked with the youth in MMM’s youth program a lot this month, because the students are on holiday from school. I have loved it! One of our projects, in Busiu, is new to work with the youth program, and it has been neat to be there “from the start.”  I’ve been moved and challenged by these young people’s hunger for knowledge, and have seen how knowledge is power and a joy in learning.  There are so many bright youth in the program, and I am excited to see what is to come in their future, and how the Lord will use them.  I have also began visiting with Kukhu (grandma) Jenepher in Busiu, who is a former staff of M:MM.  She is elderly and lives with her daughter and has a lot of needs-she is blind and very weak.  I look forward to getting to know the family, hearing her story, and sharing knowledge with her family about how to care well for her. I have oriented the MMM staff on the family planning lesson, and have loved sharing knowledge and empowering the staff.  I think that is what I’m drawn to most-empowerment.  Whatever the future holds, that is a part of it.

These are some of my wonderful neighbors.  It has been a joy to be around children, and Ive been blessed by talking with their parents.  Many of my neighbors are Muslims, and some other people that I’ve gotten to know this month.  I am praying that I would have a good relationship with them, and that they would come to trust in Jesus as their Lord, and not just as a prophet, as they believe now.

These are some of the original community members that M:MM worked with, and their “spiritual generations”-people they discipled and instructed in what they were learning from M:MM. A main goal of M:MM is for individuals to reach their potential, have sustainability in their lives, and share the knowledge they’ve received.  Knowledge is seen as such a blessing, and so the intent is for the effect to ripple out. There is a common saying here, “don’t let the animal die in your hands.”  This picture was taken at a meeting where we staff provided a training on a tool from the Navigators, that is about having a balance in our lives of the Word, prayer, fellowship and evangelism.  The hope is that these members will grow in their relationships with the Lord and witness to those around them.  I praise God for these members’ faithfulness to Him!

This is the youth group in Busiu.  We have taught on some development lessons, with role plays.  One was about fishing-someone sees a person carrying fish and asks the person to give her fish.  The fisherman asks if she would rather get fish or learn to fish.  This goes with the saying, “if you give someone a fish they’ll eat for a day, but if you teach someone to fish, they’ll eat for a lifetime.” A principle I’ve seen play out in the teachings is self-discovery. MMM does not just tell someone “it is better to learn for yourself” but asks guided questions so people come to the realization them selves.  Lessons learned stick better that way, and there is more ownership and empowerment of a new topic. 

This month, we did a lesson on balanced diet in our newer project, Bukhalu.  I wrote the lesson, and oriented the staff, and they trained, as there was not a language barrier for them.  Often in communities, families eat the same thing all the time-posho-which is pretty tasteless and a starch, kind of like cornbread.  In our training, we highlighted the main food groups, their importance for our bodies, and local and available foods to create a balanced diet.  Through the training, members saw how they can create a balanced diet based on what they already have or grow-posho, beans and greens for energy, protein and protection (vitmains) and saw the importance of this balance in their daily lives.

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Everything's Not Lost

“When I counted up my demons, saw there’s one for every day. With the good ones on my shoulder, I drove the other ones away.” That's right, the opening line of this update is from a wonderful song called “Everything’s Not Lost” by Coldplay.  Now, that may sound depressing or hopeless, but I’m not! But this has been the darkest month I’ve had  in Uganda.  It has been a mix of homesickness, adjusting to new dynamics because of multiple transitions/changes, physical pain and confusion about the future.  I was reminded of this song a week or so ago after talking on the phone with my beloved sister, Ariel.  A lesson that I’ve been learning lately is that the devil, as we know, just wants to kill and destroy us as believers.  He does not play fair, and will use whatever means necessary to drag us down and away from the purposes God has for us. But, as believers the devil has no power over us! 1 Corinthians 15:55-57 “ ‘Where, O death is your victory? Where, O death is your sting?’ The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” I’ve learned that if I allow myself to be susceptible or weakened spiritually, the devil and his lies will prey upon me and start to sound like the truth.  But truly, thanks be to God for His patience and mercy for me.  I just want to follow Him, and know that I am here for His purpose. Of that I am assured, even in this harder time.

As I mentioned, there has been a shift in dynamics here at M:MM.  I have been struggling with loneliness due to friends leaving and others having very busy schedules. But I’m trying to be open to what God is teaching me, and have already seen Him answer prayer by providing me with a new friendship in Harriet and her sweet 10 year old son, Shafiq. In getting to know her, I’ve remembered the value in our stories and how we have so much to learn from one another. Just as Jesus’ disciples feared the storm in Matthew 8, I have been fearing the future and some situations around me. But, I’ve learned that He doesn’t want me to focus on the waves, instead to focus on Him and trust that He can calm the waves, and He is with me. It’s been a difficult journey of relying on God-what does that mean in daily life? I am still learning about that one!

I feel like the root of all this is about identity. What do I place that in? My family? Where I am from? Where I belong? Friends? I have felt like God is breaking me down and stripping things away that weren’t healthy, with the ultimate goal of being rebuilt.  I am praying that I would be faithful to Him and honor Him, having a firm foundation.  I have been focusing on “where do I belong?” Because Uganda is home. But then so is Minnesota. I know I wrote about “home” in my last update, but it stays with me.  Just this past week, I had three people in one day tell me, “Sydney, you were born to stay in Africa.” That was an encouragement to me.  I’ve come to a place where I need to not compare Minnesota and Uganda.  Both are good, and both are home.  I’m still praying to God for guidance about the future, especially after my year here ends. I’d like to get my Master’s in public/community health.  Of one thing I’m sure-my passion for this place and these people won’t expire come February.  I’m just praying for grace as I plan for the next step, and balance still being present in this one.  Please pray with me as I do so.

Now, this all sounds very dreary, perhaps. But I’ve learned that this is my life, and so there are difficult seasons.  God is still with me, has me here for a purpose, and will keep me. There has been much goodness as well! A highlight from this month was going for safari with my friend Shannon, and her team from the Navigators. It was so good to be reunited with them and take in the beauty of nature.  We saw many amazing animals! It was a good reminder in being present and open-our car broke down on the way, but that allowed us to meet some friends along the road and ride in an open truck at sunset, so really it was like an extra game ride! ;) I saw in this little instance how things don’t always go how we plan, but they can often go better and God is weaving things together for a reason.

At work, things have been a bit slower this month due to a variety of reasons-planting, rain, illness, death and bad roads.  I’ve been more of a ‘jack of all trades” here, and not just using my medical knowledge.  But, my dad encouraged me that I’m helping M:MM in ways they need, and I am happy for that. I want to be used however will be most helpful.  I have prepared some lessons about nutrition to train the staff and communities, and would like to train on malaria (a big need!), HIV/AIDS and elevated blood pressure. I am excited for these upcoming things and pray that people would learn and be blessed!

Praises:
-Meeting new people and trying new things, even little things-like getting my hair cut or making maize. I always want to be a learner
-That Jesus is our constant through any storm
-Growth in confidence in recent months
-Ability to connect with people here

Prayer Requests:
-Adjustment to all the above mentioned transitions/new dynamics
-Self-confidence and initiative as I enter my second half of my time here, especially with trainings in communities
-That I wouldn't allow Satan to tempt me with lies, but would stand on the truth in scripture about where my identity is found in

MUCH love to you all! I hope that you are pushing on well and enjoying each day!

Namarome.

Elephants reign supreme in the animal kingdom! Seriously my favorite favorite.  We saw lions, leopards, giraffes, hippos, antelope and buffalo. We also met the winner of Indian Idol, and got a little concert! Random but so fun.

Jesska, is receiving a Bible in Lumasaaba, the local language in this area.  As she was receiving it, something she said struck me, “When you give a Bible, you give the whole world.” I’ve been praying to have that mindset about God’s word, and have an increased hunger to read it. 

This is James, a friend and someone that M:MM has worked with for a long time! Through working with M:MM his life has turned around-he used to be an abusive alcoholic, but now is a pastor.  He disciples  his neighbors and is a joy to be around.  I just marvel at how God completely changes us when we have faith in Him; He desires for us all to know Him and has good things for those who love Him. I’ve seen through my time here how people, no matter where we’re from, have more in common than differences. 

This is Deborah, and her mom Juliet.  During home visiting this past week, my coworker Micah and I came to a house and they were there.  I didn’t realize at first, but Deborah was very sick.  I heard that she had just finished having a seizure, and when I went to her she had a high fever.  They were sure she had malaria, but didn’t have a way to get treatment.  I helped with some first aid to try to lower her temperature, and prayed for them.  I asked Micah what we could do for them, and he said “what does your heart tell you?” I left some money with them for treatment, and have been praying for healing for her.  Just that morning, I had forgotten my wallet and thought, Oh I won’t need it. But something told me to bring it.  It was a moment where I felt like that was right where we were supposed to be.  I am praying for Deborah, and ask for your prayers as well! With treatment, she should be recovered soon. 

I want to ride my bicycle…Yes I am now on the streets on Mbale, getting many stares and honks.  But this bike has been a good way to have self care and exercise. I’m so grateful for it! Makes me feel more like me!

Home

Mwenayo balebe (greetings everyone)! I am baffled by how another month has gone by. I hope that this email is finding you filled with joy, time with loved ones, learning and lessons from God. Before I get into my update, I just want to say how sincerely grateful I am for you all. We have been praying a lot here at M:MM for our supporters, and I just wanted to give you a shout-out. It means a lot to have so many praying for me and supporting me with encouragement. What a blessing and great reminder for me about the body of Christ. I’m grateful for such a strong body around me. I love getting responses to these emails with updates and stories about how you all are doing. So please keep sending those!

June has been a very full and busy month! A team of two girls, Mickey and Megan, came from my home church-Hope Community-for a few weeks. I was so blessed to have them here with me, and honored to be their leader. They fit right in here with the staff and were a big blessing to the ministry. Thank you to those that were praying for our time! We spent several days facilitating a workshop on purposeful living, with main lessons from Rick Warren’s “The Purpose Driven Life.”  It was a great lesson and reminder about how we are created to honor God, and should do that with every part of our lives. I also taught about STD’s, which is very needed, not only due to their high incidence but also because parents don’t  talk with their children about sex and so youth are susceptible to these diseases. I am praying that the adults that were at the workshops will talk with the youth they know and that it was a blessing to them as well. I loved facilitating these workshops. It is so neat how God changes us. I used to HATE being in front of people, and had almost zero confidence.  But since being here, I am growing and LOVED facilitating-hearing testimonies, sharing knowledge and giving what I know so that others may benefit. It was a sweet affirmation that the Lord has me where I am meant to be.I know that I am not “finished” but am grateful for the work that has been done in me, and continue praying for the Lord to shape me such that I can be a blessing to others. I have also done two smaller trainings on family planning (birth control methods) in a newer area we are working in, Bukhalu.  I am so glad to be able to use my nursing knowledge, and am looking forward to being further stretched and pray that I may teach the right things.

This month I have been amazed at how quickly relationships can grow and thrive, and how God brings people together at the right time.  I have shared much learning and laughter with my team from Hope, and also a team from the Navigators in the US. Praise be to God for friendships!

My team also did a home stay in Muyembe, a community that M:MM has worked in since the 90’s, and has phased out in-meaning we only visit quarterly.  Those that M:MM trained in Muyembe have now gone to a new community, Namatiti, where they are teaching the Discipling for Development principles.  I was able to visit Namatiti last week, and was moved by how God has worked and created spiritual generations and how much people’s lives have changed. People are empowered so that they may reach their potential.  Of course there are still challenges, but people are able to remember how the Lord has been with them, and trust that He will continue to be with them. I have been so challenged by this. I have been blown away time and again by how hospitable people are here, and hope to implement that in my life.

Something that I have been thinking a lot about this month is “what is home?” What makes something home? I don't say this because I’m always thinking about my home in Minnesota (although I do get very homesick for my family and friends!!!) but because I feel so at home here. Can a person have two homes? I have been reflecting on what makes me “me”-what is Sydney and what is just from my culture, and is there a difference?  I am wondering what else I can implement here in Uganda that would make me feel even more at home (I think I’m going to buy a bike!).  I am grateful for feeling so at home, but it has been confusing as well when trying to think about the future.  Well, I learned something  this last week that really touched me. I have been going by Namarome (meaning “land”) for the last 4+ months, but this week my coworker John said, “Namarome, it means someone that has gone through trials.” I asked him that didn’t it just mean “working the land” and he said that the root, “lirome” means “can be planted and grow anywhere.”  I started tearing up at this, and marveled at how God times things.  Just when I needed that encouragement, on a random Tuesday, He tells me something I needed to hear.  I can grow anywhere, as long as I am seeking Him and what He has for me, wherever that is. It also reminded me how Christ is the one that remains constant, despite any changes or trials in my life, and is the same in Minnesota and Uganda.

I wish you much grace and peace, wherever you are reading this from.

Wele apuwe tsikhabi (God bless you all).

Sydney Namarome Liesch.

Prayer requests-
-For transition-my other half here, Shannon is leaving  for Mukono, another city in Uganda. Pray for me as I will be standing on my own again; pray for self-assurance. Pray for Shannon as well, as she will be leading her team at a university, working with the Navigators and doing evangelism. Pray for continued growth in other relationships and continuation of friendship with Shannon, including with another intern here, named Miran
-For the M:MM staff- there continues to be much illness and vehicle breakdowns. Pray against this spirit from the enemy and for provision of good health and working vehicles
-Pray for clarity about the future and what God has in store for me and that I can continue to learn and grow in my relationship with Him during my time here
-Pray for relationships with loved ones back home, it can be hard being away from people during both happy and hard times

-Facilitating the workshop in Busiu, alongside my friend and coworker Aidah. 

A selfie with Mickey and Megan from Hope. I am so glad that we can remain united in Christ’s spirit! 

First time hiking in a skirt! Can you spot the back sweat? ;) We went hiking in Muyembe, to the top of this beautiful hill. As we looked out my coworker asked us by looking at the view, which area we thought was more developed. There was an area that had nice houses, more trees and more crops growing. But he said that people in that area are thieves, and even though things look good on the outside, the hearts of these people are hard, and haven’t really been developed.  Another reminder how development has to start at the heart, and takes years because people have adopted their world view very early in life 

-This is the group of pastors and church leaders from Busiu. We were so challenged and encouraged by their testimonies and insights, and I have loved getting to know them. I think more than half of them asked me to come home with them, and I hope I can see where they are from!

My team and I got to explore the beauty of creation in Sipi Falls, and I loved hiking and seeing practically how the creation declares the glory of God