Wednesday- VBS and Lunch with Pastor's

We had the most delightful time with all the children for vacation Bible school. We sang songs together and the team did a skit. It was about how unique and very, very special God has made you. Tara was the ladybug. Chad was the snail. Robert was the ant and Jerry was the Caterpillar who wanted to be like one of them who eventually turns into a beautiful butterfly. It was hilarious! I'm giggling out loud right now. The caterpillar crawling across the pew was hysterical. 

We did crafts with them. It was so special to be there and have little people just grab hold of your hand not let go.  The most precious faces. Many had worn-out clothing, worn out shoes.  They were just so full of love.

Each couple then went to one of the pastor's homes for lunch. It was fun to hear everyone's recap when we loaded the bus to come back. I was glad they were sharing the details of their visits. I have to be honest though, I didn't want to share mine - not yet...It was so very special and I just had to hold the experience close to the vest for a little while.

Nagusu, his wife, two sons and daughter hosted us. We had the traditional coffee ceremony and enjoyed the traditional meal with lots of offerings. We enjoyed hearing about how they met and married when they both were in the choir.  They surprised us later with a song after donning their purple choir robes. It was really moving actually to see how freely they share and how unencumbered they are by "social acceptance".  They are so full of joy and so very loving. They are simply and completely sold out to Jesus in everything they do. There were a hundred things about that day that I will always remember.

Hearing all the joy in the details of everyone else's visit was really fun.  You come hoping you will be a blessing but I know all eight of us were immensely blessed by these precious, humble, generous and loving people.

That evening was a 'closing ceremony' where the elders invited us to the church to thank us.  They made me sing!! Y'all know that is the last thing anyone who has heard me sing would do!! But again, they don't care about that kind of thing - none of that matters - they just love Jesus - no judgments, no comparison, just be free in Jesus - it is so cool. They blessed each couple. We were able to share many gifts with them as well.  Then they built a fire right there in the brick paved courtyard, placed a large pan across the three brick fire and started cooking dinner - Sheep. It was a very special evening and we were so humbled, again, by their genuine care and generosity. What a wonderful partnership - they are inspiring in so many ways. I so wish I was a wordsmith to capture everything for you.