Wednesday, March 16, 2011

do we HAVE to come home?



















It's our last day working at The Village. We were hoping to get the children's house finished, but because of the rain, I don't think we'll make it. We are working hard to use the time we have left to get as much accomplished as possible!

This morning, Mal, Tonya, and Ellen worked on painting shelves. Bob, Jeff, and Alex built bunk beds. Andrea and Amanda sanded the container, so it can be painted. Chris was able to take some family photos for Brian and Lois and Louis and Amber. I spent most of the morning cleaning up the kitchen and baking some sweets.

Pray for Laurie; she has a sore throat today. Because tomorrow is a busy day with travel, we decided to take her to the doctor. He gave her some meds, and she's stayed home to rest today. Hopefully she'll feel better in the morning.

Tonight, Monica and Lerato have a school program at 6PM. The whole team is going; they will have a BIG cheering section. :) It will be fun to see them perform, and to see some kids from The Pines as well.

How can I summarize the trip? We had so many amazing opportunities and experiences. I'm so thankful for the team God chose. It has been a blessing to serve with and get to know some great people. It has also been wonderful to spend time with Louis and Amber & Brian and Lois. I admire their energy, fervor, and love for what God has called them to do here in SA. Being around them for the past two weeks has been a blessing and an encouragement. Playing with their children has been a joy.

It's so difficult to explain this experience, but God has definitely worked in hearts. He's reminded me to be joyful in EVERYTHING. He's given me sweet fellowship in serving with fellow believers. He's allowed me to be used in a small way in His work for RHI. Seeing God at work halfway across the world from home . . . He is so great. How GREAT is our GOD.

Tomorrow, we'll pack up and leave The Village around 8AM. After a visit to the Apartheid Museum, we will go to a shopping market. Our plane leaves from Johannesburg at 7:30ish. We arrive in Des Moines at about 11AM. And that's that. :)

Thank you for all your prayers and support. Your little comments of encouragement the past two weeks have brought smiles to all our faces.
See you soon!

-Abby for the team

8 comments:

Melissa Mitchell said...

Its so encouraging to see how God is working. I can't wait to hear about everything. Praying for Laurie and that you all make it back safely.

reeces said...

Praying for your goodbyes. As hard as they are, we are comforted in knowing that Jesus is Lord of everything. He is with us and for us. God with us and with the people of South Africa. Emmanuel!
I can't wait to hear, in person, all that He is doing in the Village. Also, praying for Laurie.
Get well SOON.
His grace to you all, The Reeces

Kristen said...

Praying for you all as you wrap things up and your travels/adjustments and you return to the states!!

It's been so great to keep updates with the posts and pictures of your trip! Amazing to see how the Lord is transforming lives! :)

Chris Meinders <> said...

We have LOVED all of your updated!!! The kids are so excited to see the pictures!

Chris Meinders <> said...

I have loved reading your blog!! It's been great to see pictures and hear about what you did. The kids LOVE to see the pictures too! We've been praying for you and pray you have a safe trip home..and, YES...you HAVE to come home..well, at least Chris does :)
JOY

Unknown said...

Praying for you as you say goodbye there and for safety as you travel home. Anxious to hear more about your experiences. Praying that Laurie will feel better soon. Love and prayers for all of you.

Hiz Dotter said...

The photos share a powerful story of how our Almighty God uses us, His creation, to serve one another in love. He is an amazing God who wants to spend personal time with us and wants us to love Him and each other. These photos share His word of truth. Praying for you as the journey is nearing an end knowing everyones lives have been changed. You are all loved everlastingly! In HIS grip, Jodi

The Funky Life Of Holly said...

Oh no poor Laurie! I hope it's not as bad as what I had! I will be praying for her and the rest of the team! Travel back Safely!:)