Wednesday, July 31, 2013

We're home...but a few more thoughts.


You all prayed us home, and we are so grateful.  Though we are back in the states, there is still much to elaborate on that we were unable to discuss while in Zimbabwe and facing Internet challenges. First is Karanda Hospital. 


There are 420 registered orphans in a 10 kilometer radius of Karanda.  All are living either on their own or with a relative.  We had the privilege of meeting both Dorothy and James, two very passionate people who have given their lives to serving the least of these.  
It is their passion to help these kids, and we were able to see both their hearts and determination, as well as the challenges they are facing.  

Our team prayed for 50 hats to be made and donated for the children at the Hands of Hope camp we helped with our first week.  We ended up with over 200 hats, which meant we were also able to give each of the orphans at Karanda one as well.  This was such a privilege, and we can't thank you enough for it.  The day we were there the children each received a blanket, a hat, a goody bag, and a meal of sadza and meat.  This is the only "free meal" these children receive in a months time, and many are then punished for it back at the village and not allowed another.  There is much abuse that happens with these children, and we began to see just a glimpse into what Dorothy and James face on a daily basis.  It is the desire of both of them to open a home near Karanda to assist in serving some of these children.  We are praying along side of them and hopeful this will become reality.

Another vision of Dorothy's, that by the grace of God has come to life, is the "goat project".  The goat project is highly supported by Westover Church, and helps HIV+ mothers and their children born at Karanda.  The milk from these goats is literally helping children live, when it would otherwise not be possible because of sickness.  Being able to see first hand this project was awesome.  The impact that a church on the other side of the world can have is truly amazing.


Lynn, Dan, and Kevin were able to assist with some welding on site at Karanda.  They are desperately needing water at the hospital, and their efforts helped in trying to reach that goal.  

Afte
r leaving Karanda, we had 2 more stops.  We first spent half a day visiting Foundations for  Farming, an organization teaching a basic and biblical approach to farming in Africa and all over the world.  The men behind this group are godly, humble, and brilliant.  Their lives are living testimonies to the power of Jesus Christ.  They have faced at times, devastating trials and struggles, yet God has been radically faithful to them; and through these trials He birthed this beautiful organization helping to teach the people of Africa successful farming methods...God's way.  Spending time with them, and learning about their ministry was a privilege.



We had a way too short stop at Harare Theological Seminary where we were able to tour the campus and hear from Sean Doyle and Chris and Joyce Goppert.  True servants and brilliant people.  Chris Goppert and his bible memory was impressive beyond words, and truly oozes Jesus.  Again, nothing but a privilege for us to be able to visit the work they are involved in.

Then it was off to Bally Vaughn for our last day in Zimbabwe.  The timing of our visit was divine.  Though they loved us well while we were there, gave us a beautiful place to debrief and prepare to leave the next day, they also shared their amazing testimonies with us which were hugely encouraging.  We were also able to spend time in prayer for them as they are facing intense struggles over their land right now.  




We will all likely spend the next few months processing this experience, we hope there will be opportunities to share with each of you one on one.  Thank you for trusting us enough to send us.  Thank you for praying us there and back.  Thank you for giving us this privilege.  And thank you for all your support to this beautiful country, so that every nation may hear of His great Name!  May the Lord bless you abundantly!


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