It is with so many emotions that I write this blog this week. We have finished up our 3 weeks of ministry in Johannesburg, and for me that consisted of 3 weeks in Atteridgeville everyday. Ah, Thursday was my last day there, and I already miss it. What a good week it was though! The Lord really blessed my team and me by giving us a vision for the future for those we poured into. So I know without a doubt that no hug or kiss or conversation or prayer was in vain. We prayed for the Spirit to lead us in every way and it happened!
On Tues. we decided to throw a party for the children at our friend Francina's house. It was awesome. We sang and danced and blew bubbles and colored and had coke and cookies and chocolate. The children loved it to say the least. Then after a little while we wanted to share a Bible story with them. So we bribed them with more chocolate to sit still on a blanket and listen. My friend Katie spoke and we got Francina to translate for us. Katie pretty mush presented the gospel to them in a very simplified version. What was awesome though, happened when she was finished. Francina went on to talk to the children more about Jesus and His love, and she called each one out by name and asked him or her if they understood. She suddenly came alive. We saw a new person in her. It was like the Spirit filled her up for the first time, because she is usually so shy and timid. But she went on and on talking to the children about Jesus and how mighty and strong He is. It was incredible. Then she made the children stand and sing "Jesus Loves Me" for us; we had taught it to them earlier. Then she explained to them exactly what that song means in their language. She went on to sing and dance more. I was amazed at this person I was seeing and so excited about it!
I am so thankful that the Lord chose to bless us with witnessing that. We saw a vision of things to come. I see Francina's house being a place now that the children can come to for comfort and safety and to hear more about Jesus. That she will teach them truths of the Bible and love them in a way that they do not experience at home. It all makes sense now why we spent so much time just ministering to her, when we really wanted to do a women's Bible study. Also, why we spent so much time with the children just loving on them and introducing them to Francina. I am just continually assured in how much God is in control and how He has such a big plan that we are privileged to be a part of.

  Well I found out more exciting news this morning. We were told what teams we were on, and I am now officially going to Swaziland. That means that when I leave to come back here after Christmas, I will go directly to Swaziland and remain there until May. Also, I will leave to go there this coming Wed. and stay for 2 weeks. After that, our team will come back to Alabanza for a Thanksgiving celebration; then go to Jeffreys Bay for 2 weeks. Then we will come back again to Alabanza for our last few days and do some fun things like maybe a safari ride and debrief. So from here on out it is crazy and even busier for me; good thing thats how I like it. I love to travel and am really excited about what is to come!