After a night of heavy thunderstorms, we woke up to clear skies and cooler temperatures. Everyone was back in action today, although the look of exhaustion from the week’s hard work was beginning to show. But alas, the show must go on, and we are here to do God’s work. Each day He provides the strength for us to continue doing the mission.
After some coffee and breakfast, we were rejuvenated and Michael led us in an appropriate devotional for the day.
Jeremiah 1: “Behold, I have put my words in your mouth. See, I have set you this day over nations and over kingdoms, to pluck up and to break down, to destroy and to overthrow, to build and to plant.”
Sometimes it is difficult to know the right things to say to people who suffer so much, but God often puts the right words in our mouths, and sometimes just listening, giving a hug, praying together or looking someone straight in the eyes and letting them know that you see them, you feel them, is enough.
After some coffee and breakfast, we were rejuvenated and Michael led us in an appropriate devotional for the day.
Jeremiah 1: “Behold, I have put my words in your mouth. See, I have set you this day over nations and over kingdoms, to pluck up and to break down, to destroy and to overthrow, to build and to plant.”
Sometimes it is difficult to know the right things to say to people who suffer so much, but God often puts the right words in our mouths, and sometimes just listening, giving a hug, praying together or looking someone straight in the eyes and letting them know that you see them, you feel them, is enough.
 |  |
After breakfast we all loaded up into the van, packed to the brim with our supplies for the day, and headed to a different church in a town called Kole, 30 minutes north of Lira. Being further from town, we expected to see more people in need and that was certainly the case. The morning started off slow, but as word got out, chairs filled up fast. Luckily, the rain brought in a brisk breeze which was much appreciated. It was as if God knew we needed a break and graced us with nicer weather.
All of the stations were full until 5pm. We unfortunately saw more sick babies today, most stricken with sickle cell and malaria. Many concerned parents came to the prayer tent to ask for prayers for their children. There was also an increase in elderly, especially at the reading glasses line. It’s always so cute to see them trying on the glasses, then sheepishly smile in embarrassment each time they have to go up a strength. They are always filled with gratitude to be able to read clearly.
All of the stations were full until 5pm. We unfortunately saw more sick babies today, most stricken with sickle cell and malaria. Many concerned parents came to the prayer tent to ask for prayers for their children. There was also an increase in elderly, especially at the reading glasses line. It’s always so cute to see them trying on the glasses, then sheepishly smile in embarrassment each time they have to go up a strength. They are always filled with gratitude to be able to read clearly.
 |  |
At the end of the day, we passed out 900 mosquito nets, our system is getting tighter and doctors are able to see more patients. With the help of the nurses, who are always giggling, pill sorting is a well-oiled machine. Nathalie is our courageous documentary photographer, she hopped of the van and immediately wandered into a nearby hut and found that they used solar power! She has captured incredible photos of the mission. Debbie has become the master of the reading glasses station, making sure that each patient gets exactly what they need. Karen and Doug are our fearless prayer warriors, connecting with those in need of special attention, and Michael is our trusted nets distributor, giving people often the most important piece of preventative care.
 |  |
As for me, I’m observing, following orders, and trying to keep a smile on my face all day long. The people wait for hours for this long process, they are hot and tired too. The least I can do is reassure them that there is still some good in the world, that we care about them and wish them well. Together, we make a great team of veterans and newbies. With four mission days left, we still have more to do, but can feel proud of the work we accomplished here and hopefully our photos and stories have helped you feel like you’ve been along side us the whole way.
Amy Willis
Amy Willis
RSS Feed