Uganda Trip Update 11-17-10

We had a wonderful day of men and women’s Bible studies yesterday. The men met together and shared. About 20 villagers attended this men’s Bible study, twice as many as usually show up. Over 100 women, wanting to deepen their relationship with their Savior, met for 3 hours as each woman from our team shared approximately 30 minutes of Bible material on the subject of “Becoming Women of Excellence.” There were many touching moments as we shared about things that were so significant and personal to our lives. The Ugandan women were attentive and were able to share in our struggles, pains, joys and victories. Many tears were shed, and unexpected moments of prayer occurred as we learned more about each other. The love and unity that was felt in the room compelled us to pray for one another. It was beautiful, and no language barrier or cultural difference was felt. We were sisters in Christ, and we loved and shared together. As each speaker concluded, the women clapped and cheered. They let out a loud and high-pitched cry, in order to express their joy and gratitude.

“BC” showed up once again! An older member of the church, a woman in her 70s who was seeing BC for the first time, slowly walked up to the front of the church as he sang his song. She was a little confused and awestruck that BC was able to do so much by himself. When she stood right in front of him, she became frightened and rushed back to her seat. The room filled with laughter as the other members of the church noticed her confusion. Julie then had to explain that BC was only a puppet! And could only talk and move with her help.

Today the home visitations continued. We visited several widows and brought them supplies. Many more children were clothed, and many more relationships were built. But one relationship that began today surpasses them all…

We visited the home of a young couple by the name of Frederick and Juliet. We left another bag of supplies for them. We brought clothes and candy to their two small children. After praying for them, our team shared the Gospel, as the both of them listened thoughtfully. Upon being asked if they wanted to accept Jesus as their Savior, and being reassured that regardless of their decision our love and God’s love for them remained and the ministry would continue to help them, they both repeatedly, sincerely and eagerly said yes! We all prayed together as the Ugandan pastor’s wife led them. They thanked us many times before we left. Later in the day our team purchased a new Bible in their language for them, and we will be delivering this to them shortly. Please pray for Frederick and Juliet, and their new walk with Christ! This is great news!

Tomorrow our team will spend some time exploring Uganda a bit further as we head into Sipi Falls for some hiking, and we’ll get to see some wild life too! It’s hard to believe that we only have a few more days left in this wonderful country. But the lessons learned and moments shared will be with us forever. We thank God daily for providing this incredible opportunity for us to see His hand work actively in the lives of brothers and sisters around the world!