28 For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.
Matthew 20:28
If you keep up with me at all, you probably read my posts a couple of months ago about going on The World Race this coming January. I was committed and had put my deposit down to go before I left to work camp in NOLA this summer. It was a big plan and I was excited. Then I went to camp for what turned out to be one of the most difficult summers of my 22 years. I struggled with my Lord, with my identity and my purpose.
As an organization, FUGE camps partners with international ministries, supporting them financially, through prayer and sometimes going there to serve in small groups. One of these ministries is called "The Door of Hope." You can read about their story and their mission here. The Door of Hope is a beautifully unique orphanage in Johannesburg, South Africa. The abandonment rate of children in this area is staggering and the reality of what happens to these children is heartbreaking and overwhelming. The Door of Hope has provided a way for mothers to safely and anonymously abandon there babies. This way, these precious lives are spared and they have and opportunity at life. Not every child that ends up at one of the 3 baby houses in SA comes through the door. Some of the children arrive through word of mouth as well as other routes that I am sure to learn all about in the coming year.
The Lord burdened my heart for these orphans in a way I haven't experienced before. I don't know what this journey holds for me but honestly, it just doesn't matter what I know or don't know. I feel compelled to go and I am able and willing. He calls us to go, everyday, so in January I am going. I will go to Johannesburg, SA to live in the main baby house. For 4 months I will be a volunteer working in the big baby house with 12 different precious babies who will vary in age from 6months to 12months. I will work 11hour shifts from 7am to 6pm and sometimes all night. It's going to be crazy and awesome and I am thrilled.
Sometimes I am afraid. Africa is a long way away and I know enough to understand that I am going to see and experience some things that most people will never have to. But what I am stepping into is what these people live on a daily basis, it is their reality and Jesus loves them too. He wants good things for them too and so do I.
29 What is the price of two sparrows—one copper coin[k]? But not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. 30 And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. 31 So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows. -Matthew 10:29-31
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