Reflection

I have now had a third week here in Uganda, and Robby is out on a trip to Rwanda, so right now I am the only Muzungu in the office, and I have continued to investigate the various projects that are happening here in Mbale .

I finally found the time to go up the mountain to visit the goats project, where they tend them and then distribute them out into the community. I wouldn't have said this particular project broke my heart, but it was a fun trip and had a stunning view, looking out over Mbale and the surrounding areas.

In the middle of this week I was able to visit more of Uganda, as myself and three American friends went on a tour of Sipi Falls which is approximately an hour away. Our tour guide Joel who was a local man who took us hiking to visit all the main falls of the area, and he even took us close enough to be drenched by the spray. However it didn't make much difference, as 15 minutes later we threw ourselves into the river at the bottom of one of the more minor falls. Joel then took us to the coffee farm which his parents owned and he showed us the process of making it and then finished off with some samples. Unfortunately, no fridge meant no milk, but I guess it was pretty good for being a black coffee which scolded your mouth!

Later that week I visited the local hospital with a team from the Jenga offices. We began by doing prayer ministry and then headed over to the nutrition ward, which is where Jenga's main involvement lies within the hospital department. There we helped serve up food to the malnourished babies and their families.

This week our house occupancy has increased, as Sarah a 21 year old Texan has joined us. She is Nat's volunteer, so on Saturday we headed over to Luwanda which is the children's home which Nat works at. It was a well spent afternoon playing with the children, pushing round abouts and playing games!  Though it didn't quite take my mind off home, as I knew that this was the day that my church would be competing in the annual baptist church sports day (most competitive day of the year without a doubt). Really proud of their 2nd place position - we'll get Kirkie next year!

Early on in the week I had been asked by Aaron, a member of Jenga and also a pastor, to preach at his church on Sunday. I was warned in advance that I may be asked to preach, but the surprise was being asked 3 weeks into my trip! I tried to back track out of the situation, and hopefully buy myself a few more weeks, but it was very clear that squirming would not stop his persistence. So as the week went on I grew worried, and seeked advice from Pastor John (Dad) and a friend who had preached previously when working with Jenga. However when the time came God really showed up and gave me the words and the peace of mind which I so desperately needed. I spoke about endurance in the faith when going through hardships and trials, and reflected on Romans 5 v 1-5, which has been very relevant to me in the past. However, I think God used the words I spoke to remind me of his faithfulness and love, right at this moment in my life (funny how he does that). Later that day we headed down to the local river where we watched 60 people coming to faith and being baptised - really makes you think; what's missing in Scotland?

Love Hannah xxx