Another exciting day in Uganda!
It was a lovely day here, low 80s and sunny! I went by the radio station this morning and spoke on the topic of Character. I am so thankful for the kind words of the Ugandan people, they are such n encouragement. They have really made me feel welcome in sharing The Word and have guided me in my English. It's funny that we need translators to translate from English to English, but these people are SOO hungry for God here. It's amazing how spiritually sound some are with such limited access to resources. Many of them find it hard to get a bible and borrow a neighbor's bible or even go to the public library. I really am inspired by their desire for knowledge. Knowledge is their hope and active in pursing that.
After the radio station we took a short, little 30 minute drive to a nearby village for their midweek church service. The pictures I have posted are from today. They had these sweet, sweet kids perform a dance, the choir sang, and I preached. Well, let me say this, my grandaddy, he's a preacher, I just merely shared The Word. I do not consider myself a preacher, by any stretch. I taught on James 1:2-8, going through trials and finding joy, but also asking God for wisdom and NOT doubting he can provide and he will answer.
I am reminded on this trip how easy it is to be discouraged living this life. There is a poverty here in Uganda that we could never begin to understand in the states, YET, there is this amazing selflessness and respect these people have. I mean, here I am, this girl from the US, who probably packed more clothes than most of these people even own, talking to them about going through tough times. I mean, who am I to speak on that topic, to them. After seeing their world, how could I ever complain. I looked in the eyes of people who are probably trying to figure out how to feed their family tonight, who probably will wear the same clothes tomorrow that they have had on all week, and they still smile. These people have an amazing resilience and the Christians here are strong in their faith. When we go to visit the village churches, it's really to encourage. I make a point to encourage the pastors and leadership as well. They are vital to these smaller churches and villages.There is very strong presence of Muslims in this area. A lot of mosques. I can actually say, I've never seen so many mosques in my life. So, pray for the spiritual warfare here, it is high.
When we go and visit these churches they love to give gifts and cook for us. One of the families in the church cooked us dinner and gave us a wonderful gift of chickens! There were 2 chickens that joined us in the car on the way home. There legs were tied, as to not go hoping around, but they were very alive. And although I labeled the last picture "Lunch Tomorrow," don't worry, the Okabe's haven't fed me any 'fresh' foul, if you know what I mean. The chickens and ducks just wonder around there property, they're like pets. Along with the cows, billy goats, and turkeys.
I hope you all have a blessed night and continue praying for this ministry. Patrick is a hard working Pastor who really understands the great commission.
Blessings to you all,
Ashley
Click below for pictures of Ashley's trip:
photobucket.com/ashleytriptouganda
