We made it to Mokhotlong, Lesotho (pronounced Leh-sue-too)!
Our first week here in Africa has completely MOVED me.
We are partnered with Harvesters’ Church Ministry (which is insanely cool because the Lord has been speaking the word ‘harvest’ to me since we arrived in Africa, even before we knew our ministry church name!)
“Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.” James 3:18
In the mornings, we teach Bible lessons and sing songs with the children at the elementary school (UGH, MY HEART), or we share testimonies at the hospital. Later in the morning, we do manual labor at the elementary school. Then, we do prayer walks in town in the afternoons!
On Fridays, we get to host game days at the elementary school and game nights with the youth group!
Yesterday, at the elementary school, we played games with the kids. It was so sweet. We taught them our games—Sharks ‘n Minnows, Red Rover, and Ninja. And they taught us their games as well—’Where’s My Sheep’ and several more games that seem to be local variations of our own children’s games!
Then, towards the end of our game day—my favorite part—I got to teach the little ones (ages 4-7) cheerleading! They loved it. And so did I. Before they went to lunch, I was swarmed by these precious little angels for high fives and hugs! My heart melted. Some of them just clung to me until they were told to go to lunch. I could’ve held onto them forever.
Thank you, Jesus, for little children. Their pure love is such a gift from you.
“He took a little child whom he placed among them. Taking the child in his arms he said to them, ‘Whoever welcomed one of these little children in my name welcomed me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.’” Mark 9:36-37
I love it here. I never knew I would—I never thought I would. I see what people mean when they say they love Africa. I can’t speak for all of Africa, but I can say this: I love Lesotho. The people are amazing, and the Lord’s peace resides here.
Every day is beautiful; every day is fun; every day is filled with overwhelming peace.
I love the people.
I love the children.
I love the peaceful presence of Jesus here.
Looking at the valley in which we live, I am constantly reminded of God’s goodness and of my own sacred special place with him—a large valley, nestled between two mountains.
“He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.” Psalm 91:1
Thank you, Jesus, that we get to live in this beloved place.
I lived in Africa for 10 years. Was difficult to leave. I don’t doubt that you are being blessed by being there. Saw your family today. Praying as you finish up your assignment….know that God has amazing things in store as you continue to follow Him.
In His Care,
Sharron
I LOVE that you got to teach cheerleading. How fun for you 🙂
Awww I know you love children my sweet Victoria. I love you and I am so proud of you sweetie. What adventures you are going to have in Africa. I am praying for you and your team everyday and I will add these children to my prayer list.
I haven’t responded recently but I have read all your blog posts and always praise the Lord for how He is equipping and using you and your team. Your joy is contagious so it allows me to praise the Lord for the opportunities He is giving you to serve and make Him known. I am grateful for your selfless caring and sharing. Praying for you as you continue your year. This morning at TBC, Wes Henson shared the message. One thought lingers with me. “When we see as God sees, we will do as God does.” He was sharing I Samuel 16:7 – how God chose David not any of his older brothers. Praying that you and your team will continue to see as God sees which you are already doing as you write about each of your places of service.
My precious Victoria! How sweet you are and how sweet those children of God are! I’m not one bit surprised that they love you and you love them!
The verse that came to mind when I read this blog was:
Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Matthew 19:14
ENJOY those precious children! Remember, we are Jesus’ hands and feet wherever we are!
I love you and am praying for you and those sweet littles in South Africa!
Love, prayers, and blessings,
Momma
Oh Victoria, Bless your heart. Enjoy those children. You will miss them so. What a bless in you are to them… and they to you. Again, you will miss them most of all. Cherish every moment you have with them.
I love you and miss you.
Just from reading this, I can SENSE you truly coming ALIVE in ministry here. What a dream. And what a gift you are to them!!