Rachel's Reflections

Today we celebrated Thanksgiving on the Word of Life South Africa property with about 50 people (staff, students, and family members). It was a great day, great food, and great people to spend it with. Sadly this was one of my last days with everyone. I leave early Monday morning for Mozambique, saying goodbye to all I have known here for almost a year. I have grown close to so many people, it is hard to say goodbye. I am thankful for... ... My year in South Africa. This country is very diverse and filled with many cultures.What a privilege to have called this home for almost a year.  ... The students I have lived, worked, and learned with and from. I am so proud of them, for all the hard work they have put into this year and have watched them grow closer to the Lord and each other.  ... The interns and staff I have worked alongside of and learned from.  ... The ministries I have been able to be involved in over the course of this year. The people I have met and the...

"Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him." Psalm 37:4-7 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6 "Be still and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10 This week has been an emotional roller coaster. But in the midst of it God has been there constant and steady. These verses are such a great reminder to me and calm my heart before the Lord. I can trust Him because He is God, He is in control, and He does not change. He is the same today as He has always been and He will continue to be so.  I cannot believe that my year in South Africa is coming to a close. I only have one week left before I say my goodbyes and head across to Mozambique. Next Saturday we will be celebrating Thanksgiving with all of the Word of Life South Africa staff and students and then I leave the following Monday.  So many new friends...

I am back in Jo'burg now, but I had a wonderful time in Durban. One of my primary purposes in being there  was to connect with Isabel and be an encouragement to her. She is a youth leader at Bethany Church but is originally from Angola (the one I practiced Portuguese with) and sometimes lacks confidence in herself and ability to speak in public. Last weekend I stayed in her home and felt immediately a part of that family. Isabel and I had several great conversations and were able to encourage one another in the Lord. She is a beautiful young lady, and is growing in her relationship with the Lord. I hope that I was as much a blessing to her as she was to me.  I said goodbye to her Sunday evening but little did I know that God still had something planned. I arrived back in Jo'burg by bus on Tuesday and while waiting for my ride I met Tshepi who was on her way to Durban. I am ashamed to say I did not share the gospel with her then, but we did exchange contact information. Th...