Friday, April 15

Sonebona. Or as Ezra says “so-bo-na.”

We are ending our first week and time has flown by. Our team continues to be blessed by the people we are serving here in eSikhawini. Ironic, I know. God is moving in the people of South Africa and in the stirring in the hearts of our team.

Today’s theme of the day for me was LAUGHTER, as I listened to Tony, Abigail, Ezra and Josiah giggle uncontrollably with Mama Mafu. I continue to be reminded of God’s joy and grace in the lives of the Zulu people in the midst of extreme hardship and sadness.

My favorite patient thus far was a sweet, joyful, 90 year old woman, who was giddy like a school girl. Every time I brought another medicine to the table that the doctor had prescribed, she giggled and said, “I can’t believe this is all for me.” Time and time again, the people we served were overwhelmed by the gift of medicine. When getting basic pain medicine that we can buy for $7 at Costco is so hard, people are so grateful for even ONE day without pain.

It has been such a joy seeing each member of our team being used by God according to their gifts. From Dr.’s Amy, Andy, Bruce, Cathy, and Sharon’s healing touch to Kristie’s excellent direction abilities (as this is crucial for the running of a smooth clinic), God is moving. The gift of touch exudes out of Heather as she puts blood pressure cuffs on patient after patient. Tinashe’s heart for showing God’s love through teeth radiates with her every smile. The gentle hands of Barb show each patient that they are special to God. Sarah N.’s very presence (after 8 years) eases the patients as they trust her with their prescriptions. Megan’s passion for PT shone through today as a 5 year old boy with a developmental delay was fitted with a make shift walker (out of an old chair) – AMAZING! Sarah R.’s flexibility to be the “as needed” player made her invaluable. Rev Rob continues to share with us his words of wisdom after years of ministry, and has been surrounded by patients seeking help for their sight. It is so evident that God has put this team together with specific gifts in mind. Not only is our American team perfectly fit to support each other and fill in the gaps, our African team has also been hand picked by God for “such a time as this.” Even Tony, Ezra, Abigail and Josiah play their roles as “joy makers” so well.

As I sit here writing this email, our team is getting ready to meet for devotions and eating cake in honor of Tinashe’s last night with us. We are all a bit sad to lose this member of our team as it has been amazing to see a dentist at work for the love of Jesus.

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. (Ephesians 3:20-21)

Anna (& Ezra)