A Missionary's Lament

Dear reader: there have been a few thoughts stirring in my mind lately, especially when I think about trying to plan the future. Moses and I absolutely love living and serving in Gulu, northern Uganda, but when you are working with the Lord, you never know when the journey will take a fork in the road. I realized nine years ago that a change in health can change your course. But so can politics, Ebola and Covid-19, children, and finances. 

At the moment, KLM is not flying to Uganda because of the Ebola outbreak, which is hard for some people. Many of our missionary colleagues have had teams cancel their summer plans because of the transportation and quarantine requirements. But, we are fine-happy and healthy to be where we are and we continue to pray for this nation that is diligently keeping the medical crisis at bay.  

Politically, all residing foreigners must register now for an Identification Number. And there is a possibility that the new "Sovereignty Law" will tax foreign income that gets sent over to Uganda. We pray for God's peace and justice and wisdom in the process. We are not sure as it is most likely that this law will be challenged but we continue to pray for the President as he leads in the Pearl of Africa.

Moses really wants to come to Canada for Christmas and a "home service", either this year or next year, but it almost makes me feel anxious. And here are the few thoughts as to why:

• It will be winter and freezing cold, and I don't adjust well to that. Moses will actually have an easier time than I will. I'm sure I will be snuggling under as many blankets as I can find!
• We absolutely love having my parents place as a home base - a place where we are truly welcomed and there is space enough to spread out our suitcases and collect items along the way to bring back to Uganda. But, there are always many more housing arrangements that need to be lined up while we are there; and for three months, you feel like a couch surfer. Please don't take me to be complainer... we truly love catching up with our people, and being sacrificially hosted in their lovely homes is such a blessing, but it's still a lot to organize and our sleep patterns often go way off.
• And in order to get to those homes, or to visit donors, friends, and family, we always need to find a car to borrow or rent. But again, the Lord has always provided a vehicle for us to move around and we are super grateful!
• No matter when we come, life in North America is expensive. In some ways, it's even harder for us because we still have to care for our home and some ministry expenses in Uganda while we are reconnecting in Canada. Moses and I cry almost every time we eat out because we know how much that would pay for in Uganda, and so our emotions are always tightly wound. And we want to be good stewards of the resources God has granted to us.
• Is it selfish to say that gift cards - to restaurants, fuel, Walmart, grocery stores or Amazon would be helpful and encouraging while we are there? Maybe even a barber or a dentist!
• We also want to go to Costco without feeling guilty for buying a few groceries that could take us a year to consume, while at home in Gulu. The outdoor market in Gulu is fairly reasonable in price - the fresh meats, fruits and vegetables, but anything imported is super costly - cereal, granola bars, nut mixes, etc., so whenever we come to North America, we like to stock up.

For those who might not know, "home service" is a time when we go back to our countries of origin and share reports of what God is doing in Uganda. We meet with donors, raise more funds, get medical check-ups, while at the same time - we are still overseeing the work in Uganda. It's supposed to be home, but I have spent more than half of my life living outside of Canada and it is no longer home. I don't fit in the way I would want to anymore. And my husband is a Ugandan, so it's certainly not home for him either. Children have grown up. People have moved. Pastors have changed. Politics has diversified. My childhood bestie moved Stateside. Elders have passed. Life is just different.

I love it that Resonate Global Mission has given that time of "home-service" (I don't like that phrase because it's not home) or "furlough" (it's not a break) the name of RECONNECT. And I love that name for that season of crossing the ocean to reconnect with family, friends, churches and donors. A time to reconnect with our governments and medical care systems. A time to find new resources. It's definitely a time to meet with people face-to-face, because in this digital age, it's sad to know that when we write an e-newsletter to 358 people, approximately 32% even open the email and maybe 2 or 3 even personally respond to what the Lord is doing here in Gulu and in our lives. While the statistic can be disheartening, real conversations do greatly motivate us... as we can share, pray, and fellowship with others!

Going to Canada is not our vacation time! Going to Canada is not restful for us and it is not where I would choose to go to relax and rejuvenate. For me, a vacation has a different definition, but--Yes, it is a change of pace and culture and we are beyond grateful for the opportunity. And of course, we love, love, love catching up with the many wonderful people who make our lives so beautiful. It's our hearts cry to also introduce our daughters to all those who mean so much to us - and hopefully soon  Lord willing!

I hope you do not see this email as complaining, only as insightful to the thoughts and realities that cross my mind. You, dear reader, mean the world to us!! And we want you to know that you are invited this way - to come and share our lives and be encouraged by God's goodness here in Gulu and beyond. Thank you for caring about my thoughts today! You are a blessing to me/us. We remain anchored in God's inexhaustible love and compassion as well as your prayers, encouragement and support for us and His work here in Uganda. Together, let us keep riding in God's palms.

What Did You Bring?

Monthly, I receive a writing prompt from the lovely group I'm in called the "Writer's Nest". Here is our prompt for tomorrow:

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Writing Down the Bones Deck, by Natalie Goldberg

# 14 What did you bring—in your purse, on a trip, to a party, in your suitcase, in your book bag, in your car? Besides your toothbrush, hat, comb and brush, wallet, what did you drag along from the inside? Attachments, resentments, fears, regrets? A good topic has many dimensions—it can be physical and ethereal, concrete and abstract. Go for both sides. Mix it up: a red slip and hope. A nail clip and anxiety. You could bring with you a bag of cement or flowers, perfume behind your ears, a cancer in your gut you don’t know you have. Plunge in. Move the pen. What do you never leave behind? Who travels—for real or in your mind and body—with you wherever you go? Let the hand speak. Don’t think. Let the mind transport you.

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My thoughts are all a whir when I ponder what I bring. 

In the car, I always pack a box of water, because you never know when you will get delayed and need rehydration from the African sun. There is also an umbrella and hand sanitizer packed in the driver door. And a package of wet wipes for whenever we want to buy chicken, goat, or liver on a stick while on a road trip. Moses always packs his big speaker, even if we need more space in the boot, because music is very important to the both of us. 

The purse seems simple. I don't pack a lot, but no matter the size of the bag, I can never seem to find what I'm looking for as things are jumbled at the bottom. Of course, there are the usual wallet, lip balm, keys, and phone. But I also make sure that I carry a tissues for the bush or pit latrine stops that I may need on a journey. I always carry a back-up pad, chewable magnesium, and throat lozenges for a good old coughing fit--it's been 5 years now and I still can't get rid of my emergency supply. A pen, with blank cards, is often found tucked in the bag too, because I love spending "waiting" times writing a letter to someone else.

In a crowd, I bring energy and encouragement. I bring laughter and joy. But sadly, I can also pack sarcasm, impatience, and pride. I'm often seen as the life of the party, but lately I've learned a word that seems to fit me better. Otrovert. It's a newly emerging personality concept, of which I can relate to a few descriptions. I'm someone who is friendly and socially adept, but often feels like an outsider. An outsider in the sense that I'm a Canadian living in Uganda. I'm a Christian living in a broken world. I don't get bullied into being in groups I don't want to be a part of easily. I'm emotionally strong -- I don't rely on peer validation, group rituals, or teams to identify my self-worth. And I'm full of originality. I like to dress brightly, with loads of colour. I think I'm a creative and independent thinker, but I'm also glad I have a husband who points me to other points of view.

In my suitcase - I always pack BONES. He has travelled the world with me and slept in the craziest of places. My faithful teddy bear is turning 30 this Christmas, and it's only been a handful of nights when I didn't have him with me. I would also add, then whenever Moses and I think we are going to Kampala, the capital city for a certain length of time, I always pack a few extra clothes and the laundry bag because more often than not we end up staying longer. And it's usually due to the vehicle being in the garage or that legal documents weren't ready when they said they would be ready.

In the house, the biggest thing I pack is extra food and treats because I love cooking for my husband and a crowd. Along with the crowd - that means there are always loads of clean sheets, towels, and bars of soap. We definitely want a home where everyone feels welcome and at home. There is a cupboard full of games and craft supplies, so that there is something fun for everyone.

My heart is a whole other category. I pack a lot of thoughts that are often overwhelming. How long will we be serving in Gulu? How are our girls really doing in school? Are we financially stable, or how can we cut our budget better? What country will be the next stamp in my passport? How can I support my husband in a greater way? When will I feel strong again? Please Lord, may my 50's be an improvement over my 40's! How can I serve the youth at church in a way that encourages or blesses them? When will I find a way to train the dogs? Is the newly installed electricity affecting our weak solar power system? 

Through it all, I want my life to bring Jesus. I pray that my heart is filled with the Holy Spirit and that the words of my mouth are pleasing unto Him. I wish that God was even greater on my mind and that His true and inspiring WORD was hidden even deeper in my heart. 

He Speaks

Throughout the month of May, I delved into the book of Jeremiah and loved seeing how God is "The Lord, the God of Israel" and how often "HE DECLARED" His word to His often rebellious people. His love is incredible, just and faithful. Inspirational. God's sovereignty blows me away. 

I know that the Lord still speaks today, and so often this month - both in the Scriptures, and in Bible studies that were wrapped up these past few weeks, that was the theme that came across the materials. 

"He Speaks to Me" by Priscilla Shirer and "Listen" - a Velvet Ashes retreat reminded me of God's constant voice and presence.

And even when we feel God is silent, He still speaks. He delights over me with singing! 

God's glory also had me singing in thankfulness.

His creation speaks of His goodness.

Even Bones sees the beauty!

While in the U.S., Moses had the most divinely appointed time, staying with a man named Dan. They are now brothers and friends!!

And Dan's friends became our friends too!

And it build into a connection with Lakeside Lutheran Church, for which we are eternally grateful. Moses was able to share during two church services while there.

I just loved sunsets

When I asked Moses what he wanted to do, if he could have a little getaway in Florida... he said, "I want to see the church and burial place of R.C. Sproul". We had such a beautiful afternoon at this incredible spot in Sanford, FL.

Lots of great teachings and preachings happened here.

It was worth the drive!

Moses and I did have a bit of fun on our own in Florida... and we ran into some rather royal people.

Sometimes things go a little to far...

But after a good chat, Diana was a happy lady.

My super awesome boys picked us up from the airport. Victor, Opio, and Ocen, and their Dad, who I used to stay with, or lived next door to in Soroti, met us with our vehicle and drove us from Entebbe to Kampala at midnight!! We praise God for good friends.

Please pray that the U.S. government pays back the bond money that Moses had to pay in order to come and visit Florida for conference.

On the journey upcountry, we stopped to buy fresh fruit on the side of the road.

The neighbour kids were excited to have us back, so that Saturday kids club could start up once again. I am trying to collect durable games, so that 40 kids can have a fun time.

They also love colouring!! And so do I. It's kind of relaxing.

We pray these little ones will clearly hear and accept God's Word and that His stories will be hidden in their hearts.

Many of the children from our Saturday club hop in the tuktuk on Sunday mornings and also come to University Community Church. The Sunday School class is over flowing. And we love it!!

I was able to host a Velvet Ashes retreat at home. 

We focused on this year's theme of "LISTEN".

A lot of the theme focused about going deep with God instead of staying surface level and being tossed about by the waves of life.

Every time an underwater fish scene came up in the videos, I missed my days of swimming and diving amongst the coral reefs of the Philippines.

Every Sunday, after class, we finish with tea and bun. It is good to have both fellowship and swallowship.

There is not enough space on our Sunday school mats, so some children get creative in their work spaces.

Bless these little ones, O Lord!

Last week Moses blew a tire... which we knew was on its very last legs. We praise God for keeping us safe on the roads and that it blew while he was in Gulu town!! 

It was in our plans to go back to Kampala anyways, because our daughter Becky had to go back to school, starting second term of Secondary Five. And while we were in the States, the Lord provided for new tires!! So, it was perfect timing for the tires and rims to be replaced. We rejoice at the Lord's faithful goodness!

Now we feel much more safe and secure in our trusty vehicle.

And she's off to boarding. Grow in grace, precious Becky

This time on the way home, we bought my favourite mushrooms.

And I made them into a delicious cabbage and mushroom stew with peanut sauce!

The sugar cane trucks always make us nervous as they seem overpacked.

Saturday club again. We are going through the 17 Stories by OneHope and learning hand motions so that we can remember God's stories in chronological order.

I love the view from our bedroom window. 

Again, the glory of the Lord presents itself.

Let me tell you a story. Once upon a time, Moses and I travelled to the U.S. of A. Okay, maybe it wasn't a fairy tale, but 2023!! During our 7 weeks there, we collected a lot of heavy books and we left them with friends in Texas who said they were coming to Soroti a few months later.  Well, mistakenly, that bag was forgotten when they made their trip to Uganda. 

My parents were serving at a disaster relief site in Texas last year, and helped to get that suitcase of books and bring it home to Ontario. We knew it would be easier to get our stuff from there.

A few months ago, one of my aunts reached out and asked if I would help answer questions for someone coming from Redeemer University in Ontario, to visit Uganda Christian University in Mukono (Moses' alma mater). After chatting a few times, she was willing to bring the suitcase to Uganda.  Aunt MaryAnn got the suitcase from Mom and Dad and delivered it to Kim.

Kim brought it to Uganda.

The suitcase was then handed from Kim to a lady named Lydia who put it on a bus to Soroti and our friend Tom picked it up from the bus.

Our friend Beckie got the back from Tom and loaded into a car when she came to visit us in Gulu and...

Tada.. after three year!! We finally have a bag loaded full of beautiful resources, some fun clothes, and I found a comfy night dress too.  We love how God works things out and our thankful for God's people in every step of the process!! 

April's Showers of Blessings

I thought that April was a slow month until I looked back at my pocket calendar. Wowzer, God has done it again! So many wonderful things happened.

Good Friday night was spent at church for a Candlelight service.

Neighourhood kids are coming every other Saturday for a Bible club.

We had a blast on Easter Saturday, watching video clips of the crucifixion, making cross necklaces, gluing a glittery craft, singing, Bible story telling, and sharing birthday cake.

Benitah came to visit us at home!! She's a dear soul.

Seven new members were welcomed at University Community Church.

Church is packed beyond capacity now days. Hallelujah!

We were able to spend some time visiting our girls on their visitation days at school.

Moses and I joined a DRS - Disaster Relief Service team in Venice, FL for 5 days. Mom and Dad were team leaders and it was a joy to serve their team.

I was able to attend the MissionGO Global conference. Over 90 missionaries gathered together for fellowship, prayer, teaching, worship, rest, fun, and more.

It was such a blessing to gather from around the world, together, worshipping our one true King.

Four people were baptized!! Hallelujah!

Sunday portraits.

I love this man!

Our dear Tabitha came with for visitation day.

Back to the pool...

Raised up to new life in Christ!

Moses co-trained at a Helping Without Hurting in Africa workshop, here in Gulu.

Moses and I were able to share God's Work with a church family in Venice, FL!

Oh, how I love the family of God.

Spending time with Mama Cathy and Papa G!

Helping out at the DRS site.

Repairing homes hit from the hurricanes.

Moses with some wonderful, godly men in Venice.

Wait, I thought he was supposed to be a fisher of men?!