What is the first thing that you think of when you think of heat and warmth and everything hot. Some might think Mexico or warm tropical beaches. I however think fire, as one of my friends here James Tata says "I am hot like fire". Speaking of fire for a reason, the other day I got to take part in a fire fighting escapade of sorts. A common occurrence during the dry season in Mundri is the widespread burning of dry grass and fields for the purpose of clearing. I really do not think thought is always put into this burning, as I have heard of many stories of lost crops and trees as a result of someones fire being picked up by the wind and taken the wrong direction. Most recently, I was working up at the ECS Diocese Building checking emails when out I come to see a massive cloud of smoke. I head over closer to see the entire bush that was there the hour before I tucked into the office reduced to burnt ash. Pretty mind blowing, especially since I was not far away and didn't notice it. As I continued to explore, I discovered the fire was heading towards the Bishop's goat's Tukuls and to prevent this the World Harvest team spread the fire the other direction. Apparently missing out on most of the fun, I jumped right in trying to break up one big pile of burning that was still close and potentially threatening to spread the fire further. Man it was hot. I have even more respect now for firefighters, especially those who fight forest fires which as far as I can tell after this experience are super unpredictable and crazy. Mad respect to all of those who put their life at risk to protect others from fire! Although I didn't do much I think I might throw part time firefighter on my resume now.
Continuing the theme of heat, I have now come to Juba for a short period of time: to do some work and whatnot. It is even hotter here than in Mundri I think. I am super glad the power in the house I am staying has held out and provided me with a fan every night. My journey here this time, was on my own with the director of SEM and most of the time here I have been wandering the streets a lone wolf. Pretty fun actually, and I feel somewhat productive, at least adventurous. Once again though I am blown away by the hospitality of people here. The first day I was heading into Juba town I took a long walk to find a bus (I walked the same route as the buses they were just all full). When I finally got on one, a super nice gentlemen struck up conversation with me. His name was Simon, and before the end of the ride he paid for my bus trip, in his words to welcome me to South Sudan. Ok, it was only 1 SSP, but I was really moved by this gesture. I mean, when has it ever crossed my mind to pay for the ride of a stranger on the bus that I just met (I could blame it on the fact we pay before we sit down, but you get my point).
I hope I was able to slightly return the favour today as when I was out and about I sat down with three young brothers (Monday 10, Sebit 8, and Wahid 6) and drank sodas with them. Not much again, but maybe through that little act of love to them God can do something cool. It apparently made an impact on someone else as I think I caught one man taking a picture of us with his phone.
Finally, here is an update on the work. We are slowly moving towards raising the office. We now have our red stone and sand. We also have our engineer/contractor, also good news. In no time we will have one beautiful office to call home. Also, for those who have supported the football league in prayer and financially. I have purchase 10 footballs, which will help push things forward. The next step is uniforms, which might be a bit trickier with price, but I think we can make do. There is a package that for some reason has still not come through that will help with this project. Please pray that it would come through!!
I always say finally, then add one more thing... this time 2. First off, chocolate is a great idea for a gift and I definitely wish I could receive some. But do you remember how I said it is hot here. The chocolate I most recently received was a pool. Still loved trying to lap it up though. Now finally, I am off to Yei tomorrow to visit Victoria Kaethler who is here with YWAM (I know who knew they had a base here). I look forward to seeing a familiar face. Please pray for safe travels.
Love you all, and I will be seeing most of you sooner rather than later.
Ps. Happy Birthday tomorrow sister of mine!
Continuing the theme of heat, I have now come to Juba for a short period of time: to do some work and whatnot. It is even hotter here than in Mundri I think. I am super glad the power in the house I am staying has held out and provided me with a fan every night. My journey here this time, was on my own with the director of SEM and most of the time here I have been wandering the streets a lone wolf. Pretty fun actually, and I feel somewhat productive, at least adventurous. Once again though I am blown away by the hospitality of people here. The first day I was heading into Juba town I took a long walk to find a bus (I walked the same route as the buses they were just all full). When I finally got on one, a super nice gentlemen struck up conversation with me. His name was Simon, and before the end of the ride he paid for my bus trip, in his words to welcome me to South Sudan. Ok, it was only 1 SSP, but I was really moved by this gesture. I mean, when has it ever crossed my mind to pay for the ride of a stranger on the bus that I just met (I could blame it on the fact we pay before we sit down, but you get my point).
I hope I was able to slightly return the favour today as when I was out and about I sat down with three young brothers (Monday 10, Sebit 8, and Wahid 6) and drank sodas with them. Not much again, but maybe through that little act of love to them God can do something cool. It apparently made an impact on someone else as I think I caught one man taking a picture of us with his phone.
Finally, here is an update on the work. We are slowly moving towards raising the office. We now have our red stone and sand. We also have our engineer/contractor, also good news. In no time we will have one beautiful office to call home. Also, for those who have supported the football league in prayer and financially. I have purchase 10 footballs, which will help push things forward. The next step is uniforms, which might be a bit trickier with price, but I think we can make do. There is a package that for some reason has still not come through that will help with this project. Please pray that it would come through!!
I always say finally, then add one more thing... this time 2. First off, chocolate is a great idea for a gift and I definitely wish I could receive some. But do you remember how I said it is hot here. The chocolate I most recently received was a pool. Still loved trying to lap it up though. Now finally, I am off to Yei tomorrow to visit Victoria Kaethler who is here with YWAM (I know who knew they had a base here). I look forward to seeing a familiar face. Please pray for safe travels.
Love you all, and I will be seeing most of you sooner rather than later.
Ps. Happy Birthday tomorrow sister of mine!
Still Hasn't come yet??? Dang man i'm sorry.
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