The One We Need

Here we are. In the middle of Africa. During rainy season. I think of so many things that make life different for us today. From figuring out how to get our clothes dry during weeks where it rains constantly (we actually just found a dryer-so one problem solved) to going into a small shop and getting a loaf of bread and eggs. I still don’t know how I’m saying les oeufs wrong, but no one seems to understand me. Even when they correct me, I think, “That’s exactly what I said.” And, don’t get me started on the number deux. 

Most comforts we once knew are no longer here. The language is different, the concept of time is different and even views of roles within the family are different. But, I can say that through these differences, I’ve come to appreciate what I have even more. Every time we have a hot shower, every time the electricity comes on and every time we drive through town without being stopped by the police I thank the Lord for these blessings. It is a daily reminder that we need the Lord. 

One of my (Jill) favorite musical groups is Shane and Shane. So many of their songs seem to speak to me on a personal level. Their CD "The One You Need" has a song called Without You. The song talks about wanting to be where the Holy Spirit is. This song really caught my attention when we knew the Lord was releasing us from our assignment with the Nazarene Border Initiative over a year ago. We didn’t know where He was leading us next, but we just wanted to do what God was calling us to. If the Spirit was staying, we wanted to be there. But, if the Spirit was leading somewhere else we wanted to go. So, here we are. In the middle of Africa. During rainy season. With the Spirit of God leading us. We couldn’t be here without Him and we give Him all the praise...even on the hard days.

“I will extol the Lord at all times; his praise will always be on my lips. My soul will boast in the Lord; let the afflicted hear and rejoice. Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt his name together.” Psalm 34:1-3