Last weekend I was able to go speak to a group of women at a church in a remote area–up a large hill with no road, to be precise. We drove two hours–one and a half hours on what I would describe as a cross between a rough dirt walking path and a road? Then we hiked UP for an hour. It would have been a shorter amount of time if I’d been in shape (*shameful blush*).
Once arriving at the top, red faced and exhausted, we were met with many singing and dancing a welcome! They were thrilled that I had foraged up the “mountain” to be with them. What a gift to me, to have been met so kindly.
We rested and they fed us a hearty breakfast before the women’s seminar began, as well the youth seminar the men who came with me were putting on (youth seminar pic below).
I was able to share Phil. 1:27-30, and intersperse my testimony into it, showing the pieces of armor that I was strengthened in as I grew in my faith. I spoke for two 45 minute sessions, with a break in between.
It was a privilege to speak on my stronghold of rejection with this group of women, many of whom belong to a tribe in Burundi that is often rejected. I pray God used my words and freedom walk to encourage them. I know in truth many could have taught me!! And to share with them in the unity of the Spirit that I am like them in many ways, and not just to be seen as WHITE and “above” them (as many feel, often averting their eyes when we meet). I pray I will always look IN their eyes with love and let them know they are not LESS. When we finished with prayer, they broke into song with a giant drum that they REALLY know how to use. What a joyous time, just laughing, singing and even dancing together!
We then waited for the youth seminar to end (it went WAY long), and were served sugar cane, which we shared with the children, and my friend Achim taught them to sing a song in English (God is so Good), as they were asking to learn one. Jesus loves these dear children, so precious in His sight.
We were again fed a large delicious meal, and had some thanksgiving speeches and prayer before the (dreaded) hike down the mountain. I will admit, I was exhausted. I was in a DRESS, and it was dry season so everything is dusty and slippery, especially when travelling so steeply DOWN. I was hoping one of the men would volunteer to carry me, and even suggested it, but no one took me up on the offer, haha!
With wobbly legs, and the help of those around me guiding and even offering for me to lean on them to steady myself as I went down, we made it. Even over a rickety bridge that they thought would be a great photo with everyone’s weight on it at the same time!
I am still in awe over all that took place. My heart is thrilled to be able to share my story, bond women together in Christ, and even break down the racial barriers that separate us here in this country. God truly gives us the desires of our heart…He is so good. So GOOD. All for His great Name and Glory. What a privilege. Whew. That’s all!
Burundi Joy 