The Greatest Author of All
At the beginning of our second week here in Uganda, a group of us had started talking about past interns and the stories they left behind. As we talked about the crazy, odd and intimidating stories, some of us started joking and wondering what our intern story would be... What would future interns be hearing about us? Little did I know that the next day I would become "that intern" that cut off part of her nail, reshaped her thumb and that's why interns probably can't use the paper cutter anymore. We all have stories. Stories of scars, stories of heartbreak, stories of triumph... We have funny stories, sad stories and scary stories. And we love sharing and hearing these stories. Even Jesus used stories (parables) in His teachings. And all of this made me start to wonder, what is the story I will leave behind when I go to be with the Father in heaven? Am I writing a story that will glorify Him? I figured that my life has been kind of boring so far and not one that would constitute legendary stories. I began to think of how I could start to rewrite my story... What could I do that would make this more interesting and maybe more fun for people to hear. That's when I realized, I'm not writing this story, God is. We know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them. Romans 8:28 (NLT) God has plans far bigger than we could ever imagine. He is conducting a great symphony to make a beautiful song that will glorify Him. He is writing us each our own story. Even if we don't always notice it, and we think that we have made our own choices, God has directed us down the path He wants us to go on. He leads us to our purpose, and causes all things to work together for us. The places we go, people we meet, the struggles and triumphs we face, these are all things that God has pieced together so that He may write a grander story. Being here in Uganda, meeting so many different people, cutting my thumb, experiencing a Ugandan clinic, helping with homework, doing dishes while jamming to TSwift, rolling chapat, riding bodas, sleeping in until 8:30am, picking peas with a family who speaks little English, being covered in mud, dirt, whatever else I've wiped on my pants that day and even pee... All of these things are part of a bigger story. They happen for a reason. A small conversation that may seem insignificant could be a turning point for someone. Helping with a chore can show someone God's love. Sharing a meal can change someone's perspective. Each and everyday we are being called, without even realizing it. We are all called to different things. Some may be called to mothers to 8 children who will grow up in a house dedicated to Christ. Some are called to spend their lives traveling and being servants to those who may not know God's love. Some may work in a corporate job, where they may end up influencing others when they share their beliefs. Other will be pastors, counselors, or even photographers who capture Gods beautiful creations. Each of us with different stories that God continues to write for us. One day, we will look back and see the impact of our stories. We will see how, even if we didn't notice it in the moment, we glorified God. We will see how He worked in our lives and the stories we have and shared that have brought others peace, love and understanding. We will see our story connect to others and become part of a greater more amazing story than ever imaginable. I may not be the next Harry Potter, Katniss Everdeen or Hazel Grace, but a great story is being written for me and I will embrace every chapter. ____________________________________ So far Uganda has been so amazing. Each and everyday I am blown away by my team, our leaders, and our aunties and uncles who so gracefully and humbly serve the Lord. I see God each and everyday through those I'm surrounded by and their actions. Even our kids have such big hearts and to see them each night singing, dancing, drumming and praising the Lord fills my heart with such joy. Though it hasn't been a smooth ride, I am so excited and blessed to be right where I am. Each day may have a new struggle (big or small), but God continues to surprise me with how He is changing my heart. It's hard to believe that 2 weeks have already come and gone. I'm still trying process everything and learn all the kids names and personalities and even learn how to do some chores the right way. I love going into the village and praising God with kids at Kids Club. Love knows no borders, even language, and though the kids may not always understand us, we still have the chance to love on them and let them show us Christ through their ever smiling faces. Even having a chance each week to go to the new Sozo land is a blessing. We are helping to get the land ready and plant crops. It's so exciting to be apart of something so much bigger and to be on the ground floor of a project that will bring so much glory to God. We also have the chance to help build a home for a jaajaa(grandmother) who does not have a home of her own. The days are long, and most are exhausting. But God is working here and it's something incredible to see. I'm so excited to see what the rest of the summer holds. Faithfully His, Alex
