Sunday Blessing

Sunday morning saw us not dressing in our normal "Sunday best", but rather taking a more casual approach with shorts, t-shirts and flip-flops (if you really felt the need for some shoes). Together with our Bibles went fully stocked picnic baskets, blankets, umbrellas and everything short of the kitchen sink - any outing with a little one involves lots more than what we were used to. About 45min out of town, we met up with the rest of the congregation out on one of the farms. It was a truly stunning summers day and there under the trees, we had our morning service and fellowship.

As our Jnr Pastor was turning 50 on Monday, our Snr Pastor (just over 50) based his sermon on the saying "how time flies". He spoke about how in the past this was a saying often used by more mature people, but that of late it has become almost an excuse for the young. Due to our very busy lives, important things are left on the sideline whilst "we do life". He reminded us of the importance of recognising and acting on opportunities that is from God; taking time in spending time to listen for His voice; making sure that we are examples to our children in using our time wisely; and lastly to enjoy the time that you are in at the moment. Our lives change daily, God is timeless and our time on earth is but a breath of what is to come.

There under the trees, we got to know most of our "new family in Christ". Some of them had been forcefully removed from their family homes by the war veterans - leaving all worldly possesions behind. They know when there is no fresh milk or cream on the shelves, its not because of logistical problems, but rather dairy farmers not being able to milk due to intimidation by outside forces. The "loss" of children and family members as they move to other countries is heartbreaking, many have not been able to visit at all due to financial constraints.


These people have been through so much, yet they remain steadfast in the Lord. They carry each other in prayer through heartache and disappointments. They accept the wordly challenges (wrongful imprisonment) and see it as an opportunity to spread the Word. Last week one of the ladies spent some time in a police cell and was able to lead 2 other female inmates to the Lord! God is using every one of them and they are willing to be obedient in their calling "Zimbabwe for Jesus". As their voices raised in songs of worship, some with tears streaming down their faces, I realised what a honour and privilege it is to be out in the open, in God's presence, in His time!


The farming community is close to our heart as many of our church members were once farmers and some have been able to get some of their land back. We continue to pray for God's Spirit to move through Zimbabwe and change hearts. We pray for protection over all the families that are seperated due to circumstances beyond their control. Lastly we pray that we will hear God's voice when He calls us to do our part in His plan for this beautiful country.

Where were you 25 July?

I know exactly where I was!
Today 2 months ago Samuel and I started our journey home. We left Ghana at about 11:30pm on Saturday night the 25th and arrived in Johannesburg on Sunday morning at about 7am. Samuel was still very sleepy when he greeted his Daddy and sisters after an absence of almost 5 months - lots of hugs and tears brought out a shy smile from him though.

We were very aware of God's hand over our adoption journey and for our trip home, God provided one of His helpers by the name of Chris. Whilst getting ready to pack Samuel's things, Corrie and I realised that our weight allocation of 40kg would never do - Samuel was blessed with so many things from his foster family and then there was the other gifts from Ghana for future birthdays as well! With the walking ring, definitely way over 40kgs!!
As packing started a day early, we declared that God knew of our need and trusted that He would send an answer. On Friday afternoon Rene, another "Ghana family sister" phoned to say that a a good friend of theirs were booked on my flight and offered to help with luggage, etc as he had very little luggage. Chris was truly sent by God - he got a proper weight workout with helping with wrapping; booking us in with him (joint luggage 70.4kg; allocation 70kg!!!); then the whole immigration and boarding process followed. At Johannesburg airport, Chris made sure I had all the luggage and walked with me all the way to the arrival lounge - all this prior to his flight to Cape Town.

I would definitely have to rate my "coming home" flight with Samuel as one of the most emotional homecomings ever. Looking at him asleep on the seats next to me, I thought of how blessed we were to be chosen to raise this special boy. Yes, the responsibility of it all as older parents are overwhelming at times, but I also know that God is right there with us, giving us all we need to help Samuel be who God wants him to be.

Its hard to think that the little man has only been home for 2 months, he has been in our hearts since day 1 (11 January) and it feels as if he has been part of our family forever.

"Thank you Lord for bringing home all those precious new children into forever families. Thank you for the love You pour into each forever family in order to overflow into new lives. Thank you for being a loving, protecting, awesome Father to each of our children. Thank you for the plans You have for them in Your Kingdom."

At last!

WOW, I never thought it would take me this long to get settled!
Here we are, almost 6 months into our stay in Zimbabwe and what an awesome ride it has been!
During our 5 years in Ghana, God had blessed us with many friends and especially with "a family in Christ". Some very precious children crossed our path and through them our "family" grew even bigger. We still have "Ghana days" - no, not the type of no water or electricity and backed up traffic - rather days when we look back in love, affection and missing those whom we've grown to love so much.
Coming to Zimbabwe in a time like this, was a crazy move in the eyes of the world, but God knew and He has taken us on a journey we never even thought possible! Settling into a proper school and a work environment so different from Ghana, has been challenging, and we still have borderline days.
However God has blessed us with an absolutely precious son and like Marina loves to say: "Samuel's smile and laughter just makes my day!". As a 19-month old, he keeps us on our toes - or should I say knees (prayer and play wise). More later on this little man and his journey home.
Zimbabwe itself is a beautiful country and the weather ideal for George and the girls who love golf, cycling and of course late afternoon walks with Samuel. We visited Victoria Falls with my parents during the August holidays - will definitely post some photos.
Well, Mommy's alone time is up as he is awake.