It’s a cool and misty Friday morning in Uganda. It’s been a week of sweatshirts and sweaters for the women. I am comfortable, if not a bit warm. But it is all about what you are used to, and they are used warmer.
We have been in a never-ending series of meetings which have proved encouraging and profitable. They definitely want to see the annual medical mission relaunch in 2023. And they are definitely willing to enlarge their leadership footprint. The medical services we provide are a vital piece in the medical care system in Uganda. The local health authorities are asking for it to return.
It’s all about what you are used to, and to be honest, most health care in the Bombo community is a luxury only those with some money can access. They are not used to affordable health care.
Our final meeting will be with the pastors of the Bombo church and its church plants. There will be 40 for lunch at 2 pm today. Forty. Wow. It might be the highlight of the week. Saturday is Ojera Family Day, according to Pastor Alex. For whatever reason it is very important to him that he gather all who live here in House Ojera to spend as much of the day together as possible. Most have been scattered as the guests have overtaken the bedrooms. Our care has been the top priority.
It’s all about what you are used to, and they find beds elsewhere when a guest needs a place to sleep.
Though we are outsiders in this environment, there is an overflowing sense of love and joy and appreciation for how God has used Peninsula. It is unmistakable. The Elders told of a Finnish group that visited as the church was first planted back in 1998. They were excited about the ministry, and they promised many things, but they were never seen or heard from again. They are used to that sort of reaction.
But of Peninsula they are overwhelmed that we have not abandoned them. We have returned year after year, we have prayed together, done ministry together, sought the Lord together. You see, it is all about what you are used to. And they are used to warmer weather. We are used to greater individualism. They are used to being forgotten. But we have not forgotten them.
To end the medical mission now would make life more comfortable for us. And it might not surprise them. They are used to being forgotten. But I assured them that we would not forget. Why? Because we know a God who has not abandoned or forgotten us. Even when it was difficult and uncomfortable for Him, He still loved us. And we follow Jesus. Right?