Wayne, Mike, Elinor, Lydia, Terrie, and I met at the Atlanta airport, ready for the journey God had set before us. Taking the red-eye, we traveled 8,695 miles—about 14 hours in the air—before finally reaching the vast continent of Africa. Somewhere over the Namib Desert, I glanced at the screen in front of me: outside, the temperature was a staggering –76 degrees. Most passengers were wrapped tightly in Delta’s complimentary blankets, but I felt a different kind of warmth—one born from the shared stories of how God had worked in each of our lives to bring us together on this mission to Eswatini.
Time blurred in the air. We boarded in darkness, soared into daylight, and landed once more beneath a night sky. At last, the wheels touched the tarmac. It was 2:00 p.m. back in the U.S., but 8:00 p.m. here. Tonight, we’ll rest at BIMS (Baptist International Mission Station)—a place supported by Lottie Moon offering, where missionaries find both a warm welcome and, for us tonight, pizza and cold sodas after a long journey.
In the land that has more than 1000 languages, Sawubona!! In Eswatini, the main language is SiSwati, and the common greeting is “Sawubona” (which means “I see you” and carries a sense of deep recognition).
– HML
Is this Heather writing? If so, thank you! (and if not, thank you to whoever is). This is Judy Kibler from First Baptist Washington, NC. Excited to hear any news from y’all … loving the photos and the report. AND PRAYING every day, usually several times throughout the day, for each of you specifically, including the Swazi pastors and interpreters that I know. Sometimes, because I’m a night owl, I can pray for each of you and the Swazi friends and church members at a time when it coordinates with when you may be teaching, traveling, visiting homesteads, getting up in the morning, getting ready for bed, etc. My heart is with you! Hello to Wayne, Elinor, Lydia, Terrie, Mike, Chris, Mpumelelo, Nora, Thule (if she’s there), and everyone I know! Is that Jabu interpreting for Elinor? (one of the photos on Frenchburg Baptist’s Facebook page – I’m scouring wherever I think I can find photos and updates. hahaha)
Good morning, Judy. Thank you for the prayers and for saying hello to all you know in Eswatini. I will pass it along today at breakfast. I am glad you are enjoying the post and pictures! To God be the glory! God bless you. Love, Heather