To God, a day is no different from a thousand years because He exists in eternity, not bound by time. For us, this past week has flown by! As we gathered for church yesterday underneath a tree on a family homestead, a twinge of ache came over me as I realized it was our last day serving the churches in Eswatini. I have fallen in love with the people, my brothers and sisters in Christ.
A couple of months ago, Pastor Wayne sent the mission team a schedule of who would teach and when. At the top of that schedule was the theme for our mission trip:
“A Thriving Church”
“And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
Matthew 16:18
This past week in Eswatini, my understanding of a “Thriving Church” has been reshaped. It’s seen in the bare feet that walk miles to worship, the roofless church that gathers under the African sun inside walls with windowless openings, the songs of worship without instruments, the mothers caring for all children as if they were their own, and the radiant smiles that testify to the joy of the Lord within them. My friends back home in the US were correct; I am forever changed. Thank you, Abba Father, for this glorious gift!
Pastor Mike spoke again from Mark 10, reminding us that our education, wealth, and efforts cannot grant us access to heaven. Only Jesus Christ holds the keys. God’s wisdom is found in His Word and starts with teaching the little children. We must do nothing to hinder them from the kingdom of God. As parents, it’s easy to get caught up in providing, working too much, neglecting Sunday School or worship. But we are called to return to the God we love, to gather with His people, and to be the church. Heaven will hold no foolishness, only righteousness. So we must guard our minds, eyes, and ears, filling them with what is holy and true.
As I reflect on this past week, I realize that a thriving church is not measured by buildings, budgets, or programs but by the faithfulness of each church member.
Fun Fact: Earlier in the week, as we drove through the hoof and mouth checkpoint, one of the government officials ran up to Elinor asking for a Bible. With joy, a Bible was given to her the very next day. The next day, two more ladies who sell goods at the stop ran up to our van calling, “Pastor, Pastor—we want a Bible too!” So many of God’s people are hungry for His Word. If you would like to partner with us in putting Bibles into their hands, you may give here: www.swazipartnership.com
Yesterday, we check out Phumula (which means rest), visited the Pasture Valley Orphanage, and the Havana Baptist Church before we moved on to Mananga Country Club for dinner and a good nights rest.
Thank you for your continued prayers!❤️
