Well it's June 12 and this Sunday, June 14, I leave for Kampala, Uganda on my first mission trip. My friend John is also journeying with me. The preparation so far has been smooth but it is still a very abstract concept that in a few days we will both be in a far-off continent with very little familiarity except eachother.
When I got a minute of time alone yesterday, I got to thinking about the lives mine is about to intersect with: Young children living on the opposite side of the world, scraping by on their daily lives - and here am I, a young adult living with all the resources in the world, constantly surrounded by love and fellowship. In a few weeks I am going to be a part of their lives, and they a part of mine. How thankful I am that I have been blessed with this honor and responsibility. I struggle to understand why I was considered worthy of this task but it is my prayer that I will live up to the challenge and love these kids as the image of God they were created in.
I aim to update this blog at least bi-weekly with stories, thoughts, monologues, or anything else that comes to mind of value. I hope that if you continue to read over the weeks that you can gain some encouragement or humility from the work being done in Africa. I welcome any thoughts or comments you have in return. Speak soon,
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that sounds really cool! my friend from high school is actually in kampala right now. i'm sure you'll live up to the challenge. have a good trip! =)
ReplyDeleteGood for you Tom! Best of luck in Africa! Safe travels! -Austin
ReplyDeleteChallenges are something you enjoying seizing. This is one of them along your jouney in life. Enjoy.
ReplyDeleteI will look forward to your updates during your travels. Safe travels and be safe.
ReplyDeleteYeah Tommy! I hope you watched Blood Diamond and Hotel Rwanda a bunch of times to get in the right mind set... :) Okay, I know it's nothing like that (we hope) and I pray God's blessing upon your travels and ministry. Looking forward to reading your updates!
ReplyDeleteTommy -
ReplyDeleteWhat a remarkable young man you have become. We are truly touched with your committment to serve the Lord. Travel safely - we will look forward to your updates and to how God is using you to help His children..... Much love and continued prayers. We are fortunate to have you as a role model of how to serve God when he calls you. Love, The Cole Family
Hi Tommy
ReplyDeleteJackie and I wish you all the best. You'll be in Uganda now. I missed your email. We were away on a break. I know you'll have a great time - a powerful and meaningful experience. Remember - always shake out your shoes before you put them on and use your mozzie net!!
Rod and Jackie
Don't know when you'll see this, but I hope you're having an awesome adventure. I'm sure those youngins are going to have/already have had a mighty good time with you. Byah!
ReplyDelete-Tommy
Been away for long weekend. Just picked up your email with URL for this blog. Will be following along. As somebody once said: "Expect great things from God. Attempt great things for God."
ReplyDeleteDear Tommy, you are in my daily prayers and thoughts and I can't wait to see what God will do in your life and in lives of the fortunate people that you touch. This is an awesome task and opportunity and I am so blessed to be able to get these glimpses of your trip through this blog.
ReplyDeleteI wanted to get together with you before you left and ask you to be my prayer partner in my mission trip to Belize on June 27.I will be
teaching about 100 children Bible lessons,crafts and watercolor classes.We will only be gone 1 week,but I am really excited about serving the Lord. John 3:16
God Bless you!!! Dee