Friday – Glorious!

Friday – Glorious!

Last day at Homecare.  Hard to believe that it’s already time to return, but we are thankful that we have this morning to see the graduates and staff once more before we leave.  The graduates had already gathered at the center and they could not wait to sing praises!   

It is so humbling, and still hard to take in, that just the presence of those who come to support them is a supreme gift to them.  Repeatedly we hear that having caring people come reaffirms God’s love for them, tangible evidence of His grace and compassion. What an honor to be used in this way!

Several shared that this day, the day they receive their sewing machines and supplies, is in some ways more exciting than graduation day.  They will be officially “launched,” and they are eager to begin the journey.  After many offerings of thanksgiving and praise, it was time to present their machines.   

Several of the graduates have already formed co-ops of three, and they will be reporting back to Peace every month about their progress.  Some of them will return to village areas or work further away, but we are anxious to hear reports about their progress.  One of the older ladies in the group shared that she knew a man who already had a small sewing business but was having a hard time getting many customers.  He offered for her to come and sew with his machine until she could get hers (this has only been one week).  She immediately had a client and did such exceptional work that she returned with others who also wanted some of her creations.  She has already made a good return in just one week – with a borrowed machine!

We say our last good-byes, more hugs, more prayers, and then we have to leave to pack up and head to the airport.  We are flooded with emotion; our hearts are full; our emotions are both buoyed and drained.  It has been an intense week, but we have seen the Lord in indescribable ways!  We’ve experienced and seen His hand in every detail, and His promise to do “exceedingly above and beyond” has truly exceeded even the highest expectation and prayers.

We always challenge team members to think of three descriptive words to describe their mission experience, ones that will hopefully vividly capture the time in ways that will invite others to want to know more.  Right now, we are so full to overflowing that it may take a while to begin to pinpoint those words.  For each of us, it has been one of the most impactful experiences we’ve ever experienced, a depth of heart connection not often felt in a lifetime.  We are humbled, grateful, more healed, encouraged, and more intensely committed to seeing heart restoration in ourselves and others.

For now, I’ll say that it was glorious…….life-giving……..and intensely profound!  I think this time will take a while to “unpack.”  We absolutely felt the prayers lifted up for us and everyone we encountered; know that they were abundantly answered!  Please continue to pray for these women as they begin their new ventures, that they can maintain a sense of community, and for the staff and all the incoming new group who will begin very soon. Enormous thanks to Robyn, Jo Lynn and Micki.  How beautifully you ministered to every person you encountered in Burundi; to everyone at Homecare, one another….and to me.  THANK YOU.

Gratitude that the Lord prompted Elise Romain to want to intern for a month at Burundi Homecare.  What a JOY to have you with us!  Thank you for all you contributed to the CA/FL team, and ours.  You are an incredible young woman!  We continue to pray for you and your final days in Burundi.  We know that you will leave a very special mark on their hearts!

Most of all, all praise and thanksgiving to God!  He fulfilled every hope, prayer and dream for this special time, and then a whole lot more!  To God be the Glory!  Amen and amen.