A few weeks ago we went to visit Kawanga (a community just beyond the Acholi Quarters). There were a couple of women breaking rocks near where we parked the van and Anita knew them from the community group so we went over to greet them. We shook hands, greeted them and Anita asked if we could sit and talk to them. One woman in particular (call her Barbara) was overjoyed and so effusive in her welcome that one would think she was receiving a visit from royalty. We sat with them and she began to talk about how she has been so blessed by the way we have valued her and the other women who break rocks for a living. Barbara said they have never been shown love like this before. Most people just walk past without acknowledging them or even shout abuse at them. But not only have our team repeatedly given them our time, we have shaken their hands even though they are covered in the dirt from their job and we have chosen to sit in the rocks and the dust with them. She still couldn’t believe that after sitting on the ground with them we didn’t even wipe our hands off afterwards!

Barbara was also amazed that in addition to giving them our time, we were actually interested in them and what they had to say. She spoke up for the group, explaining to us that they are not looking for free money, they just appreciate being cared about. They have seen many NGOs come and go in that area and people have worked with them but no-one has given them the time that our team have or shown them such respect. Barbara explained that if her children were sick, it would mean more to her that we come and sit with her, listen and pray for her than to just pay for the treatment – it is our love for them that gives them hope for their community.

What an encouragement, God is so good.

1 Corinthinans 16:14 “Do everything in love.”