Sometimes God makes it very clear to me that we are all wired with different gifts. Today was no exception.
We arrived at the local university early this morning to begin receiving patients with a disease commonly known as Elephantiasis or Lymphedema. I don’t think any of us were truly prepared for what we faced. What was initially going to be a medical mission for 16 identified patients very quickly became a safe haven for 35 of the region’s most obvious outcasts...with more expected over the next few days. It's called the African grapevine.
Today I witnessed two therapists wash the feet of people that I, in all honesty, initially had difficulty approaching. That’s when I realized, once again, that God has equipped all of us with gifts. I was honored to be working alongside such a knowledgeable team of specialists and was amazed at their willingness to do what I could not.
From people with lost hope, smiles quickly emerged. Just the fact that someone was taking some individual time with them was so encouraging. It was challenging for everyone - but we made it through and the team worked together like clockwork. The patients will start returning tomorrow for intensive training on how to reduce the symptoms of this incurable but treatable disease. Please continue praying for continued courage for the patients and team.
Blessings,
Diana
P.S. I hesitated to post a picture but I don’t think anyone could imagine this unless they saw it for themselves. The photos are not meant to exploit anyone but for those in the western world to realize how much we need prayer here and how blessed they truly are.
We arrived at the local university early this morning to begin receiving patients with a disease commonly known as Elephantiasis or Lymphedema. I don’t think any of us were truly prepared for what we faced. What was initially going to be a medical mission for 16 identified patients very quickly became a safe haven for 35 of the region’s most obvious outcasts...with more expected over the next few days. It's called the African grapevine.
Today I witnessed two therapists wash the feet of people that I, in all honesty, initially had difficulty approaching. That’s when I realized, once again, that God has equipped all of us with gifts. I was honored to be working alongside such a knowledgeable team of specialists and was amazed at their willingness to do what I could not.
From people with lost hope, smiles quickly emerged. Just the fact that someone was taking some individual time with them was so encouraging. It was challenging for everyone - but we made it through and the team worked together like clockwork. The patients will start returning tomorrow for intensive training on how to reduce the symptoms of this incurable but treatable disease. Please continue praying for continued courage for the patients and team.
Blessings,
Diana
P.S. I hesitated to post a picture but I don’t think anyone could imagine this unless they saw it for themselves. The photos are not meant to exploit anyone but for those in the western world to realize how much we need prayer here and how blessed they truly are.
1 comment:
Diana,
I have prayed for you a great deal this week. I am thankful for how God uses your heart of compassion to meet the needs of people in Rwanda.
The prayer of my heart for you, the team, and the people you minister to can be found in Jude 1:2, "May peace, mercy and love be multiplied unto you." I am earnestly grateful for you.
In remembering the Sunday services in Rwanda, I hope today is full of God's richest blessings for you. Enjoy the sabbath, the Savior and the saints.
Love to you,
Sherry
PS - Please extend my warmest regards to Thomas and Mambo.
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