2%

We were asked to put our own words into a “Final Blog” as we’ve now safely returned home. I can’t possibly get everything into mine, as I’d want to include most of the 46 pages from my personal journal I wrote for my own family. I don’t want everyone’s eyes to gloss over from that.

I thought Pastor John’s last blog from August 2^nd (“Still Work to Do”) simply put, probably captured the feelings of most of us on the team. If now meeting another team member and asking “How’s it going?” I seem to feel their answers from the look in their eyes before they speak. I get it…

I think we all FEEL somewhat the same from our experience, and it’s really hard to just put into words. We’re back 98% into our everyday lives, but that last 2% still hasn’t yet processed. That 2% is the love and hospitality of Reverend Copeland and his family, the other Methodist families, Lester and the progress at the Farm, Robert’s hospitality at his Lodge, the wonderful people of Malawi, the countryside beauty, the markets, the poverty everywhere, borehole dedications, chickens, goats, oxen, and baboons. That 2% is the daily devotions, team laughter, “Malawi time”, “Sure” (from Dennis) and the music. My gosh, the music. Whether a spontaneous duet on the bus from Melody mixing with our brothers from Malawi, song in the Churches, Kayesa Lodge, or wherever. I already miss someone asking me every day “Where did you see God today?” The looks from children, whether they’re making bracelets in Bible School, lined up to see these strange looking folks visiting their orphanages, or seeing their face on a picture for the first time. These are just a tiny bit of the 2% we’ve brought back with us to Iowa and our families.

I love these memories God has created for me, and letting me spend two weeks mixed with an incredible group of like-minded Christians. Thanks again to the 15 new friends I've made from the team, and for allowing me to spend two weeks with you in mission.

I hope our team is able to share many, many of their own memories with everyone back here at home. Hopefully, some of their stories may inspire the next group of folks from our church to make a trip this coming year. Seriously, God’s work IS being done in Malawi because of your donations, prayers, and time. This work is best viewed with your own eyes. If you can’t make it for one reason or another, please consider sending your prayers or support to someone that can. 

 

Peace,

Bob DeMay