Victory!!

Two years ago Baby Safe was founded to address the issue of baby dumping in South Africa, and a safe was installed to allow desperate women a legal and anonymous alternative to this. For two years that safe sat empty. The LORD continued to expand the territories of our ministry, connecting us with hopeless women in all circumstances, and allowing us to intervene in the lives of countless babies through a variety of venues. But not through the safe. Countless prayers were lifted up, strategic questions were asked and explored-was it a bad location? Was it the wrong timing? Was the idea for the safe even from the LORD? But He continued to speak confirmation and patience to us, even as the issue of baby dumping increased and the safe continued unused.

All of that changed last week.

I was on call with the Baby Safe phone, my last rotation before leaving for the Sates on holiday. Early on in my shift there had been a false alarm, something which had happened frequently in the past that we'd grown accustomed to. But as I lay down to sleep that night I had an unshakeable premonition; we're going to receive a baby. Two thoughts crossed my mind after this. 'Wouldn't it be amazing if I was here for our first baby before leaving?' And in my state of exhaustion the next was, 'Please God, just not tonight!'

At 5:30am on Tuesday morning, November 16, the Baby Safe phone went off. As it was already lightening outside I would be able to go to the safe myself without danger, so threw on some jeans and a hat, and grabbed my baby bag and keys. I didn't know what to expect, but decided if there was a baby this time then some backup would be good, so woke up my flatmate. Nicole is an absolute trooper and at 5:40am she willingly jumped in the car with me. We made it in less than 10 minutes, the entire time my mind racing and wondering what we would actually find. Was there really a baby waiting for us, or was it just another false alarm?

When we arrived at the safe I found it had magnetically sealed, so something had either been placed inside or it had experienced great external force. I tried to suppress my hope as I let myself into the back room and went through the routine of disarming the safe in order to open the back. Everything felt surreal. I wasn't able find the light switch so couldn't even see properly as I pulled the hatch back, but there was enough morning light entering the room to distinguish a large bundle resting inside. My heart nearly stopped. Reaching in, my hands encountered a mass of blankets, which unfolding revealed a tiny baby.

I cannot begin to describe the feelings that passed through me in that moment. Wonder, awe, excitement, joy, disbelief, and an overwhelming sense of the honor God had granted me to be here for this. I could hardly contain myself as I reswaddled the baby, gathered her into my arms and opened the door to show Nicole. "We have a baby!" Incredible.

The rest of the day passed in a blur of excitement and activity. The baby girl was maybe three days old, healthy and absolutely perfect, and ironically she was Chinese! At our flat Nicole and I changed, clothed and fed her, while excited and strategic phone calls passed between myself, Alli, and Bethany. It had happened! Now all the plans and procedures set up for so long came in to play, and we found everything came together without a hitch.

We took our tiny charge to the All Nations family meeting that morning, and the spirit of rejoicing was overwhelming. It was a historic day for our team and for our missions body, and a moment of tremendous victory. This child represented life; when so many are aborted, discarded, or later abandoned, the LORD had delivered her and her mother had made another choice. Together our team gathered with her in front of our All Nations family and stood in agreement as their prayers were lifted over the baby's life, and for the future of Baby Safe and the door this has opened.

Later at our staff meeting we named our precious bundle Joy, as Bethany shared how God had given her the name that morning. Maybe it's cliche, but the LORD had rescued and redeemed her, and delivered her from darkness into His purpose and promises, and into His joy. So together as a team we laid our hands upon Joy and consecrated her life unto the LORD, praying over her and the destiny He has in store, rejoicing in the victory of her life and the blessing she is and will be.

Joy is now on her way to a new life and new family through the process of adoption. As we release her to the LORD and the plans He has for her, we look with excitement and expectancy to the future. Our hope is now that as news of Joy spreads, other desperate mothers will choose life through the option of the safe rather than discarding their children. And we stand together in wonder and thanks for the life He has delivered, and the privilege of being here to serve Him in this way. To Him alone be the glory!

Taking Ground

The LORD is Bringing Breakthrough!

"See, the LORD your God has placed the land before you; go up, take possession, as the LORD, the God of your fathers, has spoken to you. Do not fear or be dismayed." -Deuteronomy 1:21

The last month has been an incredible struggle but the reward is worth it. There are new and exciting things taking shape. Two of my priority clients have been on the verge of either huge setback or tremendous strides forward. Our little Andisiwe, removed from abuse and neglect and now flourishing in the care of our safety parents, was potentially going to be removed again and placed back in Masi. Much prayer and constant advocation then went into a plan and proposal to have her placed long term with our current safety fa

mily, but the decision hung on the Magistrate's disposition and understanding. We knew if Andisiwe were placed back in the township, there was huge risk of emotional, psychological and even physical setback, as well as risk of harassment and kidnapping from the parents. But the decision was out of our hands so we could only lift it up to the LORD and trust to His heart and perfect will, whatever the outcome.

At the same time we had begun planning and praying into the removal and long term placement of an older client, sixteen-year-old Nicole, who I have been discipling since April. After her decision to keep her baby boy instead of placing him for adoption, she has faced constant abuse from the relatives with whom she stays. Our desire is to see her in a stable and loving environment where she can finish school and maintain relationship with her son, who is in foster care, until she can parent him herself. But these hopes hung precariously on the mood of her relatives and their threats to send her back to Durban. It seemed the more we tried the more difficult things became.

In the midst of these circumstances the assault on my own life increased. I began suffering sever exhaustion and sleep deprivation, and then my car was broken into and my baby seat was stolen as well as donations from the boot. During this time I faced some of my lowest moments, trying desperately to cling to the promises of God. "He has said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.' Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ's sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong." (2 Cor 12:9-10)

And God brought breakthrough! On one of my lowest days when I felt I had nothing to give, the Spirit moved and one client gave her heart to Christ, while Nicole later spoke in tongues. Shortly after, the Magistrate ruled in favor of our proposal and Andisiwe was placed for a year with her current safety family. Two days later, we very peacefully picked up Nicole from her families' home and moved her in with a wonderful young missionary couple, who have invited her to stay until we find a permanent placement. Such incredible testimony of the LORD's faithfulness. Regardless of the schemes of the enemy or the plans of men, if we place our hope in Christ and obey then He WILL make a way for us! Thank you for all of the prayers this month which carried both me and my team, and brought change for these precious ones.

Our Team is Expanding!

Baby Safe has added three new dynamic members. We have been joined by Rachel Byrnes, a YWAMer from Scotland, as well as 2010 American CPx members Meehan Shannon and Julie Ostrand; and with them have come exciting new opportunities. Their presence will not only allow us to distribute and carry the workload more easily, but also expand our vision and move in to more territory. We are praying into Rachel and Meehan taking on the Termination of Pregnancy counseling at two other hospitals, allowing us to reach out to more women. Julie has a vision to develop a year-long discipleship, micro-business and job-skills training program for the women in the communities who show growth and commitment, in order to empower them to proactively change their lives and provide for themselves. We cannot wait to see all God has in store!

Seasons

My first full year in South Africa is drawing to a close and the countdown has begun for my holiday in the States! I cannot believe how fast the time has gone (although my family may beg to differ) and how much has taken place. But even as this year draws to a close, new and exciting things are taking shape as God leads me into the next season. I recently moved in to a beautiful new flat with my new flatmate Nicole Lalli, and I could not be more blessed in either circumstance. Though we are living with almost no furniture, the space is wonderful and the LORD keeps providing for all our greatest needs as they arise. We are three doors down from two of our "besties" Christianne and Alison, and Nicole and I gel like pb&j ;)

On December 6th I will be in Tulsa for 6 weeks to see family and friends, and do some support raising as I prepare for next year. It is my intent to return to South Africa on a 3 year visa to continue working with Baby Safe and All Nations. I cannot wait to see everyone, to share my heart and experiences, and to hear all the stories from home! Please join with me in prayer that the LORD would provide for each of my needs, and that my time would be blessed and filled with peace and rest as I head in to this next season. It is a blessing and a privilege to share it with you all!

Equipped

"Thus David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone, and he struck the Philistine and killed him; but there was no sword in David's hand." -1 Samuel 17:50

Sometimes I look down at my hands and see only the absence of a sword; I see only how I am NOT equipped by the standards of the world. But God is always faithful to remind me of the stones in my pouch, and suddenly I am surprised to see the Philistine already conquered in the dust at my feet. For the battle is the LORDs and He has already won; it is HE who equips us for the fight, and it is in order to bring Him glory.

These months have been crazy and exhausting, especially as our team is holding down the fort while Bethany is in the States. This past week alone was unlike anything I've ever experienced. We had calls concerning two abandoned babies, a prostitute trying to poison her entire family, and a drug addict who gave birth; I had as well two crisis intervention meetings involving a client, ten women at abortion counseling, and an hour spent with another young client discussing an emergency removal and placement with a safety family for her. And that was just by Wednesday!

Sometimes in these situations all I feel is my inadequacies. I see only the absence of a sword-I'm not a social worker, I don't have a degree or official "training" outside of what I've experienced here. But every time my Father reminds me of the sling and the stone in my hand, a weapon better suited to my strength and experience. He leads me Himself into battle and suddenly the giant which seemed so daunting is no more than food for carrion.

"For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength." (Phil 4:13) This week may have been overwhelming and exhausting, but I was also overwhelmed by the realization of who God is and who He is making me. Each situation that arose I was able to march into knowing exactly what to do and handle with confidence, whether sorting out a baby's abandonment with a drunk gogo or being able to make a plan of action with the team concerning various emergencies. Two women changed their minds about abortion, and we celebrated the second birthday of little Andisiwe, delivered out of abuse and neglect into a new life. At house church Thursday night as I sat utterly spent, my friends really affirmed me. This past year has thus far been the most challenging and exhausting of my life, learning to live and cope in a new country and culture, a new job and ministry, new relationships, and often handling things alone. But in spite of it all this year has also been the most rewarding.

My teammate Alli shared with me a picture the LORD gave her of how a father will teach a baby to walk. He sets her down on her feet, wobbly as they are, and then walks ahead with arms outstretched but not touching. As the baby takes one hesitant step at a time he continues to move with her, leading on but not touching as she gains strength and confidence. This season it may at times have felt as though I am alone but the LORD has been there the entire time, His arms outstretched and His hands around me to catch me if I stumble, leading and allowing me to walk in order to gain strength and confidence. My friend Alison said how the LORD has chosen and equipped me according to HIS standards, just as He did with David in anointing a shepherd boy to be king. I may feel sometimes I don't have what it takes, but my Father has fashioned and is preparing me for these tasks, and will bring about triumph for HIS glory. "And he struck the Philistine and killed him; but there was no sword in David's hand."

So I look ahead in confidence and hope, as I prepare to enter the next stages of this season, expectant of what the LORD is going to do. For it is He who calls and also equips. It is He who strengthens my hands for battle and He who gives me peace. My God is bigger than any giant I face and He has already given me the tools for battle. "He does not delight in the strength of the horse; He does not take pleasure in the legs of a man. The LORD favors those who fear Him, those who wait for His lovingkindness." (Ps 147:10-11) So I will wait on Him!

Ransomed

"For this child I prayed, and the LORD has given me my petition which I asked of Him."

From my very first month working with Baby Safe in January, I was made aware of Andisiway and her situation. At 18 months old she was was underweight, still being breastfed by an alcoholic mother, and there had been reported violence and abuse from the father. Bethany had been communicating with the social workers in Masiphumelele and advocating for her removal and placement with a safety family. From those very first meetings we began to pray and intercede on her behalf, that the LORD would give us favor and deliver her. It was to become a long and drawn out struggle.

A removal was soon planned by the social workers and Baby Safe was on standby, ready to fetch her as soon as she was safely away. But instead of the expected summons, we were contacted with the news that the mother had taken off with Andisiway and was nowhere to be found. So instead of fetching the little girl, Alli and I drove in to Masi in order to get information and details and discuss future plans. What we found caused no end of frustration and discouragement. Reading over Andisiwe's file we encountered records of abuse and neglect, followed by subsequent warnings, second chances, and no change from her first month of life up until now! The mother had 4 other children as well, all of whom had been removed previously and placed with other family members. How could a cycle like this be allowed to continue?

And so we continued to pray, and to advocate and plan with the social workers again and again for removal. The mother eventually returned, but instead was monitored and given a warning. The cycle of alcoholism and neglect continued however so removals were again planned, only to be met by violent resistance or disappearance. Months passed, each one marked with another attempt and failure, each one filled with prayers for future success and favor.

In July Bethany left for an extended holiday and time of fundraising in the States. As our safety family coordinator I was also entrusted the task of continuing this case with the social workers. Almost immediately we were able to meet and a plan was once again underway. This time they planned to enlist the police, a day and time were set, I arranged a safety family, and we prayed in desperate hope. The day came… and nothing happened. The time came and went, no one contacted me, and none of my calls would go through. I was so disheartened, frustrated and discouraged. How could the LORD allow this to continue? As I went on with the day's work I didn't even feel like praying. What was the use? Was God even listening?

Then at 3 that afternoon (5 hours after the appointed time) I received the call saying, "She's here, come and get her!" I was thrilled beyond belief. Quickly notifying my on-call prayer team via sms and calling our safety mother, I jumped into my car and flew into Masi… only to encounter even more mess! Andisiwe was NOT there, they had allowed her mother to take her to the clinic as a ruse and no one was supervising her, and the police had not even been contacted yet! I sat in that office praying desperately as police were called, instructions given, and plans made. I did not want to come this close, only for it to fall through again!

Events continued to unfold with complete disorganization. Three cars of police showed up when only one was needed and the mother had already taken off for home, so they took off after her. I had stipulated for both my protection and Andisiwe's that her mother not see me, but within minutes a group of police, social workers, and one very drunk and angry mother were ushered into the tiny room where I waited. So there I was, little white girl trapped in the back of the room, come to take this woman's baby who was crying in the social workers arms, with everyone around me yelling in Xhosa. Uncomfortable, to say the least. But they quickly sorted the situation and the mother was escorted out and detained by police until I could leave Masi with Andisiwe.

Once her mother was gone the little girl calmed down tremendously, allowing me to make a preliminary exam before taking off. She was filthy, in a rotting nappy which had been filled at least twice, and at 2 was stick thin and no bigger than a 1 year old. But when we were ready to leave her little face lit up with a beautiful smile as she lifted her tiny arms to wrap around me. As we left Masi I wanted weep with joy. After nearly a year of prayer, effort, and consistent failure and discouragement, the LORD had answered our prayers! The first step in Andisiwe's deliverance had finally been achieved.

In only two weeks Andisiwe is like a completely different child. Full of life, joy, and exuberance she brings no end of delight to her foster family. She is gaining weight and strength by the day, has experienced no withdrawal though she was still receiving breast milk influenced by alcohol upon her removal, and is tackling developmental toys with enthusiasm and a sharp intelligence. It brings great hope and encouragement to us as we now face the next stages of her case.

The enemy in no means goes down without a fight. When you tamper with his plans for a life he will come against you with every weapon in his arsenal. Shortly after Andisiwe's removal I was incapacitated with illness for a week. Upon returning to work I found the social workers were trying to arrange parental visits counter to what had been stipulated by our safety family, and working toward reunification instead of a permanent, safe placement as had previously been planned.

We know that none of this will come easily, but our God is the God of miracles! He has come through thus far, and we believe that despite any difficulties and setbacks, He will continue to do so. And when we look at little Andisiwe and others like her, it is worth every moment of the fight. So please join us in prayer, as we storm the kingdom of darkness and ransom back these lives the enemy would take for his own! Jesus has a destiny for Andisiwe, and we believe we WILL see it come about, exactly as He has planned.

Perfect in Weakness

I stood over the hospital bed in the room behind the ER, sopping up blood as it streamed in ridiculous profusion from the crying baby's finger. We had been deposited in this room with no explanation, other than the child was very sick, and without further ado an iv was inserted into his tiny hand and we were removed to the waiting ward and told he was being admitted and I would have to stay. A nurse came and pricked his finger, leaving it without bandage and me to clean it up with whatever I had on hand and no explanations. This is not how I expected my weekend to pan out…

Barely 24 hours before, Bethany delivered this tiny bundle to me for weekend supervision. Little Abundance was the child of a Baby Safe client, who was sick and unable to cope. The 7 week baby was running a fever with thrush and diarrhea, so we took him into custody in order to give him focused care and his mama a chance to recover. He was tiny, having only gained one kg since birth; he had a talisman around his waist and a nasty egg solution in his hair from the cultic ritual used by the popular local Zionist "church" for protection. Together Bethany and I prayed protection, healing and favor over him and myself while binding the power and bondage of the enemy as we flushed the talisman. When she left I bathed him in the sink before enfolding him in a clean blanket and in my arms, where he stayed the majority of the weekend.

I think both the greatest challenge and the greatest privilege in this line of work lies in taking on the role of a temporary mother. I am never more tired, taxed, or more satisfied than when I take one of these little ones into my home. It proved no different with Abundance. The child of an ill and struggling mother, I new he didn't receive much personal touch and care, so when I wasn't attending to necessary tasks he was cradled in my arms. Restless with fever, he was most calm when sleeping on my chest, so most of the night was spent with his little face pressed against my heart. My waking, and even sleeping thoughts, were directed in prayer for his life and health. I spent Saturday in my pjs - praying, cuddling, listening to worship music, and visiting with my little companion.

But everything changed that afternoon. We knew the baby had a temperature and wanted to monitor it, so Alli purchased and brought me a thermometer late in the day. However, things were suddenly thrown into an entirely new light when the reading showed Abundance's fever had reached 39.6˚C (103.3˚F)! Without further ado, I packed him into my car and rushed to the nearest hospital. Thus began an entirely new aspect of my weekend.

Government hospitals are an experience unlike anything else and my first full-on encounter was no fun. By the grace of God we saw a doctor quickly, but I confess it felt like the grace ended there. Upon seeing Abundance he asked why the baby hadn't been brought sooner, then proceeded to hook up the iv, before having me carry the screaming baby into a back room where we were left and told we were admitted and would have to stay indefinitely. So there I was - no food, no bottle or extra baby things, no basic necessities, no information, blood everywhere, battery almost dead in my phone, and at my wits end! It's a humbling state to be in.

At that point Alli arrived. Having had more extensive experience (both in Africa and their hospitals :-) she was able to help me gain perspective and information, as well as give encouragement. Together we got things sorted out, and she stayed with Abundance while I went home to fetch all the necessary things for our stay. I returned to find them settled in the children's ward for the night, where I exchanged places with Alli and began my vigil.

Motherhood is not simple or romantic. I think it is one of the most difficult jobs there is. It is also one of the most rewarding. The ward was freezing - painfully so. I was given a hard chair by the baby's bed for the night, given the medication and informed when I was to administer it myself, instructed to wake up at 6am to tidy and arrange my space, and then to bathe the baby using my own products (the only ones I had not thought to bring) at 7am. By 11pm Abundance was restless and would not stop crying, and I was emotional and feeling nauseas with exhaustion.

We must have presented quite the picture; the single white American girl with the Zimbabwean baby, in a ward with Xhosa women and their children and colored nurses speaking Afrikaans, no clue what was going on or what to do next. Not surprisingly, my sense of humor wasn't kicking in at that point. To be perfectly frank, I was ready to be done. I was freaked out, angry at the whole situation, and irrationally impatient wishing the baby would just go to sleep! Holding Abundance and swaying back and forth, choking back my weeping, all I could manage to pray was, "God help… God help… God help…"

And He did.

Rocking my tiny charge, I remembered he rested much better skin to skin. Settling myself in the chair and holding him against my chest, my tee-shirt barely allowed room for his face below my neck, but it was enough. Within 10 minutes he was asleep, within 20 his restlessness stilled, and he slept without waking the remainder of the night. Peace stole over my own mind and heart. In that miserable chair and freezing room I managed to sleep myself. The following morning as I helped the nurses with their ministrations and proceeded to feed and care Abundance I was filled with the most extraordinary love and satisfaction. At 8 his mama arrived to take my place and remain with him at the hospital. Surrendering her baby, hugging, encouraging, and praying with her, I knew I would have stayed in a heartbeat.

You never know when you will encounter Jesus. But I can always count on Him when I am at my lowest point; when I am at my weakest, frailest, most selfish and human. 'And He has said to me, "My power is perfected in weakness." Most gladly, therefor, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.' (2 Cor 12:9) Because in our weakest state, there is no other explanation but the power of His presence. And because of this I can be certain that whenever I lay hands on these little ones, they are touched by the very presence of God, through His presence and faithfulness to me.

Moments

I think our live are defined more by the day-to-day moments than the big events that take place. In the end it seems like it's the small triumphs that make the biggest difference, the ones that add up to change. And they're the ones that stick with me at the end of the day. Moments like these.

Every Wednesday I meet with 16-year-old Nichole. She has struggled so much since giving up her baby, battling depression and confusion and having difficulty in her relationships with her family now. So each week I listen and counsel over coffee, we study the Bible and pray together, and God is bringing about a sweet friendship. Despite the difficulties He is really working in her life, and she has a true sensitivity to His word and Spirit. Recently in discussing the supernatural and cultural superstition, she confided how on her own initiative she removed the family talisman from around her waist and said, "God, I put my trust in YOU!" And on one of her darkest nights, she felt a pair of arms lift and hold her until morning. I told her, "Girl, that was your Daddy-God!!"


Each time Bethany, Alli or I intervene with a baby something happens-sickness, vandalism, you name it. Only days after taking a baby in forthenight and situating him with a safety family, two of my tires got slashed. I was parked in my "safe" neighborhood and someone inexplicably took a knife to them, though nothing else was touched. No attempted break-in or other vandalism, just irreparably damaged tires that had to be replaced, something factored neither into my budget nor my schedule. But God sent me favor and guardian angels along the way. Floyd changed one tire for me, my friend Christianne gave me her car the following day to replace it and run my errands, my friend Nick came home to change the next tire for me, and when he found it was impossible to remove due to being rusted on, two colored workmen in the neighborhood came and using their own tools assisted us in changing it. Returning to the tire shop, my friend and fellow All Nations member Cedric showed up for vehicle repairs and was able to offer me encouragement. He gave me a hug and said "You know you're doing something right girl or Satan would just leave you alone. You're damaging his kingdom!" Amen.


Thursdays are another challenge entirely. Do you know what it's like to try to communicate with someone and teach them english when neither of you speaks the other's language? Yet that's how I spend about two hours every week with my friend Khayakazi in Masi, who is only xhosa speaking. We meet over coffee or in the library and attempt to visit, learn basic english phrases, and I try to learn xhosa. By the time we finish I'm always mentally and emotionally exhausted but it is worth it. My attempts at xhosa create no end of laughter and delight to her and I confess it helps not to be seen always as the pulled-together white woman, and I am learning! Khayakazi and her siblings are one of our Vulnerable Children families, and God has been doing amazing things for them. A sponsor recently donated an amount to provide rent for a year, allowing them to move from their rotting shack, and after months of promoting her resume' Khayakazi recently got a job!


Last weekend I went to visit Gina, one of the young women who had changed her mind about abortion. She had been waiting weeks for an opportunity to have me over and show me her new home. It is the most humbling thing to receive that kind of hospitality; welcoming me into her tiny room without shame, she sat me on her bed, made me tea with way too much sugar, and peanut butter and margarine sandwiches on her remaining slices of bread. We laughed and cried together, she shared her heart, fears, and hopes, and we read the Word and prayed. The following day when I fell sick, Gina went and bought air time just so she could call and see how I was, then continued to sms and pray for me throughout the week. "…But she, out of her poverty, put in everything-all she had to live on." (Mark 12:44b) Jesus is doing beautiful things in her heart and life, and I cannot wait to see what He has in store for her and this new baby.


In reading John again in The Message, I came across this verse I’d marked with the date 20/06/2008. ‘Jesus said, “I’m not crazy. I simply honor my Father, while you dishonor me. I am not trying to get anything for myself. God intends something gloriously grand here and is making the decisions that will bring it about. I say this with absolute confidence.” ‘ (8:49-51a) Visiting later with Christianne, I was reminiscing about this time two years ago, when the LORD was moving on my heart and I would soon take the steps to apply and move to South Africa. I shared how I’d sat across from Mum and stated, “I would rather quit my job and live by faith on the mission field, but I feel like that would be taking the “easy choice”!” We laughed together over how ludicrous that sounds, yet amazingly enough it’s proved true! Just this month I was dealing with surprise expenses (like new tires) and budgeting not knowing where money was going to come from, only to receive the month’s statement from my church in Tulsa for the exact amount needed! Amazing. This is our life. But I wouldn’t have it any other way.

A Week in the Life...

I tend to take my days in stride, taking on both the expected and unexpected as they come. It's amazing what quickly becomes "normal". I continue to learn and grow, becoming daily more accustomed to the work and ministry here as well as the subtle-and not so subtle-differences involved with living in Africa. However, it's come to my attention that regardless of my family and friends' general understanding of my work and ministry, and my (hopefully) consistent emails and updates, very few really know what's involved. I was recently brought up short when a couple friends and acquaintances asked what a typical day looks like for me here. After I finished laughing my head off, the thought struck me that it might be fun to share a day-to-day look at what a "typical" week is like for me. Because basically, anything can happen! So here's a look at recent one...

Monday-26/04/2010

Pretty standard. Did some admin at home and picked up 2 car seats Baby Safe purchased. PRAISE GOD! We've been sharing 1 between the three of us as need arises and it's become ridiculous. Today Bethany and I had our regular Baby Safe meeting over lunch at a favorite spot, The Farm in Noordhoek. By some miracle I'd completed most of the tasks I've been working on and B had few to add, which means I'll have lot's of leeway for anything that comes up! And things do come up…

I am the Baby Safe safety family coordinator, so after lunch I ran to our office at King of Kings Baptist Church (praying for an office of our own soon!) to use the phone line in order to make reference calls. We have a new family willing to take the potential long-term placements with children who come our way that may need longer care. I had no idea how soon this might be necessary though!

Tuesday-27/04/2010

Today is a public holiday-no one here knows what for! For me a day off means I can get stuff done. But most exciting, today I meet one of my TOP clients from last week who changed her mind and is keeping her baby! So I picked her up and took her to the prayer room at Africa House-because of course EVERYTHING else is closed-to listen to her story, assess her needs, and explain how we can help. Moments like this make everything else worth it! I helped her make a resume to find a job, explained our mentoring program and that we'll be matching her up with someone, encouraged her, prayed with her, and shared the love and hope that is Christ.

That night there was a massive braai at our friend's the DeHaans, with all the longtermers and the CPx teams who are doing Outreach Phase in Cape Town. In these gatherings we both share inspiring stories concerning ministry, or try to talk about anything but! ;) There's no end to food and laughter though. I must say a braai is one of my favorite South African traditions and we indulge often.

Wednesday-28/04/2010

This is always my crazy and draining day, but I love it. Wednesday morning is TOP counseling at the Hospital, but this day is unlike any other! I had 2 girls too far along, one in crisis mode and the other comes in and says, "I want you to help me place my baby for adoption." Then, I have one tender young woman change her mind when I sense her uncertainty and explain how Baby Safe can help. The rest are on the fence and I go in to full-on ministry mode exploring every feeling, circumstance, and option. Throughout all of this, the Baby Safe phone keeps going off (I'm on call this week) concerning an abandoned baby and I'm taking information and calling Bethany in between clients.

That afternoon is my regular meeting with Nichole, a young girl who placed her baby for adoption and who I am now pursuing a mentoring relationship with. It is always the sweetest time, her heart is so tender toward the LORD. We have coffee and cookies, talk about her thoughts and feelings, read the Bible, and pray together. In a situation where so many women and girls struggle to cope, Nichole simply asks Jesus for understanding, and thanks Him for the joy that He has given her. Amazing!

During this time, B called to see if I will take the abandoned baby for the night before we take her to a safety family in the morning, so after I drop Nichole off she brought Abigail over. The poor baby was filthy, fussy, had a cold, a fever, and the runs. Everything I've ever learned in caring for children was put into practice that night and then some. When I bathed her I discovered a talisman bound around her waist, which got flushed and thoroughly rebuked! By the end of the evening I was covered in poop, pee, formula and vomit, baby wash, and my own dinner (trying to juggle). But I got her bathed, fed, medicated and sleeping, while managing my own shower, all this time praying over her in the Spirit, praying scripture, and interceding for her life and destiny.

Thursday-29/04/2010

Discovering new levels of utter and complete exhaustion. Abigail literally woke up once every hour, sometimes twice, coughing and crying and needing nose-wiping, meds, formula or fluids. I never made it past a semi-comatose state and when I dreamed I dreamed about Abigail. But she got COVERED in prayers. I never knew it was possible to pray in the Spirit while sleeping but I did! As soon as we were both ready for the day I took her to the safety family I'd recently followed up on and gave instructions to have her taken to the clinic.

The afternoon was both a disappointment and a relief. Thursday and Friday are my Vulnerable Children days, and Thursday I meet with one of my girls to teach english. However, after driving into Masiphumelele, making phone calls and waiting for an hour, I had three no-shows. TIA!! However, at that point I felt sick from exhaustion, so took it as God's favor and went home. My house church group were apparently all in the same state because that got cancelled as well and I went to be at 8:30.

Friday-30/14/2010

Today is the regular bi-monthly Vulnerable Children meeting with all of us who volunteer in our "free time" to make up the team. Today's subjects are many and varied, and as I am the administrator I have to take careful notes in order to organize information and tasks and email everyone later. Two key subjects of interest today are as different as they are important. One is the possibility of changing our structure and support system with the ministry and seeking to double our sponsors. The other is that there have been several rapes and sudden deaths in Masi recently, so don't go into the Wetlands alone!

That afternoon I have another cancelation. My friend Thandi and I are doing a Discovery Bible Study with a family in Masi, but today she is sick. As the family is predominantly Xhosa speaking and Thandi is my translator, I shoot them an sms to reschedule, pray they get it, and go home to get a jump start on the VC admin. This consumes my time until I go back in to Masi at 4 for Kids Club. Every Friday we gather all of our Vulnerable Children for an hour of songs, games, a Bible lesson, and prayer. It is organized chaos but the kids love it! We teach them our songs and they teach us theirs, now they've learned to sit quietly for the story and answer questions about it, afterwords they offer their prayers to the LORD themselves.

The Weekend!!

Great is Thy faithfulness! Because of our crazy schedule and workload Baby Safe allows us to take both days off instead of only one, and Vulnerable Children accommodates this. If they didn't I think I would swim home at this point. These are my days to sleep in, do laundry, get groceries and run errands, and have fun! This usually involves braais and dinner with friends, movie nights, excursions around and outside of Cape Town, or cloistering myself in my flat for some R&R. Sundays my friend Alison comes over in the afternoon for coffee and tea, rusks, and accountability, prayer and visiting together. It's usually just enough rest for me to prepare and start the week all over again!

The Measure of Success

"It is not important to succeed but to do right; the rest is up to God" -C.S. Lewis

Nine different faces. Different colors, languages, ages, backgrounds. Nine different stories, with only one thing in common. Each of these women, regardless of age, race, and circumstances, were seeking a quick solution for a situation they could not face. Because there were eighteen heartbeats involved, nine of which were intent on ending another one.

This is the situation I face now every Wednesday morning, when Bethany and I do the Termination of Pregnancy counseling at False Bay Hospital. But any preconceived notions I had before taking this on have flown out the window completely as the LORD has brought about a complete paradigm shift-I'm not there simply for the heartbeat that might end, I'm there for the one that keeps beating and is breaking. Every week these women come, most of them from difficult circumstances hardly able to take care of themselves, much less a child. Many are afraid or in denial, most are weeping, confessing they know each child is a gift from God but they have no way to care for it.

And this is the message God has given us for them, two truths that we share. The first is we know that God creates all life, He has a plan already and a story written out for this child, and when you take that away it does hurt His heart. But the other is this, there is nothing we can do that will make God love us less. He sent His only Son Jesus Christ to take our punishment; He has forgiven all our past and future sins, and there is nothing that will prevent our coming to Him.

So how do you determine success? Last week I had a woman change her mind, now looking for full time work to support herself and continuing with the pregnancy. This week I held an little eighteen-year-old punk as she cried-broken hearted over her actions and situation, professing a belief in an unconventional god she finds in flowers and art-and I told her of the love and forgiveness of my God and His heart for her. The next day she went through with the abortion. But a seed was planted of hope, healing, forgiveness and love that she might otherwise never have encountered. Both are success in my mind.

God doesn't ask us to "accomplish" something but to be faithful in what He has given us to do. He has given us a seed to plant and HE causes the growth. Both these mothers and their babies are God's children and He cares for them equally. It's not easy to sit and fight for two lives, knowing most won't change their minds and will continue in the same patterns. But it is a privilege to be in that position, to offer hope where most find none and share the love and gospel of Christ. So we continue to obey and believe that the God we serve is big enough to redeem every situation. To Him be the glory!

Faithful

"I have made you for this. You were shaped for this work and I have placed you here. My favor is with you, and I will provide for and take care of you. You are in My will and I will make a way." The LORD has whispered these things to my heart and daily confirms them. In everything I feel both His blessing and stretching, as every experience is a learning experience causing me to grow. Africa is making a self-sufficient woman out of me! But in all things He continues to care for my heart as well, through His provision and through the community here.

March has been a month both of great challenges and great benefits. So much has taken place it feels like two months instead of one! I was blessed to be able to take a Basic Counseling course through a local organization over three weeks time. It was an enriching experience and I learned so much, especially through the practical application. It proved to be quite the learning curve in more ways than one, as I had to drive over an hour and all over the place to get there! I am now able to navigate throughout Cape Town and surrounding areas quite confidently, even getting lost and finding my way without a map.

In both the Baby Safe and Vulnerable Children ministries I continue to understand and take on more. Every day the LORD gives me new perspective and greater joy in my work, and I have a great love for my teammates and the people we serve. I've been taking over some counseling duties, making job re'sume's and promoting them for women in the communities, visiting families and doing Kid's Club in Masi, driving babies between foster families and parents, and LOADS of admin. Thank God for weekends!

One area of tremendous blessing and excitement is that I have purchased a car!! A friend in Pretoria found a beautiful 2005 Toyota Tazz, negotiated the purchase for me, and then drove it down to Cape Town himself and delivered it. It's perfect! Now the fun begins as I learn how to drive it-I've never driven stick before in my life. It's been an experience in itself, like being 16 all over again only this time you're more aware of how undignified you really are-driving round-and-round the parking lot. But I seem to be getting the knack pretty quickly! My friend Alison is teaching me and we have graduated to roads and hills in the neighborhood.

Another area of great blessing and provision is Tersia's and my living situation. We moved once more, but this time we are settled more permanently, staying until after she gets married in September. Floyd and Sally, our All Nations directors, very graciously opened their guest flat for us to rent until that time. We are now staying in Kommetjie (sounds like comb-a-key), one of the most beautiful areas around. From my windows I can see both the sea and the mountains, and am able to hear and smell the salty waves. Even more fun, three of my best girl friends in SA live in a flat within walking distance, and we are constantly taking advantage of the fact.

I think above all else though, the relationships have been the greatest blessing of all. The LORD has been deepening the ones previously formed, and providing wonderful new ones. Every week is filled with times of encouragement and fun-through our house church gatherings, movie nights, braais, and more! I walk away from every gathering feeling encouraged, challenged, and uplifted. I've usually laughed myself silly at some point in the exchange as well, no matter how serious our purpose. God is good! Every day has both it's ups and downs but I rest in the peace of knowing I am where He wants me. He has made me for this, and I would not choose anything else.

Vulnerable

It is amazing to me the things which so quickly become common. To see poverty and suffering accepted so naturally, simply a way of life. I've been walking through Masi, my friends and I wandering the streets, weaving in and out through the various roads and back streets of the different divisions. The dirt paths are littered with broken glass more common than pebbles, garbage everywhere, over which the children run barefoot. The drainage ditches are clogged with every imaginable object and reek of sewage. Homes range everywhere from ramshackle tin shanties with no amenities, to comfortable little houses with electricity, water, and fenced yards. But our wanderings took us down the back roads and into the marshy wetlands to hunt for the forgotten. The vulnerable.

Vulnerable Children, a ministry of All Nations begun in 2008 by a CPx student, seeks to address the needs of children either without parents or with parents who are ill and unable to support their families. Due to a shortage of help, part of my work this year will be dedicated to this ministry. VC matches sponsors with families to provide a monthly food package and school uniforms, while the volunteers pursue mentoring relationships with the children and their families. And it was for these families my friends and I were searching.

One by one we found them, some with up to eight people sharing a one room shack barley 10 feet square and a single bed. One family of five was headed by their 23-year-old sister. Simply finding the house was treacherous, threading through narrow alleys and walking across broken boards and tiles. Their home was built on a rotting platform over the marshes, a tiny room with two filthy mattresses and a small cupboard. Their sister couldn't speak enough english to understand us and didn't have a job. Later we sat with two sisters, one with HIV and the other a rape victim. My heart broke as we prayed and wept with them together. The presence of the LORD came and wrapped itself around us, and He gave me the verse in Isaiah 61:1, "He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to captives and freedom to prisoners." I told them how Jesus wanted to heal their hearts and set them free.

This is why we're here. Jesus said, "I have come that they may have life, and have it abundantly." (John 10:10b) Sometimes it seems overwhelming, hopeless, impossible. And then you sit with the least of these and one day you see a light come in their eyes, and hope where there was none. We cannot change anything but there is One who can, and so we follow Him where no one else will go to share His love with His children, and watch Him change their lives.

A Full Heart

We have left the mattresses from hell behind us and haven't looked back! Last week Tersia and I moved into the home of our friends Simon and Marieke for a month as they visit their family in the Netherlands. We are sleeping on real mattresses, drinking real coffee, and reveling in the space! It is a beautiful home and so peaceful, every morning as I have my coffee and rusks, I sit on my bed looking out over a breathtaking view of mountains and sea. The LORD looks after His children, and He is taking care of our hearts as well as our needs.

This weekend the new CPx students are arriving. I can't believe a year has gone by already! Never would I have guessed at that time what the LORD had in store for me now. My "orientation" with Baby Safe started out with a bang, it seemed I was going to experience everything at once! I was exhausted-mentally, emotionally, physically, spiritually-and I've never been happier in my life. So often we are under this bizarre misconception that if we surrender to God's call it will be all struggle and difficulty. But our Father's desire is for us to live out of our hearts, for our glory is His!

On Wednesdays I accompany Bethany to TOP (Termination of Pregnancy) counseling at the hospital, and soon will take on counseling half the women myself. I am getting into a rhythm of administration and meetings, and will be taking on the Baby Safe finances. This past week we visited another children's home run by an Afrikaans couple who wanted to install their own baby safe. After hearing their hearts and seeing their work, Bethany informed them they would not only receive a safe, but a sponsor had donated enough to pay for it. Our own hearts were full to see their joy as they broke down and wept, so much that we wept with them.

My first Baby Safe meeting there was a baby abandoned in Masiphumelele, so Allison picked him up and brought him with us until he could be taken to a foster family. For two hours I held this beautiful baby, feeding him and holding him as he slept, praying in the spirit over his person and future. The following day, his mother returned for him! After reuniting her with her son, we sat and listened to her story and encouraged her in the LORD. What a blessings to see a happy ending come where there is often only heartbreak. Another exciting experience was a Baby Safe first, even for Bethany. A young mother with a month-old baby came to us in order to place him for adoption. A mother has NEVER asked to place a baby post-birth, and no pregnant women have gone through with an adoption after. We were able to take her to the baby house and sit with the social worker as they visited about the circumstances and heart issues. Both of us learned a tremendous amount.

Thank you for your prayers! Please lift up my team members Alli and Bethany as well as myself, the enemy has really been coming against us. These past weeks as we have been fasting and praying, we have all been troubled with nervous sleep, nightmares, even pain. I know it is a direct assault because of the damage we are doing to his kingdom, and he shall not prevail! With this lifestyle there is great struggle, but the rewards far surpass it. I am thankful every day that Jesus called me here, to this work and these people. He is filling my heart and my life. To Him be the glory!

Home

Back in South Africa! Already it feels like home. It‘s funny the things which quickly become “normal”, like a baboon trying to crawl through my window the first morning here, or a band of homeless men live within sight-and earshot-by the side of the road who can be heard conversing quite boisterously at all hours of the day and evening. Home currently consists of a single room about 4 by 5 meters in which fits two beds, a large cupboard, a mini fridge and microwave, and a small table and chairs. Good to be back!

One huge blessing is my roomy. Tersia and I lived all of CPx together last year and she became a sister and dear friend, so when we both made the decision to commit to All Nations it seemed only natural to continue the journey together. We picked up where we left off as though no time had passed- laughing, crying, swearing and praying together, sharing and pouring into each other’s hearts.

I am terribly excited to be here! Already the LORD has been so faithful, in confirming this move and providing for my needs. This week was At Home Week with All Nations, taking the mornings to worship, pray, and catch up on what is taking place in everyone’s lives and ministries. I have been connecting with Bethany and Allison as well-my Baby Safe “boss” and fellow team member- hearing what has transpired and the work about to begin. My heart is so stirred by what is taking place! This is intense battleground and we are at war with the enemy every day, but the fruit is incredible. I cannot wait to see what the LORD has in store. Please keep us in your prayers as we start up this new year.

I hope to have more information soon concerning my work with Baby Safe, and a sister ministry called Vulnerable Children (more on that later). My orientation begins in earnest next week. In the mean time, it would be a blessing if you could lift these items up in prayer. I am about to begin the hunt for a car. Pray for favor in the overall process, in finding the right vehicle, and the funds. Also, Tersia and I do not have a permanent place of residence. We are renting from All Nations until next month when CPx begins, house-sitting for friends through February, and after that we do not know! Please pray for direction and favor in finding a safe, inexpensive, and hopefully permanent place to share. Praying and believing! Matthew6:25-33