A Change of Plans...

You see, wat had happen wuz… I ain’t ready to leave Africa yet. A couple weeks ago, I realized that I would be boarding a plane back to American real soon. Even though I would really enjoy a reunion with family and friends, it didn’t feel right to be leaving here just yet. The original plan was to return on April 26. That’s tomorrow. I started working with Expedia and individual airlines a couple of weeks ago and it was very difficult because Expedia doesn’t exist in Africa. I used up all my airtime on one call to Delta airlines.

We decided it was time to involve my parents on the American side of things. I told my parents, “I want to extend, but, only if Mom comes to visit.” The extension was legit, but the part about Mom visiting was masked with sarcasm because the odds of it happening weren’t high. I knew that, if my some small possibility she could visit, she would absolutely love it here. Mom is such an ocean baby, it’s like her sacred place of restoration that exemplifies the boundless power of God that energizes each stroking wave. The sun relaxes atop the water and beams deep down underneath to reveal bits of sand that remind us of Gods constant focus on our puff-of-smoke lives. I suppose, I understand why she loves to ocean so much.

Well, long story made longer, my Mother is coming to visit me in East London, South Africa on June 8^th!!!! After two weeks of solid African adventures together, we will return back to the beautiful and brave US of A on June 22^nd. When I received the news about my extension and Mom coming to visit, I covered my face in attempt to not disturb the people next to me while I freaked out with excitement. Feet stamping, hand flapping, smile beaming, and head shaking… I was elated with joy. Of course, after such a major decision, the enemy can try to drown out the happiness with worry. I did get nervous after making this decision, but then an abundance of rain came. Literally. It’s been raining warthogs and elephants out here. My Pastor did prophesy an abundance of rain was on the horizon but shoot, I wasn’t expecting warthogs and elephants to fall from the sky. My housemates and I went to Home Affairs yesterday to work out my passport details, otherwise I would be staying illegally and could get deported. Although, that would be an interesting adventure, I’d rather not venture. 

It’s been raining for two days, and it’s not stopping anytime soon. This morning I went for a walk in the rain, and kept thanking God for His goodness and provision. Naturally, this turned into a flowing rap about the way God leads us, works through us, loves us, teaches us, comforts us, challenges us, and holds us in the palm of His hand. I just laughed more and more with every verse that came out. Somewhere in that rhyme, I said, “Lo, I am with you always”. The King James remix was unexpected, but aye, it worked.

I wholeheartedly believe that God delights in all styles of worship, from heavy metal to hymn. If it’s glorifying Him, it’s awl good. These next two months remind me of something like a Christmas calendar. The one with a chocolate behind each day, waiting to be punched out and enjoyed. I don’t know what to expect but here we go! Stay tuned for Em’s African Quest part II.

Before I go, be reminded of our fellow disciples Peter and John. They were in fellowship with one another and devoted to the apostles teaching. They met in homes and shared their belongings with one another. Day by day, they were meeting in the temple and praising God. So, Peter and John were walking to the temple one day and the came across a lame beggar. This man was carried daily to the gates of the temple to receive “alms” or gifts of money/goods given to the poor. Peter and John walked by and noticed him. Peter said, “I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!” Peter helped the man up and his legs were immediately strengthened. The man began to leap and praise God and all were amazed and filled with wonder. Acts 3: 1-10. 

Be encouraged friends, our God is the God of healing and restoration. He is the God of boldness and the God of love. He is love. Speaking of which, love to you all!!

P.s. I got to wear my new raincoat! Let it rain!!!