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This morning we were able to sleep in a little. A slower start was appreciated by the team as our days had been full, long and hot. But, we still managed to get six visits in today.
Again we were faced with the enormous challenges our women face day to day.
Water for household consumption. Water for drinking, water for cooking, water for personal hygiene, water for laundry. All of it to be gotten in jerrycans- 10 or 20 litres - that’s 22 to 44 pounds! Up to 4 miles away!
Our women have all received gutters and a water tank but that’s been of little help in the Seje region. It’s usually a dry climate but this year there’s been a drought. When we ask about their crop and kitchen garden the common reply has been, “The sun has burned it up”
The water in the tanks have long been used up.
Another challenge is their health. Thankfully God has enabled VOH to provide care but still, pain from arthritis, eye problems and cataracts that are being treated but not always as easily treated as would be back home.
Unemployment has caused many of working age to migrate to the larger cities in search of jobs and hopefully a better life. Most leaving their children behind to be taken care of by their grandmother.
Monica, a sweet old lady, has 6 grandchildren living with her. Two of her daughters have dumped their children, left and broke all contact with her. She is heartbroken but lovingly cares for them all from little tykes to adult age. Her heart steadfastly trusts in God.
The delight of the day was to meet Charles, a serious, Godly young man who has produced miracles in his garden. He has studied landscaping and agriculture. His garden is a delight with orange bushes, pineapple and so much more. He takes loving care of it, and praise God is just as gentle with his aging mother.
We are thankful he helps our VOH women with their gardens, crops and chickens.
Around his mother’s house were so many children- to the delight of Jenna, Tessa and Linda.
Bible stories, colouring pages, crayons, bubbles and lollipops. Such a treat for them! They followed the team from house to house as we did three nearby visits.
It was another full day. The sun was burning hot but thankfully we were able to visit outdoors in the shade.
God has enabled us to do the work we set out to accomplish. To Him be the glory. Join us in prayer that the seed of the Word of God sewn in our visits will sprout and bring forth fruit to the glory of God.
