Here in Uganda, our team is easily spotted. A group of 18 white girls is a sight to see here. We hear, “Mzungu, mzungu!” everywhere we go. When we come back home, it may be strange at first to not be called at, waved to, or hear honking horns everywhere we go. Not to sound praise seeking, but I don’t want to lose that attention and recognition when I return to the States. However, I don’t want to be recognized for being a mzungu- I want people to notice me because I am a follower of Christ. I want to reflect Christ’s love, compassion, mercy, and forgiveness that is not easily hidden.
Matthew 5:13-16
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and be trampled by men.
You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”
I don’t want to lose my fire from this trip, my passion for God, that the world sees as light and salt. I have learned so much about God’s love, servant hood, and worship just from watching these beautiful Ugandan people in church, in schools, and even in orphanages. They illuminate such JOY even when suffering through sickness, lack of income, and rough family life. They praise God through it all. Because God is real to them.
God, You want me to be a servant. You want me to LOVE. You want me to not sit idly by, but to do something! God, You want me to go to You as my first option when I am scared, when I am lonely, when I am sick, when I am uncertain about my future. You also want me to rejoice in You. Because God, You are my Savior. God, You are my Lord. You love beyond borders. You connect the nations. You love equally. So, how can I not do the same? I am your daughter. A child of Christ. I want to resemble You, God. I want people to see me and say, “Look! A Christian. Look! She loves those who are hard to love. She shows mercy. She forgives.” God all for the glory to You.
