A roundup of 2009....

Well we're already nearly a month into 2010 and I still haven't sat down and written a roundup of 2009, so here goes....

2009 was a year that was full of adventures for me, adventures in cross-cultural mission and adventures in faith. As I look back in some ways I can't believe that I've managed what I've done - it really is a testimony of living by the strength and grace of Christ. Those who know me well, know that I could never in a million years be doing this in my own strength. I'm one of 4 children, and I'm the daughter that my Mum always imagined would stay close to home. But here I am, living 6000 miles away from home, and for the most part loving it!

2009 saw me face some incredibly tough situations both personally and in the work that I'm doing. I went to traditional African funerals complete with ancestral worship, a precious family left without saying goodbye, I have dealt with some awfully sad situations with the children I visit, I've had tick bite fever, the list could go on and on.

Through all the difficult times I've never once been tempted to give up and go home. Sometimes the sacrifice can feel so huge, but serving God in this community is so clearly His plan for my life right now. And He's shaping me so much by being here. I've learnt so much of God's faithfulness this year. His grace truly is enough for every circumstance.

And there have been far more fun times to outweigh the tough ones. I've had amazing times playing with the kids at Mapheo, or just generally in the street; I've had the privilege of being at the wedding of Mathandela and Melittah; I've been on 20s camps African style; I've organised chilli eating competitions with hilarious results; I've had visitors so been able to do some touristy things; I've driven a 2-wheel drive on a mountain that's only supposed to be attempted by a 4x4; I've had endless amounts of people over to my little flat; I've become an honourary aunty to baby Daniel; I've been able to worship African style every Sunday; I've stood really close to a wild giraffe; again the list could go on an on.

So 2009 was an adventure, full of 'character building' experiences! And at the moment I have no idea what plans God has for me in 2010 but I'm sure that the adventure of faith will continue :-)