Finding Joy

Just back from a medical clinic in Seleus, the poorest community we will be working in on this trip. We set up the triage and doctors stations but before we began the work at the clinic the doctors team was taken up the hill as the long term workers wanted us to and see understand the conditions these people are living in. They wanted us to be able to exercise patience and compassion with the people today who can be difficult and rowdy at times.So we set off up the hill outside the clinic to face the hard reality of their every day lives.

 The poverty was overwhelming and the rejection that these people experience was so evident. It was so clearly displayed in the houses that they lived in. As we walked up the hill one of the long term workers described the situation, "The poor live at the bottom, the very poor live in the middle and the desperate live at the top." It seemed so unjust that houses for 10 people here in Seleus wouldn't be good enough for people's animals at home.

 There is no running water or sanitation on the hill at all. To get water the villagers buy it in a bucket from someone near the bottom of the hill. It's not clean. It's not free. It has worms in it. And yet it's all there is to offer so they take it. Buying water from the store is so expensive and getting food is a priority, and unfortunately alcohol for the men is too. Due to the close proximity of the people and the uncleanliness, diseases and conditions spread quickly from one household to the next. A pack of stray dogs run throughout the houses. They pester the families and scavenge for food. The children play together in the dirt. The only form of toys we seen were pieces of string or rope tied on to sticks.

 We had the opportunity to meet some of the people who live on the hill. This is Natalie with a blind man who will come to the clinic tomorrow. He went blind overnight due to drinking a cleaning product because it was cheaper than alcohol. He just wanted an escape and now has to rely on his family to do everything for him. He hasn't escaped from anything and is possibly imprisoned even more now. Pray that tomorrow He will hear the Gospel message and be freed completely!

The vulnerability of the people living in what seemed like derelict shelters was immense. So much exposure to the elements and no sense of security. It seemed like such a hopeless situation. And in human hands it definitely felt beyond help. But we have an awesome God who is good and mighty and powerful. He can change lives, communities and countries. The work that has begun here is done in His strength and may it continue until they come to know Jesus as their Lord and Saviour.

Wound Care

The medical clinic itself was my favourite so far. It was busy and people were grateful for the healthcare provided. There were so many children who just wanted to be loved and cared for. The sound of their giggles is still ringing in my ears. They are beautiful children created by the hand of a loving God. It was incredible just to see so many patients and to be able to bless them in a very small way today. A few children in particular came in with tears and sad faces left the building laughing and smiling.

Doctor's Appointment

 We head back to the same village tomorrow so hoping and trusting for another great day!